Hartke LH-500

This is a no frills, straight to the point, plug and play, built like a brick bass heads.

I bought this as I couldn't afford an ampeg but wanted something that delivered the same classic rock tone. I play this head through a 4x10 ashdown cab using a Fender Jazz bass.

I was really impressed with the tone and compared to an ampeg I think its close but not quite there. The bottom end is great (huge even), theres no signs of it struggling however where this head falls short in comparison is in the higher frequencies. Not that it struggles it just doesn't quite give you that 'jingle jangle' high end pop punk sound I was after. However team it with a Sansamp and this thing comes alive!

If your looking for a blues/pop super smooth sound this head can deliver everyday, but if your looking for something with a bit of edge and twang make sure you have a sanamp (or similar) at the ready.

I was looking for a cheapish backup amp, with enough power to do larger venues without PA support, and the LH500 more than fits the bill.
Simple EQ (bass/mid/treble) gets a pleasing tone very quickly.
This amp is clean - you won't get any valve "grind" from it - but if you're looking for a lovely clean, warm, fat sound then the 12AX7 tube preamp certainly delivers. Matched with a 500W output stage, this is one very loud beast.
This isn't a lightweight, but the build quality seems very good. Given it's price, this must be one of the best bass head bargains out there at the moment.