Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,751

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$200

$801+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head, a bass amplifier that delivers a potent mix of power, versatility, and tone. This amplifier head is more than just an upgrade, it's the evolution of Ashdown's commitment to providing world-class tone and flexibility to bassists. With a staggering 1200 watts of bass power and an upgraded preamp section, this amp head offers an abundance of tonal possibilities that are sure to make your bass lines stand out on any stage.

The variable drive technology in the preamp section allows you to control the amount of current flowing into the 12AX7 tube, enabling a wide tonal range from the cleanest of cleans to the fattest of overdriven tones. The extended EQ section provides tight tonal control with knobs to handle bass, middle, and treble, plus a 6-band graphic for fine-tuning.

Ashdown's familiar 1-knob compressor and sub harmonic generator deliver a tight, full tone, and with the iconic Ashdown VU meter, you can easily monitor your levels. The ABM-1200-EVO IV also offers the flexibility of footswitching - you can switch in and out the EQ, compression, and sub harmonics with just a tap of your foot.

Key Features:

  • 1200-watt bass amplifier head for versatile gigging needs
  • Powerful 9-band EQ with Bass, Middle, Treble, and 6 sliders (100Hz, 180Hz, 340Hz, 1.3KHz, 2.6KHz, and 5KHz) for shaping your sound
  • Hybrid solid-state and 12AX7 tube preamp for a wide tonal range
  • Built-in compressor, tuner output, and effects loop for added flexibility
  • Ashdown sub-harmonic generator accurately tracks your main signal and reproduces it an octave lower
  • 4 secure speakON outputs for connecting speaker cabinets
  • DI output with XLR connection for professional quality
  • Input level VU meter for easy monitoring of levels

Product specs

Brand Ashdown
Model ABM 1200 EVO IV 1200W Bass Magnifier Head
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Bass Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Hybrid
Impedance 4 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 1200
Power Tube Type None
Powered Unpowered
Reverb None

FAQs

What is the power output of the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head?

The Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head delivers a powerful 1200 watts, making it suitable for large venues and live performances.

Does the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head use tubes in its design?

The ABM-1200-EVO IV is a hybrid amplifier, which means it combines solid-state electronics with tube elements to enhance its tonal characteristics.

Is the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head suitable for gigging with a full band?

Yes, with its 1200-watt output, the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head is more than capable of handling live performances with a full band, including a drummer.

How many channels does the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head have?

The Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head features a single channel, focusing on delivering a powerful and clear bass tone.

What type of impedance does the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head support?

The Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head supports a 4-ohm impedance, which is standard for many bass amplification setups.

Does the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head have built-in reverb?

No, the Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV Head does not include built-in reverb, focusing instead on delivering a pure bass sound.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality with great equalization

  • Robust build, suitable for long-term use

  • Manufacturer offers strong warranty support

  • Company responsive to customer inquiries and issues

  • Ideal for experienced musicians valuing high-quality audio

CONS

  • Difficulties finding dealers to honor lifetime warranty

  • V.U. light bulb issues not covered under warranty

  • Warranty void if user attempts to replace V.U. light bulb

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head.

Features and functionality

  • The Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV provides two 600W power amps, allowing for flexible cab configurations like running a 600W cab while leaving the other amp section disconnected.

    Source
  • Ashdown ABM-1200-EVO IV's dual 600W amps allow use with a single 600W cab without straining gear, offering flexibility in power distribution.

    Source
  • The Ashdown's modular power sections can run a 600W cab independently, offering future-proofing and flexibility for expanding setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Ashdown heads, like the ABM-1200, are noted for their solid state power, which allows users to avoid straining gear by keeping the output dial at noon for a cleaner signal.

    Source
  • Owners recommend pairing with Barefaced cabs for their high wattage handling and air-moving capability, ideal for down-tuned bass setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the Ashdown ABM-1200 to the Darkglass Microtubes 900, noting that Darkglass offers built-in distortion, making it ideal for those seeking specific overdrive tones.

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  • Darkglass Microtubes 900's distortion pedal integration contrasts with Ashdown's neutral tone, making it versatile for diverse genres from reggae to metal.

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  • A Mesa Carbine with PH410 cabs is noted for its aggressive low-end extension and tonal clarity, suitable for sledgehammer bass tones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Ashdown ABM-1200 is suggested for users needing more dynamic range without constantly operating at full volume, particularly for outdoor shows.

    Source
  • Consider an Ampeg 810 for its sealed enclosure, which minimizes sub-bass muddiness while enhancing punch, beneficial in live performances.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users suggest pairing the ABM-1200 with Barefaced 610 cabs for powerful, clear sound output and increased air movement, especially for down-tuned bass setups.

    Source
  • Users praise the SansAmp BDDI for adding control and depth to stage sound, especially when paired with Ashdown heads.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A B-stock Ashdown ABM-1200 can offer significant savings, priced $600 cheaper than a new ABM-750, providing the same features with more wattage.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Pino Palladino uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Pino Palladino

Bassist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Pino's official Ashdown artist page.

See how John Myung uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

John Myung

Bassist

Dream Theater

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Used to record bass parts on Dream Theater's "Distance Over Time", according to John's official Ashdown artist page.

It was also featured in the 2019 Premier Guitar interview.

And then for amp tones, we just miked up an Ashdown—the ABM series. And that sounded great too. It just gave us what we wanted to hear without having to mess around with the knobs. So, it’s really just those two things: the Neve and the Ashdown. It really made a difference in this album.

See how Shavo Odadjian uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Shavo Odadjian

Guitarist, Bassist

System of a Down

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Shavo's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Adam Clayton uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Adam Clayton

Bassist

U2

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Adam's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Jeremy Davis uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Jeremy Davis

Bassist

Paramore

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Jeremy's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Guy Pratt uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Guy Pratt

Bassist

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Guy's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Brian Marshall uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Brian Marshall

Bassist

Alter Bridge

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Brian's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Bruce Foxton uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Bruce Foxton

Bassist

The Jam

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Bruce's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Nick Harmer uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Nick Harmer

Bassist

Death Cab for Cutie

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Nick's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Gordon Moakes uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Gordon Moakes

Bassist

Bloc Party

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Gordon's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Brian Ray uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Brian Ray

Singer, Guitarist

Paul McCartney (Live Band)

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Brian's official Ashdown artist page.

See how Dougie Poynter uses Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head

Dougie Poynter

Singer, Guitarist

McFly

...
Verified via Ashdown Engineering

Listed on Dougie's official Ashdown artist page.

Album Usage

The Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ashdown Engineering ABM-1200-EVO IV Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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