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Average Price: $1,900

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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Ampeg V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

For bass enthusiasts seeking a blend of vintage charisma and modern functionality, the Ampeg V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head is your go-to companion. This powerhouse is a reissue of a classic model that has been a staple for bass players since its original release in 1971. With 100 watts of all-tube power, it generates a rich, warm tone that has become synonymous with the Ampeg legacy.

The V-4B features a versatile 3-band EQ system with flexible midrange control, allowing bassists to sculpt their sound from articulate punch to deep, resonant grooves. The amp's sophisticated design includes four preamp tubes and four power tubes, ensuring that your bass tone remains full-bodied whether you're on stage or in the studio. Additionally, the integrated DI output simplifies your setup, allowing you to send that classic tube tone directly to a PA system or recording interface without hassle.

Designed with convenience in mind, the V-4B is compatible with various speaker configurations, thanks to its multiple speaker outputs supporting 2, 4, and 8-ohm setups. It also features a ground lift switch to minimize unwanted noise and an effects loop for integrating outboard gear seamlessly. Despite its robust construction, the V-4B remains portable, making it ideal for gigging musicians who need reliability without sacrificing tone.

Key Features:

  • 100-watt all-tube bass amplifier head
  • 2 x 12AX7s (preamp), 1 x 12AX7 and 1 x 12AU7 (driver), 4 x 6L6GC (power)
  • 3-band EQ with flexible midrange control
  • Ultra-low and ultra-high boost controls
  • Integrated DI output with ground lift
  • Speaker outputs: 2Ω, 4Ω, 8Ω
  • Effects loop and slave output

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels 1
Output Power 100W
EQ 3-band, Lo/Hi Boost Switches
Preamp Tubes 2 x 12AX7
Power Tubes 4 x 6L6GC
Inputs 2 x 1/4"
Outputs 5 x 1/4" (speakers), 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (slave)
Effects Loop Yes
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 11"
Width 24"
Depth 11"
Weight 41 lbs.

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ampeg V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head?

The Ampeg V-4B delivers classic all-tube bass tones with rich harmonics and a punchy low-end. Its 3-band EQ with Ultra Hi/Lo boost switches allows for versatile sound shaping, suitable for a wide range of music genres.

Is the Ampeg V-4B loud enough for live performances?

Yes, the Ampeg V-4B's 100-watt output power is sufficient for live performances, providing ample volume and headroom to cut through a band mix, even in larger venues.

Does the Ampeg V-4B work well with pedals?

The Ampeg V-4B includes an effects loop, making it compatible with a variety of pedals. This allows for seamless integration of effects into your signal chain without sacrificing tone quality.

What are the main connectivity options on the Ampeg V-4B?

The Ampeg V-4B features multiple speaker outputs, an XLR balanced direct out with a ground lift, and a 1/4" slave output, offering versatile connectivity for different setups and recording environments.

Is the Ampeg V-4B suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the Ampeg V-4B's balanced direct out with a ground lift makes it well-suited for studio recording, providing clean and consistent signal output directly to your recording interface.

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head by N Stuff Music

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Ampeg V-4B by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Ampeg V-4B

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B All Tube 100 watt Classic Bass Amp Head by Guitar Center

Ampeg V-4B All Tube 100 watt Classic Bass Amp Head

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Features and Tones by Ampeg

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Features and Tones

Ampeg

Ampeg

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Sound Clips by Ampeg

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Sound Clips

Ampeg

Ampeg

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Sound Clips - Midrange by Ampeg

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head - Sound Clips - Midrange

Ampeg

Ampeg

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head by POLAR - Music & Pro Audio

Ampeg V-4B 100W All-Tube Bass Head

POLAR - Music & Pro Audio

POLAR - Music & Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Ampeg: V-4B 100-Watt Tube Bass Head Amplifier by Noisegate

Ampeg: V-4B 100-Watt Tube Bass Head Amplifier

Noisegate

Noisegate

Video thumbnail for Ampeg V4B 100 Watt Bass Amp Head at Winter NAMM 2014 by Easy Music Center

