Gallien Kruger MB150E or MarkBass Mini CMD 121P?

[SevenSeas]

Hey bass chatters, wanted a second opinion on these two amps.

Need one of the amps for both electric & upright gigs.

If anyone has any better suggestions that would be ace.

- Has to be lightweight. (Carrying on public transport)

[blamelouis]

Volume wise Markbass but I'd say getting on a bus with it would still be a pain.

[Lozz196]

Using the Markbass amp I`m biased, but objectively, it`s loud enough for me in an 8-piece punk band (albeit with 2 bassists, so I`m not holding all the low-end myself) and it is lightweight. I`ve carried it, my bass, and my leads-bag for about half a mile, was fairly tiring though. As there`s only 3lbs in weight difference between them, I`d go for the Markbass based on the power. Plus I`ve read reviews from people using them for upright and they seem plenty happy.

[machinehead]

Having owned the Markbass 121P and played/heard the GK 150 I'd say there is no comparison. The Markbass is louder, deeper and all-round a more useful bit of kit. Frank.

[RhysP]

Another vote for the Markbass here.
I bought one secondhand a few months ago & it's a great little combo (I still think the Markbass stuff looks like a cheap kids toy though......)

[molan]

I'd say there's more scope with the MB to get a rounder DB sound as well.

[SevenSeas]

Someone recently said to me the GK would favour DB? Are any of you guys using your Markbass for double baaa gigs?

[Clarky]

Yes, the Mini CMD 121P works very well for both DB and electric bass and - as others have noted - is pokier than the GK (which I have also owned). I prefer the MarkBass by a substantial margin. The only downside is the MarkBass is heavier and - as a cube - slightly more awkward to carry

Edited September 9, 2013 by Clarky

[molan]

[quote name='Clarky' timestamp='1378761525' post='2204490']
Yes, the Mini CMD 121P works very well for both DB and electric bass and - as others have noted - is pokier than the GK (which I have also owned). I prefer the MarkBass by a substantial margin. The only downside is the MarkBass is heavier and - as a cube - slightly more awkward to carry
[/quote]

I'd agree wholeheartedly with Clarky's sentiments. I've also owned both and the GK really struggled up against a live drummer. Great for home or studio use but I wouldn't gig one without an extension cab and foh support

[gsgbass]

I'm using the Markbass Mini CMD 121P, and it's very good. 29 Pounds in weight, 300 watts @ 8 ohms, and a tone that's great.

[Kevin Dean]

I've owned both & I would definitely go for the MB , because it's louder , & for me more reliable . The GK also had an anoiying hum /buzz when getting Stranglers type sounds that I didn't get with the MB. The MB has a lot more depth & could handle even a low C at volume .