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Peavey MAX 100 Bass Combo Review

By Bassic Training Editor

The Peavey MAX 100 is a 100-watt bass combo amplifier designed for serious beginners, advancing players, and gigging musicians who need reliable volume without stepping into large, heavy rigs. As part of Peavey’s modern MAX series, it blends solid-state reliability with practical tone-shaping tools and enough headroom for rehearsals and small-to-medium venues.

This is no longer a bedroom-only practice amp — it sits firmly in the band-ready category.

Peavey MAX 100

Quick Overview

The MAX 100 delivers 100 watts of power through a 10-inch speaker, providing significantly more low-end punch and clean headroom than 10W or 30W combos. It includes Peavey’s tone-shaping features such as a 3-band EQ, TransTube® gain boost, and contour options, making it versatile across multiple playing styles.

What’s Included in the Box

The Peavey MAX 100 is sold as a standalone bass combo amplifier. Inside the box, you’ll receive:

  • Peavey MAX 100 100-Watt Bass Combo Amplifier
  • Attached power cable
  • Owner’s manual and warranty documentation

No instrument cable or bass guitar is included.

The Peavey MAX 100 Specifications

FeatureDetails
Power Output100 Watts
Speaker1 x 10” Speaker
EQ3-Band EQ (Low, Mid, High)
Tone FeaturesTransTube® Gain Boost, Contour shaping
Inputs1/4” Instrument Input
Aux InputYes
Headphone OutputYes
Direct OutYes (for PA connection)
Intended UseRehearsal / Small to Medium Gigs

Key Features Of The Peavey MAX 100 Explained

100 Watts of Clean Headroom

At 100 watts, the MAX 100 provides enough volume to rehearse with a drummer and perform at small gigs without immediately distorting. Compared to 50W amps, it offers noticeably more clean headroom and projection.

10-Inch Speaker

The 1×10 configuration is a sweet spot for many bassists. It delivers tighter low-end response than smaller speakers while remaining portable. It’s large enough for live use but manageable in weight.

TransTube® Gain Boost

Peavey’s TransTube technology adds harmonic warmth when pushed, giving the amp a more natural, tube-like response. It’s useful for rock and blues players wanting grit without external pedals.

Direct Output

The inclusion of a direct out allows connection to a PA system, which makes this amp much more flexible for live performance situations.

Build Quality

Peavey amps are widely known for durability. The MAX 100 continues that tradition with solid cabinet construction and rugged controls. It’s designed to handle transport to rehearsals and gigs without feeling fragile.

Pros & Cons Of The Peavey MAX 100

Pros

  • Enough power for rehearsals and small gigs
  • 10” speaker provides strong low-end clarity
  • Direct out for PA support
  • Durable construction
  • TransTube gain adds tonal character

Cons

  • Heavier than small practice amps
  • Not as lightweight as some modern competitors
  • Limited advanced EQ compared to premium stage amps

What Customers Say About the Peavey MAX 100

Customer feedback on the MAX 100 is generally positive, especially among players upgrading from smaller practice amps.

Common themes in reviews include:

  • Strong volume and clean headroom
  • Reliable performance in rehearsal settings
  • Good tonal flexibility for rock and blues
  • Durable build quality
  • Good value compared to similarly powered competitors

Some users mention that while it performs well for small venues, larger stages may require PA support. Others note that it’s heavier than some modern lightweight bass combos.

Overall, customers see the MAX 100 as a dependable mid-powered combo that bridges the gap between practice and performance.

Who is the Peavey MAX 100 Best For

Best For

  • Bassists playing with a drummer
  • Small to medium venue gigs
  • Players upgrading from 15–30W amps
  • Rock, blues, and general band settings

Not Ideal For

  • Players needing ultra-lightweight gear
  • Large venues without PA support
  • Those seeking premium touring rigs

The Peavey MAX 100 Review Video

Is The Peavey MAX 100 Worth It?

If you need a reliable, gig-capable combo without jumping into large stack systems, the Peavey MAX 100 is a practical choice. It offers enough power for real band situations while staying affordable and manageable in size.

The Peavey Max 100 FAQs

What is the difference between the Fender Rumble 100 and the Peavey MAX 100?

The Rumble 100 is lighter and features a more modern, lightweight cabinet design with a 4-band EQ and overdrive circuit. The Peavey MAX 100 focuses on rugged construction and includes TransTube gain shaping. Both are 100W 1×10 combos, but they differ in voicing and feature layout.

Is the Rumble 100 good for gigging?

Yes, for small to medium gigs, especially when paired with PA support.

How loud is the Rumble 100?

A 100-watt bass amp is loud enough for rehearsals and small venues with a drummer.

Is the Rumble 100 a bass amp?

Yes, it is a dedicated bass combo amplifier.

What kind of EQ does the Rumble 100 have?

The Rumble 100 features a 4-band EQ (Bass, Low Mid, High Mid, Treble) along with additional tone-shaping switches.

Is a 100 watt amp louder than a 50 watt amp?

Yes. A 100W amp provides more clean headroom and higher maximum volume than a 50W amp.

How do you tell if you have 100 amp or 200 amp?

Check the amplifier’s rear panel, user manual, or manufacturer specifications — the wattage rating is always listed there.

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Jeremy Playing bass in Hairspray The Musical Orchestra Pit Welcome to Bassic Training. I’m Jeremy, a professional bass guitarist from Australia. Our goal is to help you fast-track your progress and learn correct bass guitar technique and musicianship.

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