Hiwatt-inspired bass amp recommendations

[EW57]

Greetings all, I’m looking for opinions on a Hiwatt inspired bass amp build & currently considering a DR201 clone with the correct Heyboer iron or a less traditional 100watt variant with (2) KT88s using an Antek PT and possibly Dynaco A-431 OT (4.3k, 14lbs).

To give a bit of background, I generally play in bar bands using a G&L L2500 (5-string, hot output!) playing modern & classic rock, nothing too heavy. I’ve got a pair of pretty efficient 15/8 cabs that are very neutral sounding (homemade) & can handle approximately 450watts each, so no issues there.

My questions currently are:
1.Would the extra output warrant the additional componentry/complexity for this application?

2.Would there be a substantial cost difference between the two builds?

3.Which would lend themselves better to recording and/or spouse tolerable volume levels?

Any and all opinions/ideas are welcome & encouraged, thanks!

[Gaz]

Yes, the 200w more complex and a lot more expensive (about $350 more). There also more considerations: chassis that can stand the weight f the transformers, components/wire rated for 675vdc, heat management, chassis space, etc. to build a 100W you don't even need custom iron which is nice.

If you're not trying to get max headroom a 100w should be fine for small clubs. I play bass in a pretty loud band with a 100w Plexi style amp and 4x10 ported Eden cab and I have no problem competing with a 100w orange amp. I never play super clean though so YMMV.

[chief mushroom cloud]

it would be cheaper to scrounge an old SC120 off eBay and fix it up....
I used to use a DR103 and 2 1x15 cabs.....WAY more than enough for a bar band situation.

[mtnen]

Hello from Finland!
I've built three Hiwatt-clones for bass amps, one DR103 and 2 DR201, thanks to M.Huss and his website.
I think 4 x KT88 is the best choice for a bass player. You dont't have to worry about the headroom with any speaker cabinet.
Here are some pics of my latest build, in the last pic you can see the speaker cab I'm using
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zotm9vdeebbl94i/Dxci-47xaq

[Gaz]

Great work! You need a bigger cab

[bb5000]

I've built the DR201 for either 6xEL34 or 4xKT88 (TubeAmpDoctor iron), I'm quite satisfied with the 6xEL34 configuration. I have not tested a DR103, but there may be a problem with the low notes on a 5-string. Your cabs may overcome this (possible) problem.

[selloutrr]

Ill chime on the recording question. Most likely you will use a Direct box when recording. The problem with recording 15" speakers is the wave opens up about 30' away from the amplifier. Not to say it can't be done but it's going to require delay compensation and some skill in time alignment to fit with the other instruments as well as require a heavy amount of EQ. What comes directly off the cone is just air and will still require delay compensation. 10" are better for studio. The b-15 was made popular back when them used one microphone and musician placement. Great amp but for a modern recording it requires tricks.
The hiwatt is a live sound bass amp. You want thd larger OT 200+ watts to not starve your cabinets and damage them. Especially if you are playing a low B note you need power to equal head room which will result in a clear non farting low end. You may need to built an input for passive active electronics to compensate for the 2500L active boost when you push the volume and EQ up past detent.

If you want a great recording rig buy a pre gibson trace Elliot preamp with DI out.