Bass Guitar Amps Amplifiers

First and foremost, a bass guitar amp is an amplifier specifically designed to amplify the sound of a bass guitar. It's not the same as a regular guitar amp, as the frequencies and tones produced by a bass guitar are different from those produced by a standard electric guitar. Here are some key features of a bass guitar amp:

• Power: A bass guitar amp typically has a higher wattage than a standard guitar amp, as bass frequencies require more power to be properly amplified.

• Speakers: Bass guitar amps usually come equipped with larger speakers to handle the lower frequencies produced by the instrument. A common size is 10", 12" or 15" inches.

• Preamp: The preamp is the part of the amp that processes the incoming signal from the bass guitar before it's amplified. It shapes the tone and allows for adjustments to the bass, mid and treble frequencies.

• EQ controls: Most bass guitar amps come with built-in EQ controls that allow you to adjust the tone of your instrument to suit your playing style and the type of music you're playing.

• Effects: Some bass guitar amps come with built-in effects such as distortion, chorus or reverb. These effects can be used to add depth and character to your sound.

• Portability: Depending on your needs, you may want to consider the size and weight of your bass guitar amp. Some models are more compact and portable, while others are designed for use in a studio or on stage.

In conclusion, a bass guitar amp is an important piece of equipment for any bassist looking to enhance their sound and take their playing to the next level. With the right amp, you can shape your tone, add effects and achieve the perfect sound for your playing style and musical preferences. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, investing in a quality bass guitar amp is definitely worth considering.

"The best bass sound comes from a big, heavy bass amp." - Flea, Red Hot Chili Peppers

How does a Bass Guitar Amp work?

If you're a bassist, understanding how a bass guitar amp works is essential to getting the most out of your playing. In this guide, we'll break down the basics of how a bass guitar amp works so you can make an informed decision when shopping for one. Here are the key points you should know:

1. Input: The first step in the process is connecting your bass guitar to the input jack on the amplifier. This sends the signal from your instrument into the amp.

2. Preamp: The preamp is responsible for processing the signal from the bass guitar before it's sent to the power amp. It shapes the tone and allows you to adjust the bass, mid and treble frequencies. This is where you'll make adjustments to the EQ controls to get the perfect sound.

3. Power amp: Once the signal has been processed by the preamp, it's sent to the power amp. The power amp is responsible for amplifying the signal and making it loud enough to be heard through the speakers. The wattage of the power amp will determine how loud the sound can get.

4. Speakers: The amplified signal is then sent to the speakers, which are designed to handle the low frequencies produced by a bass guitar. The size of the speakers will affect the sound, with larger speakers producing deeper bass and smaller speakers providing a more focused sound.

5. Cabinet: The speakers are housed in a cabinet, which can affect the sound as well. A closed-back cabinet will produce a more focused sound, while an open-back cabinet will provide a more natural sound with better projection.

6. Effects: Some bass guitar amps come with built-in effects, such as distortion, chorus or reverb. These effects can be used to add depth and character to your sound. They are usually controlled through a separate section of the amp or through a footswitch.

7. Output: Finally, the sound is sent out through the output jack on the amp. This can be connected to a recording device, mixer or another amplifier.

Understanding how a bass guitar amp works can help you choose the right one for your playing style and needs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, a good bass guitar amp is an essential piece of equipment for getting the most out of your instrument.

When was the Bass Guitar Amp invented?

If you're a fan of bass guitar, you may be curious about the history of the bass guitar amp. The bass guitar itself was invented in the 1950s, but the development of the bass guitar amp didn't happen until a few years later. Here's a brief history of the bass guitar amp:

In the early days of electric bass, bassists would often use standard guitar amps to amplify their sound. However, these amps weren't designed to handle the lower frequencies produced by a bass guitar, so the sound was often muddy and distorted.

It wasn't until the 1960s that the first bass guitar amps were developed. In 1960, Ampeg introduced the Portaflex B-15, which was specifically designed for bass guitar. It featured a 15-inch speaker and a 25-watt amp, which was powerful enough to handle the low frequencies produced by a bass guitar. The B-15 became a popular choice among bassists and was used by legendary musicians like James Jamerson and Carol Kaye.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, other companies began to develop bass guitar amps, including Fender, Sunn, and Acoustic. These amps featured larger speakers and more powerful amps, which allowed bassists to play in larger venues and compete with the volume of other instruments.

In the 1980s and 1990s, bass guitar amps continued to evolve, with companies like Ampeg, Hartke, and SWR introducing new technologies like solid-state circuitry and hybrid amps. These advancements allowed for more powerful and versatile amps, with a wider range of tones and effects.

Today, there are countless options when it comes to bass guitar amps, ranging from small practice amps to massive touring rigs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's a bass guitar amp out there that will meet your needs and help you achieve the perfect sound for your playing style.

