When it comes to selecting amplifiers, it can be pretty cumbersome if you were to bring around amps that are meant for large gigs. Also. there might be times at which you simply want to be portable and carry a small-sized amp along with you for the random busking or gigs. In such instances, a micro bass amp might be the best option for you.
The reasons to own a micro bass amp is aplenty. From having a small space to just wanting to have an avenue to test your setup, a micro bass amp will provide you with a good option without much effect to the sound that it amplifies. Of course, if you do not want your child, or your spouse for that matter, to keep playing around in the house with blaring amps, then getting a micro bass amp will do you much good too.
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How Do You Choose A Good Micro Bass Amp
When it comes to selecting good micro bass amps, there are a few guidelines that we will always adhere to. Note that there isn’t a specific or strict guideline that exists at this moment. For example, some people will qualify that amps weighing less than 80 pounds can be considered to be a micro bass amp, while there might be others that think those that weigh below 40 should be a micro bass amp!
- Material Used
One of the main features of the micro bass amp is its portability. As such, you need an amp that is made with good quality materials. This is primarily because you will be expected to move and shift it around often. And by having a good robust construction, it will be hardier and hence be able to withstand knocks and bumps - Weight
Our definition of micro bass amp’s weight is that it has to be weighing at least 15 pounds, but not more than 50 pounds itself. Anything lighter, and it can be a hazard trying to ensure its position. Anything heavier will render it tough to carry it around. - Ability To Project Sound
This is considered out of the norm but we would usually try to select a micro bass amp that is value for the money. Sometimes, a good micro bass amp can be a good substitute for chunkier and more expensive amps too. - Power Rating
For the micro bass amps, they come in a variety of power settings. I would choose an amp with the lowest setting as it will allow me to achieve my desired sound.
With that, let us take a deeper look into some of the micro bass amps that we have selected to review.
1. Fender Rumble 15 v3 Bass Combo Amplifier
One of the top choices for micro bass amp on Amazon itself, the Fender Rumble 15 v3 Bass Combo Amplifier is a must have amp for all budding musicians who want to have a practice amp to learn the chops before migrating to the bigger amps itself.
Made by Fender, which is a top quality manufacturer of amps that will impress, it is one of the more portable micro bass amps that you can find on the market. Weighing at just 10 pounds, it is light enough for you to carry this amp on one hand and the guitar on the other. You can plug in your music device via the 1/8″ auxiliary input, or you can plug in your headphones via the 1/4″ output jack. With these functions, you can finally practice without having to worry about disturbing your neighbors.
There is also the 3 band EQ mode that allows you to shape your tone too. Not bad for a budget micro bass amp!
Pros
- Affordable
- Excellent design
- Durable against knocks
- Light and portable
Cons
- Tone can be thin
2. Gallien-Krueger MB200-200W Ultra Light Bass Amplifier
When it comes to micro bass amps that pack a punch for its size, we would choose the Gallien-Krueger MB200-200W Ultra Light Bass Amplifier as our top choice. Weighing at just 2 pounds, you can easily pack this micro bass amp into your bag and carry it along for your next gig. It is that portable!
With a power rating at 200 Watts, and together with the headphone and XLR output, you are in for a treat. The sound produced really rivals those from the bigger amps. Also, you can further customize the sound with the 4 band active EQ with contour. The contour switch helps to boost the treble and bass of your sound, thus proving a boost to the sound quality.
Pros
- Lightest of all micro bass amps
- Good controls
- Not limited to just the bass guitar
Cons
- Volume can be a little louder for bands with more than 2 guitarist
3. Roland Micro Cube
If you read around the reviews for the Roland Micro Cube, you will be intrigued by the power that the small bass amp can generate. And when you really test it out, you will be amazed at how true the reviews are! There is certainly no other micro bass amp that is able to project this kind of sound at this totally affordable price.
Weight at just 7.7 pounds, the Roland Micro Cube GX is truly one of the smallest yet powerful micro bass amp that you can find. Indeed, you can power this up by using just batteries, making it perfect for the impromptu session at the park. It comes with a whopping 8 COSM amp tones as well as 8 DSP effects. All of these allows you to customize the sound, allowing you to play music of many different genres.
There is the I-cube link that allows you to plug in your Apple devices (sorry Android fans) into the amp to belt out your favorite tunes.
One of the most frustrating issues about all the settings is that it can be tricky when you have accidentally forgotten your favorite settings on it. Not for this amp though, as there is the memory function that stores information about your favorite settings. You can now focus on making music, rather than caring about the nitty-gritty details!
Pros
- No cables. Use batteries instead
- Good controls
- Customizable sound
- Can double up as a speaker
Cons
- Volume can be louder
Conclusion
After reading our guide, you should have a clear knowledge of what type of micro bass amp you should be looking out for. Each of the above micro bass amps is good, hence you should really consider your options before deciding to purchase any.