Solid State Bass Amps

Lighter and more portable than old school valve amps, more and more bass players are turning to solid state bass amps. For decades bassists had accepted their lot in life: always traveling to gigs on their own because their car was only big enough for them and their amp; requiring four people to carry it in when they arrived; enduring punishing volume so that they can be heard. Well, no longer! The life of the modern bassist is much easier with solid-state amps.

Solid state amps can take the form of small heads you can slip in the front of a gig bag or a combo which often includes lightweight neodymium speakers. Aside from the portability, bassists love the sound of solid state amps. They have a more precise, immediate attack which is particularly great for funk and metal styles. Valve amps have a ‘spongier’ attack which is lovely when playing slowly. Solid state amps are better for anything fast.

Popular solid state bass amps are made by Mark Bass, Darkglass and Mesa Boogie. Fender and Orange also have great options at an affordable price - perfect for beginners or home practice.

What Makes Solid State Bass Amps Different?