 "Your bass amp is the engine of your sound." - Billy Sheehan, Mr. Big 

Where can I buy Bass Guitar Amps in Australia?

If you're a bassist in Australia and looking to buy a new amp, you may be wondering where to start your search. Look no further than Coleman’s Music Store, with locations in Melbourne CBD and Lynbrook, as well as an online store. We carry a wide range of bass guitar amps from top brands like TC Electronic, Vox, Ampeg, Darkglass, and Fender Orange

. Here's a closer look at what we offer:

Orange: Orange amps are known for their powerful, dynamic sound and distinctive vintage styling. We carry a range of Orange bass guitar amps, including the Crush Bass series and the OB1-300 Combo.

TC Electronic: TC Electronic is a Danish brand known for their high-quality effects pedals and digital processing units. We carry a range of TC Electronic bass amps, including the BG250-208 and the BH250.

Vox: Vox is a legendary brand that's been making amps since the 1950s. We carry a range of Vox bass amps, including the Pathfinder 10 and the VX50 BA.

Ampeg: Ampeg is another iconic brand that's been making bass amps since the 1960s. We carry a range of Ampeg bass amps, including the BA-210 and the BA-115.

Darkglass: Darkglass is a newer brand that's gained a reputation for their innovative, high-gain bass amps. We carry a range of Darkglass bass amps, including the Microtubes 900 V2 and the Alpha Omega 900.

Fender: Fender is a name that's synonymous with guitars, but they also make some great bass amps. We carry a range of Fender bass amps, including the Rumble series and the Bassman 500.

No matter what your style or budget, we have a bass guitar amp that will meet your needs. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right amp for your playing style and provide expert advice on how to get the most out of your new gear. Plus, with our online store, you can shop from the comfort of your own home and have your new amp delivered right to your door. So why wait? Visit Coleman’s Music Store today and find your new bass guitar amp.

What famous artists use Bass Guitar Amps?

If you're a fan of music, you may be curious about what famous artists use bass guitar amps. Bass guitar amps are an essential part of any bassist's setup, providing the power and tone needed to create a dynamic, full-bodied sound. Here's a look at some famous artists who use bass guitar amps:

1. Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers: Flea is known for his energetic bass playing and has been using Ampeg bass amps for most of his career. He's been seen using the Ampeg SVT-VR and SVT-CL amps on stage.

2. Geddy Lee from Rush: Geddy Lee is a legendary bassist known for his intricate, melodic playing style. He's been using Gallien-Krueger bass amps for years, including the GK 800RB and the MB Fusion 800.

3. John Paul Jones from Led Zeppelin: John Paul Jones is a versatile bassist who's played everything from hard rock to folk music. He's been seen using the Orange AD200B bass amp on stage.

4. Victor Wooten: Victor Wooten is a virtuoso bassist known for his lightning-fast playing and innovative techniques. He's been using Hartke bass amps for years, including the Hartke LH1000 and the HyDrive HX410.

5. Marcus Miller: Marcus Miller is a jazz bassist and producer who's worked with everyone from Miles Davis to Jay-Z. He's been using the Fender Jazz Bass and the Fender Super Bassman amp on stage.

These are just a few examples of the many famous artists who use bass guitar amps. No matter what your style or genre, there's a bass guitar amp out there that will help you achieve your desired sound. At the end of the day, it's all about finding the right combination of gear that works for you and your playing style.

 
"The power and warmth of a tube bass amp is unbeatable." - Victor Wooten, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones

What styles of music are Bass Guitar Amps good for?

If you're a bassist wondering what styles of music bass guitar amps are good for, you'll be happy to know that they're versatile enough to handle a wide range of genres. Here are some styles of music that bass guitar amps are particularly well-suited for:

• Rock: Bass guitar amps are a staple of rock music, providing the powerful, driving bass lines that are the backbone of the genre. With their powerful speakers and high-gain distortion, bass guitar amps are perfect for creating the heavy, aggressive tone that rock music demands.

• Metal: Like rock, metal is a genre that relies heavily on a powerful, aggressive sound. Bass guitar amps are well-suited for metal, providing the low-end punch and high-gain distortion that's essential for the genre.

• Funk: Funk music is all about groove and rhythm, and bass guitar amps are the perfect tool for creating the deep, funky bass lines that are the hallmark of the genre. With their clear, punchy tone and responsive dynamics, bass guitar amps are a must-have for any funk bassist.

• Jazz: Jazz bassists need an amp that can deliver a warm, full-bodied tone without sacrificing clarity and articulation. Bass guitar amps are well-suited for jazz, providing the rich, full tone and dynamic range that jazz music demands.

