bass amp power and ohm ratings

[dg27]

I am considering getting a new bass head, either

Ampeg PF-350
RMS power output: 350W @ 4 ohms

Ampeg PF-500
RMS power output: 500W @ 4 ohms

My two cabs are Mesa Boogie, Road Ready model: 2 X 10, 300W @ 8 ohms plus 1 X15, 400W @ 8 ohms.

I'm actually leaning toward the PF-350. I used one recently in a rehearsal studio and thought it was great. I use a SansAmp Bass DI, so I really don't think I need the tone-shaping bells and whistles of the PF-500.

However, if I decided to go with the PF-500, can these cabinets handle the 500W?

I apologize for the fact that I'm really lacking in knowledge when it comes to ohms and power ratings.

Related question: The specs for the PF-350 indicate that the pre-amp is solid state; the specs for the PF-500 indicate that the pre-amp is MOSFET. I know what this stands for, but have NO IDEA whether it matters.:eek13:

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks.

dg

 

[SlyFoxx]

Re: bass amp power and ohm ratings

If your using both cabs at the same time you're well into the safe zone even with the 500 model.

EDIT: Actually after consulting the pdf manual it would seem you are in the safe zone with one cab as well at 8 ohms. But as with any set up, use your ears. If the speakers sound like they are giving up, time to turn it down a bit.

As for the other thing. Don't worry about it. Go with your ears and the features you need and will actually use.

 

[dg27]

Re: bass amp power and ohm ratings

If your using both cabs at the same time you're well into the safe zone even with the 500 model.

EDIT: Actually after consulting the pdf manual it would seem you are in the safe zone with one cab as well at 8 ohms. But as with any set up, use your ears. If the speakers sound like they are giving up, time to turn it down a bit.

Thanks--you actually answered something I wondered about and didn't ask. I love this Mesa Boogie rig but more often than not both cabinets is way more than I need (and a dog to get around). I like the Portaflex series of heads because they are so portable (the 350 would fit in a large attache-type case). So that and just the 1 X 15 cab is all I'd really need in most cases.

As for the other thing. Don't worry about it. Go with your ears and the features you need and will actually use.

As suspected.

Thanks for the great advice.

dg