I guess I'm the only one or maybe I'm just old School lol but I will still take my gk700rb and RBH 410 cab to most of my gigs and rock out. It has nothing to do with wanting to be louder than everyone else. I love having that low-end sound coming from that rig. It creates a stage experience that can be felt. Rock on everyone! 🎶🎵 🎸 🤘♥️
I love a good massage from a couple of 15s and a 4x10... ...but when you play a big festival of stadium gig, you'll be using (or wish you were using) in ear monitors. Especially when your bass tech has a violent case of diarrhea and you have to manage the columns of Stone Henge all on your own, on a very limited time budget. Trust me, that guy running sound won't be giving you extra time because he understands your predicament. That being said, small gigs with little to no PA... Bass amp all the way.
I was just thinking about this because everywhere I've gone lately don't allow amps, the bass has to go direct and you have to use IEM's. My little 2-10 cab and 350 watt d-class amp is more than enough whenever I get to use it. Appreciate you Travis and what you contribute to the bass community.✌
Started playing bass in the late 60’s. First real amp was a Kustom with 2 15” JBL’s. Only 100 watts per channel but really cool for the time being 17 years old on stage with this amp.
I recently picked up the smaller Boss Katana 110 bass combo amp, and I feel like it's the only amp I'll ever need. It can get surprisingly loud, has drive and compression built in (along with most effects I'd need like chorus, octaver, delay, filter env), and has a DI out that works with the cab emulation. I use the headphone out for home practice, and with the Bluetooth features, my tablet can stream audio to it for backing tracks, playalongs, or metronome. You can also switch between presets with the mobile app and go in-depth to all the settings, which works well if you don't have a foot switch. Unfortunately it's a bit heavy at 37lbs/17kg, which makes it less practical than a DI box for gigging. But still lighter than most huge amps and cabs people go for.
In my opinion it doesn't make sense to have an amp any bigger than the one in your video. You don't need to fill a stadium with your amp any more, let the PA do the heavy lifting and use your amp as a personal monitor. There are plenty of gigs that you don't need an amp at all as long as you have a good preamp/DI and you trust the sound engineer.
This is the way! I used to run sound at a 275 cap club and bands would show up with Marshall 4x12 stacks and Ampeg 8x10 fridges, and it was absolute overkill. Guitarists only need a 1x12, and bassist only need a 2x10 or a 1x15 at 99% of gigs.
Would you believe Stanley Clarke used about 7 amps on stage,,, at the same time? Did you know he uses a Marshall guitar amp for his hi tone pickups, did you know that one of the amps drives a18 inch speaker under the stage…do you know how many amps a series 2 Alembic can drive? Do you know about the five pin stereo electronics? Music is art. Just like I don’t listen to music performance that becomes a hit and all the guy uses is his iPhone and trap beats…. I could only imagine Bootsy without amps. He runs one amp clean and put the effects on the other and plays stereo.
Well what if the venue has garbage monitoring or mains? I will still haul around my ampeg svt 4x10 cab and rack mount rig. I also have a Darkglass DI/preamp.
My bass rig has not left my house since I played a large conference back in 2018! Every gig I seem to do now is either at a church with an in-ear monitoring system or in a studio. Most of the time I use a Line6 HX Stomp for amp sounds and effects, I also have a Tech21 Programmable SansAmp for when I want to go quick and simple. I have to say that I really don't miss lugging a big amp around, and I think if I ever do start needing an amp again I will probably look into that GK and other small but mighty bass amps.
I'm an ampless bass player, but I do own a fender amp. I think the points you made about powering other amps and portability are interesting, but in my application (church, small gigs) it's easier to show up to a venue with my pedalboard and be ready to go in 3 minutes. I think if you're running IEM's, there's no need for amps because the FOH will be supplying the sound to the subs and it's basically only being used for stage volume. There's no need for stage volume unless your IEM's fail and you will need a backup to getting sound output volume when stage wedges aren't present. Most modern bands use IEM's and therefore I think the amps are going the way of vinyl records, which are super cool to listen to but kind of cumbersome when you need to change a song or in this case move the amp around.
I have the GK 1x12 x earlier model about 27 #s And it totally kills it . I am always amazed when it stands out in an incredible way over the mix. It is a piece of engineering art. No pedals and standard p bass is all you need
... so you pump your sound from on-stage into the audience? How do you know what it sounds like from the perspective of the audience? What about issues like your bass clashing with the kick drum - are those things you care about? I suppose everyone else in the band also just blasts their sound from on-stage into the audience... My goodness!
@@busterfoxx unfortunately, yeah. We don’t have enough money for subs and a higher quality FOH, so we just use the PA for vocal. I use my wireless to walk out during soundcheck and then make tweaks as necessary. *shrug*
@@busterfoxxthat's how it was done in a lot of love settings. There are still places where they don't have the money to invest in other setups or it might not be feasible or practical. As a musician you don't always have control over those particulars.
If you are a band, just commit to doing the sound "right". Instead of each person investing thousands on their personal rig, take the time to design a solution for the whole band. For instance, if you got in ear monitors for every one then no need for amps at all. That's also much more cost effective in terms of purchasing costs and also transporting the gear. If you must worry about FOH speakers too, then with a "quiet" stage it's easy to get any speakers to sound good in the audience.
@@Andyanddiana467 I know what you're talking about; I've seen this 🥴. I didn't like it so I've been designing my band's sound system so that we can sound better. I realise if you're a session musician who moves from band to band then maybe it's best to invest in your personal rig and try to be ready for anything.
My first bass amp in the '80s was a 100 watt GK combo with built in compression and chorus, as well as external speaker jacks and 1/4"/balanced line levels out -- they were way ahead of their time in the tiny, light, utilitarian amp category. Then I went to giant SWR rigs in the '90s and now I'm back to a 5 lb. GK 500 Fusion head after selling off the heavier SWR rack stuff. And the circle of gear life continues.
Playing through an amp is much more fun and exciting than just a pre-amp / IEMs...but I totally understand the house sound advantage of a no amp stage. I prefer an amp but most of the time it's not up to me and you just gotta roll with what the gig calls for. I'm always glad when I don't have to haul a bunch of gear around though too!
Absolutely love my MB112. I've used for small pub gigs, weddings and even big swing band gigs in big venues and never gone past 1/2 way on the volume. If it needs to be louder out front, the post DI thru the desk does all the work. Great choice sir!
Im going to keep this in mind when I get gud at bass. right now I got 7 nation army bass riff under my belt and about to branch out and explore in the garden of eden.
I have a few amps that I use for different situations; a 1-10 combo for small places, and GK neo 2-12 cabs for larger places. SansAmp Bass Driver /DI is awesome and I recommend it for both amps and DI situations. Good video.
Still relevant brother and the on going improvements in technology with lighter and smaller builds packing same punch as your old school bigger ones make it more of a reason that no time soon will they become irrelevant. I own a 112 Aguilar cab with a tone hammer 500. It’s beautiful and like you said, I’m planning on saving to get another 112 to stack. When God permits it! Blessings to you brother and keep on jamming!
I've never heard a PA that sounds better than my bass amp. The bars I play are small enough I let my bass rig carry the sound. We mostly just use the PA for vocals
I do understand both sides of the debate. For those who’d rather travel light, use a DI, run straight to FOH, use IEMs, eliminate traveling with speaker cabs, more power to ya, if that’s what turns you on. Me…. I have a truck and I load up and take gear to EVERY gig, and I play EVERY weekend. I have a GK 4-12 cab, an AMPEG 4-10 cab, an AMPEG 1-15 cab, and a little BEHRINGER 2-10 cab I typically use at home for practice along with a GK BACKLINE 600. My GK BACKLINE 600 I use mostly for home practice, although it and the little BEHRINGER 2-10 cab are very useful in most small venues I play, and I HAVE used them for smaller venues, and yes they performed flawlessly and exceeded my expectations. I have a CROWN 1500 watt power amp I use to run a tech 21 Sansamp preamp, and two CARVIN B2000 (2000 watt) bass heads which I ABSOLUTELY LOVE and will never get rid of. They are my FAVORITE bass head of all time, and no longer manufactured by CARVIN. All my amps, power amps, and preamp, with the exception of the BACKLINE 600, are mounted in road-ready racks, and I choose by venture size, indoor and outdoor, what gear suits me each gig. We also use IEMs, but I still like gear on stage. I like gear on stage at my ready. I LIKE to FEEL the floor rumble with low end while I play. And, if we set up at a venue with no stage, and a concrete floor, I have a small wooden pallet I take, and place my speaker cab on it, to get it off the concrete floor and on some grounding, resonating wood. I’m ALWAYS overpowered, and ALWAYS ready for any situation, HOWEVER….. I NEVER….. NEVER play louder than necessary for my band’s needs, and NEVER create a volume war or power struggle with my bandmates. It’s NOT professional, and I’d never do ANYTHING detrimental to the integrity of my band or myself. Bottom line is, YES, you can get away with less, and still perform as needed. However, I personally LOVE my gear, love having it on stage with me, and I personally will NEVER treat bass gear, amps, heads, cabinets, as irrelevant. I’m 56 years old, have been through hell and back. I’ve been blown-up, shot, stabbed, run over, beat on, but I keep in good shape. Maybe someday I’ll have to succumb to loading and lugging “GEAR,” and travel light…. however, while I still can, I’m taking it with me…… OLD SCHOOL!
