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Average Price: $599

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Description

Step back in time with the Ampeg V-4 (1970), a classic guitar amplifier head that has been a staple in rock history. Known for its distinctive all-tube sound, the V-4 delivers a powerful, warm tone that has captured the hearts of guitarists for decades. This amplifier head brings vintage charm and raw power, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the authenticity of analog sound.

The V-4’s unique preamp design is key to its ability to produce a rich, full-bodied sound that cuts through any mix. With a straightforward control layout, including a 3-band EQ and reverb, it gives you the tools to shape your sound with precision. The built-in reverb adds depth to your tone, while the selectable midrange frequencies allow for versatile tonal sculpting, making it adaptable to various music styles.

Whether you’re jamming in a garage, performing on stage, or recording in a studio, the Ampeg V-4 (1970) stands out with its distinctive tone that evokes the golden age of rock. Its robust build ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for both live and studio applications.

Key Features:

  • All-tube amplifier head
  • 3-band EQ for precise tone shaping
  • Built-in reverb for added depth
  • Selectable midrange frequencies
  • Vintage-inspired design and sound
  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance

Product specs

Brand Ampeg
Model V-4 100-Watt Guitar Head with Reverb
Finish Black
Year 1970 - 1980
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Heads
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Impedance 2 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 100
Power Tube Type 6L6
Reverb Spring Reverb

FAQs

What is the power output of the Ampeg V-4 (1970)?

The Ampeg V-4 (1970) is a 100-watt tube guitar amplifier head, well-suited for both stage and studio use.

Does the Ampeg V-4 (1970) have built-in reverb?

Yes, the Ampeg V-4 (1970) features a built-in spring reverb, providing rich and lush ambient tones.

How many inputs does the Ampeg V-4 (1970) have?

The Ampeg V-4 (1970) comes with two inputs, allowing for versatile connectivity options with different instruments.

What type of power tubes does the Ampeg V-4 (1970) use?

The Ampeg V-4 (1970) utilizes 6L6 power tubes, known for their warm and dynamic tonal characteristics.

Is the Ampeg V-4 (1970) suitable for live gigs?

With its 100-watt output, the Ampeg V-4 (1970) is powerful enough for live performances, providing ample volume and presence on stage.

What are the impedance options for the Ampeg V-4 (1970)?

The Ampeg V-4 (1970) offers impedance options of 2 ohms, 4 ohms, and 8 ohms, making it compatible with a range of speaker cabinets.

GnosticX

GnosticX

The Ampeg V4-part 1

Video thumbnail for The Ampeg V4-part 1 by GnosticX

The Ampeg V4-part 1

GnosticX

GnosticX

Video thumbnail for Tweaking the mighty AMPEG V4 Guitar Amp! by Johan Segeborn

Tweaking the mighty AMPEG V4 Guitar Amp!

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally durable, survives drops and rough handling

  • Superior clean tone quality, almost hi-fi

  • Louder than competitors, including 100-watt Marshall amps

  • Reliable performance even after many years of use

  • Capable of very loud volumes without distortion

  • High wattage output (around 130-134 RMS)

CONS

  • Heavy and cumbersome to move around

  • Consumes output tubes quickly if they're of low quality

  • Requires specific, high-quality tubes for optimal performance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ampeg V-4 (1970).

Setup and maintenance

  • The V4's midrange driver tube, a 6K11 compactron, is rare and expensive; old stock tubes are preferred for reliability.

    Source
  • Early 70s Ampeg V4s may lack flyback diodes, which can protect against voltage spikes caused by speaker mismatch.

    Source
  • Visible scorching on power tube sockets can indicate arcing, suggesting the need for thorough inspection during troubleshooting.

    Source
  • Simple multimeter tests can help diagnose output transformer issues if capacitors are safely drained first.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users successfully convert to 6550 or EL34 tubes but note increased stress on the power transformer.

