MusicRadar

For a long time bass amplification was notoriously expensive compared to the guitar equivalent but these days, thanks to huge developments in bottom end technology and design you can buy good bass gear for less than an arm and a leg. Compiled from your votes and nominations from our expert panel, Ask MusicRadar has produced a top ten roundup of what we consider to be ‘pro quality’ gear that retails at less than a grand.

To be considered as pro quality each head, cabinet or combo needs to be capable of producing a good level of undistorted volume, have good tonal abilities to cope with different makes of bass and preferably feature an onboard DI or line out socket to link to a PA system. This facility allows backline amplification to handle much bigger gigs than the stand-alone unit can cope with.

Thanks to everyone who contributed suggestions for this roundup. Kicking things off is a chunky little combo with plenty of punch...

SWR made a huge impact on the bass scene when they unveiled their Red Head Combo back in 1988. Today their WorkingPro range offers good quality amplification that comes in at a more pocket friendly price.

The preamp section employs a rotary EQ, Aural Enhancer and Bass Intensifier circuit and offers plenty of warmth at the lower end but with enough punch to get across in the mix. As the name suggests it features a versatile 15-inch driver as well as an adjustable tweeter so although it’s one of the less powerful units here it will still get you noticed. It also has a curious front leg that flips out to provide tilt-back presentation.