Best Solid-State Bass Combos Under $800 2026
Alright, so you need a solid-state bass combo without dropping a grand? It's totally doable, but you gotta know what to look for. We're not chasing boutique tones here, but a reliable, gig-worthy amp that'll get you through rehearsals, smaller gigs, and even decent enough for tracking. Let's cut through the hype and find some real value.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
⚡ The best solid-state bass combos in 2026 are Ampeg RB-115 (top pick), Hartke HD500 for tighter budgets, and Markbass CMD JB Players School w/Cover for pros — selected from 15 options across 7 brands, priced $568–$765, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Ampeg RB-115
by
Ampeg
Weight
15.5 kg
Modern Rock
Funk
Practice
Key Feature:
The RB-115 is a fantastic, affordable option for gigging bassists needing a reliable, portable combo. Its warm, punchy tone and built-in overdrive make it a great all-rounder, especially suited for rock, blues, and funk – just be mindful of the limited headroom when playing in a loud band.
PROS
- • Custom Eminence speaker delivers warm, defined low-end response.
- • Ampeg’s Super Grit Technology adds a usable, gritty overdrive character.
- • Solid build quality with robust metal chassis and reliable components.
- • Versatile EQ and effects loop cater to a range of playing styles.
CONS
- • Limited headroom at higher volumes; can become compressed quickly.
- • 1x15” design lacks the flexibility of multiple speaker configurations.
- • Ultra-Hi/Lo switch offers subtle tonal adjustments, not dramatic changes.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 516950
$766
Hartke HD500
by
Hartke
Weight
16 kg
Practice
Modern Rock
Pop
Key Feature:
The HD500 is a solid, no-frills bass combo that delivers Hartke's characteristic punch and clarity. It's a great choice for gigging bassists needing a reliable, affordable amp with a clean, defined sound – perfect for rock, funk, and even some modern pop where you want a focused low-end.
PROS
- • Hartke’s signature tight, defined low-end presence is noticeable.
- • Neodymium speakers deliver surprisingly punchy and clear mids.
- • The 3-band EQ offers useful shaping capabilities for most genres.
- • Compact size and Class D amp make it relatively lightweight for its power.
CONS
- • The EQ isn't as flexible as more modern amp modeling options.
- • The 10-inch speakers limit extreme low-frequency extension.
- • Shape control can be a little unpredictable and hard to dial in.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 412654
$762
Markbass CMD JB Players School w/Cover
by
Markbass
Weight
15.7 kg
Clean Bass Tones
Funk
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
This combo packs a solid 250 watts into a big 15-inch speaker, perfect for cutting through a live mix. The four-band EQ gives you real control without needing extra pedals. While the heavy weight is a trade-off, the included cover makes it easier to move around. It's a straightforward, reliable choice for players who want pure amp tone right out of the box.
PROS
- • Delivers 250 watts of clean solid-state power for loud rooms
- • Large 15-inch speaker handles heavy low-end frequencies well
- • Four-band EQ lets you shape the tone precisely
- • Includes a protective cover for safe transport
CONS
- • Heavy at 15.7 kg makes carrying it difficult
- • No active effects loop mentioned in the specs
- • Price point excludes some high-end pedalboard needs
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 631635
$743
Trace Elliot ELF C110
by
Trace Elliot
Weight
8.21 kg
Pop
Funk
Clean Bass Tones
Key Feature:
The ELF C110 is a surprisingly powerful and portable option, delivering that classic Trace Elliot sound. It's a great grab-and-go amp for gigging bassists needing a clean, focused tone and a reliable DI – especially ideal for funk, pop, and lighter rock styles where massive low-end isn’t essential.
PROS
- • Trace Elliot’s signature clean, punchy tone shines through.
- • Compact and lightweight for easy transport and gigging.
- • DI output provides a clean, usable signal for recording and live sound.
- • Robust construction using quality components for reliable performance.
CONS
- • EQ is basic; lacks the flexibility of more premium amps.
- • 1x10” configuration limits low-end extension for some genres.
- • Headphone output lacks significant power for monitoring.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 458165
$696
Boss Katana-210 Bass Bundle
by
Boss
Weight
21.8 kg
Practice
Clean Bass Tones
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
This combo packs 160 watts into two ten-inch speakers with a switchable tweeter for big, modulated sound. You can adjust the wet/dry mix and choose from three different amp voices to shape your tone. It's ideal for players who want solid effects like compression and drive without losing clarity at low volumes.
