Sparky Mark

Exactly right. We start with Squier and end up with Custom Shop or the real real pre CBS Fenders. The cheap models are a decent introduction to see whether the design is for you, then you pays your money and takes your choice.

Great score, congratulations. I saw that at BD for a really good price but I managed to resist. The Markbass proprietary 1000 watt power amps are amazing by all accounts; you won't be lacking any heft for sure. Those graphic EQ frequencies are the same as on the Momark 7 band module which are fine, but on a gig I tend to end up with an almost flat profile. I reckon you'll notice more of a difference between the SS and 12ax7 preamps at volume on a gig. I really really hope you continue to like it so it doesn't appear on here anytime soon!

I think the HA7000 was only produced in the days when mosfets were used in the power amps. I've still got my HA3500 from the 90's and it sounds better to my ears than the newer bipolar transistor model.

Amen to that.

Agreed. That's why I posted a photo of the Music Group/Tribe Turbosound driver used in the BG250 210 combo.

The companies that you mention employ R&D staff whos costs need to be recovered through their sales. Other companies may be able to cut corners and reduce their overheads but their products may be compromised as a result.

You may well be right about it being a faulty unit but I'm not aware of a situation where higher quality isn't directly linked to price.

Impressive!

We need photos, please.

This thread reads to me like another perfect example of "you pay your money and you take your choice". For a pub gigging amp the noise floor is probably irrelevant; if you want a high quality studio amp then you likely already know £300 won't buy that.

It's very possible the current availability of this amplifier, along with many other products, is due to the shortage of components caused by the covid 19 pandemic, many of which are now on much longer lead times.

sno_t186.pdf This is the official TC Electronic service note that describes the reason why many of the early BG250 combos flashed and emitted smoke and how to fix/upgrade those units.

I wonder whether the driver in the first post of this thread pre-dates Music Group/Tribe's involvement with TC Electronic? If so, it's less likely to be a Turbosound driver.

Yes, in April 2015, Music Group acquired TC Group. In December 2017, Music Group rebranded to Music Tribe.

Your impression is correct.

For information these are the drivers in my BG250 210 combo.

Cheers Len, will do.

Both. I'm not fussy and enjoy live music of all types; rock, jazz, folk, originals, covers, old gits bands, beginners etc, etc. As for playing I enjoy open jams and would also be hoping to play covers in bars/pubs. I just want to keep playing, nothing too intense or serious.