Yes...or maybe NO! Did I screw up?

[TwoRivers]

Hello TB. After much research I purchased an Ampeg PF500 head (500 watts rms @ 4 ohms) and an Ampeg B410HLF cab (4x10, 400 watts rms @ 4 ohms). This was an upgrade from a GKMB115, which was no longer adequate for the venues my band has started playing. I did quite a bit of research on setups in my price range (under $1,000) and thought I had it pretty well figured out. I also played both the PF350 and PF500 through several different "B Series" Ampeg cabs (closed and ported, 8 ohm and 4 ohm). The bass I play is a Fender Jazz, and I was really drawn to the added depth and clarity in the lows with the 4 ohm ported cab. I know that by buying a 4 ohm cab I will not be able to add a second cab. I also played the head through a closed 4x10 and 1x15, but the sound seemed much more thin and lacked punch compared to the single 4 ohm 4x10.

Anyhow, purchase was made, as described above, and I proceeded to do what no one should ever do after making a purchase - I did more research!! Now that I've made my purchase it seems like I am finding loads of info on TB encouraging people in a similar situation to go for the 8 ohm cab for expansion purposes down the road. Did I really screw the pooch, or am I over analyzing this?

Also, should I have opted for a higher wattage cab since the head is pushing 500 at 4 ohms but my cab only runs at 400?

Here are links to the items purchased:

Cab - Invalid Link Removed

Head - Invalid Link Removed

Thank you in advance for sharing your knowledge and expertise!

 

[CL400Peavey]

You will be fine, running that amp and cab together.

 

[will33]

If the single 4ohm cab meets your needs as far as output, volume, etc., then you most certainly didn't screw the pooch. You got yourself a good rig.

Screwing the pooch would've been getting a single, small 4ohm cab, finding out you needed more and not being able to go there.


FWIW, I play a 4ohm 212.....love it.

 

[TwoRivers]

Thanks guys. I'm relatively new to playing bass (coverted out of neccesity after 20 years of guitar), and I absolutely love it. I guess I'm just uneasy about my lack of knowledge when it comes to bass equipment and worry that I made the wrong decision. Bottom line I suppose is that I played a few cabs, fell in love with this one (out of the ones in my price range anyhow), and as long as it's not a completely crazy set up I should be confident in it!

 

[bassguppy]

you got a fine rig as long as it fulfills your volume needs. As for the 500 watt amp/400 watt cab there should be no concern, just listen to you cab and if it seems that your pushing it too hard back off a little.

 

[jlepre]

You have a killer rig there. If you really needed more, then I would say turn down

 

[lburton2]

I had a similar set-up and in loud situations (guitard player dependent) I simply didn't push enough air. If this meets your needs than awesome..

 

[yodedude2]

OP: assuming your head has a line out, you could always expand by adding a second cab with a 'slave' amp.

 

[bassphreak]

I used a SVT350 head and the B410HLF cab in the past and it was plenty of volume and punch with two LOUD guitards. If you find yourself lacking, play with the EQ. I haven't used the head but have heard you need to crank the gain to get loud. I know that cab is very good and one that I like a lot. You should be fine. It will handle most gigs you should do.

 

[Tractorr]

Unless you need insane volume then the 410HLF is going to be good. Every time I see a band with one of those I am shocked how good they sound.

 

[jackcheez]

If it sounds good enjoy it.

 

[stiles72]

Stop overthinkin it. If you like how it sounds and it works for you - then enjoy it. If you playing needs change down the road, then you can address it then. But for now just rock that new rig!