    Source
  • Swapping coupling cap values from 10nf to 100nf (C3, 6, and 7) slightly boosts low-end frequencies, enhancing the amp's bass response.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The V4 offers output transformer settings for 2, 4, or 8 ohms, allowing versatile cab configurations.

    Source
  • The output transformer primaries connect differently depending on the year; some have a protective sheath along the chassis.

    Source
  • The V4 model from 75-77 has two volumes and a master volume, differentiating it from earlier versions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The amp is praised for doom/stoner metal, with recommendations to pair with larger cabs for optimal performance.

    Source
  • Originally marketed as guitar cabs, the V4's 412 cabinets can be fitted with Eminence Basslite series drivers for broader application, including bass.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The V4 and V4B share tone stack modules, ensuring similar low-end reproduction capabilities.

    Source
  • The V4 is considered more tame than an SVT in terms of wattage but shares a similar great sound profile.

    Source

User experience

  • Removing the V4 from the chassis involves undoing side bolts, allowing it to stand on shock mount side panels for maintenance.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Homme uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Josh Homme

Guitarist

Kyuss

...
Verified via YouTube

Josh can be seen using an Ampeg V4 with a 2x12 cab in an episode of From The Basement with Queens of the Stone Age

See how Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein

Guitarist

Misfits

...
Verified via Photo

Doyle's amp from 1980-1983 used to record Walk Among Us and Earth AD, The amp was sold by his brother a few years ago and now is in a private collection

See how Kurt Ballou uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Kurt Ballou

Guitarist, Music Producer

Converge

...
Verified via Angelfire

Ballou's V4 head can be seen on this picture from 2001. He was using this amp with Converge.

See how Rick Beato uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Rick Beato

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Premier Guitar "Rig Rundown" video on YouTube, Rick Beato discusses his use of the Ampeg V4 (1970) guitar amplifier head.

See how Charles Moothart uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Charles Moothart

Guitarist, Drummer

Fuzz

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Levitation Sessions video by LEVITATION, Charles Moothart is seen using a 1970 Ampeg V4 guitar amplifier with an unidentified 2x12 cabinet.

See how Rick Nielsen uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Rick Nielsen

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Rick Nielsen can be seen with 2 Ampeg V-4 with a red Marshall 1959 and his Sound City cabinets in the top photo

See how Christopher Pravdica uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Christopher Pravdica

Bassist

Swans

...
Verified via YouTube

3:32 You can see an Ampeg V4 over an Acoustic cab

See how Brett Campbell uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Brett Campbell

Guitarist

Pallbearer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video titled "GEAR GODS RIGGED: Brett Campbell of PALLBEARER," available on YouTube and produced by Trey Xavier, Brett Campbell is shown using an Ampeg V4 (1970) guitar amplifier. This provides visual confirmation of his use of this specific gear.

See how Gary Lee Conner uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Gary Lee Conner

Guitarist

Screaming Trees

...
Verified

Gary Lee Conner confirmed on the Screaming Trees Fan Page on Facebook that he used an Ampeg V4 (1970) amplifier to record the guitar parts for the "Invisible Lantern" album.

See how Paul Gray uses Ampeg V-4 (1970)

Paul Gray

Bassist

The Damned

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram video by @thatdamnedbass, Paul Gray is seen using a 1970 Ampeg V4 guitar amplifier head.

B

Brad Boatright

Guitarist

From Ashes Rise

...
Verified via Vice

This Vice article talks about Brad using an Ampeg V-4

B

Ben Stidworthy

Guitarist, Bassist

Cola

...
Verified via SoundCloud

On the Bassic Bitch Podcast at the 07:18 mark, Ben mentions using a Ampeg V4 on the second Ought record "Sun Coming Down".

"Normally I have an 8x10 with either a Gallien-Krueger 800RB or like an Ampeg SVT or V4 is what I used on this second [Ought] record (...)"

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ampeg V-4 (1970), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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