Features ------------ The Laney Hardcore MAX HCM15B contains a wide range of features which makes it an excellent combo practice amp or an amp for a small performance. The amp features a 15watt custom 8” driver which is more than adequate for its application and can get to amazing volumes with no distortion, onboard headphone controller and compressor. The amp also features a CD/Line input jack and Bass/ Swept Middle/Treble/Master knobs. The only feature I would have like to see featured in this amp is Reverb although this is available with many other models.
Expandability ------------------- The Laney Hardcore MAX HCM15B Bass Practice Amplifier is very expandable as it enables the connection of an additional bass cab utilising the existing inputs although for the price of the additional cab you would probably be best to purchase a Laney Bass Head for this application. This could prove to be very useful if you would like the extra power of a cabinet but you do not have the money to buy a bass head, this would be an excellent temporary substitute. Although no use to me, a nice feature none the less! :o)
Sound ---------- I’ve found that the sound quality of the HCM15B to be excellent for a practice amp of this price. Although reverb would have been excellent, this amp has mastered every feature it includes and I have been greatly impressed with this. The range of tones which this amplifier produces with ease is fantastic from extremely low B notes (this amp is perfect for 5-String players like myself) to high G notes any beyond.
Construction & Aesthetics ------------------------------------- Throughout Laney’s range of guitar and bass amps, the same quality aesthetics are implemented which includes chrome hardware and sturdy black metal speaker protection on the front of the amp. My favourite feature of this guitar amp is the metal grill in front of the speaker which has proven to be very useful because I’m almost certain that if a material cover was used with the amp that I would have stepped back on one occasion and damaged the speaker with my heel. The construction of this amplifier is excellent although this does make an impact on the weight of the amp making it a more difficult to transport by foot. The carry strap feels extremely solid and durable, complementing the plastic protection for the corners of the amplifier which would prevent any serious damage to the amp.
Suitability -------------- This amp is suitable for bass players with all levels of proficiency ranging from beginners using it for their main amp, to professionals using it as a small practice amp for arpeggio exercises and quiet playing.
Pricing & Availability ---------------------------- I purchased my Laney Hardcore MAX HCM15B Bass Practice Amplifier in a package deal at J.G.Windows in Newcastle Upon Tyne which also included an Ibanez GSR205 5-String Electric Bass. I received a reduction with the amp when I bought the guitar due to it being part of the deal. I have researched pricing in the UK for this amplifier and the recommended retail price of the product is considerably more than this but on many websites and in some shops on the high street this amplifier can be purchased for £90 or less.
More details
Range & Quality of Features
Good
Look & Feel
Excellent
Instruction Manual
Excellent
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