Whoa, you weren’t kidding about that one being expensive. I’ve bought and built all sizes of cabs, but right now I’m just rocking a little Phil Jones 4x5” and love it. I can’t imagine needing much more, but could always aim an ext cab at the drummer.
You’re definitely onto something as we are finding more and more venues want the quieter stage. Our band plays out several times a month and as a bass player I just traded my awesome sounding GK 212 amp for the trace Elliot elf and cabinet. I don’t even need that to play live anymore (but I must admit I love to feel the bass thumping behind me and this little guy definitely does that) I use a DI pedal into the mixer and get a return signal mix and we’re done. Now, if only I could convince our lead guitar player to do something similar instead of having 4 amps (yep, 4) on stage🙄.
Yes, still relevant! I’ve got three different set ups. I don’t gig very often these days, but it seems like the gigs I do all call for varied equipment requirements. Was playing local community theater, and during the quiet passages the fan on my SWR burgundy kept coming on. I love the sound of that amp, but it doesn’t work for community theater. Love your channel! I subscribed!
I haven’t made “appropriate” use of my 4x10 540w cab in a couple decades, but I’ll never get rid of it for a couple reasons: 1) It’s awesome in every way, 2) If I’m ever in a situation where there’s an acoustic drum set but no PA, I’m golden with the 4x10s. Otherwise I use an orange crush 50 so I can play in different rooms in my house.
I can't tell you the last time I used a amp. I now run a Zoom B6 with Headrush monitor. Before that it was a Line 6 Bass POD. But the Headrush was just for that little bit of feeling since everything is in ears.
First, I feel that smos are relevant. Tks for posting this - I’ve had this GK 112 fusion for a year now. It was not easy to dial in all the filters, at first. It’s doing double duty for me with acoustic bass and Fenders. When I get it right, it sounds great. I also use an Acoustic Image Clarus 4 head with Bag End 115 cab.
Im LOVING my tech21 stack and dont use anything else. I may eventually switch, but i cant help but love having an amp everyone can feel especially when places dont have a good sound tech or DI.
I am definitely an amp dude. I have a big amp (Carvin BRX Series) and a variety of smaller cabs that I run with my Mark Bass Mini Mark III. My combo is the cool Behringer 4500. I shock players with that one. The boom is enormous and they are surprised when they see what it's coming from. Rock on, brothers! 👌🏾
I've played so many different rigs and gig set-ups over the years, I'm happy with my Ampeg Scrambler Di and for small clubs I have a 1000 watt powered speaker I play that through. Gone are the days for me lugging a 8x8 and a 500 watt head up and down stairs! But plugging into a sound system with subwoofers is ideal. 👍😁
Amps! I love amps! Nothing shameful about being a purist. I used to lug around a Leslie for my keyboards! Late 70's, 80's . I played my '63 Fender Jazz on a Fender Bassman, mic it. But I also love the smaller amps that have quality sounds and can jam a place. I'm 61, female, and play praise and worship, country/ western, love southern rock and of vourse, Tejano. Love your channel!
Single 15" combo at home, on stage I just plug into D.I. box and use monitors. Just my bass and cable. stage people turn amps down so low theyre pointless to haul.🍻
They are definitely still relevant in the metal world. It's hard to keep up with a guitarist running a ts9 into a100 watt tube amp through a full stack. I play a pretty wide range of venue sizes as well so it is nice to have a large rig that can handle any stage environment. I have a hard time imagining playing a show with just DI. They would need to be blasting the stage monitors in my face for me to even stand a chance.
It doesn't really matter at the end of the day, this guy can barely play his bass during demo videos and has the opinion of a tween that just found out about modeling amps but has yet to look up the price point. On top of that he obviously has never played a gig in his life because unless you bring your own sound guy, the house sound guy has NO IDEA what your specific bass tone is so they will make it how they like a bass to sound. Give me my SVT-AV, 8x10 and 18" Black Widow or its not even worth showing up for the gig. Plus when have you ever heard your bass through the stage wedges at a gig you didn't headline!
My band went amp-less about 6 months ago. I couldn’t ever imagine not having a bass amp behind me, but with good IEMs, I can still feel my bass through the PA and the subs. Now that I’m used to it, I can’t imagine a scenario where I’d ever bring an amp and cab.
From DI Pedals to big monster stacks,they’re all relevant depending on your needs and uses,I’ve only ever played in Rock Bands and trust me a 1x12 ain’t gonna cut it😂
As I indicated on your IG, I bought the GK 115 Microbass, in 2001. 150 Watts of pure power. I bought the extension in 2013. Rarely need the extension. I did plug the main amp into a Hartke 4x10 cab a church had, during a service. Boomin'! And I mean boomin'! One thing I love about the Microbass is that it is real portable! Oh, last year, I bought the Ampeg DI Box, just in case any amps, period, are not allowed!
I bought an Ampeg SVT-4pro solely to use the line out for recording. I don’t even own a bass cab. Overkill? Probably, but I got it for $650 when they went for $1800 new. I used to just use a radial di or plug direct into my avid interface. This was a game changer I didn’t expect. Now I also have a really good amp if I ever need to gig with it.
I think it really depends on what you are doing as to whether you need one. A small amp under 50lbs and 100 - 300 watts is what works for me now. I like to practice out load. I find headphones irritating and only wear them when I need to, (like when the rest of the family is sleeping).
yes... yes they are for me. I don't care how big the pa is, a floor wedge is not a bass amp and not designed to be one. Not a fan of IEM's but they can work okay if you okay with that headphones no low end sound. For me part of the point is to feel it and when that's gone and guitar amps are screaming on stage while acoustic drums are booming in your ears, you're just tinking on some strings representing low end pretending to be bass.
Yes, amps are, but i was brought up in the era where these pedals were'nt available so it was amp [and speaker cab] or nothing so you younger guys are very lucky to have all this new stuff. i had the peavey mega bass set up and it was brilliant, it was relatively small to take to gigs and i could use it for practice, but what i really admired about it, which really suprised me in relation to your comment regarding effects, is that the only built in effect that it had was a chorus pedal which i think is one of the most essential effect you can have and it was the most delightful chorus i've ever used. i've stil got a lot to learn with regardds to things i can get/do with bass as i have just recently gone back to playing purely for my own pleasure, cant wait to see what tricks i can get to enhance by "pathetic" bass playing😂 thanks for your content keep it coming.
I’ve been debating this very issue for the last year. Like you I have a small rig ( Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 and an upgraded Genz-Benz Focus 1-12), love it! But, lately I’ve been taking my Tech 21 VT Deluxe Pedal, which can save six presets, allow two basses to plug in, and the best, phantom power (no external power source needed!) I have found that I should first always check the quality of the PA/monitor system being used. If it’s a great system, the VT Deluxe gets used. Average to poor, I bring my amp rig. So I think that depending on the situation you are heading into, both are still relevant.
I switched to a sansamp a while ago, and the actual amp is chiefly for monitoring so I don’t use anything big. I know some people swear by their ampegs and what have you, but I think pairing a ss amp with a good preamp pedal can save you a lot of backache while providing a consistent, workable sound.
Great subject. I think the answer to this question is obviously yes, because there are still many bassists who love playing through their amps and will simply never be convinced to give them up (just read the comment section here). And obviously, they are still being made and thus being sold. But because there are so many other options these days, many bassists simply do not need one anymore (or at least don't need to depend on them) But of course, this depends on your individual needs. This includes obvious things like what kind of venues you play at, where and how you rehearse, the composition of the band(s) you play in, and how much volume you need at each of those places. But it also includes less obvious things like what your budget is and how much storage space you have for equipment. Travis makes a good point that a lot the newer amps have cool features that old ones don't like built-in FX, headphone outputs, aux ins, and even tuners. But if your amp doesn't have those features, I wouldn't necessarily use that as a reason to purchase a new one. And this is especially true for gear heads like me. Because even though my old amps don't have those features, I have many other pieces of equipment that more than makes up for that. For example, I've got a bass FX unit that has all of that stuff, even an FX loop. And one of my newer amps, does have an Aux input. But some people that have other equipment that can do all of these things, may still might want a newer amp that does it all in one box, just for the convenience. And one common problem or complaint I hear about gigging with IEM's is that although you can hear the bass, you can't feel it. (There is one company that claims to have solved that problem, but their IEM's cost a cool 3,500 bucks!) So I'm declaring bass amps to be like cars. People will just never give them up!
