Ashdown’s Bass Head Amplifiers!

2024-07-31

Ashdown is an up-and-coming brand that produces mainly bass-related products. In this issue, I would like to introduce Ashdown's bass head amps by series!
Ashdown's iconic VU meters and the amp's color scheme provide a classic vibe that rivals even legendary models of the past. Its sound is described as "vintage modern," offering a wide range of tones with versatile features and tuning options.
Check out the looks and sample videos to find one that you want to buy!

What is Ashdown?
ABM-EVO IV Series
Rootmaster Series
CTM Series
Signature Models

What is Ashdown?

Ashdown is a British manufacturer of audio equipment. They produce bass amps, guitar amps, and pedals. The brand's unique design and VU meters makes their brand very distinct . And, their passion for developing functionality and sound quality that users seek is reflected in their high-quality products that create a powerful sound. The brand is widely used by professional musicians and amateurs for its high quality sound and sturdy design!

ABM-EVO IV Series

The ABM series has earned a strong reputation over the past 20 years for its powerful tone, versatility, and iconic VU meters. The ABM EVO IV, the fifth generation of the ABM EVO series, features a class-leading, refined preamp with a new 9-band EQ, allowing for more precise tone shaping. Its functionality is further enhanced with Variable Valve Drive Plus, enabling a broad range of sounds from clean to overdrive that are suitable for various genres like pop, rock, and jazz. The series also includes DI output, tuner output, and an FX loop, which makes it a valuable asset for professional live performances.
With output options of 300W, 600W, 750W, and 1200W, you can choose the model that best suits your needs.
Additionally, when used with the optional FS-4 footswitch, you can easily switch between drive, compression, EQ, and subharmonic generator (sub-octave) from your feet.

Ashdown Rootmaster Series

The Ashdown Rootmaster series is highly recommended for bassists who prioritize power, versatility, and portability! This bass head amp only weighs approximately 2.5 kg, yet features a 5-band EQ with adjustments for Bass, Middle, Treble, Lo-Mid, and Hi-Mid, as well as a subharmonic generator and compression control. Additionally, it includes a new Analog Cab Sim DI output (a DI output with cabinet simulation) that allows for easy monitoring adjustments via a switch. This enables straightforward stage monitoring and mix adjustments. You can choose between two output options: 500W and 800W!

CTM Series

The CTM series consists of classic head amps featuring five vintage vacuum tubes and a preamp. In addition to the 3-band EQ, players can intuitively dial in their desired tone using the Deep, Mid Shift, and Bright switches, allowing for detailed sound shaping. Each model includes a VU meter, which not only makes output levels easy to read, but also adds a charming design element. Vacuum tube replacement is straightforward and the VU meter will indicate any tube malfunctions.
Output options are available in 15W, 30W, 100W, and 300W. Notably, the CTM-30-TWEED is the only model featuring a tweed covering, making it particularly stylish and a matching tweed cabinet is available for purchase separately.

Signature Models

ASHDOWN / HOD-600

The Head of Doom is Geezer Butler’s signature model! It delivers 600W of power and, like the ABM series, features a 9-band EQ for precise frequency cut/boost. The Doom control amplifies current to produce rich overtones tailored for bass, with a pre-set current level that allows for on/off switching via a footswitch. Additionally, VU meters are included for both input and output, enhancing not only the visual appeal but also the functionality, enabling you to monitor output levels while performing.

ASHDOWN / INTERSTELA-600

The Guy Pratt Signature Model! This is a collaboration model with the ABM-900 series, featuring a powerful 600W output. It includes a 9-band EQ and vacuum tubes, making it a precise and powerful head amp. Additionally, it comes with switchable compression and subharmonics that can be controlled via a footswitch, allowing for even more detailed sound shaping.

How was it?
Ashdown’s amps have a retro and charming look with their VU meters and color schemes. They are equipped with detailed EQs and controls that allow for precise sound shaping, making them more than capable for use in live performances! Ashdown also offers bass effects pedals and combo amps in addition to head amps, so don’t forget to check them out too!

↓↓ For more Ashdown articles, click here ↓↓

momoka kugita

ベースの音がこの世で一番好きです。ベースは大学のサークルで始めました。そのため技術はまだまだで、日々基礎練に励み、休みの日にはアニメを見ながらスラップの練習をしてしてします。一応、ピアノも10年習っていましたが、レッスンの直前にしか練習していなかったので、全く上達しませんでした。ギターやドラムも少しかじってはいますが、本当に少しなので、もっと頑張りたいです。