An amplifier is an electronic device that increases the voltage, current, or power of a signal. Amplifiers are used in wireless communications and broadcasting, and in audio equipment of all kinds. They can be categorized as either weak-signal amplifiers or power amplifiers.
Here are some of the best amplifiers in the market:
- Gallien-Krueger MB Fusion
Gallien-Krueger is known for making niche solutions which almost always hit their mark. Their MB Fusion head packs a whopping 500 Watts of power, which wouldn’t be all that fascinating if this head wasn’t only 4 lb in weight.
However, its light nature and decent power output are not what makes the MB Fusion so attractive. Gallien-Krueger has packed this thing with three 12AX7 tubes in the preamp stage. This gives you a very organic, natural sounding tone that only tubes can deliver.
2. Ampeg SVT-7 Stack
Ampeg’s SVT-7PRO stack that comes with their SVT-410HLF speaker cabinet is one of the hottest stacks on the market right now. With an impressive kilowatt output at your disposal, you can use this stack for serious stage work.
However, the best thing about the SVT-7PRO is just just how versatile this head actually is. Not only does it feature an extended three-band EQ, but it also comes with a built in compressor. Sure, there are better stand-alone options, but this unit is more than capable of leveling out your tone.
3. Fender Rumble 500
Fender’s Rumble 500 represents a no-nonsense bass combo that’s packed full of power and practical features. It is relatively compact for what it is, and features a versatile four-band EQ.
Among the less standardized features, you have a fully optimized drive section which allows you to tap into some sweet overdrive if you feel like it. The 500 Watts of available power make the Rumble 500 a solid choice both for those who need a good practice amp, as well as those who want something reliable to gig with.
4. Trace Elliot ELF 200
If any amp defined the word ‘portable’ it would be the Trace Elliot ELF 200. Weighing in at just 1.6lbs, and small enough to easily fit in gig bags (even back pockets!), the ELF may be one of the easiest amps to carry ever made.
With just a few EQ adjustments, this amp can also deliver more classic, scooped-mid bass tones. Bassists looking for a distinctive, upbeat sound in a portable package should check it out. Out of the box, it delivers bright, punchy tones that run heavy through the midrange and are perfect for bassists looking for a livelier, ‘lead bass’ sound.
5. Hartke HD500
The newest addition to the popular HD Series from Hartke, the HD500 combo amp packs a serious amount of power into a compact, lightweight package.
The fact that it comes in a rugged case which is just 35 lbs in total makes it very tantalizing to the regularly gigging bassist, especially as it boasts 500 watts of power and a very well-balanced tone
6. Behringer Ultrabass BXD3000H
Behringer’s Ultrabass series of bass amps has always been the safe haven for budget users. One of their latest additions to the series, the Ultrabass BXD3000H, follows the tradition set by its predecessors. On top of all that, the whole amp comes in at only 8 lbs. Among the interesting features offered by the BXD3000H, the 7-band graphic EQ has got to be the most prominent one.
7. Orange Amplifiers Crush Bass 50
Orange Crush Bass 50 is by far one of their most balanced models to date. This thing combines experience and lessons learned from Orange’s flagship models, delivering a very tasty tone with just enough power where we can call it versatile.
With a ported cab and a semi analog circuitry, you’re bound to experience some of that punchy low end that’s tight, powerful and well defined. On top of that, Orange has included a number of features that make the Crush Bass 50 that more flexible.
8. Vox Pathfinder
Vox Pathfinder series pushes the practice segment of bass amplifiers to a whole new level. Featuring that classic Vox design, this compact combo represents a pretty simple yet capable solution.
The amp delivers 10 Watts of power through a pair of 5-inch Vox Bulldog speakers. Despite their size, these transducers were customvoiced to provide a deep reaching bass tone. Pathfinder has proven to be a very good recording platform as well, allowing you to record some pretty awesome bass tones.
9. Blackstar FLY 3 Bass
Practice amps for bass players? Yes, they do exist, although your choices may be a bit smaller than the extensive catalog available for guitarists. This includes switchable clean/drive channels, an on-board compressor, and a useful SUB control for adding extra low frequencies to the sound. The FLY 3 Bass gives you great looks and flexible tone, all in a package that you’ll find super easy to transport
References:
Top 9 Bass Guitar Amplifiers – The Elite From All Classes And Segments
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