While I do have several bass amps for various applications, I use IEM's most of the time, I'll DI whenever I can. Good sound guys know their venues better then I do. So I could care less if I have an amp on stage or not.
I played a gig at a festival in between bands. Both bassists before and after me didn't bring an amp (which is inconceivable to me but I guess I'm a purist). The first soundchecked, then it was me then it was the last one. The first heard my amp, and asked me if they could use it during their gig. The one after me, hadn't even soundchecked, he already asked me to use my amp. I used one of the latest MarkBass 1x12 400w 12 kilos. So they were astonished by how light, small and powerful and how detailed the sound was for such little beast. hell, the sound engineer was surprised twice: when he saw me carrying my stuff with no help and when I started playing some notes. I sold my old mark bass which was over 18kg and yet the 400w for that specific reason: a better weight/power/price ratio I was a little negatively surprised that bassists nowadays wake up and choose to just not take an amp for a gig. Instead the two I met brought their laptop to simulate amps and I was like, wth? and/or they rely on others which is never a certitude (I could have said no or not show up or else). Though, I can understand they just didn't know these existed (mark bass communicated really bad, even I lurked around the internet for months to find out this product actually came out mid 2022). or are simply too expensive for the players. If you can, bring an amp unless you know the sound engineer and the room is well equipped with feedback monitor or you got in-ear. But nothing replaces the growl you feel inside your body, not inside your ear, with a real amp.
I can't speak for doing large venue PA stuff as I've never done anything like that professionally. However, each and every component in your rig adds character and tone, even the drivers in your speaker enclosure. Just like a guitarist chases tone, bass does that too with amps, though its not as pronounced when in a mix or band. But in a small room or practice space with others, I'll take the designed bass speaker over the in house PA monitors.
Great video! As I am getting older, it is harder to lift heavy amps and I don’t want to hurt myself. I recently sold my Hartke LH1000 amp and a HD410, HD150, and a HD210. System sounded good but too much stuff. Replaced it with a Fender Rumble Stage 800 and the 2x10 cabinet that matches with it. I no longer use pedals because it models amps, pedals, and cabinets. Right out of the box I found 11 patches that sounded fantastic! The bottom end is full and round and you can also use Bluetooth on your phone to play music through the amp. It has 100 presets and you can add 100 more. Both cabinets are light and it is about 800 watts of power. Built in tuner too. Feels great on my back and I didn’t lose a thing with the switch.
So I made a bid on a Hartke 4x10XL - won it, paid. Now waiting for the seller to get in contact else I raise a case. I wanted it for home use - I wanted to feel the bass. You are saying you are more than happy to have traded for a Rumble? Maybe I will try one of those. I prefer to keep the modeller and amp separate - or at least know how to bypass incase one component breaks.
@@stephenhookings1985 I also had apprehension about a combo amp. Sounds like we think the same. But the Rumble Stage 800, in my opinion, sounded better with my Geddy Lee Fender jazz. If I had to choose between the two, I would definitely pick the Fender. Hands down. Especially with the extension cab. I barely turn it up when playing live. Also my Hartke was a HD. Not a XL.
I think ever bass head made today is no bigger than a church Bible. The cabs average around 30 pounds, . Technology has advanced as far as size and power, so you can blow out the average large club or high school gym , and if you’re doing stadiums they have amps under 100 pounds that would handle it. Although I like the bigger old school because that’s what I came up on, I have to respect that,,, but I would be a fool to trust some engineer that doesn’t know me, trying to adjust my tone. Sometimes I take the bass tone down to 3 when I want to play my jazz bass or Alembic close to the bridge, then I may want to run the bass tone on 8 when I’m playing my precision or hofner…,
Well done vid!! I have a 300w amp for outdoor/'big' places, I also usually use an older GK 12inch 125w for small places. They both have line out to the house system so I usually don't need to turn up past 6/10.
From doing sound and playing bass. I always preferr going bass>pedals>DI split to amp on stage and PA. AMP on stage should be loud enough for stage use with a bit of bass out the fold back. Then the sound guy can controll what's coming out of the main PA.
Depends for me. Do I have PA support? If they have a good sound system and are normally having bassists run direct, I just take a DI. If there's a question, I carry my amp. Basically same setup... single 12 Markbass combo (small gigs) with a matching extension (larger gigs) just in case.
You can’t beat a good little bass combo. The clue is in the name. Matching amp to speaker. The oldies are the best. Fenders, older Peaveys, they have a matched round sound that’s totally reliable. I’ve never owned a big cabinet, if I can’t carry it by myself it’s too big!
Great question, I love this topic. I’m old and don’t play out anymore so my opinion is like me, irrelevant. BUT, playing at home, I’m all about my amp. AND my rack, maybe cuz I grew up in the day of refrigerator racks. I can’t stand the claustrophobic feeling of headphones all the time. Music is partly FEELING the vibes, so, it’s AMPS, ALL DAY LONG !!!
I dont gig without my amp. I love to feel some power behind me. And to gig through some crappy 12 inch PA speakers makes the bass sound awful in my opinion
I play an Ampeg RB-12 and it's incredible! Plus it weighs 75 bazillion pounds less than my 1972 SVT and Carvin stack did. After lugging that rig around for 40 years my old muscles can't deal anymore. And you're right ... they don't need to.
I was using a rack mount Sansamp as a preamp for my live rig long before most people. Live sound engineers loved me, because it eliminated any need for a direct box. I just ran a line out directly from my Sansamp straight into the board and the engineer had all the tone he could want. And minus my cab's individual coloration, had the same tone coming out of my Amp.
The short answer is that when you have to play a gig where there is not adequate PA support, you still need an amp.In over 40 years I’ve done exactly two gigs where I was DIed into the PA and used no amp. One was a fly gig, the other was when the promised backline amp wasn’t there. There have been many others where I could have just DIed, but at most of them there was backline provided. I’m not about to leave an amp in the car just in case I might need it, mainly because it would only take a couple of gigs before someone broke into the car and stole it…. As you discussed, I use small cabinets (1-10 and 1-12) and stack them up when I need to, which is not often. In 20+ years of small cabinets I have never been underpowered and I minimize the amount of stage space I need to set up.
Absolutely, bass amps remain crucial in many contexts, especially live performances where they contribute significantly to the overall sound and presence of the bass guitar. But Using a DI (Direct Input) alongside my bass guitar allows me to connect directly to the sound system, ensuring a clean and consistent signal, which is particularly handy for weddings and private parties where space and setup time may be limited. For smaller club gigs, I use the Markbass Cmd121 Combo which provides a compact yet powerful solution, offering both portability and enough volume to fill the venue without sacrificing tone quality. I usually add a New York 122 2x12 Cabinet for larger clubs, creating a 3x12 stack that can handle larger stages and louder environments with ease.
Amps are still going to be around, but I've kind of changed how I use the amp I take with me most of the time. But I do see a lot of advantages of using a DI like a "SansAmp" Bass DI for a lot of the stuff I am doing. I have 3 amps, an Accoustic 200 Watt (2 15inch speakers), a Fender Rumble 30 and a Roland Cube Bass amp (4 2-inch speakers). I primarily take the Rumble with me and it becomes my bass monitor, though I will use it as my amp in small rooms. I have gone to going through a DI to the board most of the time and use an in-ear system when I can. But for bigger rooms, I will take the big amp with me and use that, even in conjunction with going to the sound board. I like it because of it's larger tone control on the middle and low end. I use the Rumble as my practice amp, with an input from my computer for playing what I am working on and then headphones so I don't bother the others in the house. I agree with you about being a bit of a purist about things, but I also keep up with some of the trends. Thanks, Travis!
Bro! So this is what I have been looking for. My question is did you come out pre or post eq out of you bass amp. My guess is you came out post eq and that’s why it sounds killer ….Everyone I talk to says come out pre eq but my ear tells me coming out post eq sounds way better. If I have learned anything during my music life is trust your ear 👂
When I was starting to gig on a more regular basis with a more professional group, I had a bass stack composed of a 4x12 (top speaker) and a 1x18 (bottom speaker) with a 300 watt head. It was a pain to move. As my band got better sound equipment, I moved to a 1x15 combo with a tweeter horn. I now play guitar for my church, and if I am in youth church, I use a Marshall 1x12. And if I am on duty in main sanctuary, I run my floorboard into a DI box which goes through the church’s house system and we use in-ears or headphones for monitors.
I replaced my Hartke 4x10 + 215 cabinets and 25lb head with a MarkBass 112 combo. I had some volume issues playing in a 2 guitar rock band so I added a MarkBass 115 cabinet. Problem solved. I also use IEMs and have a Sansamp DI.