PROS
- • Four independent effects sections for creative shaping
- • Power control maintains full modulation at low volumes
- • Three amp voicings with three distinct sound shapes
- • Six storage locations for pedalboard organization
CONS
- • No specific weight listed in the description
- • DI output is not explicitly mentioned in text
- • Missing details on speaker cabinet depth or portability
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 651493
$694
Markbass CMD JB Players School Combo
by
Markbass
Weight
15.7 kg
Practice
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This CMD JB Players School Combo is a fantastic option for gigging bassists and students alike. The Markbass power amp delivers that signature punch and clarity, and the 15in speaker offers a surprisingly full sound. It's a well-rounded package that won't break the bank, offering a great balance of power, tone, and portability.
PROS
- • Markbass’s signature analog power amp delivers a tight, modern low-end.
- • The 15in speaker provides surprising headroom and a full frequency response.
- • VPF and VLE filters offer tonal shaping beyond a standard EQ.
- • Built-in DI output with adjustable pre/post EQ is gig-ready.
CONS
- • The 15in speaker, while full, lacks the ultimate low-frequency extension of larger drivers.
- • The EQ, while functional, isn't as comprehensive as some higher-end models.
- • The weight (15.7 kg) makes it less portable than smaller combo amps.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 305338
$673
Boss Katana-210 Bass
by
Boss
Weight
21.8 kg
Modern Rock
Pop
Reliable Gigging
Key Feature:
The Katana-210 Bass is a fantastic practice and gigging amp for bassists needing a wide palette of sounds. Its compact size and surprisingly powerful output make it ideal for smaller venues or home practice, and the BOSS Tone Studio software unlocks a ton of customization. It’s a great option for players who want a modern, flexible bass amp without a huge footprint.
PROS
- • Excellent modelling versatility covers a wide range of bass tones.
- • The 2x10” speaker configuration delivers surprisingly full low-end response.
- • BOSS Tone Studio software provides deep customization and tonal shaping.
- • Power Control feature maintains tone and feel at low practice volumes.
CONS
- • The 10” speakers lack the extreme sub-bass of larger cabinets.
- • While versatile, the amp character leans toward modern, less vintage.
- • The plastic enclosure feels a little less premium than some competitors.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 539794
$665
Phil Jones Double Four Plus BG-80 RD
by
Phil Jones
Weight
5.1 kg
Funk
Clean Bass Tones
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
The Double Four Plus BG-80 RD is a surprisingly powerful and portable practice amp. Its compact size and integrated Bluetooth make it perfect for gigging bassists needing a reliable, lightweight solution or for home practice. The PJB speakers provide a surprisingly robust sound for their size.
PROS
- • PJB speakers deliver surprisingly full, articulate low-end response.
- • Class D amp provides ample clean power with minimal hum.
- • Bluetooth 5.1 adds convenient connectivity for practice and backing tracks.
- • Active/Passive switch optimizes gain and tone for diverse basses.
CONS
- • 4-inch speakers lack the ultimate low-frequency extension for large venues.
- • EQ’s +/- 15dB range can be limiting for radical tone shaping.
- • USB-C power is a nice touch, but power delivery may be slow.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599514
$638
Phil Jones Double Four Plus BG-80 BK
by
Phil Jones
Weight
5.1 kg
Modern Rock
Reliable Gigging
Clean Bass Tones
Key Feature:
The Double Four Plus BG-80 BK is a clever little amp – seriously impressive sound from such a small package. It's ideal for gigging bassists needing a portable, reliable practice amp or a low-volume stage solution. The built-in Bluetooth is a bonus for modern convenience.
PROS
- • Compact Class D amp delivers surprisingly robust, clean low-end response.
- • PJB 'Long-Thro' speakers offer a wide, surprisingly full frequency range.
- • Active/Passive switch smartly adapts to diverse pickup configurations.
- • Bluetooth 5.1 adds convenient connectivity for practice and backing tracks.
CONS
- • EQ range (+/- 15dB) might feel limiting for extensive tonal sculpting.
- • 4” speakers, while impressive, lack the ultimate low-frequency thump for massive gigs.