• Blues: Blues bass lines are all about feel and emotion, and bass guitar amps are perfect for capturing that soulful, expressive sound. With their warm, rich tone and responsive dynamics, bass guitar amps are a great choice for blues bassists.

No matter what style of music you play, a good bass guitar amp is essential for achieving the tone and feel you're looking for. With their versatile range of tones and dynamic capabilities, bass guitar amps are a great investment for any bassist looking to take their playing to the next level.

What types of Bass Guitar Amps are there?

If you're a bassist looking for a new amp, you may be wondering what types of bass guitar amps are available. Here are some of the most common types of bass guitar amps you'll come across:

1. Solid State Amps: Solid state amps use transistor technology to amplify the signal from your bass. They're known for their reliability and durability, as well as their ability to deliver clear, punchy tones.

2. Tube Amps: Tube amps use vacuum tubes to amplify the signal from your bass. They're known for their warm, rich tone and natural compression, making them a favorite among many bassists. However, they can be expensive and require regular maintenance.

3. Hybrid Amps: Hybrid amps combine the best of both solid state and tube technology, using both transistors and vacuum tubes to amplify the signal from your bass. They offer the warm, natural tone of tube amps with the reliability and durability of solid state amps.

4. Modeling Amps: Modeling amps use digital technology to emulate the sound of different types of amps and speaker cabinets. They're incredibly versatile and can be used to achieve a wide range of tones, but they may not have the same warmth and character as traditional tube or solid state amps.

5. Combo Amps: Combo amps are all-in-one units that include both an amplifier and speaker cabinet in one package. They're convenient and easy to transport, making them a popular choice for gigging bassists.

6. Head and Cabinet Amps: Head and cabinet amps consist of a separate amplifier head and speaker cabinet, allowing you to mix and match different components to achieve your desired tone.

No matter what type of bass guitar amp you choose, be sure to consider factors such as power output, speaker size, and tone shaping options to find the one that's right for you and your playing style.

"A good bass amp can make a bad bass sound good, and a bad amp can make a good bass sound bad." - Chris Squire, Yes

Are high-end Bass Guitar Amps worth it?

If you're a bassist in the market for a new amp, you may be wondering whether high-end bass guitar amps are worth the investment. Here are some things to consider when weighing the value of a high-end bass guitar amp:

1. Build Quality: High-end bass guitar amps are typically built with higher-quality components and materials than their lower-priced counterparts. This can translate into better durability, reliability, and longevity for your investment.

2. Sound Quality: High-end bass guitar amps often offer better sound quality, with clearer, more detailed tones and more dynamic range than cheaper models. This can help you achieve the exact tone you're looking for, and make your playing sound more expressive and nuanced.

3. Features: High-end bass guitar amps often come with a wider range of features and controls, allowing you to fine-tune your sound and customize your tone to suit your playing style. This can be particularly useful if you play in a variety of different genres or settings.

4. Brand Reputation: High-end bass guitar amps are often made by well-known, respected brands with a reputation for quality and innovation. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you're investing in a product that's been designed and tested by experts in the field.

While high-end bass guitar amps may come with a higher price tag, they often offer better value in the long run due to their superior build and sound quality, advanced features, and reliable reputation. Ultimately, whether a high-end bass guitar amp is worth it for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a player, but for many bassists, the investment can be well worth it.

What materials are Bass Guitar Amps made from?

If you're curious about the materials that bass guitar amps are made from, here are some of the most common materials you'll find:

1. Wood: Most bass guitar amps are housed in wooden cabinets, which can help to enhance the resonance and tone of the instrument. Different types of wood can affect the sound in different ways, with some woods offering a warmer, more resonant tone and others providing a brighter, more articulate sound.

2. Metal: Some bass guitar amps feature metal components, such as the chassis, knobs, and switches. These materials can be durable and long-lasting, but may not have as much impact on the overall sound of the amp.

3. Electronics: Bass guitar amps rely on a range of electronic components, including transistors, vacuum tubes, resistors, capacitors, and more. These materials can affect the way that the amp processes and amplifies the sound of your bass, and can have a significant impact on the overall tone and character of the amp.

4. Speakers: Bass guitar amps rely on speakers to project the sound of your bass, and these speakers can be made from a variety of materials. Some common speaker materials include paper, ceramic, and aluminum, each of which can affect the way that the sound is produced and projected.

5. Hardware: Finally, bass guitar amps often feature a range of hardware components, such as handles, feet, and corners. These materials can affect the overall durability and longevity of the amp, and can help to protect the sensitive electronic components inside.

Overall, the materials that bass guitar amps are made from can have a significant impact on the sound, durability, and overall quality of the amp. When shopping for a bass guitar amp, it's important to consider the materials used in its construction and how they may affect the sound and performance of your instrument. 