I've been using the Line 6 Bass Driver DI since it came out. I plugged it into the effects return of my GK amp or a QSC power amp for large gigs and send my signal to the board . No mikes required. I need to feel the moving air. Although I once tried one of those plywood decks that have a drum shaker unit mounted to it. Standing on that felt surprisingly real with very low stage volume. The drawback is you can't move around. They work really well in the studio as well. Anyway ,the Bass Driver DI is still unsurpassed as a preamp.
I love feeling the bass. I’m using my recently purchased fender bassman 800 that is a hybrid with two 12ax7 tubes on the preamp and D power. Along with the fender 410 cab. That more than you’ll ever need and I’m happy with it.
There is one problem with stacking certain combo amps. And Travis' GK is one of them. And that is because its controls are on the top rather than the front of it, it'll be difficult to make adjustments once they are stacked. And you may want different settings, particularly volume, after it is!
I absolutely agree with you about using a bass amp to feel it in a live situation especially as I play guitar. I want to feel it as well especially since I want to feed off the groove and rhythm of them along with the drummer.
Gk was my go to but l'm in a markbass phase right now. Initially l didn't like mb but something clicked a few years ago and l figured out how to dial in a markbass head. I'd like to have both gk and mb but l aint rich. So l usually run a ag1000 thru a 210 or 115 or both, and sometimes another band will have a mb104 cab. The ag1000 with the 410 mb cab is awesome. If they run it thru the house, the mb di and level control to the mixer is very useful. So for a warm tone that can get modern its markbass for me. For a modern tone that can be warmed up. Gk. Thanks for a great informational video!
I think bass amps definitely are still relevant ,and thats because the big companies have been keeping up with the times. I think competition between companies is also great for the consumer (me)! As long as we are willing to buy it, they will build it! lol
Thumbs up on your vid. I'm old... and retired from playing (other than around the house). I'd say that an amp is still necessary, especially if rehearsal with a band is part of the situation. Looking at your vid, the new features are great! On the other hand, if you're touring and playing in medium/large venues, a house DI and small(ish) amp is fine... the house is listening to the mains, and I'm hearing monitors. Rehearsals are working out new material during soundcheck, so having a large, heavy bass rig to practice with is kind of an obsolete process IMO (even with roadies). I've owned or played through many different kinds of amps, from my first rig, a Fender Bassman 100 when I was a kid in the early 70s, to SVT, Acoustic 360, to Peavy solid state rigs, to sweet David Eden and SWR tops on different cabinets, and I had one of the 1x15 GK wedge combos for side projects. ....oh, and the horrible, noisy Trace Elliot rigs the French always supplied for back line. I eventually learned that pushing my personal gear ended up with me paying for repairs, from the amps to blown speakers. I kept my stage volume down, played cheap Peavey amps which never broke, and had my bass, kick, and rhythm guitar as the prominent sounds in my monitors, with enough mixed into side fills on my side of the stage. ...as for playing around the house, I simply use a Kramer Ferrington acoustic/electric bass so I can hear it, although I keep a small combo in the closet. I still use mini guitar amps for other electric instruments, for tone shaping and effects. Thanks for your great video, it's full of vital information.
I love my Genz Benz ML 200 amp , it makes my basses sound huge , it's only 200 watts but sounds great coming thru the sound system, my Genzler MG 800W amp and Aguilar cabinet makes me very happy. Both have direct outlets.!!
I picked up an old Peavey Microbass amp, and honestly it’s all I’ll need. GRANTED - I am primarily a guitarist, but I can’t not have an amp, I hate playing 100% direct, and bass into a guitar amp is Missing a smoothness in the low mids that a bass amp has However, the ideal situation for me, is a hybrid situation - a good DI for house sound, and then a small amp for stage sound/monitoring! I do that whenever I can, because the HX Stomp is a KILLER live solution. I might upgrade to a bigger helix, but the stomp is a full gig rig in & of itself
Hey, I'm an endorsee of a cool Bass Amp Company but I've noticed that I only need my Amp occasionally nowadays. Especially Theatre shows. I come from having an Ampeg 8x10 Rig.
I use a di out of a small class d amp in our studio when we record practice and jam sessions. I always think it sounds great until i plug in my ole hartke and am always blown away how much better it sounds.
I'm a beginner bedroom bass player and I have an Ampeg BA108 V2 combo but just got a Darkglass Element so thinking of selling my combo amp since I don't play out and I found better tones out of the Element with the cabsim. My current bedroom rig is 50 Watt IKM Micro Monitors > DG Element > SA Bass Driver DI V1 > TCE Spectra Comp > Tuner.
My first bass amp was an EMC 1970's, 2 18 inches cabs, 400 watts each, talk about heavy !!!!! Now, I'm a fan of 10 inches combos.A 25 watt 190 inches is enough for practice.
did a gig last week where I didn’t use an amp or cab and just used a sansamp tech driver di. The tone was great and I could hear everything through the monitors. Think I’ll be using this setup for a while now…
I love my GK 200MB. Picked up used. It’s older than me and is a beast! I use the bassrig for church. Basically the same thing as a solid amp but redundant with a great amp eq.
In my opinion, at a Gig, feeling the low end whilst you play is crucial, I play my Rickenbacker Bass like a Guitar, Almost Royal Blood esque, using octaves pedals and drives with a Wah. I need to know that I am still putting the low end out when I hit a solo or move onto the high end
I use a Carvin BX 500 head with compression from the head into a Trace Elliot Elf 2x8 cab. It's really a cool combination and I have other musicians scratch thier heads and the clarity and volume the cabinet produces. I have all kinds of bass cabs. They are not being used anymore. The last gig I did with the Elf 2x8 was outside, big stage , big event , and I honestly probably didnt need to go through House Pa to keep up with 3 guitarist and a loud drummer.
I’ve played in cover bands for over twenty years. My bass rig has gotten smaller and smaller over the years. who wants to lug around that heavy equipment anyway? Now I just bring my tech 21 sans amp, DI into the board and the sound man turns me up in my monitor. I always get compliments on how good I sound, and asked where is my amp. 😊
Of course, they are; nothing like hearing and feeling the sound of my Ampeg V4BH with the 4x10 cab when my 3 piece band cranks up to jam. That's what rock is. Sheesh.
As a guitar player, I don't understand why bass DI rigs don't necessarily need cab sims. You can just use the house system without any special speaker voicing? Can anyone share some insight on why that works?
I have a tiny Phil Jones Cab 27 and a Markbass Little Marcus 250 head and it sounds huge. Would never think to not use an amp because I've always looked at an amp as an instrument itself .
Our band runs IEMs with wireless battery packs. If my batteries die mid-song, I'm sure glad to have my amp as a backup and also providing some lows on stage.
Feeling the bass is the best part about playing bass!
Amen to that brother : )
🔥🔥💯
I second that Amen!!! There's nothing better than feeling the notes pass through air and hitting your ears...it's not the same with headphones..
I so agree!! With that said, I'm in my 50's so, while feeling it is important, portability and in-ears are starting to look better everyday. :)
But if you stay in an apartment...
I guess I'm the only one or maybe I'm just old School lol but I will still take my gk700rb and RBH 410 cab to most of my gigs and rock out. It has nothing to do with wanting to be louder than everyone else. I love having that low-end sound coming from that rig. It creates a stage experience that can be felt. Rock on everyone! 🎶🎵 🎸 🤘♥️
I have an identical rig, and lugging that 98lb cab (or two) is ALWAYS worth it to me
@@mattcastiglia7535 yes!! the bi-amp options on that rig is CRAZY good lol
Yes, stage volume is crucial!
I love a good massage from a couple of 15s and a 4x10...
...but when you play a big festival of stadium gig, you'll be using (or wish you were using) in ear monitors.
Especially when your bass tech has a violent case of diarrhea and you have to manage the columns of Stone Henge all on your own, on a very limited time budget.
Trust me, that guy running sound won't be giving you extra time because he understands your predicament.
That being said, small gigs with little to no PA... Bass amp all the way.
Yessir With just the pedal on live gigs, you are at the mercy of whatever sound system is provided
I was just thinking about this because everywhere I've gone lately don't allow amps, the bass has to go direct and you have to use IEM's. My little 2-10 cab and 350 watt d-class amp is more than enough whenever I get to use it.
Appreciate you Travis and what you contribute to the bass community.✌
I have a pedal and I listen through my IEMs, and that's all I need. It works and sounds great.
Yeah the Fender Rumble 500 is so incredibly good !! ❤️🔥
Started playing bass in the late 60’s. First real amp was a Kustom with 2 15” JBL’s. Only 100 watts per channel but really cool for the time being 17 years old on stage with this amp.
I just can’t imagine doing a gig without an amp pumping out the bass behind me. 4x10 forever 👍
Yup, same here.