- • USB-C power is a nice touch, but relies on a compatible power supply.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598306
$638
Phil Jones Double Four Plus BG-80 WH
by
Phil Jones
Weight
5.1 kg
Reliable Gigging
Clean Bass Tones
Pop
Key Feature:
This Double Four Plus is a seriously clever little amp. It’s perfect for gigging bassists needing a truly portable solution or for practice and recording where a full-stack isn't required. The surprisingly clean tone and Bluetooth connectivity make it a versatile and convenient package.
PROS
- • Excellent portability due to lightweight Class D amp design.
- • PJB 'Long-Thro' speakers deliver surprisingly full, articulate tone.
- • Active/Passive switch offers genuine flexibility for varied pickups.
- • Bluetooth 5.1 adds convenient backing track/jamming capabilities.
CONS
- • EQ range (+/- 15dB) is somewhat limited for extreme tonal sculpting.
- • 4” speakers lack serious low-end thump for heavier genres.
- • Tolex covering, while durable, isn't the most premium aesthetic.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599513
$638
Ampeg RB-112 Bundle
by
Ampeg
Weight
11.75 kg
Reliable Gigging
Practice
Clean Bass Tones
Key Feature:
The Ampeg RB-112 is a seriously solid practice amp and small gig solution. The Super Grit Technology adds a welcome edge, and the included cover is a nice touch. It’s an excellent choice for gigging bassists needing a reliable, affordable combo with a classic Ampeg vibe.
PROS
- • Custom Eminence speaker delivers a surprisingly punchy and defined low-end.
- • SGT overdrive provides usable grit for rock and funk tones.
- • Solid build quality with a robust, roadworthy feel for gigging musicians.
- • Included amp cover protects the unit from dust and minor bumps during transport.
CONS
- • Limited EQ flexibility compared to more expensive combo amps.
- • 100W power might be insufficient for very loud stage environments.
- • The 3-band EQ can be a little muddy in the mid-range for some players.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 622936
$624
Orange Crush Bass 100 Black
by
Orange
Weight
24.25 kg
Practice
Reliable Gigging
Pop
Key Feature:
The Crush Bass 100 Black is a fantastic option for gigging bassists or practice enthusiasts who want that classic Orange tone without the high-end price tag. The 15-inch speaker delivers a surprising amount of low-end punch, and the blend control lets you dial in everything from clean to gritty overdrive. It's a serious contender for players seeking a reliable and characterful bass combo.
PROS
- • Orange's signature preamp voicing delivers a warm, aggressive low-end.
- • The 15-inch speaker provides surprisingly full and articulate bass response.
- • The blend control offers flexibility between clean and overdriven tones.
- • Solid build quality; feels robust and well-assembled for its class.
CONS
- • Lacks speaker versatility; a 10-inch or 12-inch option would expand its range.
- • FX loop is a welcome addition, but lacks more advanced routing options.
- • The weight makes it less than ideal for gigging musicians who move frequently.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 392263
$580
Markbass Marcus Miller CMD 101 Micro 60
by
Markbass
Weight
11.5 kg
Pop
Clean Bass Tones
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
This little Markbass is a game-changer for gigging bassists needing a compact, powerful solution. It’s a fantastic practice amp and surprisingly capable for smaller venues, delivering that signature Markbass punch and clarity in a highly portable package – perfect for session players or those with limited space.
PROS
- • Excellent Markbass tone in a remarkably compact and portable package
- • Custom speaker delivers surprisingly full low-end for its size
- • Balanced XLR DI output provides professional recording and live options
- • Intuitive EQ controls allow for quick and effective tone shaping
CONS
- • 60W might be limiting for larger gigs or louder bands
- • The piezo tweeter can sound slightly harsh at higher volumes
- • Limited effects options restrict versatility for certain playing styles
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 434236
$568
Phil Jones BE-17 Bass Engine 70W Black
by
Phil Jones
Weight
6.7 kg
Practice
Pop
Clean Bass Tones
Key Feature:
The BE-17 is a seriously handy little amp – great for practice, small gigs, or recording. The speaker setup is surprisingly full for its size, and the active/passive switch makes it adaptable to a wide range of basses. It's a fantastic, affordable option for gigging bassists needing portability and a solid, clean tone.
PROS
- • Excellent Class-D efficiency delivers surprising power for its size.
- • PJB ferrite speaker provides a surprisingly full, warm low-end response.
