Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,299

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ashdown Engineering CTM-30 30-Watt Bass Amp Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the power of your bass with the Ashdown CTM-30 30-Watt Bass Amp Head, a compact marvel that balances modern engineering with classic tube warmth. Revered by bass legends, this amp head is a part of Ashdown's illustrious Classic Tube Magnifier range, and it brings the thunder with its all-valve construction, featuring ECC83 and ECC82 preamp tubes paired with four EL84 output tubes.

Designed for the discerning bassist, the CTM-30 offers a rich, organic tone that's perfect for both studio recording and intimate gigs. Its high and low inputs accommodate both active and passive basses, while the interactive EQ section, complete with Bass, Mid, and Treble controls, lets you sculpt your sound with precision. The thoughtful inclusion of Mid Shift, Bass Shift, and Bright Switching ensures you can dial in your perfect tone with ease.

Portability meets performance with the CTM-30’s streamlined steel casing, allowing for easy transport without sacrificing durability. The front-mounted effects loop seamlessly integrates your pedalboard, while the balanced DI output ensures hassle-free connectivity for larger stages or studio setups. Whether you're looking to impress a crowd or capture the perfect recording, this amp head is your steadfast companion, offering a sonic palette as dynamic as your playing.

Key Features:

  • 30-watt all-valve bass amp head
  • ECC83, ECC82 preamp tubes, and four EL84 output tubes
  • High and low inputs for active and passive basses
  • Passive EQ with Bass, Mid, and Treble controls, plus Mid Shift, Bass Shift, and Bright Switching
  • Front-mounted effects loop for pedalboard integration
  • Balanced DI output for studio and live use
  • Compact, portable steel casing for easy transport

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels Single channel
EQ 3-band EQ, Mid Shift, Bass Shift, Bright Switch
Preamp Tubes 1 x ECC83, 1 x ECC82
Power Tubes 4 x EL84
Inputs 2 x 1/4" (high/low)
Outputs 2 x 1/4" (4/8 ohm), 1 x XLR (direct out)
Effects Loop Valve Driven, 2 x 1/4" (send/return)
Footswitch Included No
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Ashdown CTM-30 30-Watt Bass Amp Head?

The Ashdown CTM-30 delivers a classic tube-driven warm tone with a rich harmonic content, thanks to its EL84 power tubes. It offers versatile sound shaping with a 3-band EQ and additional tone-shaping switches for mid and bass shifts.

Is the Ashdown CTM-30 suitable for gigging with a drummer?

With its 30-watt power rating, the Ashdown CTM-30 is suitable for small to medium-sized gigs, especially in venues where moderate volume levels are appropriate. It provides enough power to keep up with a drummer in these settings.

Does the Ashdown CTM-30 Bass Amp Head have an effects loop?

Yes, the Ashdown CTM-30 features a valve-driven effects loop, allowing you to integrate external effects pedals seamlessly into your signal chain.

What type of inputs does the Ashdown CTM-30 offer?

The Ashdown CTM-30 includes two 1/4" inputs with high and low sensitivity options, catering to both active and passive bass guitars.

Can I use the Ashdown CTM-30 with different speaker cabinets?

Yes, the Ashdown CTM-30 provides two speaker outputs for 4 and 8-ohm cabinets, offering flexibility in pairing with various cabinet configurations.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ashdown Engineering CTM-30 30-Watt Bass Amp Head.

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the CTM-30 for its rich tube tone, offering substantial volume with a good cabinet, ideal for achieving a power tube growl without excessive wattage.

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  • Using amps like the Ashdown CTM-30 at low bedroom levels can still result in bass carrying through walls, suggesting the need for thoughtful volume management.

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  • Owners report that the CTM-30 delivers a "rich/full sound and feel" even when the master volume is high and the channel volume/gain is low, suitable for clean tones.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Repairs can be challenging due to the complex British circuitry, and finding service in the U.S. can be difficult, especially if residing in specific regions like Maryland.

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Features and functionality

  • The LB30 is noted for its ability to deliver a rich, tubey sound, particularly when not pushed to its limits, making it suitable for achieving classic bass tones.

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  • The Ashdown CTM-30, referred to as the Little Stubby, offers a warm and saturated tone, which many find ideal for practice volumes.

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  • The CTM-30 is praised for its ability to work with a Two Notes Captor loadbox, allowing for silent operation without sacrificing tube tone quality.

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Comparisons

  • The Ashdown CTM-30 is compared to Ampeg PF-20T for low volume practice, with both offering tube sound but availability and pricing vary in the used market.

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  • Compared to the Ampeg PF50T, the CTM-30 lacks the ability to run without a load attached, which is a unique feature of the PF50T.

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Use cases and applications

  • Ashdown's 30-watt tube amps are noted for being suitable for quiet practice environments, similar to the versatility of a guitar Blues Jr. at low volumes.

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  • Owners suggest pairing the CTM-30 with a small cabinet for practice, highlighting its ability to deliver quality tube tones without excessive volume.

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  • The CTM-30 is particularly appreciated by those looking for a practice amp that provides the unique tone of a cranked tube power section at lower volumes.

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Value and pricing

  • The CTM-30 is seen as a premium choice for those willing to invest in a "cork-sniffer's-delight-boutique-$$$" amp purely for home practice pleasure.

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Critic Reviews

Reviewed: Ashdown Limited Edition 20th Anniversary CTM-30/CTM 112T - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

The Ashdown CTM-30 bass amp head is a powerhouse with vintage flair, offering straightforward controls that allow for nuanced tone shaping without overwhelming the user. Its robust construction and iconic VU meter add to its charm. While it delivers rich overtones and is perfect for punk and rock, it's less subtle at stage volumes. Ideal for those who crave a full low-end and harmonic depth, but might not suit players seeking a hi-fi sound. A great collectible that's truly meant to be played.

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