Whilst I have been playing for more than fifteen years, I've never had any interest in the technicalities of gear. For some years I've been playing an early eighties Tokai Hardpuncher and a Warwick Corvette $$, both four-string, which have served me well. My amp for a long time was a Trace Elliot combo (around 300 watts).
Having looked at combos around the 250 watt mark in more detail recently, I'm confused as to the best option to go with and thought some wise advice would not go wanting.
I mainly play gospel in churches and larger venues and a variety of covers material (from Motown to modern pop-rock) in function bands. I'm also looking at getting a five-string bass soon. My main questions are as follows:
1. How much difference does cone size make, especially with a five-string?
2. Is 250 watts (with di) enough for my needs?
3. Do aluminium cones make a big difference?
Build quality/reliability and ease of repair are important to me and I don't want to spend more than £450 and ideally less. I'm happy with second hand, however.
I am considering the Hartke Hydrive 115c, the TC Electronic BG250-115, the Ashdown MAG C210T-300 EVO III, the Markbass CMD 151 Jeff Berlin Players School and the more powerful Genz Benz Contour CTR500-210T. Are any of these, or indeed any others preferable for what I'm after?
Many thanks,
Tobie