Roots Archives Forum

Ites
I know we've already discussed this topic a long time ago but I cannot find it in the archives. I'd like to have your advice for BASS AMP HEADS. What's best for a wicked roots sound ? And if possible, what's not too expansive ?
Much thanks all bassists around here

Ben

Go for Ampeg - the choice of champions

MightyZ

You could take the [Matamp](http://www.matamp.co.uk) route but that doesn't fit into your "not too expensive" specification.

I think Benjamin is after an amp for a Bass Guitar Amp - would a Matamp be suitable?
If I am correct in this assumption then Ampeg is the way to go - definitely the top choice for Reggae Bassists
I intend to go down that route soon once I am in a suitable position to purchase one!

MightyZ

if ampeg are too expensive for you, ive heard good things of Trace Elliot's

Yes - I have used a really nice Trace Elliott valve set up recently which produced the desired Reggae sound admirably

If you are on a really tight budget some of the 80s Carlsboro combos can hit the spot when the EQ is set up well - I used to use a Carlsboro combo a lot - Stingray I think it was - back in the 80s. Had a good cab design and nice eq section

MightyZ

The Matamps are suitable for bass guitars, or at least according to a review I read on them. Their range of head amps is very well regarded in the music biz.

The vintage Matamps can fetch HUGE money on the second hand market - which is usually a sign that the manufacturer has been getting it right somewhere.

But I guess MightyZ's suggestion about 80's Carlsboro is going to be a lot more sensible given that Benjamin wants to do this without selling his kidneys. But what about reliability with older amps? Is this a problem?

Not aware that is much of an issue age

If you have the money I would still go Ampeg vs Matamp though - even if a review says Matamp are suitable (and I am not doubting the quality of this kit - don't get me wrong - I have heard it in use at a Sound System and it is quality) - The thing is that Ampeg has been the main choice of most of the top Reggae bassists since the 1980s to the best of my knowledge and is therefore tried and tested over a long period of time and found to deliver the right sound for this type of music (and many others I believe).

MightyZ

Just to add in case it isn't obvious, when I talk of Carlsboro amps I am only talking of the 80s ones - the modern ones look pretty shit (although I havent heard them).

MightyZ

MightyZ wrote:Just to add in case it isn't obvious, when I talk of Carlsboro amps I am only talking of the 80s ones - the modern ones look pretty shit (although I havent heard them).

MightyZ

From what I saw when poking around a music shop trying to buy my kids guitar amps, both Carlsboro and Marshall amps are pretty much badged up Chinese s**t nowadays. At least the low end stuff was.

I take your point on the Matamp, I guess it is more famous for use as a rock amp.

But yes, the ones they use at Highness are certainly doing their work properly judging by the effect the sound haas on the roof at the Bodega!