I have seen some comments on the forum about BG-80 and was just wondering if it is worth getting as a home practising tool. I have a Fender Rumble 40 and Spark Neo so am catered for but just wondering whether the BG-80, given its size, portability, etc., is worth it.
The Rumble 40 is already a great amp. Switching mostly just saves you physical space. The Rumble’s 10 inch speaker is great for bass presence compared to the Double Four’s 2x4s, although the Phil Jones does have that cleaner less ‘voiced’ tone. If you want a silent setup, the Neo beats them both.
I guess the question is… Why is it worth it to you? Phil Jones products are absolutely amazing. Don’t let the small speaker size for you. They sound incredible. Other than Bluetooth, I really don’t see an advantage, but still wondering why you’re considering it.
Thanks @John_E . I think it is purely that I have read amazing things about them and their sound capabilities despite their size. I do recognise that I do already have very capable and excellent stuff. Just getting a guage from fellow bassists as to how they are viewed and whether they are worth the c.£500…when I am already catered for.
Thanks @JD56hawk . I think it was your picture and post which started me in the PJB trip…! I have no guitar shop near me when I could try it out and, so, the only option is for me to buy from somewhere and return if I don’t like it but this seems quite a faff!
I have the BG-120 and use it in my work apartment, my big rig stays home. It’s great for this and can actually be used for small gigs (but I don’t gig, small or otherwise).
The Bluetooth is nice in the 80, I don’t have that in mine.
I also have an old PJB briefcase amp (simply cause they are way cool and everyone said they sound great). I surely didn’t need it but love the thing. So I get it.
I’m with @John_E Phill Jones products are amazing and their 2x4 are probably the best 4” speaker you can buy. Beside the incredibly compact size, the best you can achieve is “just as good as” the normal 10” amp. Which an accomplishment. It serves very small niche of users because of the price.
it’s the opposite of best bang for the buck just best bang. if you want best bang for the buck look into Katana 110. Unfortunately it’s the opposite of sexy,
The BG-120 is definitely a step up from the BG-80. I used the BG-100 a few years as my practice amp, and I also ran a PJB head with two C2 cabs. Even with that setup, I still feel that bigger speakers just sound fuller and move more air. That’s subjective, but my 12 and 15 inch combo amps definitely give me more low-end presence than the smaller PJB drivers.
I sold all my PJB gear because I prefer bigger speakers and the voicing of certain amps. Fender, Ampeg, GK, and Aguilar are my favorites. The Fender Rumble 40 is really great for the price, though I still wouldn’t say no to an old PJB briefcase amp.
Thanks again @John_E: appreciate it. I do love the Rumble 40 and Spark Neo and, so, will probs leave it for the time being but really appreciate you and others taking the time to let me have your thoughts.
Thanks @Al1885. They do look cool and the reviews are ace but, at £500 and loving the Rumble 40 and Spark Neo, probs going to leave it at the moment…until my GAS returns…