Ampeg V4B 100 Watt Bass Amp Head at Winter NAMM 2014

Easy Music Center

Easy Music Center

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers classic Ampeg tube tone with rich, warm sound

  • Surprisingly loud for a 100-watt amp, cuts through mixes easily

  • Lightweight and portable at around 40 pounds

  • Versatile EQ allows for crisp highs, great mids, and deep lows

  • Excellent compatibility with fuzz, overdrive, and other effects pedals

  • Great for both recording and live performances

  • Works well with a variety of cabinets, enhancing its adaptability

  • Balanced XLR out with ground lift for clean recording

  • Quiet operation with no cooling fan noise, ideal for studios

  • Provides signature Ampeg tone in a more manageable package

CONS

  • Lacks a Speakon connector, relying on older 1/4" jacks

  • May require an attenuator to achieve overdrive at lower volumes

  • Chassis can get quite hot after prolonged use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ampeg V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head.

Use cases and applications

  • The V-4B reissue suits stoner and grunge styles, especially when paired with a 6x10 cab, capable of handling loud band settings.

    Source
  • The V-4B excels in producing overdriven sounds for stoner rock, reminiscent of Scott Reeder's tone, but may lack the volume needed for downtuned, bass-heavy doom or sludge metal.

    Source
  • The amp pairs well with Ampeg's 410 HE cab, though some suggest a matching 212 cab for a better tonal complement while retaining the same output.

    Source
  • In live settings, engineers often prioritize DI over miking the amp, making preamp/cab sim pedals like the VT Bass essential for conveying tone.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The reissue model is narrower and 20lbs lighter than the vintage V4, enhancing portability and compatibility with modern cabs.

    Source
  • The V-4B's 100-watt tube power provides substantial volume, perceived as louder than equivalent solid-state ratings due to the interaction of its transformer-coupled output stage with speaker loads.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the reissue captures vintage tone while resolving issues like obsolete tubes and cumbersome weight associated with older models.

    Source
  • A user found confidence in the V-4B's volume after initial doubts, noting it as adequate for most music, barring extremely loud or bass-heavy styles.

    Source
  • Users note that while 100 watts is substantial, an 8x10 cab is more effective for loud bands than a 4x10 with the V-4B reissue.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A user switched from the V-4B to an SVT4Pro paired with a 410HLF for more power, highlighting a preference in heavier music contexts.

    Source
  • Though the V-4B offers impressive overdrive, users comparing it to an SVT with an 8x10 cab note potential volume limits for certain music genres like doom metal.

    Source
  • Owners who play loud music styles have considered micro heads with pedals like the Tech21 VT Bass or Darkglass Vintage Microtubes for additional flexibility and tone shaping.

    Source
  • The 90s V4BH model offers a rounder, more SVT-like preamp sound compared to the current V-4B reissue, which closely mimics vintage models.

    Source

Build quality

  • The reissue is praised for improved design, addressing vintage drawbacks like size and tube availability without sacrificing tonal quality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ampeg V-4B Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ampeg V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head delivers a nostalgic punch with its all-tube design, mirroring the iconic SVT tone in a lighter package. Modern updates like the DI and multiple speaker outs enhance versatility without sacrificing the vintage vibe. While purists may bemoan the price, the V-4B offers a compelling blend of classic and contemporary sounds, making it a solid choice for bassists seeking both grit and clarity. The SVT-212AV cab pairs seamlessly, ensuring a robust audio experience. Overall, it's a well-executed revival that should appeal to both traditionalists and modern players.

positive

Ampeg V-4B review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Ampeg's V-4B Classic 100-Watt Tube Bass Amp Head is a robust contender for bassists who crave that vintage all-tube sound without the hefty weight of its SVT sibling. Delivering a dynamic and creamy overdrive that's perfect for rock rehearsals, it offers a satisfying range of tones from its straightforward EQ controls. While it lacks the clean headroom needed for high-volume applications, its lighter weight and righteous grind make it a must-try for those seeking the Ampeg sound without the back-breaking weight. Overall, it's a dynamic, fun amp with a classic vibe that will appeal to old-school enthusiasts.

positive

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