Absolutely!!
4x10 😀
❤yup 44/10 ampeg or 4/10 thick trace w/ david eden hiway or 405 traveler..yup....
SWR 4 x 10 Goliath lll with my '76 Ampeg B25 B. Tone to die for.
I recently picked up the smaller Boss Katana 110 bass combo amp, and I feel like it's the only amp I'll ever need. It can get surprisingly loud, has drive and compression built in (along with most effects I'd need like chorus, octaver, delay, filter env), and has a DI out that works with the cab emulation.
I use the headphone out for home practice, and with the Bluetooth features, my tablet can stream audio to it for backing tracks, playalongs, or metronome. You can also switch between presets with the mobile app and go in-depth to all the settings, which works well if you don't have a foot switch.
Unfortunately it's a bit heavy at 37lbs/17kg, which makes it less practical than a DI box for gigging. But still lighter than most huge amps and cabs people go for.
In my opinion it doesn't make sense to have an amp any bigger than the one in your video. You don't need to fill a stadium with your amp any more, let the PA do the heavy lifting and use your amp as a personal monitor. There are plenty of gigs that you don't need an amp at all as long as you have a good preamp/DI and you trust the sound engineer.
This is the way! I used to run sound at a 275 cap club and bands would show up with Marshall 4x12 stacks and Ampeg 8x10 fridges, and it was absolute overkill. Guitarists only need a 1x12, and bassist only need a 2x10 or a 1x15 at 99% of gigs.
Would you believe Stanley Clarke used about 7 amps on stage,,, at the same time? Did you know he uses a Marshall guitar amp for his hi tone pickups, did you know that one of the amps drives a18 inch speaker under the stage…do you know how many amps a series 2 Alembic can drive? Do you know about the five pin stereo electronics? Music is art. Just like I don’t listen to music performance that becomes a hit and all the guy uses is his iPhone and trap beats…. I could only imagine Bootsy without amps. He runs one amp clean and put the effects on the other and plays stereo.
@@saustindavis Yeah... you must have a quiet drummer.
Well what if the venue has garbage monitoring or mains? I will still haul around my ampeg svt 4x10 cab and rack mount rig. I also have a Darkglass DI/preamp.
@@tbirdpunk acoustic or eDrums? Or both :-)
My bass rig has not left my house since I played a large conference back in 2018! Every gig I seem to do now is either at a church with an in-ear monitoring system or in a studio. Most of the time I use a Line6 HX Stomp for amp sounds and effects, I also have a Tech21 Programmable SansAmp for when I want to go quick and simple. I have to say that I really don't miss lugging a big amp around, and I think if I ever do start needing an amp again I will probably look into that GK and other small but mighty bass amps.
I'm an ampless bass player, but I do own a fender amp. I think the points you made about powering other amps and portability are interesting, but in my application (church, small gigs) it's easier to show up to a venue with my pedalboard and be ready to go in 3 minutes. I think if you're running IEM's, there's no need for amps because the FOH will be supplying the sound to the subs and it's basically only being used for stage volume. There's no need for stage volume unless your IEM's fail and you will need a backup to getting sound output volume when stage wedges aren't present. Most modern bands use IEM's and therefore I think the amps are going the way of vinyl records, which are super cool to listen to but kind of cumbersome when you need to change a song or in this case move the amp around.
I have the GK 1x12 x earlier model about 27 #s And it totally kills it . I am always amazed when it stands out in an incredible way over the mix. It is a piece of engineering art. No pedals and standard p bass is all you need
In my situation, the answer is yes. I have no PA support in most places I play, so I have to provide the sound the audience hears.
... so you pump your sound from on-stage into the audience? How do you know what it sounds like from the perspective of the audience? What about issues like your bass clashing with the kick drum - are those things you care about? I suppose everyone else in the band also just blasts their sound from on-stage into the audience... My goodness!
@@busterfoxx unfortunately, yeah. We don’t have enough money for subs and a higher quality FOH, so we just use the PA for vocal. I use my wireless to walk out during soundcheck and then make tweaks as necessary. *shrug*
@@busterfoxxthat's how it was done in a lot of love settings. There are still places where they don't have the money to invest in other setups or it might not be feasible or practical. As a musician you don't always have control over those particulars.
If you are a band, just commit to doing the sound "right". Instead of each person investing thousands on their personal rig, take the time to design a solution for the whole band. For instance, if you got in ear monitors for every one then no need for amps at all. That's also much more cost effective in terms of purchasing costs and also transporting the gear. If you must worry about FOH speakers too, then with a "quiet" stage it's easy to get any speakers to sound good in the audience.
@@Andyanddiana467 I know what you're talking about; I've seen this 🥴. I didn't like it so I've been designing my band's sound system so that we can sound better. I realise if you're a session musician who moves from band to band then maybe it's best to invest in your personal rig and try to be ready for anything.
My first bass amp in the '80s was a 100 watt GK combo with built in compression and chorus, as well as external speaker jacks and 1/4"/balanced line levels out -- they were way ahead of their time in the tiny, light, utilitarian amp category. Then I went to giant SWR rigs in the '90s and now I'm back to a 5 lb. GK 500 Fusion head after selling off the heavier SWR rack stuff. And the circle of gear life continues.
Playing through an amp is much more fun and exciting than just a pre-amp / IEMs...but I totally understand the house sound advantage of a no amp stage. I prefer an amp but most of the time it's not up to me and you just gotta roll with what the gig calls for. I'm always glad when I don't have to haul a bunch of gear around though too!
Absolutely love my MB112. I've used for small pub gigs, weddings and even big swing band gigs in big venues and never gone past 1/2 way on the volume. If it needs to be louder out front, the post DI thru the desk does all the work. Great choice sir!
Im going to keep this in mind when I get gud at bass. right now I got 7 nation army bass riff under my belt and about to branch out and explore in the garden of eden.
I have a few amps that I use for different situations; a 1-10 combo for small places, and GK neo 2-12 cabs for larger places. SansAmp Bass Driver /DI is awesome and I recommend it for both amps and DI situations. Good video.
I use two SansAmp DIs: the BassDriver for clean Full Range and the ParaDriver for more of a Geddy Lee Overdrive.
I’ve got a Behringer DI …it’s a nice cheaper version of Sansamp
Still relevant brother and the on going improvements in technology with lighter and smaller builds packing same punch as your old school bigger ones make it more of a reason that no time soon will they become irrelevant. I own a 112 Aguilar cab with a tone hammer 500. It’s beautiful and like you said, I’m planning on saving to get another 112 to stack. When God permits it! Blessings to you brother and keep on jamming!
If the pa lacks power, your bass is going to sound thin, it's lovely to have a speaker that actually punches and cuts through the mix on stage
I've never heard a PA that sounds better than my bass amp. The bars I play are small enough I let my bass rig carry the sound. We mostly just use the PA for vocals
If the pa doesnt sound any good / no subs. Let that shit rip. If u play a large room or something tho, let those floor 15s do their thing
Exactly. Oldschool. You're in charge of your sound too
I do understand both sides of the debate. For those who’d rather travel light, use a DI, run straight to FOH, use IEMs, eliminate traveling with speaker cabs, more power to ya, if that’s what turns you on.
Me…. I have a truck and I load up and take gear to EVERY gig, and I play EVERY weekend.
I have a GK 4-12 cab, an AMPEG 4-10 cab, an AMPEG 1-15 cab, and a little BEHRINGER 2-10 cab I typically use at home for practice along with a GK BACKLINE 600.
My GK BACKLINE 600 I use mostly for home practice, although it and the little BEHRINGER 2-10 cab are very useful in most small venues I play, and I HAVE used them for smaller venues, and yes they performed flawlessly and exceeded my expectations.
I have a CROWN 1500 watt power amp I use to run a tech 21 Sansamp preamp, and two CARVIN B2000 (2000 watt) bass heads which I ABSOLUTELY LOVE and will never get rid of. They are my FAVORITE bass head of all time, and no longer manufactured by CARVIN.
All my amps, power amps, and preamp, with the exception of the BACKLINE 600, are mounted in road-ready racks, and I choose by venture size, indoor and outdoor, what gear suits me each gig. We also use IEMs, but I still like gear on stage.
I like gear on stage at my ready. I LIKE to FEEL the floor rumble with low end while I play. And, if we set up at a venue with no stage, and a concrete floor, I have a small wooden pallet I take, and place my speaker cab on it, to get it off the concrete floor and on some grounding, resonating wood.
I’m ALWAYS overpowered, and ALWAYS ready for any situation, HOWEVER….. I NEVER….. NEVER play louder than necessary for my band’s needs, and NEVER create a volume war or power struggle with my bandmates. It’s NOT professional, and I’d never do ANYTHING detrimental to the integrity of my band or myself.
