Looking for the best beginner bass amp that won’t break the bank? Look no further.
0:58 - Acoustic B15
2:13 - Eden EC10
3:12 - Ampeg BA-110
4:02 - Hartke HD75
5:40 - Fender Rumble 40
12:21 - And the winner is…
If you’ve been following me for a while, you might recognize this video from our beginner amp reviews page, but it never actually went public on Youtube. And even though it’s been a while, that Fender Rumble 40 is still a great amp.
I know some people here have a Rumble amp, how are you liking it? Or do you have any of the other amps from this vid, and are you having a better experience with it than I did?
I have the Rumble 25. It’s the only amp I’ve ever owned, so I can’t comment much other than to say it works fine for my practicing in the den. I got it “almost new” from a guy on Craigslist and I paid a fraction of what it costs new.
I’m using a Peavey Vypyr VIP 3 Amp that’s been great for practicing bass at home - I discovered that Gear drops in price substantially from new retail prices, and you can find some good stuff on Craigslist, and put yourself in a higher price range by going used. I think my amp is trying to be all things for all situations though - it’s a modelling amp, has tons of effects pedals, amp types, and other things it mimics, as well as working for bass as well as guitar.
In the forums here, I see talk of bass heads, cabs, combos, and more. Is there a video or any lessons breaking all this down? I wanted to find something (maybe a Rumble 100 fits this?) that’s higher up than a beginner amp. I live in the woods, no neighbors nearby, and want something to crank up. And also be something I could take to jam sessions, once I get good enough - gotta hit those B2B lessons some more So the combination of being loud, but clean sound, somewhat portable, built decently, etc. would be great. Any suggestions?
Hey Vik, those are all great questions, and I don’t have any videos addressing them so far!
For the most part, separate head + cab arrangements are more intended for pro-level gear, combos are generally geared more towards beginner use. Not always though.
If I were you, I’d try some amps out at a music store and see what you like! Different amps have different sounds, and there isn’t one brand/model that’s the “right” one, especially beyond the beginner price range.
Thanks Josh, Went out and bought me the Fender (Rumble 40 version 3) on your recommendation. Agree it is super light, but with a great sound. Now working on improving the input coming from my fingers… still very much learning!
So the combination of being loud, but clean sound, somewhat portable, built decently, etc. would be great. Any suggestions?