bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

[nextafterles]

k, heres the deal, im in a band and we want to start doing some shows, im the bassist and i onyl have a 16 watt amp. I have a very, VERY low budget, so I want to know what would be the best choice for a bass amp with a good low budget, max. 350$. what are your opinions, im in bc lower mainland, so that should give some tips on how far im willing to go, im only 15 so i cant drive, whats the best choice?

 

[brit84]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

If you can get to Long and McQuade (i know they have stores in victoria and vancouver, not sure where in particular) tell them how much you have and what you need it for. Try some stuff out, or get someone to demo in front of you. I would suggest a 1x12" 60-100watt combo (fender and peavy have good lines, but there way many many others), even a small head unit such as the crate powerblock and a speaker cabinet could work. you dont really need effects or anything for bass so dont spend anything extra on those.

 

[McLaughysSN]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

A used eden will set you off fairly well. They also have an under brand, nemisis. Both good amps for your buck

 

[StratTom]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

I haven't anything about the Behringer amps but they are inexpensive. Can't go wrong with Fender or Peavey. Check out Ampeg as well. Good luck with your search.

 

[drew_half_empty]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

forget behringer, go with the ashdown MAGs

you can find em on ebay for cheap, i got the 575 watt one & love it

 

[JOLLY]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

Carvin

http://www.carvin.com/products/single.php?ItemNumber=PB100-15&CID=PBS

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

Stay away from L&M if you're on a budget. You need to be looking at the used market, and they have practically nothing in that regard.

Not Just Another Music Shop on Granville between Broadway and 8th has quite a few used bass amps in your price range. They have a Roland Cube 60 bass amp that was next to the keyboard amp I bought on Wednesday, and their price was $250 I think. They are really excellent amps from the 80's. Get down there quick before it sells.

 

[bbking1021]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

I just got an older peavery TKO 15" 65 watt amp for $135. It has decent sound and gets fairly loud, not to mention the huge thump of that 15". For more watts and newer features. Any of peaveys stuff is pretty decent.

 

[Skarekrough]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

For $350?

Peavey Mark series (preferably the IV) bass head and a Hartke Transporter 4 x 10 cab.

All used under $350 and will give you plenty of room to grow.

The Behringer stuff blows....

 

[CapoFirstFret]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

you could always go with a direct box, a very small behringer mixer, a power amp, and a cab that'll keep the price very low

 

[Skarekrough]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

you could always go with a direct box, a very small behringer mixer, a power amp, and a cab that'll keep the price very low

Yeah, but you're still doling out money for components that aren't likely to sound all that good as a straight-up bass amp.

Granted, alot of that question comes down to what tone they're looking to get.

A direct box is a great tool to have in any situation as a bass player. That I can agree with.

But for the cost of the rig I put together I can tell you, it's something that will work from small clubs to outdoor gigs with very minimal amounts of tweaking for functionality.

 

[joeydude]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

just be sure you buy used

ive herd great things about ampeg, but i dunno how much theyd cost

 

[saladin]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

forget behringer, go with the ashdown MAGs

+1!!!

I just picked up a used Ashdown MAG 300 and it is a keeper, sounded much better then the GK that was also at the store.

 

[WORSHIPTEAM]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

Go the Peavey Mark IV

 

[Bass_Medic_05]

Re: bass amps, best quality for cheap budget, whats the best choice?

Fender and peavy have good lines, and maybe a used Trace Elliot on ebay or a pawn shop.