MkIII Renegade
New member
Hello all. I am a longtime guitarist, and have always played bass in my studio for recordings. I've used a multi-purpose Carvin AG100D (1x12, 100 watts) + a 1x12 extension cab for years, which is surprisingly good for what it is. However, the combo's speaker is beginning to get a little tired on the lower bass notes at 10+ years old, and anyway, I am looking for a dedicated bass amp that can really push the low B of my 5-string and hang with a loud band. I am mostly a rock/metal guy, and definitely an audiophile who likes having plenty of EQ options to shape tones with. Must have nice, crisp top end to go with the thunder, so I expect that the new amp will need a horn. I am not really concerned with onboard effects, although onboard compression would be nice. It is essential for the new amp to be able to cleanly record DI, preferably via XLR. Some bass players I admire include Chris Squire, John Taylor, Steve Harris, and John Myung.
I've been doing some research, and it seems there are a lot of options for head + 4x10, or 2x10 or 2x12 combos from Carvin (BX700 head looks interesting...) and GK, etc. I am looking for at least 500 watts and an upper limit of ~$900 total. I don't plan to move it around much, as it will be a studio anchor.
Thoughts? :33:
BONUS QUESTION:
I may replace the 12" speaker in the Carvin combo for light bass jams when I don't feel like hauling the new rig. Any thoughts on "full range" 12" speakers other than the OEM model that cover bass well enough in addition to acoustic guitar and vocals? The OEM speaker is rated for 300 watts, but again, isn't a true dedicated bass amp. The combo also has a horn to deliver highs.
I've been doing some research, and it seems there are a lot of options for head + 4x10, or 2x10 or 2x12 combos from Carvin (BX700 head looks interesting...) and GK, etc. I am looking for at least 500 watts and an upper limit of ~$900 total. I don't plan to move it around much, as it will be a studio anchor.
Thoughts? :33:
BONUS QUESTION:
I may replace the 12" speaker in the Carvin combo for light bass jams when I don't feel like hauling the new rig. Any thoughts on "full range" 12" speakers other than the OEM model that cover bass well enough in addition to acoustic guitar and vocals? The OEM speaker is rated for 300 watts, but again, isn't a true dedicated bass amp. The combo also has a horn to deliver highs.
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