I'm in the market for a new amp. I've been using my Ampeg PF-500 almost since the model came out and it has been incredibly reliable, but I feel like I want a change. My first decent amp was a Trace Elliot Commando 12, which didn't have a proper DI out and wasn't quite loud enough for me at that time. I then moved to a Markbass CMD 102P - very nice too, but too modern for me. Then I got my Ampeg with the matching 210 cab and I was set until I started playing 5 string. I'm now rocking the Ampeg with a Zilla neo 212, which is an excellent combination, but I haven't been amp shopping for about 8/9 years and wanted to see if I was missing anything.
I was in the Bristol PMT the other week trying some stuff out (really wanted to like Orange stuff but it wasn't me!) and what really grabbed me by the ears was an ABM 300 EVO IV. Sounded really smooth through the Orange 112 I was plugged into and very reminiscent of my old TE. But, both that and an ABM 600 that was on display both had reliability issues. The 600 didn't even turn on so the salesman got the 300 fresh out of the box in front of me. The 300 had a fault with the switches where it would cut out after pressing the switches.
I know Ashdown are known for being reliable and have a good presence here, but two faulty units in the same shop makes me nervous! Has anyone else had any good/bad issues with the ABM EVO IV range?
Also, anything else that I should be looking at amp wise? I know I'm not after anything too modern sounding, I prefer a more vintage tone and I like my mids. My main player at the moment is a Dingwall Combustion 5. I know I don't like the current Orange stuff (tried the Terror Bass and OB1), I don't like what I've heard from the Ashdown Rootmaster from using them at practice studios. I am interested in a Trace Elliot AH 600-12. Price range is up to £700 and second hand is encouraged. I'm a sprightly 32 as well, so weight isn't a huge concern.