When you can't use your Kemper for bass: Go with a DI or into an amplifier?

I'm interested in acquiring some sort of solution for bass that does not require me to carry around my Kemper.

I was really impressed by some of the light weight bass amps that are available nowadays, weighing less than 3kg. Stuff from companies like Gallien Krueger, Markbass, TC Electronic, Ibanez...

At the same time, I was wondering whether I couldn't get similar impact from using a DI bass pedal. Something like a Sansamp, or a Darkglass, or an Aguilar.

The great thing about amps like the GK are that you can use it with almost any cab: 4, 8, or 16 ohm. So that would allow you to hook up to a cab when needed.

But I'm not sure just going directly into the PA system might not be a better solution, to ensure that your sound is controlled and tailored for the acoustic space.

It's worth noting that the amps I've mentioned all have a DI as well. So you could run a cab on stage, while sending your DI signal to the FOH.

Personally, I'm all for moving air when I'm playing bass. That punch really adds something to music. But that might only be for me, or the people close enough to feel the cab.

For everyone else, a DI is probably a better solution.

Hoping you guys can help me out with this dilemma. I'm really keen to incorporate one or other of these solutions into my rig.

Thanks.

Great recommendations, guys! Thanks, I think a DI it is.

I checked out the Tone Hammer and EBS, but what I'm really leaning toward is a B7K Ultra because of the gain on offer.

Of course, I plan to use it as a set and forget pedal, so perhaps too much overkill. Will do some more research before I pick something.

Quote from Monkey_Man

Ha!

You could "grab" (if only it were that easy!) a second Kemper and run SinMix's B7K Profiles. It'd be just like the real thing, only a whole-lot more expensive!

As a bonus 'though, you'd be able to run the much-vaunted parallel-profile setup, AJ.

Too expensive, Nicky. Not that the B7K is cheap, at around US$400.

The Kemper would definitely be more flexible though.

Quote from Monkey_Man

I know, mate; it's the same for me!

That's why I wrote:

Yup, I read you loud and clear the first time around. I was just reiterating what you said, as it mirrored my rationale for considering the B7K.

OT, has anyone tried out the Pike Amplification Vulcan Plus? Seems like a clone of the B7K after a partnership deal went sour. Apparently, there's a video of Duff Rose McKagan using one. Looks pretty cool, and guys on Talkbass are gushing about it after some initial bashing.