"The sound of a bass amp is like the voice of the bass player." - Marcus Miller, Miles Davis, and Luther Vandross

What kinds of speakers do Bass Guitar Amps use?

If you're in the market for a bass guitar amp, you may be wondering what kinds of speakers these amps typically use. Here are some of the most common types of speakers found in bass guitar amps:

1. Woofers: Most bass guitar amps use woofers, which are designed to reproduce the low frequencies produced by your bass. These speakers are typically larger in size than other types of speakers, and are built to handle the powerful, low-frequency sound waves produced by the bass guitar.

2. Subwoofers: Some high-end bass guitar amps may feature subwoofers, which are even larger than woofers and can reproduce even lower frequencies. These speakers can be particularly useful if you play in genres that require very deep bass tones, such as dubstep or reggae.

3. Full-range speakers: While most bass guitar amps use specialized woofers and subwoofers, some models may feature full-range speakers that can handle a wider range of frequencies. These speakers can be useful if you play in genres that require a more versatile sound, such as jazz or rock.

4. Horn speakers: Some bass guitar amps may feature horn speakers, which are designed to project the sound over a wider area. These speakers can be useful if you play in larger venues where you need to project your sound to a larger audience.

5. Coaxial speakers: Finally, some bass guitar amps may feature coaxial speakers, which combine a woofer and a tweeter in a single unit. These speakers can be useful if you want to reproduce a wider range of frequencies without sacrificing clarity or detail in the higher frequencies.

Ultimately, the type of speaker that's right for you will depend on your playing style, genre, and venue. When shopping for a bass guitar amp, it's important to consider the size, type, and quality of the speakers to ensure that you're getting the best possible sound for your instrument.

What do Bass Guitar Amps cost in Australia?

If you're in the market for a bass guitar amp in Australia, you may be wondering about the cost. The truth is that the price of bass guitar amps can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the brand, size, features, and materials used in the construction of the amp.

Here are some general price ranges for bass guitar amps in Australia:

1. Budget amps: You can find budget bass guitar amps for as little as $100-$200. These amps may be small and basic, but can still provide decent sound quality for beginners or hobbyists.

2. Mid-range amps: Mid-range bass guitar amps can cost anywhere from $200-$800. These amps may offer more power, features, and versatility than budget models, and can be a good choice for intermediate or advanced players.

3. High-end amps: High-end bass guitar amps can cost $800-$3000 or more, and are often used by professional musicians or serious enthusiasts. These amps may feature advanced technology, high-quality materials, and exceptional sound quality, making them a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best.

It's worth noting that the cost of a bass guitar amp can also vary depending on where you buy it. Online retailers may offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores, but you may not have the opportunity to try out the amp before you buy it. Additionally, used amps can often be found for significantly lower prices than new models, but you'll need to be careful to ensure that the amp is in good working condition before you buy it.

Ultimately, the cost of a bass guitar amp in Australia will depend on your budget, playing needs, and personal preferences. When shopping for an amp, it's important to compare models and prices from different brands and retailers to ensure that you're getting the best possible value for your money.

Where’s the best place to buy a Bass Guitar Amps near me in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Hobart or Australia online?

If you're in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Hobart or anywhere in Australia and looking for a reliable and trusted source for bass guitar amps, you're in luck! Coleman's Music store, with locations in Melbourne CBD and Lynbrook, is your one-stop-shop for all your bass guitar amp needs. Not only do we have a wide selection of amps from top brands such as TC ELECTRONIC, VOX, AMPEG, DARKGLASS, and FENDER, but we also offer online shopping and shipping all over Australia.

Here are some reasons why Coleman's Music Store should be your go-to destination for bass guitar amps:

1. Wide selection of top brands: We offer a wide range of bass guitar amps from some of the most trusted and respected brands in the industry. Whether you're a beginner or a professional musician, we have an amp that will meet your needs.

2. Experienced staff: Our staff members are knowledgeable about all aspects of bass guitar amps and can help you find the perfect amp for your specific needs and preferences.

3. Online shopping and shipping: If you're unable to make it to one of our physical store locations, you can still shop with us online and have your purchase shipped directly to your doorstep. We offer shipping throughout Australia, so no matter where you are, you can still enjoy the convenience of shopping with Coleman's Music Store.

4. Competitive pricing: We strive to offer competitive pricing on all of our products, including our selection of bass guitar amps. You can trust that you're getting a fair price when you shop with us.

5. Excellent customer service: At Coleman's Music Store, we pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service. We're always happy to answer any questions you may have and assist you with your purchase in any way we can.

So if you're in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Hobart or anywhere in Australia and looking for a bass guitar amp, be sure to check out Coleman's Music Store. You can also give us a call at (03) 9799 5400 to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff members.