Bottom line is, YES, you can get away with less, and still perform as needed. However, I personally LOVE my gear, love having it on stage with me, and I personally will NEVER treat bass gear, amps, heads, cabinets, as irrelevant.
I’m 56 years old, have been through hell and back. I’ve been blown-up, shot, stabbed, run over, beat on, but I keep in good shape.
Maybe someday I’ll have to succumb to loading and lugging “GEAR,” and travel light…. however, while I still can, I’m taking it with me…… OLD SCHOOL!
And you must have a strong back, lol. Rock on!
Whoa, you weren’t kidding about that one being expensive. I’ve bought and built all sizes of cabs, but right now I’m just rocking a little Phil Jones 4x5” and love it. I can’t imagine needing much more, but could always aim an ext cab at the drummer.
Probably depends on your genre and venues. For Doom/Stoner rock nothing will touch standing in front of a 8x10 cab with a monster tube amp.
You’re definitely onto something as we are finding more and more venues want the quieter stage. Our band plays out several times a month and as a bass player I just traded my awesome sounding GK 212 amp for the trace Elliot elf and cabinet. I don’t even need that to play live anymore (but I must admit I love to feel the bass thumping behind me and this little guy definitely does that) I use a DI pedal into the mixer and get a return signal mix and we’re done.
Now, if only I could convince our lead guitar player to do something similar instead of having 4 amps (yep, 4) on stage🙄.
Yes, still relevant! I’ve got three different set ups. I don’t gig very often these days, but it seems like the gigs I do all call for varied equipment requirements. Was playing local community theater, and during the quiet passages the fan on my SWR burgundy kept coming on. I love the sound of that amp, but it doesn’t work for community theater.
Love your channel! I subscribed!
short answer, yes they are. best combination is in ear monitor+bass amp. i prefer and i use 4x10 or 6x10 cabin with EBS REIDMAR 752
I haven’t made “appropriate” use of my 4x10 540w cab in a couple decades, but I’ll never get rid of it for a couple reasons: 1) It’s awesome in every way, 2) If I’m ever in a situation where there’s an acoustic drum set but no PA, I’m golden with the 4x10s.
Otherwise I use an orange crush 50 so I can play in different rooms in my house.
I can't tell you the last time I used a amp. I now run a Zoom B6 with Headrush monitor. Before that it was a Line 6 Bass POD. But the Headrush was just for that little bit of feeling since everything is in ears.
First, I feel that smos are relevant. Tks for posting this - I’ve had this GK 112 fusion for a year now. It was not easy to dial in all the filters, at first. It’s doing double duty for me with acoustic bass and Fenders. When I get it right, it sounds great. I also use an Acoustic Image Clarus 4 head with Bag End 115 cab.
Im LOVING my tech21 stack and dont use anything else. I may eventually switch, but i cant help but love having an amp everyone can feel especially when places dont have a good sound tech or DI.
I am definitely an amp dude. I have a big amp (Carvin BRX Series) and a variety of smaller cabs that I run with my Mark Bass Mini Mark III. My combo is the cool Behringer 4500. I shock players with that one. The boom is enormous and they are surprised when they see what it's coming from. Rock on, brothers! 👌🏾
I like your style brother.
I've played so many different rigs and gig set-ups over the years, I'm happy with my Ampeg Scrambler Di and for small clubs I have a 1000 watt powered speaker I play that through. Gone are the days for me lugging a 8x8 and a 500 watt head up and down stairs! But plugging into a sound system with subwoofers is ideal. 👍😁
Amps! I love amps! Nothing shameful about being a purist. I used to lug around a Leslie for my keyboards! Late 70's, 80's . I played my '63 Fender Jazz on a Fender Bassman, mic it. But I also love the smaller amps that have quality sounds and can jam a place. I'm 61, female, and play praise and worship, country/ western, love southern rock and of vourse, Tejano. Love your channel!
Single 15" combo at home, on stage I just plug into D.I. box and use monitors. Just my bass and cable. stage people turn amps down so low theyre pointless to haul.🍻
Yes - I’ve been looking for a tiny amp with a built-in compressor as that’s the only “effect” I use
They are definitely still relevant in the metal world. It's hard to keep up with a guitarist running a ts9 into a100 watt tube amp through a full stack. I play a pretty wide range of venue sizes as well so it is nice to have a large rig that can handle any stage environment. I have a hard time imagining playing a show with just DI. They would need to be blasting the stage monitors in my face for me to even stand a chance.
It doesn't really matter at the end of the day, this guy can barely play his bass during demo videos and has the opinion of a tween that just found out about modeling amps but has yet to look up the price point.
On top of that he obviously has never played a gig in his life because unless you bring your own sound guy, the house sound guy has NO IDEA what your specific bass tone is so they will make it how they like a bass to sound.
Give me my SVT-AV, 8x10 and 18" Black Widow or its not even worth showing up for the gig.
Plus when have you ever heard your bass through the stage wedges at a gig you didn't headline!
Still relevant! I’m actually getting the Fusion 212 combo today… 😎🎸
Travis. Been watching your videos for a while. Nobody's amp is going to sound like yours, you're phenomenal.
My band went amp-less about 6 months ago. I couldn’t ever imagine not having a bass amp behind me, but with good IEMs, I can still feel my bass through the PA and the subs. Now that I’m used to it, I can’t imagine a scenario where I’d ever bring an amp and cab.
From DI Pedals to big monster stacks,they’re all relevant depending on your needs and uses,I’ve only ever played in Rock Bands and trust me a 1x12 ain’t gonna cut it😂
About 8 years ago i bought the Markbass 112 combo and the 112 ext cab. Great Tone Light and Loud .
I agree! Definitely still relevant!
As I indicated on your IG, I bought the GK 115 Microbass, in 2001. 150 Watts of pure power. I bought the extension in 2013. Rarely need the extension. I did plug the main amp into a Hartke 4x10 cab a church had, during a service. Boomin'! And I mean boomin'! One thing I love about the Microbass is that it is real portable! Oh, last year, I bought the Ampeg DI Box, just in case any amps, period, are not allowed!
I bought an Ampeg SVT-4pro solely to use the line out for recording. I don’t even own a bass cab. Overkill? Probably, but I got it for $650 when they went for $1800 new. I used to just use a radial di or plug direct into my avid interface. This was a game changer I didn’t expect. Now I also have a really good amp if I ever need to gig with it.
I think it really depends on what you are doing as to whether you need one. A small amp under 50lbs and 100 - 300 watts is what works for me now. I like to practice out load. I find headphones irritating and only wear them when I need to, (like when the rest of the family is sleeping).
yes... yes they are for me. I don't care how big the pa is, a floor wedge is not a bass amp and not designed to be one. Not a fan of IEM's but they can work okay if you okay with that headphones no low end sound. For me part of the point is to feel it and when that's gone and guitar amps are screaming on stage while acoustic drums are booming in your ears, you're just tinking on some strings representing low end pretending to be bass.
Yes, amps are, but i was brought up in the era where these pedals were'nt available so it was amp [and speaker cab] or nothing so you younger guys are very lucky to have all this new stuff. i had the peavey mega bass set up and it was brilliant, it was relatively small to take to gigs and i could use it for practice, but what i really admired about it, which really suprised me in relation to your comment regarding effects, is that the only built in effect that it had was a chorus pedal which i think is one of the most essential effect you can have and it was the most delightful chorus i've ever used. i've stil got a lot to learn with regardds to things i can get/do with bass as i have just recently gone back to playing purely for my own pleasure, cant wait to see what tricks i can get to enhance by "pathetic" bass playing😂 thanks for your content keep it coming.
I’ve been debating this very issue for the last year. Like you I have a small rig ( Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 and an upgraded Genz-Benz Focus 1-12), love it! But, lately I’ve been taking my Tech 21 VT Deluxe Pedal, which can save six presets, allow two basses to plug in, and the best, phantom power (no external power source needed!) I have found that I should first always check the quality of the PA/monitor system being used. If it’s a great system, the VT Deluxe gets used. Average to poor, I bring my amp rig. So I think that depending on the situation you are heading into, both are still relevant.
I switched to a sansamp a while ago, and the actual amp is chiefly for monitoring so I don’t use anything big.
I know some people swear by their ampegs and what have you, but I think pairing a ss amp with a good preamp pedal can save you a lot of backache while providing a consistent, workable sound.
