Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

serpentdan wrote:It seems bass players are not as adverse to solid state amps as guitar players; several of you recommended solid state models, and some recommended tube models. Why are solid state bass amps more acceptable by bass aficionados?

Because much of the time our bass signal is sent direct to the front of house via a DI or the balanced out of a preamp, which means our rig is merely a stage monitor so we can hear ourselves over the drummer and Marshall stack guitarist. In live rock situations, the audience would be hard pressed to hear the difference between an Ampeg tube amp and a solid state preamp driving a digital power amp.

Solid state amps are more tolerated for a couple reasons. As mentioned, DI to usually the source to FOH.
Also, bass players usually use less distortion, or at least, don't use amp distortion; SS does clean well so there's that.

Tubes bass amps are still very important though, you can be sure that some of the best bass amps on the market are all tube. And they don't weight as much as some of the older ones!

Let's not forget that the standard by which all other bass amps are compared is the iconic SVT (Super Valve Technology).



I use an '72 Ampeg V4 through an Ampeg 610HLF, and it sounds great with my Ric. I've used other amps (always all tube) and cabs before but this is a great setup that doesn't break the bank or the back, ala the SVT + 810!

Wow. No Eden votes.

I've used an Eden WT-550B and now run an Eden WT-800C through D112XLTs and D210XST combinations. I go for a Dave Meros of Spocks Beard and a '80s Chris Squire clang out of 4003s. The midrange articulation from the 12s and deep bottom end of the XSTs really bring out the aggressive Ric sound. I play with a heavy pick but even fingerstyle comes through clearly

I've used Ampeg SVTs and 8x10s in my younger days and I can say for this tone, my Eden gear is more articulate and waaay more portable.

I'm using Hartke 5500 amp + 4x10'' box and it's OK. Maybe missing another 16'' box when the stage is bigger.

Where are all the Markbass fans?

I don't have one, but they were being talked up big time here a while ago...

I have an Ampeg B2R with a 410HLF bottom that REALLY rocks. Every once in a while, I'll put my old Hartke 15" bottom in the mix to change things up.

I'm a solid state guy, 'mself. I like my Yorkville and have an affinity for the new Trace stuff.

...but that's just me.

mdeayton wrote:Because much of the time our bass signal is sent direct to the front of house via a DI or the balanced out of a preamp, which means our rig is merely a stage monitor so we can hear ourselves over the drummer and Marshall stack guitarist. In live rock situations, the audience would be hard pressed to hear the difference between an Ampeg tube amp and a solid state preamp driving a digital power amp.

If my understanding of the way my Mesa 400+ is laid out is correct, the DI signal is tapped "post everything" (to paraphrase what I read on another forum). So, if this is actually the case... the FOH desk is getting a whole lot of the "tonal coloration" that my onstage speaker cabs are reproducing, and this supposedly includes some juicy power tube action.

In any case, the soundman I'm currently working with really, really digs the difference (an audible difference according to him...) since I made the switch to the Mesa.

As you can probably tell I am a newbie bass player. My first Rick, a 4003s will be coming in a few weeks. For now my playing will be in the studio and eventually with a live band. Right now all I have is a Roland Cube practice amp. I have heard rave reviews about the MarkBass amps. I am just a bit hestiant to buy something solid state. I had a solid state Line 6 guitar amp and it was aweful. I will be sure to test drive first the Ampegs, Fenders, and MarkBass models you all recommended. Thanks again!

ajish4 wrote:Where are all the Markbass fans?

We're just wait for the ideal time to strike.

for recording, the holy grail is the B-15
for gigging choose your model according to size of venue
but get yourself some Ampeg! You won't be sorry.

ajish4 wrote:Where are all the Markbass fans?

I don't have one, but they were being talked up big time here a while ago...

I have an Ampeg B2R with a 410HLF bottom that REALLY rocks. Every once in a while, I'll put my old Hartke 15" bottom in the mix to change things up.

As they well should....

I was hesitant myself - you know the deal - something THAT small sound good? I doubt it....well sir, I was absolutely and completely WRONG! I have just sold all my Ampeg gear (good ridance) and am now the proud owner of the LMII with the 6X10 cab (together they weigh in at.....wait for it....75 pounds)...and I feel stupid for waiting so long to "take the plunge". I thought the little combo (CMD121P) was something...(yes, I KEPT it!) but the 106HR is simply unbelievable...

The Ric sounds literally AMAZING through this rig....I have never been more pleased with an outcome! And, as an added bonus...my Fender basses sound great, as well!! I am most definitely a MARKBASS believer! My back thanks me profusely!!

Markbass LMII is where it's at.

Here's a 4003 played through a Markbass LMII head and Rickenbacker Transonic cabinet:

This is what it looks like to be playing through a LM II:

ajish4 wrote:Where are all the Markbass fans?

I'm here.

But there's really no point going there, since these type of threads only end up with people mentioning their own amps in response to the question. For example nobody is going to say, "I own a GK rig, but Rics sound best through Eden".

blueflamerick wrote:Markbass LMII is where it's at.

Here's a 4003 played through a Markbass LMII head and Rickenbacker Transonic cabinet:

Well, I recognize that banner. Giggin' in the LBC!