About to go for a gk mb112. Any others to consider?

ColdEye

ColdEye

Oct 22, 2015
1,420
2,269
5,071
San Diego, CA
#1
I was browsing amps and the gkmb112 seems to be a nice amp. It's at the higher end of what I want to spend but it seems worth it. I will be using it with a guitar player, a not so loud drummer and a trumpet or sax. For the people who have used this amp, what's your experience with it? I was also considering a carvin mb210, fender rumble, and maybe a head + can combo. But this seems light and gets decently loud. I will be using a uke bass, fretless jazz and a pj mustang.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 10cc
#2
If looking for a combo amp I would highly recommend looking at the Hartke KB combo series, specifically the KB12 or KB15. Also, not as common, are the Traynor SB112 or SB115 - which I've heard great things about too.

I haven't heard the Traynor in person, but can definitely vouch for the Hartke. The Hartke hydrive speakers have come a long way since their all aluminum cone days...
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: Lvjoebass
#4
Just this last weekend I used my MB112 for a modest volume level show in a 100 seat theater along with drums, keyboard, trumpet, concert grand pedal harp (really!) and six vocalists. It worked and sounded great, with plenty of volume, clarity and bottom end. That being said, by itself, it can't keep up with a louder rock band. I've got other amps and cabs for that.
 
  • Like
Reactions: BboogieXVII and alaskaleftybass
#5
ajn said:
Just this last weekend I used my MB112 for a modest volume level show in a 100 seat theater along with drums, keyboard, trumpet, concert grand pedal harp (really!) and six vocalists. It worked and sounded great, with plenty of volume, clarity and bottom end. That being said, by itself, it can't keep up with a louder rock band. I've got other amps and cabs for that.
Click to expand...
And now you can even get a matching powered 112 GK cab to go with the 112. The MB112 highly recommended. GK stuff is pretty bulletproof.
 
  • Like
Reactions: BboogieXVII, carsbybigd, Clutchcargo and 6 others
#8
I gig with a GK MB112ii all the time, although on upright. I use it for gigs without drummers, when there is a drummer I usually use an Ampeg portaflex 15". Lately I've been using it with drummers cause it is SO easy to haul. A bit less volume than the tube amp but great sound.

The GK also sounds very good with my fretless Alembic. Great amp, very high quality. I have 4 amps to choose from for gigs and it fits in nicely.
 
  • Like
Reactions: ColdEye and alaskaleftybass
#12
The GK MB line is simply great. You will be pleased. The hartke hydrive 1x12 combo is also a great option. The good thing is, there is a plethora of options to choose from. You are on a great track. GK, Hartke, Fender rumble, TC electronics, etc....all good mang....play em and get the one that tickles your wang-dang-doodle.....or whatever else you prefer to be titillated.
 
#13
ColdEye said:
I don't use overdrive much at all. The rumbles do seem nice and I can try them at a local store, but I can get the gk for less brand new than the 200w rumble. Thanks for all the experiences shared, I'm about 98% going for the gk. Will be ordering it tomorrow morning.
Click to expand...

Also remember, the 200w Rumble is with the extension cab, 140w without. The GK gives you all 200w to the internal speaker.

I have the 212-ii and it's my main gigging amp. Thinking about getting the 112-ii for rehearsals. Can't go wrong with the MB line.
 
  • Like
Reactions: LUIS H RAMIREZ, ColdEye, Buzz E and 3 others
#15
Consider GK MB115 also. It could be over your budget, but it keeps up with drummers and guitars.
Also (arguably and IMO) it sounds a little different and even better balanced, maybe because it is the only GK MB model with ceramic speaker.
Only flaw of MB combo line, again IMO, is lack of fine control for horn. Switch on/off is not good enough, it would be cool if I could adjust it.
 
  • Like
Reactions: BboogieXVII
#16
I have a MB110 (with ceramic speaker) and if the 112 is a bigger more powerful version of that then go for it. I bought mine for the bedroom but could see myself using it for acoustic style folk/blues gigs in small venues. ( I have a Markbass cmd121p as the next step up). I only wish GK made a powered 110 cab to sit under my combo.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Clutchcargo
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top Bottom
Back