- • Bluetooth 5.1 is reliable and convenient for backing tracks/jams.
- • The active/passive switch is genuinely useful for diverse bass pickups.
CONS
- • 7-inch speaker limits extreme low-frequency extension at higher volumes.
- • EQ’s +/-15dB range can be a bit aggressive for subtle shaping.
- • Limited onboard effects compared to some competitors in the price range.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 592891
$568
Phil Jones BE-17 Bass Engine 70W Red
by
Phil Jones
Weight
6.7 kg
Funk
Clean Bass Tones
Practice
Key Feature:
The BE-17 is a seriously impressive little amp. It’s perfect for gigging bassists needing a lightweight, versatile solution or for practice where you want some serious punch without overwhelming your neighbors. The Bluetooth is a nice touch, and the Mute/Active/Passive switch is a thoughtful inclusion for different bass setups.
PROS
- • Compact Class-D design delivers surprising power and efficiency.
- • PJB ferrite speaker provides a focused, articulate low-end response.
- • Flexible EQ with +/-15dB range allows for significant tonal shaping.
- • Bluetooth 5.1 offers convenient music playback and connectivity.
CONS
- • 7” speaker limits extreme low-frequency extension for serious sub-bass needs.
- • EQ lacks a mid-frequency control, restricting precise tone sculpting.
- • While portable, the ferrite speaker adds noticeable weight for its size.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 592889
$568
Every solid-state bass combos that matches
72 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Orange Crush Bass 100 | Weight 24.25 kg | $553 |
| 17 | Ampeg RB-112 | Weight 11.75 kg | $551 |
| 18 | Phil Jones X4C Nanobass 35W RD | Weight 2.4 kg | $464 |
| 19 | Phil Jones X4C Nanobass 35W BK | Weight 2.4 kg | $464 |
| 20 | Warwick BC 150 | Weight 23.5 kg | $464 |
| 21 | Boss Katana-110 Bass Bundle | Weight 16.8 kg | $451 |
| 22 | Boss Katana-110 Bass | Weight 16.8 kg | $418 |
| 23 | Bugera BXD15A | Weight 22 kg | $417 |
| 24 | Fender Rumble 100 | Weight 9.97 kg | $417 |
| 25 | Cort CM150B MKII | Weight 11.5 kg | $406 |
| 26 | Markbass Micromark 801 | Weight 6.6 kg | $394 |
| 27 | Vox Adio Air Bass | Weight 2.9 kg | $387 |
| 28 | Bugera BXD12 | Weight 19.9 kg | $382 |
| 29 | Fender Rumble 40 | Weight 8.16 kg | $382 |
| 30 | Bugera BXD15 | Weight 21.1 kg | $348 |
| 31 | Orange Crush Bass 50 Black | Weight 14.45 kg | $348 |
| 32 | Boss Dual Cube Bass LX | Weight 4.4 kg | $343 |
| 33 | Orange Crush Bass 50 Glenn Hughes LTD | Weight 14.45 kg | $337 |
| 34 | Ampeg RB-110 II | Weight 10.2 kg | $336 |
| 35 | Orange Crush Bass 50 | Weight 14.45 kg | $335 |
| 36 | Warwick BC 80 | Weight 18.5 kg | $313 |
| 37 | Blackstar Marco Mendoza Debut Bass 25 | Weight 8.45 kg | $289 |
| 38 | Nux Mighty Bass 50BT | Weight 7.2 kg | $289 |
| 39 | EBS Session 30 Mk3 | Weight 7.3 kg | $255 |
| 40 | Orange Crush Bass 25 Black | Weight 8.3 kg | $255 |
| 41 | Orange Crush Bass 25 | Weight 8.3 kg | $220 |
| 42 | Warwick BC 40 | Weight 16 kg | $220 |
| 43 | Fender Rumble 25 | Weight 9.53 kg | $208 |
| 44 | Cort CM40B Black | Weight 9.7 kg | $196 |
| 45 | Harley Benton HB-80B Celestion | Weight 21 kg | $196 |
| 46 | Ampeg RB-108 | Weight 10.5 kg | $195 |
| 47 | Warwick BC 20 | Weight 9 kg | $173 |
| 48 | Ibanez P20 Promethean | Weight 7.8 kg | $151 |
| 49 | Harley Benton HB-40B Bundle | Weight 12 kg | $150 |
| 50 | Fender Rumble 15 | Weight 7.26 kg | $145 |
| 51 | Harley Benton HB-40B | Weight 12 kg | $138 |
| 52 | Warwick BC 10 | Weight 6.2 kg | $138 |
| 53 | Hartke HD15 Combo | Weight 6.1 kg | $127 |
| 54 | Vox Pathfinder 10 Bass | Weight 5.6 kg | $114 |
| 55 | Harley Benton HB-20B Bundle | Weight 7.5 kg | $103 |
| 56 | Joyo BA-30 Micro Bass Amp White | Weight 2.7 kg | $103 |
| 57 | Joyo BA-30 Micro Bass Amp Black | Weight 2.7 kg | $103 |
