I've used a Hartke 200 watt head with a 4 x 10 custom made cabinet since 1998 and never had a lick of problems. Of course I put it in a rack and it helps protect it while on the road. I think Hartke is a solid amp for the price. I've played well over 500 gigs with this thing and it sounds great night after night. I recommend it.
It seems every bass forum I read has a thread or post about reliability problems with a GK head. I know about certain quality control issues a few years ago, but from the reading I've done online, some of those reliability issues apparently still exist. While I love the GK sound and am still looking to acquire a 400RB or 700RB used, the reliability of my Hartkes (I've owned three) has made an indelible impression. For my purposes, the combination of price and power offered by Hartke can't be beaten, as anything else in that price range is severely underpowered.
thanks for all ur help guys, i just got back from GC and i brought home a Hartke HA4000 head, sounds nice, im still gettin used to all the different knobs but it sounds great, cant wait to take this bad boy to practice this week and a gig next week
As with any new piece of gear take time to learn it. I do mean learn it too. Sometimes we are too quick to judge.
Playing the bass is first style of player, then equipment. Then strings, action of bass, afterward cabs and amp selection. EQ is as personal as your underwear.
That is one wide variety and few of us give everything a chance.
All that amounts to is one big variety of opinions. IMHO
Enjoy your new equipment I doubt not it will get the job done.