Ampeg SVT-CL Classic
All-tube bass head from the Classic series, Ampeg SVT-CL Classic.
- Power: 300 W RMS
- 6 power tubes (6550)
- Selectable impedance of 2 or 4 ohms
- 3-band EQ with selectable mid frequencies at 5 options
- Ultra Hi and Ultra Lo controls
- Transformer-balanced XLR output
The Ampeg SVT-CL Classic is a fully tube bass head delivering 300 W RMS and stands as one of the most recognizable designs in bass amplification history. Its circuit combines two 12AX7 tubes in the preamp, one 12AX7 and two 12AU7s as drivers, and six 6550 tubes in the power stage, providing the powerful, dynamic, and harmonically rich character associated with the SVT sound.
It features a three-band EQ with a five-position switch for the mid frequencies, along with Ultra Hi and Ultra Lo switches to quickly modify the response character. It includes 0 dB and -15 dB inputs, transformer-balanced XLR line out, preamp and power amp connections, impedance selector for 2 or 4 ohms, and an accessible Bias adjustment system for easy tube maintenance.
- Type: fully tube bass head
- Power: 300 W RMS
- Selectable output impedance: 2 or 4 ohms
- Preamp tubes: 2 x 12AX7
- Driver tubes: 1 x 12AX7 and 2 x 12AU7
- Power tubes: 6 x 6550
- Inputs: 0 dB and -15 dB
- Gain control
- Master volume control
- 3-band equalizer
- Bass: ±12 dB at 40 Hz
- Midrange: +10/-20 dB
- Midrange selector: 5 positions — 220 Hz, 450 Hz, 800 Hz, 1.6 kHz, and 3 kHz
- Treble: +15/-20 dB at 4 kHz
- Ultra Lo switch
- Ultra Hi switch
- Transformer-balanced XLR line out
- Preamp Out
- Power Amp In
- External amplifier output
- User-adjustable Bias control
- Two 6.3 mm speaker outputs
- Speakon speaker output
- Dimensions: 610 x 292 x 330 mm
- Approximate weight: 36.3 kg
Our Opinion
The SVT-CL is an ideal choice for those seeking the classic experience of a high-quality tube bass amplifier: commanding presence, responsive dynamics, and a power stage that fundamentally shapes the sound character. Its 300 W might seem modest compared to modern Class D heads, but it represents a completely different approach to amplification, designed to drive large-format cabinets and deliver authoritative live performance.
The main trade-off is evident: weighing over 36 kg, it’s not a head designed for portability. If weight isn’t an issue and you’re after the traditional Ampeg character, it remains one of the brand’s benchmark models.
EAN13: 8412345499852