| 58 | Harley Benton HB-20B | Weight 7.5 kg | $92 |
| 59 | Blackstar FLY 3 Bass Amp BK | Weight 1 kg | $84 |
| 60 | Markbass CMB 151 Black Line | not published | $537 |
| 61 | Hartke HD150 | not published | $516 |
| 62 | Markbass CMB 121 Blackline Combo | not published | $421 |
| 63 | Orange Crush Bass 50 Black Bundle | not published | $400 |
| 64 | Orange Crush Bass 50 Glenn Hug Bundle | not published | $389 |
| 65 | Orange Crush Bass 50 Bundle | not published | $387 |
| 66 | Blackstar Debut Bass Combo 25W | not published | $266 |
| 67 | Hartke HD50 | not published | $266 |
| 68 | Markbass CMB 101 Blackline Combo | not published | $256 |
| 69 | Ampeg RB-108 Bundle | not published | $227 |
| 70 | Hartke HD25 | not published | $180 |
| 71 | Harley Benton JAMster Bass | not published | $45 |
| 72 | Yuer Portable Bass Amp Bluetooth | not published | $45 |
Solid-State Bass Combos by the numbers
Measured across all 72 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $348
from $92 to $694
Weight
median 9.7 kg
from 2.4 kg to 22 kg · 59 models
How to Choose the Best Solid-State Bass Combos
1
Power Handling
Most combos in this range are 100-200 watts. That's enough for smaller gigs, but don't expect to blow away a stadium. Headroom is crucial - you want it to breathe before it starts to compress and lose definition.
2
Speaker Size & Type
10" and 12" speakers are common. 12" generally gives you more low-end thump and a wider sonic palette, while 10" can be tighter and more focused. The quality of the speaker itself makes a huge difference - cheap speakers sound thin and brittle.
3
EQ Section
Look for at least a basic 3-band EQ (bass, mid, treble). A sweepable midrange is a bonus - it lets you dial in that fat midrange honk or carve out muddiness. Flat response isn't always what you want; a little extra 'something' can help you cut through.
4
Effects & Features
Reverb is almost a given at this price. Compression, DI outputs, and headphone jacks are nice extras, but don't prioritize them over core tone. Too many digital effects often mean compromises elsewhere.
5
Build Quality
Let's be honest, you're not getting a tank. But check for sturdy construction, decent speaker protection, and reliable controls. Cheap plastic knobs and flaky switches are a sign of trouble.
Buying Guide
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Expect to sacrifice some high-end speaker quality or advanced features. Don't be fooled by lots of knobs - simple, well-implemented EQ is better than a complex system that doesn't sound great. Prioritize a combo that has a usable clean tone and a decent amount of headroom, because pushing a cheap amp too hard just reveals its limitations.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 72 solid-state bass combos from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most will have a DI output, but the quality varies. Don't expect pristine studio recordings straight out of the box - you'll likely still want to run it through an audio interface for better preamps and more control.
100-200 watts is generally enough, but it depends on your band's volume. A smaller practice space or a quieter band is no problem. Larger rehearsals might require miking or pairing with an extension cabinet.
Solid-state amps are typically cleaner and more reliable, with less maintenance. Tube amps offer a warmer, more 'organic' tone and natural overdrive, but they're more expensive and require more care.
Absolutely. Just be mindful of the preamp settings on your bass - you might need to reduce the output to avoid overloading the combo's preamp. Experiment with the EQ to find a good balance.
A speaker protector is essential. It prevents damage from accidental clipping or extreme volume levels. Some combos have them built-in, others require an external one.
