Bass guitar amplifiers feature various controls that can help shape your tone. Most offer basic controls such as gain and volume controls, while more advanced options such as EQ zones may also be included.
Markbass’ Little Mark Vintage packs plenty of tube warmth into a small and compact head that fits easily in any gig bag. With thunderous low-end that can fill even large halls or auditoriums with impressive bass tones – an essential feature for many bassists – this incredible instrument delivers maximum warmth to bass players everywhere.
Ampeg
Ampeg stands out in the world of bass amplifiers by its long and distinguished history. First founded as Michaels-Hull Electronic Labs in Linden, New Jersey by Everitt Hull and Stanley Michaels in 1946 as Michaels-Hull Electronic Labs, Ampeg amps are beloved classics used by bassists worldwide – whether that means all-tube powerhouse or sleek combo; Ampeg offers something suitable.
Ampeg’s SVT bass amplifiers became iconic among rock bands of the 70s, as they can still be found today on many of today’s biggest records. Boasting 300W of pure tube tone power and often seen in professional bass rigs. Today, Ampeg produces numerous amp models to meet different musical tastes ranging from compact combos to full 8×10″ “refrigerator” cabinets.
The Rocket Bass RB-112 is a small combo amp designed to deliver Ampeg tone in an affordable package. Featuring traditional controls such as one master volume control and three-band EQ as well as modern features such as series effects loop and 1/8″ auxiliary input for use with MP3 players, its easy set of controls make the BA-112 an excellent tool for practicing or performing small gigs.
The BA-112’s solid-state preamp harkens back to Ampeg’s classic Portaflex designs, producing full and powerful tones with slight scooped midrange frequencies and warm low end. At full volume, this amplifier can easily be heard over drummers while pushing enough air for most bar gigs.
For those in search of more power and control, the SVT-CL bass guitar is an ideal choice. This all-tube powerhouse is legendary among bassists; you may recognize its sound from acts like Metallica, Primus and Bootsy Collins’ hits. Plus it comes equipped with an 1×15″ cabinet for added depth and projection!
Laney
There is a wide selection of bass amps on the market, ranging from compact combo amplifiers such as Laney Richter series combo amps to monster 500-watt heads that are great for gigs. Which type you choose ultimately depends on your performance needs and sound style; selecting one requires high-quality amp that delivers your ideal tone both studio or live settings.
For home practice and small gigs, consider choosing a 15 watt bass amp from Richter. However, for rehearsals or larger gigs with larger sound systems or gigs that require more power such as rehearsals or gigs with drums and guitars onstage, consider going with 30 or 100+ watt versions that provide plenty of headroom for clean recordings while cutting through drums and guitars onstage.
Beginner bass players typically opt for a solid-state amp as it provides the optimal combination of power and portability. These models utilize transistors in both preamp and power amp sections which results in less maintenance costs and reliable tone; additionally they come equipped with features such as clean modulation and drive to distortion at higher volumes. For heavier styles like metal or grunge playing however, a tube amp may be the better option as these amps can respond well when played hard while providing rich overdrive that really shines when driven hard.
Hybrid bass amps combine tube and solid state technology, making them a top pick among most bassists who value versatility over sound quality. Built-in digital versions of other amp types and multiple effects make these hybrid amps great for beginners who might be exploring various styles or tones.
tube amps are an increasingly popular choice among professional and hobbyist bass players for their rich tonal quality and natural overdrive. Their distinctive vintage sound changes depending on volume levels or hard or soft playing – perfect for blues or classic rock musicians who require the signature lush distortion sound.
Boss
This lightweight amp packs plenty of features into its small frame. A control panel with numerous options provides bassists with everything they need for enjoyable and productive practice sessions.
The Boss 210 features an acoustic channel that produces a rich, full sound that works great with any acoustic bass, and clean channel that offers crisp, transparent tone. If you want something a bit more aggressive switch to crunch channel for some natural overdrive; or engage the lead channel with just the push of a button for classic tube-like overdrive. Using effects is also possible via its built-in looper; though one of Boss’ FS-5U, FS-6 or FS-7 units sold separately is required to use its looper features properly.
Three EQ modes make it simple to craft the tone that stands out in any mix. Simply use the mode button to scoop mids or boost lows or highs – or, for more traditional three-band EQ needs, switch between traditional two-band and three-band modes! The 210 offers all this and more!
Add external effects of your own using the amp’s internal effect loop. This feature is particularly helpful if using pedalboard, as you can connect up to two additional effects devices and have them automatically added into your bass sound. Plus, there’s even a headphone output so you can jam privately or record yourself playing!
The BOSS Tone Central app makes using the 210 simple. You can customize your sounds and organize them into live sets for different gigs; adjust amp preamp, EQ and blend settings; connect via USB port with Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (BT-DUAL, sold separately); use mobile device app such as iOS and Android for editing effects and playing music from mobile device; footswitch expression pedal input as well as 1/4″ headphones/record output are among its various connectivity options available to users of the 210.
Fender
Fender bass amps are among the most acclaimed and reliable amplifiers for electric basses, relied upon by professional bass players alike to achieve solid bottom end tones. No matter whether it is for live performance or practice purposes, Fender has a bass amp to meet your needs perfectly!
Fender introduced their inaugural bass amplifier, the Bassman, in 1952. Shortly thereafter, its narrow-panel tweed version was discontinued and replaced by a wider panel model (Model 5B6) which essentially provided similar functionality but with different styling. Even as late as 1953, Fender still advertised and marketed it as a bass amp – no wonder, as its compact yet versatile nature allowed for it to handle styles ranging from funk to country to jazz effortlessly!
Newer Bassman models are more compact than older ones and feature modernized circuitry, yet still maintain their classic sound. One such modernized Bassman is the Bassman 800 which utilizes both tube preamp and solid-state power amp technology to deliver powerful full-bodied tones without losing clarity or definition. A switch allows users to switch between vintage and overdrive settings with each setting having its own color LED indicator for easy selection.
Orange OB1 amps offer another fantastic solution with their impressive features that allow for tone shaping, experimentation and world-class effects. In addition, their built-in tuner makes this amp a convenient practice amp that keeps bass guitar sound fresh and enjoyable.
Combo bass amps are great choices for gigging as they require less setup than heads, eliminating the need for external speaker cabs to play them. Unfortunately, their drawback is being bulky to transport around. A great compromise would be something like the 1×12 Rumble 100; with its host of features and solid tone production while still remaining portable enough for easy carrying around – not to mention an effects loop that adds extra sonic flair during live performances!