Gallien-krueger BASS COMBO GK MB115-II 200W 1 X 15" GK MB115-II

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The MB 115-II fits within the Gallien-Krueger philosophy: delivering the typical punch and presence of the brand in a modern, compact, and easy-to-transport format. The MB "II" series represents an evolution of the MB combos, featuring efficient digital amplification and musician-oriented ergonomics (DI, Aux, headphones, extension via Chain Out), while maintaining a sound-shaping approach inherited from GK's DNA (Contour, active EQ, and a very "immediate" response).

Who This Amp Is For

The Gallien-Krueger MB 115-II targets bassists who want a serious combo without moving to a bulky stack: from demanding intermediate players to pros seeking a reliable backline that is quick to set up and consistent in DI. With its 200 W and 15-inch speaker, it excels in rehearsals, club gigs, church/podium performances, and studio work (via the DI output).

In terms of styles, it covers a wide range: rock (attack and present low-mids), funk and slap (horn activated for brightness), pop (clean, clear tones), jazz (definition and fine control of mids), and even heavier genres where a tight low end and a character-adding boost are appreciated.

Features and Innovations

The MB 115-II combines a transistor preamp with a Class D power amplifier, providing comfortable volume reserves and simplified transport. The front panel is straightforward: Gain to adjust input level (with a useful -10 dB Pad for active basses), a 4-band active EQ (Bass, Lo-Mid, Hi-Mid, Treble), and a Contour switch to scoop the mids and instantly deliver a more modern and "wide" sound.

The Boost section is there to regain that recognizable GK grain: it pushes a gain stage placed after the EQ to add bite and a controlled saturation feel, very effective at making the bass stand out in a dense mix. To keep a clean low end at high volume, a switchable limiter helps contain peaks (handy for slap or very sharp attacks). Finally, the horn features an On/Off switch: you choose between hi-fi brightness or a softer, more traditional high-frequency response.

Connectivity is fully equipped for stage and practice: symmetrical XLR DI output with Pre/Post EQ selection to send your sound to the PA system, Aux input for playing along with backing tracks, headphone output for silent practice, and Chain Out (XLR) to drive an MBP series cabinet and increase sound dispersion without changing your settings.

Sound

The MB 115-II is a transistor/Class D bass combo with a typically Gallien-Krueger character: a firm low end that doesn't collapse, a fast attack, and clear mids that help the bass "speak" within the band. In clean mode, it delivers a very clean foundation, ideal for precise lines and playing with pick or fingers. The Contour broadens the spectrum with a flattering mid scoop, while the active EQ (with Variable-Q design) allows strong but musical corrections.

When you engage the Boost, the MB 115-II adds slight compression and a more aggressive grain reminiscent of the GK spirit: perfect for rock, punk, or making a passive bass pop without adding pedals. The high end can be tailored on demand: horn activated for slap, brightness, and harmonic definition, or horn deactivated for a rounder, more vintage tone. The result is a "plug and play" combo that retains a true personality but can also stay neutral and effective when simply asked to transmit the instrument's sound.

Technical specifications