If you’re in search of an attractive yet portable bass amplifier that delivers incredible tone for practice sessions and occasional gigs with drummers, consider checking out the Yamaha THR5A.
This pedal features an impressive array of built-in effects and has Bluetooth for streaming music and plugging in a microphone for singer-songwriters. Additionally, its reviews are fair and it sounds impressive for its size.
Features
The Yamaha A-S801 bass amp offers great control of your sound with its many features and controls, such as its EQ panel for tuning bass, mid, and treble frequencies to customize your tone exactly how you’d like. Choose between Drive mode for more distortion in tone or CLEAN mode for cleaner tone; additionally there’s USB connectivity, coax/toslink digital inputs, as well as an MM phono jack input for vinyl playback!
Yamaha’s THR series of amps was originally created for electric guitar players; the THR5A, however, offers an acoustic version suitable for playing acoustic-electric guitars. Utilizing Virtual Circuitry Modeling technology to generate various amp and effect combinations that you can easily manipulate using control knobs; additionally it features compressor and noise gate controls for additional tonal versatility as well as up to five user settings stored using its THR Remote app.
This model offers another great feature – a built-in headphone jack to allow for private practice without disturbing anyone else in the room. Furthermore, its lightweight and portability make it great for traveling; plus you’ll receive both power supplies and cables so you can plug it in wherever and start playing instantly.
This amp is ideal for anyone searching for an economical but high-performing solution, while still producing impressive sounds. With an intuitive design that is straightforward to operate and understand, this amp has volume, treble and bass controls on its front panel as well as an optional drive switch to add growl into their tone. Plus its compact size makes it great for gigging.
Yamaha’s THR30 II Wireless is an impressive portable amplifier, featuring a range of exciting new features sure to impress any guitarist, such as an array of amp and effect models, five-position stereo speaker support, Bluetooth streaming for backing tracks from music services such as Spotify or Tidal and USB device support with Cubase AI recording software for editing tones.
Design
Basic bass amplifiers typically include an on/off switch and volume knob; more expensive models often add multiple switches and rotary knobs for tonal control (such as bass/treble ratio controls and/or overdrive controls) in addition to an “EQ” knob to enable users to modify sound by altering frequency response.
Yamaha’s THR10 amplifier is an ideal digital-age amplifier compatible with modern recording and playback devices, featuring USB output for connecting directly with computers as well as Cubase AI 6 recording software. Controls on this amp are intuitively laid out; on one side there are power switch and five user memory buttons while another provides easy selection between Modern, Brit Hi, Lead or Crunch models (Modern being an example of Modern).
All settings on the THR10 model can be personalized using individual EQ controls for bass, middle and treble; as well as master volume and boost knobs. Furthermore, it features effects knobs for chorusing compression delay/reverbing.
One unique aspect of the THR10 is that it can be used with an external preamplifier pedal to bypass its internal preamp and EQ section. Furthermore, its power amp in jack allows users to connect an external wattage booster which increases output at low volumes.
The THR10 offers an impressive variety of tones in such a compact package, and its power delivery is equally impressive. Boasting 100W/channel into 8ohms at full bandwidth with both channels driving, its distortion rates are very low at just.019%- this was once typical in big audio stores before power inflation wars emerged. Additionally, it features dual heatsinks per channel to optimize current distribution; an E-Core transformer as its source; two 12,000uF capacitor banks as reserves; as well as dual heatsinks per channel to source current to maximize current delivery; two heatsinks per channel for optimal current distribution; an E-Core transformer to source power; and two 12,000uF capacitor banks to reserve power when needed.
Sound
An amp is an integral component of any bassist’s setup, providing the foundation for their sound – whether that means 16th note basslines or smooth melodies. There are so many options out there; to find one tailored to your specific needs is key, so visit a music store and try out various models before making a decision. Take note of their ease of setup and operation as well as whether they feature sturdy handles and wheels for easy mobility.
The Yamaha A-S1200 amplifier is an exceptional small package with plenty of features packed inside. Capable of driving speakers at high output levels without clipping, its clean sound comes complete without audible hiss making this an excellent amplifier for practicing and playing smaller venues alike. Furthermore, its convenient mute button and five user memories offer another level of customization to maximize versatility and ensure optimal playback experiences.
Tone control is another feature to look out for in a good bass amp, enabling you to tailor the tone exactly as desired – this feature allows for precise adjustment of bass, middle, and treble frequencies; some models even feature graphic or parametric equalization (EQ). Check also for internal overdrive effects such as overdrive pedals with 3-knob EQ controls as well as more complex four-band EQ systems or delay/reverb capabilities.
The B-3 differs from its CA-2000 sibling in being a class A/B power amplifier. Class A amps operate continuously with maximum output power which provides great distortion but wastes energy as heat. Class A/B amplifiers use only part of their maximum output power when needed to produce some, thus making them more energy-efficient than their class A counterparts.
This amplifier features a separate mic/instrument channel with combined XLR/jack input that includes dedicated gain, reverb, and volume controls – perfect for playing in bands that need to switch between guitar and vocals as well as recording using its output jack connection to computers.
Outputs
Many bassists opt for power amps with integrated DI boxes. This eliminates the need for preamps, sending signal directly from the amp into a PA and creating cleaner sound at larger venues. Furthermore, this type of amp uses less power than ones with built-in preamps – some models even come equipped with microphone inputs so players can record bass guitar or vocal tracks directly through it!
An additional option for bass players is using a small solid-state amplifier with several effects pedals, ideal for practicing, jamming with friends, small gigs and studio work as they’re often lightweight and compact. Before purchasing one of these amps, be sure to visit your local music store to test different options – try them with both your bass and drummer so you can see which works best together.
Bassists looking for a larger sound have access to several high-powered amps capable of handling up to 400 watts, which typically pair with one or more 1x 15 speakers for an immersive and deep tone. Other bassists may prefer closed back 4 x 10 cabinets which offer more focused tones well suited for live shows.
Before making a final decision, it’s essential to carefully consider your desired tone. Some amplifiers offer more versatility, yet their inherent tone may come closer or further from what you envision for your bass guitar sound. For instance, heavy metal bands usually need larger amplifiers compared to people playing singer-songwriter songs with another guitar player.
Another important decision when purchasing a bass amp is choosing between solid-state or tube technology. While solid-state amplifiers tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain, their overdrive can produce unfavorable harsh sounds when reaching their maximum output limit. On the other hand, tube amplifiers cost more but produce warm and musical overdrives when reaching their limits.