Ampeg SVT vs Mesa Boogie 400+

[LCbass2007]

This topic has probably been beaten to death, but I'm new here so...What are the major differences between the Ampeg SVT vs Mesa Boogie 400+. I know the 400+ is more powerful, but what are some recommendations? Which has better tone? Also, which would cost less to maintian?

Thanks

 

[Straight UP]

Get them side by side and do a comparison at your local music store if you can.
I've run a SVT 3Pro for 7 years now and retubed it once in that time. There are several models under the SVT ampeg banner.
The 3pro is a hybred amp. 5 tube pre amp with a 450 Watt output at 4ohms solid state power amp..
Has been a great work horse for me that dose not weigh me down.
As far as tone goes if you hear it in your head you can probably dial this amp into it.. But go and at least try one (the model you want) out before you make any choises.
As for the Mesa Boogie 400+ Never had or played one as they were never readily available here where I live.., so am unable to pass comments.
Hope this helps at least a little..

 

[Caca de Kick]

I know the 400+ is more powerful

No it isn't actually...they're both 300w tube amps (it's not 500w).
You'll have to try both out, the Mesa has a more hifi sound while the SVT is more mid-rangey...they don't sound anything alike.

I have an old Bass 400 (300w) and it's been my main gigging amp since 1991. Only had the on/off switch go bad, and one solder joint break-easy fix...that's really awesome for an amp that's seen so much constant gig/road duty, fast climate changes, toppled over and even has gotten thrown off a 4ft stage.
I've had two bassist-friends for 8-9yrs and both have SVT's and both seem to be in the shop an awful lot. When we play shows together they always ask to use my rig. I'd buy another one in a heartbeat!
I've never blown a tube, I regularly change tubes every 3yrs because the head rides in the gear trailer so those tubes see alot of road vibration. I figure it's better safe than sorry.

 

[spawndonacle]

mesa vs ampeg

I own both the bass 400+ and a vintage ampeg svt with two 810 cabs. The Mesa is loud. It literally knocked the facings off the brick on the garage where I first plugged it in. The SVT however, is God in a box. I have found its tone far more pleasing. The thing is so heavy, and I am so old, it may literally never leave my basement again. The Steinway is staying there too.

 

[bassmancb]

It's all according to your style of playing Mesa is a brighter more aggressive sound. Ampeg is more a laid back mellow sound. They are both great amps and you would not go wrong choosing either.