Ampeg SVT-CL Classic Bass Head  

Let's get one thing straight, this is the tone you're looking for. Every recording you love, every live band that blew you away, this is the tone they had or were trying to emulate. There isn't any higher to go, this is the last amp you will buy. I want to issue a couple warnings though. First off, this thing is HEAVY. Start doing curls and push ups after you order, you're gonna need it. Second, be prepared to replace your tubes. My power tubes went out in the first year, right around 150 hours. It's difficult to blame anybody, sometimes they're just bad. I got away with replacing them for about $160. Third, pair it with an 8x10 and don't skimp on your cable. It'll pay you back in the long run. Finally, understand the changes you're making going to an all tube amp. It will be worth it but it requires some extra care and consideration when using and transporting. If you're just a hobbyist or play small venues, this amp is too much for 95% of you. It's huge and loud. But it is the best amp on the market, end of story.

There is no substitute for tube sound.  Period.  I have used many high-end solid state heads and tube preamps to power an 80's model Ampeg 8x10 cabinet over the years but my sound was always been lacking a certain something.  I finally found what it was lacking with the SVT-CL. Tube compression and depth is where its at.  No solid state amp will ever come close, ever.  I used to fidget with a 31-band eq, compressor, etc looking for that sound so easily found just turning on the CL.  They now have found a home in the junk box, I dont need them anymore. I play weekly in different venues, and it takes me about a minute to dial in the sound I want based on the easy controls; the mid switch makes it so easy... bottom end is tight and slapping sounds awesome.  D.I. box, dont need it anymore either, I plug direct into the head and just smile.  Its so easy to get a great tone from this monster.  I jump from an 80's model fretted P-Bass with active P-J electronics to a Fretless Jaco Jazz during the sets and they both sound great. This amp just rocks. Funk, Country, Rock, it does it all with more headroom than I will ever need.  Turn up the preamp and it growls sooo good.  Best piece of equipment I have bought in 20 some years.  It will be the last amp I ever buy.  Pricey, but I'd be throwing my money away if I bought anything else.  Its worth the money if you are serious about having a great bass tone. 

I have played both the SVT CL and the SVT VR thru an SVT 8x10 cab and there is a big difference sonically.  The "vintage" tone pumped out by the SVT-VR is something the SVT-CL comes close but does not deliver.  The price point on both of these amps suck unfortunately, so my advice would be to shop for either of them used.  SVT-CL is a good amp don't get me wrong, I just think it's priced rather high for what you get.  If you're about to spend that much on an amp, save a little more and get an SVT-VR or get a real vintage 69 to early '70's SVT

I just got this amp (used) and i must say, it IS the perfect amp/cab. I got it home and a literally smile ear to ear when i hear the tone it creates. Its so warm, and bassy, yet so punchy and clear, its amazing. I've been trying to find this tone for a long time, and now i finally have it. and if you don't like the weight, just picture everytime you move it as a workout :P

I spent 5 months saving up for this head as well as the ampeg 8X10 cab. I got it home dailed it in and hit one note on my fender bass and the entire house rattled and the master was on 3!. The tone is so warm rich and clear and it makes my presence on stage far more heard. I loved ampegs when I played them at music stores and most of my favorite bassists use ampeg. But after owning this rig, Im set for life as far as choice of amplification goes.