Great subject. I think the answer to this question is obviously yes, because there are still many bassists who love playing through their amps and will simply never be convinced to give them up (just read the comment section here). And obviously, they are still being made and thus being sold. But because there are so many other options these days, many bassists simply do not need one anymore (or at least don't need to depend on them) But of course, this depends on your individual needs. This includes obvious things like what kind of venues you play at, where and how you rehearse, the composition of the band(s) you play in, and how much volume you need at each of those places. But it also includes less obvious things like what your budget is and how much storage space you have for equipment. Travis makes a good point that a lot the newer amps have cool features that old ones don't like built-in FX, headphone outputs, aux ins, and even tuners. But if your amp doesn't have those features, I wouldn't necessarily use that as a reason to purchase a new one. And this is especially true for gear heads like me. Because even though my old amps don't have those features, I have many other pieces of equipment that more than makes up for that. For example, I've got a bass FX unit that has all of that stuff, even an FX loop. And one of my newer amps, does have an Aux input. But some people that have other equipment that can do all of these things, may still might want a newer amp that does it all in one box, just for the convenience. And one common problem or complaint I hear about gigging with IEM's is that although you can hear the bass, you can't feel it. (There is one company that claims to have solved that problem, but their IEM's cost a cool 3,500 bucks!) So I'm declaring bass amps to be like cars. People will just never give them up!
While I do have several bass amps for various applications, I use IEM's most of the time, I'll DI whenever I can. Good sound guys know their venues better then I do. So I could care less if I have an amp on stage or not.
I played a gig at a festival in between bands. Both bassists before and after me didn't bring an amp (which is inconceivable to me but I guess I'm a purist). The first soundchecked, then it was me then it was the last one. The first heard my amp, and asked me if they could use it during their gig. The one after me, hadn't even soundchecked, he already asked me to use my amp. I used one of the latest MarkBass 1x12 400w 12 kilos. So they were astonished by how light, small and powerful and how detailed the sound was for such little beast. hell, the sound engineer was surprised twice: when he saw me carrying my stuff with no help and when I started playing some notes.
I sold my old mark bass which was over 18kg and yet the 400w for that specific reason: a better weight/power/price ratio
I was a little negatively surprised that bassists nowadays wake up and choose to just not take an amp for a gig. Instead the two I met brought their laptop to simulate amps and I was like, wth? and/or they rely on others which is never a certitude (I could have said no or not show up or else). Though, I can understand they just didn't know these existed (mark bass communicated really bad, even I lurked around the internet for months to find out this product actually came out mid 2022). or are simply too expensive for the players.
If you can, bring an amp unless you know the sound engineer and the room is well equipped with feedback monitor or you got in-ear. But nothing replaces the growl you feel inside your body, not inside your ear, with a real amp.
i am always pluggin my bass raw, no pedals, no nothing. never failed me. PA and the sound guys always got me.
I can't speak for doing large venue PA stuff as I've never done anything like that professionally. However, each and every component in your rig adds character and tone, even the drivers in your speaker enclosure. Just like a guitarist chases tone, bass does that too with amps, though its not as pronounced when in a mix or band. But in a small room or practice space with others, I'll take the designed bass speaker over the in house PA monitors.
Great video! As I am getting older, it is harder to lift heavy amps and I don’t want to hurt myself. I recently sold my Hartke LH1000 amp and a HD410, HD150, and a HD210. System sounded good but too much stuff. Replaced it with a Fender Rumble Stage 800 and the 2x10 cabinet that matches with it. I no longer use pedals because it models amps, pedals, and cabinets. Right out of the box I found 11 patches that sounded fantastic! The bottom end is full and round and you can also use Bluetooth on your phone to play music through the amp. It has 100 presets and you can add 100 more. Both cabinets are light and it is about 800 watts of power. Built in tuner too. Feels great on my back and I didn’t lose a thing with the switch.
So I made a bid on a Hartke 4x10XL - won it, paid. Now waiting for the seller to get in contact else I raise a case. I wanted it for home use - I wanted to feel the bass.
You are saying you are more than happy to have traded for a Rumble? Maybe I will try one of those. I prefer to keep the modeller and amp separate - or at least know how to bypass incase one component breaks.
@@stephenhookings1985 I also had apprehension about a combo amp. Sounds like we think the same. But the Rumble Stage 800, in my opinion, sounded better with my Geddy Lee Fender jazz.
If I had to choose between the two, I would definitely pick the Fender. Hands down. Especially with the extension cab. I barely turn it up when playing live.
Also my Hartke was a HD. Not a XL.
I think ever bass head made today is no bigger than a church Bible. The cabs average around 30 pounds, . Technology has advanced as far as size and power, so you can blow out the average large club or high school gym , and if you’re doing stadiums they have amps under 100 pounds that would handle it. Although I like the bigger old school because that’s what I came up on, I have to respect that,,, but I would be a fool to trust some engineer that doesn’t know me, trying to adjust my tone. Sometimes I take the bass tone down to 3 when I want to play my jazz bass or Alembic close to the bridge, then I may want to run the bass tone on 8 when I’m playing my precision or hofner…,
Well done vid!! I have a 300w amp for outdoor/'big' places, I also usually use an older GK 12inch 125w for small places. They both have line out to the house system so I usually don't need to turn up past 6/10.
From doing sound and playing bass. I always preferr going bass>pedals>DI split to amp on stage and PA. AMP on stage should be loud enough for stage use with a bit of bass out the fold back. Then the sound guy can controll what's coming out of the main PA.
This was a really excellent video, Travis. Thank you for taking the time to make it. 😃👍
Depends for me. Do I have PA support? If they have a good sound system and are normally having bassists run direct, I just take a DI. If there's a question, I carry my amp. Basically same setup... single 12 Markbass combo (small gigs) with a matching extension (larger gigs) just in case.
You can’t beat a good little bass combo. The clue is in the name. Matching amp to speaker. The oldies are the best. Fenders, older Peaveys, they have a matched round sound that’s totally reliable. I’ve never owned a big cabinet, if I can’t carry it by myself it’s too big!
My first Bass amp barely fit in the back of my pickup truck. Now I just use a Caline Wine Cellar Di. At home I just use my Hartke HD 25.🤘🤠🤘
I'm a fan of the Fender Rumble Stage 800. I've had it for a few weeks, and I may give up bringing my pedal with me to gigs.
Ironic because I've got the same amp and do the complete opposite 🤣
Great question, I love this topic. I’m old and don’t play out anymore so my opinion is like me, irrelevant. BUT, playing at home, I’m all about my amp. AND my rack, maybe cuz I grew up in the day of refrigerator racks. I can’t stand the claustrophobic feeling of headphones all the time. Music is partly FEELING the vibes, so, it’s AMPS, ALL DAY LONG !!!
I dont gig without my amp. I love to feel some power behind me. And to gig through some crappy 12 inch PA speakers makes the bass sound awful in my opinion
Guitar player here. Did bass amps not sound good in the past? I’ve always loved running my guitar through them
Yes bass amp are still relevant because most situations don’t have a decent PA system or subwoofers to project the low end
I play an Ampeg RB-12 and it's incredible! Plus it weighs 75 bazillion pounds less than my 1972 SVT and Carvin stack did. After lugging that rig around for 40 years my old muscles can't deal anymore. And you're right ... they don't need to.
I was using a rack mount Sansamp as a preamp for my live rig long before most people.
Live sound engineers loved me, because it eliminated any need for a direct box.
I just ran a line out directly from my Sansamp straight into the board and the engineer had all the tone he could want.
And minus my cab's individual coloration, had the same tone coming out of my Amp.
The short answer is that when you have to play a gig where there is not adequate PA support, you still need an amp.In over 40 years I’ve done exactly two gigs where I was DIed into the PA and used no amp. One was a fly gig, the other was when the promised backline amp wasn’t there. There have been many others where I could have just DIed, but at most of them there was backline provided. I’m not about to leave an amp in the car just in case I might need it, mainly because it would only take a couple of gigs before someone broke into the car and stole it…. As you discussed, I use small cabinets (1-10 and 1-12) and stack them up when I need to, which is not often. In 20+ years of small cabinets I have never been underpowered and I minimize the amount of stage space I need to set up.
Absolutely, bass amps remain crucial in many contexts, especially live performances where they contribute significantly to the overall sound and presence of the bass guitar.
But
Using a DI (Direct Input) alongside my bass guitar allows me to connect directly to the sound system, ensuring a clean and consistent signal, which is particularly handy for weddings and private parties where space and setup time may be limited.
For smaller club gigs, I use the Markbass Cmd121 Combo which provides a compact yet powerful solution, offering both portability and enough volume to fill the venue without sacrificing tone quality. I usually add a New York 122 2x12 Cabinet for larger clubs, creating a 3x12 stack that can handle larger stages and louder environments with ease.
Amps are still going to be around, but I've kind of changed how I use the amp I take with me most of the time. But I do see a lot of advantages of using a DI like a "SansAmp" Bass DI for a lot of the stuff I am doing.
I have 3 amps, an Accoustic 200 Watt (2 15inch speakers), a Fender Rumble 30 and a Roland Cube Bass amp (4 2-inch speakers). I primarily take the Rumble with me and it becomes my bass monitor, though I will use it as my amp in small rooms. I have gone to going through a DI to the board most of the time and use an in-ear system when I can.
