Class D Amp Upgrade

[benthos]

Hi All,

I really like the idea of the portability of a class D amp like the Rebelhead 450 or perhaps an EA iAmp Micro. In particular it would be great to take an amp to rehearsals rather than playing through whatever is available as backline (yes, I'm too lazy to drag my own amp to rehearsals!)

I know that the ultimate decider is to go out and try an amp before you buy but I'd be interested to know if, in your esteemed opinions, if I'm really going to gain a lot in terms of tone.

I currently play a Stingray 5 though an Ashdown MAG300 into a 4x10T cab. I run EBS Multicomp and Sansamp Bassdriver pedals in front of the amp and most of the time I'm playing in a rock covers band.

Given that I have decent multiband compression and amp/overdrive simulation from the pedals, I guess I might not get the benefit of the Spectracomp and TubeTone controls on the Rebelhead.

So is the difference between my current and (potential) future set-up 'night and day' or 'shades of grey'?

Thanks!

Edited April 25, 2010 by benthos

[benthos]

No words of wisdom?

[Mr. Foxen]

The on board stuff in the amp might replace your pedals, even less to carry.

[fretmeister]

I've gone from Ashdown MAG400H (red one) to Hartke, to pre-power set ups to Ampeg to Mark Bass to Ampeg again and going back to Mark Bass...

I've realised that I get my tone from my Bass and my pedal board. So a light good powered head is perfect.

I'm getting an F1 head so it fits in the front of my gig bag.

[WalMan]

Went from (most recently) Trace 122H combo (2x10) to the Markbass 121H combo and would heartily recommend the move. Light, plenty loud enough (on its own with the PA or with the Epifani 12) and sounds great.

Edited April 26, 2010 by WalMan

[alanbass1]

The TC RH450 is a really good amp per se and worth trying even if you think you have a number of things covered in your pedal board. And, as others have said, even less to carry if you go this route.

[benthos]

Thanks for all the replies. Think I might be leaning towards a Markbass LMIII as the solution.

Edited April 26, 2010 by benthos