So there is a used Ampeg B-1R, the single-space rackmount amplifier, available locally for $300. I've been GASless for months - I can go into stores, play cool basses, look at online retailers, without a twinge - and then of course something comes up that sets me on edge. I've been thinking about how I could use this and thought I would ask you guys.
Currently I've been using a GK MB-112 II, which has been great. Plenty of power for my needs, I can't fault the sound. I also use an Alembic F-2B preamp for recording. But I have always fantasized about playing through a tube amp. I know that "tube amp" can mean different things to different
advertising departments people - the main fantasy for me is the Orange AD200. My favorite part of the GK combo is the light weight - even my Epiphani 2X10 cab is a bit much for me to carry - yes I have wimped out! I just don't like being all worn out after carrying my cab - I have considered a cart of some kind but the GK is so portable.
So one idea I had was to use the B-1R as a preamp before the GK. The B-1R has a footswitchable boost channel, so instead of getting a separate boost pedal (something I've been meaning to do since I switched back to my Fulltone Bass Drive) I could also use the B-1R for that. One rumor is that these are known to overheat. Some deny this, but I bet it was people pushing them too hard, since they are only 150 watts @ 4 ohms. But if I just use it as a preamp then no problems, unless I overload the front end of the GK.
Another idea is to go for a small lightweight separate cab of some kind - the
SVT210AV 2X10 part of the micro series is an interesting candidate, or maybe something more robust like the
Aguilar SL 112. But that's down the line - can only afford the amp for now. I could also play it through my Epiphani - gotta check the ohm rating on that one, I think it's 8 though.
I have checked out
this thread here at the outpost as well as what I could easily find at TB. The B-1R seems to be fairly sought-after - but maybe I'm just giving in to gear lust? I get some 12AX7-style tube sound from my CAJ compressor, maybe that's enough? Or since this will require that I lug a rack around, maybe I should just bring my F-2B around with me?