But for bigger rooms, I will take the big amp with me and use that, even in conjunction with going to the sound board. I like it because of it's larger tone control on the middle and low end.
I use the Rumble as my practice amp, with an input from my computer for playing what I am working on and then headphones so I don't bother the others in the house.
I agree with you about being a bit of a purist about things, but I also keep up with some of the trends.
Thanks, Travis!
Bro! So this is what I have been looking for. My question is did you come out pre or post eq out of you bass amp. My guess is you came out post eq and that’s why it sounds killer ….Everyone I talk to says come out pre eq but my ear tells me coming out post eq sounds way better. If I have learned anything during my music life is trust your ear 👂
When I was starting to gig on a more regular basis with a more professional group, I had a bass stack composed of a 4x12 (top speaker) and a 1x18 (bottom speaker) with a 300 watt head. It was a pain to move. As my band got better sound equipment, I moved to a 1x15 combo with a tweeter horn. I now play guitar for my church, and if I am in youth church, I use a Marshall 1x12. And if I am on duty in main sanctuary, I run my floorboard into a DI box which goes through the church’s house system and we use in-ears or headphones for monitors.
I replaced my Hartke 4x10 + 215 cabinets and 25lb head with a MarkBass 112 combo. I had some volume issues playing in a 2 guitar rock band so I added a MarkBass 115 cabinet. Problem solved. I also use IEMs and have a Sansamp DI.
I've been using the Line 6 Bass Driver DI since it came out. I plugged it into the effects return of my GK amp or a QSC power amp for large gigs and send my signal to the board . No mikes required. I need to feel the moving air. Although I once tried one of those plywood decks that have a drum shaker unit mounted to it. Standing on that felt surprisingly real with very low stage volume. The drawback is you can't move around. They work really well in the studio as well. Anyway ,the Bass Driver DI is still unsurpassed as a preamp.
I love feeling the bass. I’m using my recently purchased fender bassman 800 that is a hybrid with two 12ax7 tubes on the preamp and D power. Along with the fender 410 cab. That more than you’ll ever need and I’m happy with it.
There is one problem with stacking certain combo amps. And Travis' GK is one of them. And that is because its controls are on the top rather than the front of it, it'll be difficult to make adjustments once they are stacked. And you may want different settings, particularly volume, after it is!
I bring my own PA to the gig, yamaha speakers from the 80s through a mackie 4 channel board. Any effects can be run through the post jacks.
Yes. I play a lot of rehearsals and jams without a PA.
I absolutely agree with you about using a bass amp to feel it in a live situation especially as I play guitar. I want to feel it as well especially since I want to feed off the groove and rhythm of them along with the drummer.
Gk was my go to but l'm in a markbass phase right now. Initially l didn't like mb but something clicked a few years ago and l figured out how to dial in a markbass head. I'd like to have both gk and mb but l aint rich. So l usually run a ag1000 thru a 210 or 115 or both, and sometimes another band will have a mb104 cab. The ag1000 with the 410 mb cab is awesome. If they run it thru the house, the mb di and level control to the mixer is very useful. So for a warm tone that can get modern its markbass for me. For a modern tone that can be warmed up. Gk.
Thanks for a great informational video!
I think bass amps definitely are still relevant ,and thats because the big companies have been keeping up with the times. I think competition between companies is also great for the consumer (me)! As long as we are willing to buy it, they will build it! lol
Thumbs up on your vid. I'm old... and retired from playing (other than around the house). I'd say that an amp is still necessary, especially if rehearsal with a band is part of the situation. Looking at your vid, the new features are great! On the other hand, if you're touring and playing in medium/large venues, a house DI and small(ish) amp is fine... the house is listening to the mains, and I'm hearing monitors. Rehearsals are working out new material during soundcheck, so having a large, heavy bass rig to practice with is kind of an obsolete process IMO (even with roadies). I've owned or played through many different kinds of amps, from my first rig, a Fender Bassman 100 when I was a kid in the early 70s, to SVT, Acoustic 360, to Peavy solid state rigs, to sweet David Eden and SWR tops on different cabinets, and I had one of the 1x15 GK wedge combos for side projects. ....oh, and the horrible, noisy Trace Elliot rigs the French always supplied for back line. I eventually learned that pushing my personal gear ended up with me paying for repairs, from the amps to blown speakers. I kept my stage volume down, played cheap Peavey amps which never broke, and had my bass, kick, and rhythm guitar as the prominent sounds in my monitors, with enough mixed into side fills on my side of the stage. ...as for playing around the house, I simply use a Kramer Ferrington acoustic/electric bass so I can hear it, although I keep a small combo in the closet. I still use mini guitar amps for other electric instruments, for tone shaping and effects. Thanks for your great video, it's full of vital information.
I have the same bass amp but mine is the 210 version. Best amp. You should make a video of how you set it up!
I love my Genz Benz ML 200 amp , it makes my basses sound huge , it's only 200 watts but sounds great coming thru the sound system, my Genzler MG 800W amp and Aguilar cabinet makes me very happy. Both have direct outlets.!!
I picked up an old Peavey Microbass amp, and honestly it’s all I’ll need. GRANTED - I am primarily a guitarist, but I can’t not have an amp, I hate playing 100% direct, and bass into a guitar amp is Missing a smoothness in the low mids that a bass amp has
However, the ideal situation for me, is a hybrid situation - a good DI for house sound, and then a small amp for stage sound/monitoring! I do that whenever I can, because the HX Stomp is a KILLER live solution. I might upgrade to a bigger helix, but the stomp is a full gig rig in & of itself
Hey, I'm an endorsee of a cool Bass Amp Company but I've noticed that I only need my Amp occasionally nowadays. Especially Theatre shows. I come from having an Ampeg 8x10 Rig.
Nothing beats the feeling of filling your room with all the weight of the frequncies of your bass and amp with the tone you shape out of both
I use a di out of a small class d amp in our studio when we record practice and jam sessions. I always think it sounds great until i plug in my ole hartke and am always blown away how much better it sounds.
I'm a beginner bedroom bass player and I have an Ampeg BA108 V2 combo but just got a Darkglass Element so thinking of selling my combo amp since I don't play out and I found better tones out of the Element with the cabsim. My current bedroom rig is 50 Watt IKM Micro Monitors > DG Element > SA Bass Driver DI V1 > TCE Spectra Comp > Tuner.
Thank you for the video, it was really helpful. Is there a name to the song at 7:11 or are you just jamming? This sounds amazing!
My first bass amp was an EMC 1970's, 2 18 inches cabs, 400 watts each, talk about heavy !!!!!
Now, I'm a fan of 10 inches combos.A 25 watt 190 inches is enough for practice.
did a gig last week where I didn’t use an amp or cab and just used a sansamp tech driver di. The tone was great and I could hear everything through the monitors. Think I’ll be using this setup for a while now…
I love my GK 200MB. Picked up used. It’s older than me and is a beast!
I use the bassrig for church. Basically the same thing as a solid amp but redundant with a great amp eq.
In my opinion, at a Gig, feeling the low end whilst you play is crucial,
I play my Rickenbacker Bass like a Guitar, Almost Royal Blood esque, using octaves pedals and drives with a Wah. I need to know that I am still putting the low end out when I hit a solo or move onto the high end
I use a Carvin BX 500 head with compression from the head into a Trace Elliot Elf 2x8 cab. It's really a cool combination and I have other musicians scratch thier heads and the clarity and volume the cabinet produces. I have all kinds of bass cabs. They are not being used anymore. The last gig I did with the Elf 2x8 was outside, big stage , big event , and I honestly probably didnt need to go through House Pa to keep up with 3 guitarist and a loud drummer.
I’ve played in cover bands for over twenty years. My bass rig has gotten smaller and smaller over the years. who wants to lug around that heavy equipment anyway? Now I just bring my tech 21 sans amp, DI into the board and the sound man turns me up in my monitor. I always get compliments on how good I sound, and asked where is my amp. 😊
Of course, they are; nothing like hearing and feeling the sound of my Ampeg V4BH with the 4x10 cab when my 3 piece band cranks up to jam. That's what rock is. Sheesh.
As a guitar player, I don't understand why bass DI rigs don't necessarily need cab sims. You can just use the house system without any special speaker voicing? Can anyone share some insight on why that works?
I have a tiny Phil Jones Cab 27 and a Markbass Little Marcus 250 head and it sounds huge. Would never think to not use an amp because I've always looked at an amp as an instrument itself .
Our band runs IEMs with wireless battery packs. If my batteries die mid-song, I'm sure glad to have my amp as a backup and also providing some lows on stage.
I am a huge GK fan. This fusion 112 is expensive but it sounds great. I would love to have one.