Bass guitar amps differ from regular guitar amplifiers in that their frequency response range differs significantly. Whereas normal guitar amplifiers use speakers capable of reproducing high frequencies, bass amps utilize larger speaker sizes in order to produce heavier low frequencies more easily while being smaller and lighter overall.
Combo bass amps offer convenience while stacks are more adaptable, allowing for the switchability of different speaker cabinets to create different tones and sounds.
Ampeg RB-110 Rocket Bass
Ampeg’s RB-110 Rocket Bass combo bass amp offers unparalleled performance in an easy and portable package that makes it the ideal amp for practicing or small venue performances. Boasting classic Ampeg 3-band EQ as well as its new switchable Super Grit Technology overdrive circuit, dial in your tone effortlessly; whether you prefer clean tones or the trademark Ampeg growl! An auxiliary input lets you jam along with any external audio source; while its headphone output allows for private practice whenever and wherever it suits.
With few cosmetic differences between models in this line, both 30 and 50 watt models in this series share similar features, including compact closed-back cabinets with metal corners to protect against bumps and scrapes, as well as the same sturdy carry handle situated on top. Both offer mini-jack auxiliary input and headphone output jacks; their control panels are simple yet intuitive with volume, three-band EQ settings, and an on/off switch for SGT all occupying most of the right-hand side layout.
The 50 watt model of these amps offers more power for rehearsals and small gigs, making them suitable for rehearsals as well as live shows. Both feature balanced XLR output for professional connections to PAs or recording interfaces; their lightweight designs make transporting them simple from home to studio or gig venue.
Fender Rumble 40
The Fender Rumble 40 bass combo amp is an ideal compact bass amp solution, suitable for small gigs, rehearsals and studio recording. Although smaller and lighter than many of its rivals, the Rumble 40 still delivers powerful bass tone. Furthermore, its headphone connector and AUX input make this amp an excellent choice for those searching for compact yet feature-packed amplifiers.
The Rumble 40 features a 10-inch speaker which delivers realistic warmth and depth for bass tones. With four-band EQ and three-button palette for voicing, shaping your sound has never been easier! Furthermore, this amplifier features built-in tuner capability and Bluetooth compatibility – it is even WiFi equipped for sharing user presets! Its Tone app provides access to updates as well as sharing user presets created through WiFi-enabled Tone apps!
Though less versatile than larger amps, the Rumble 40 bass amp is an excellent starting point for beginners and those on a budget. Compact in design and featuring an XLR line output for recording purposes; in addition, its headphone jack allows for quiet home practice sessions without disrupting other family members.
Blackstar Unity 30
The Blackstar Unity 30 bass amp is an outstanding portable unit offering unparalleled tone and power in a compact package. Boasting three distinct preamp voicings (Classic, Modern and Overdrive), and 3-band semi-parametric EQ to give you plenty of control in crafting your sound, as well as a drive section featuring three overdrives with user controllable blend to take you from valve grind to high headroom clean with just the turn of a dial!
Built-in effects such as compression, chorus and an octaver are sure to set this amp apart from others in its price range. Perfect for home use with its MP3 input so you can practice along to your favorite songs!
Blackstar Unity bass combo amplifier was created with tonal flexibility in mind, offering balanced XLR and USB connectivity as well as a -10dB pad to accommodate active or passive instruments as well as MP3/line input for practice purposes. You can even link the U30 with its U250ACT powered cabinet for an additional 250W stage power boost! Plus its custom designed 8″ speaker produces huge sound for its size while easily pushing air.
Ashdown Studio 8
Ashdown’s Studio 8 and 15 portable amplifiers provide a host of tone shaping options that make for ideal rehearsal and practice units. Each features Line In inputs, speaker mute switches and headphone outputs for quiet playing sessions; plus three and five band preamps with EQ controls that open up an abundance of tones for picking and fingerstyle styles, including providing rounded bass frequencies with just the right touch of grind when pushed, providing great tone shaping options when gigging live.
These amps feature custom designed 8″ speakers with balanced and even tones for a powerful yet balanced tone, enabling you to turn up loud with enough gain for cutting through the mix. In addition, this small amp comes equipped with a line mix control which enables users to connect second instruments or backing tracks and play along simultaneously; our bassists at Sweetwater have found great pleasure playing with this feature!
This combo weighs less than 13 pounds and can be lifted with one finger – ideal for younger players looking for reliable practice amplifiers that won’t break their backs! Additionally, pairing it with another larger amplifier makes an effective combination as the smaller amp can focus on high mids for added grit while its counterpart handles low frequencies for cleaner bass tones.
Laney LX15B
The LX15B bass practice amplifier is a compact and easy-to-use amp designed specifically for bass guitar practice sessions in black tolex. Offering 15W from dual 5″ speakers for big Laney sound that will impress, this amp features an expressive 3-band EQ for tone shaping as well as an onboard compressor to provide added punch. There is also an AUX input so users can connect MP3 players or iPods for jamming along to songs or backing tracks, plus there is even an audio headphone socket for silent late night practice sessions!
One key difference between bass and guitar amps is that bass amps tend to be better designed to handle lower frequencies, so their EQ often caters towards these lower frequency ranges. Bass amplifiers also tend to have less distortion or overdrive settings than guitar amps do and rarely offer reverb effects.
Though relatively compact in size, the LX15B is constructed for durability with corner protection and solid carry handle as well as quality construction throughout. Its simple user design makes it suitable for practicing at home as well as gigs or rehearsals, featuring a “Shape” switch which optimizes preset settings to provide you with great-sounding ‘go to’ settings at the press of a button.
Laney Richter RB3
The Laney Richter RB3 is a 65 watt combo amp equipped with a custom 12 inch driver and horn to produce classic bass tone. The Laney Richter’s ergonomic preamp offers many features to help maximize bass tone such as high or normal input choices and 3-band EQ with parametric mid for tonal sculpting, plus onboard compressor and FX loop for adding punch to your tone, plus connections like AUX in, headphone socket, and XLR DI for versatility between practice, recording rehearsal, rehearsal rehearsal and small gigs.
Add an extension speaker (RB115) for extra power, doubling the output of this amp and giving yourself the option of using your cabinet in kickback orientation.