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Average Price: $2,133
High-end/Boutique
$200
$801+
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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Ashdown Engineering CTM Tube Bass Amplifier Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Ashdown CTM Tube Bass Amplifier Head is a powerhouse of vintage-inspired sound, meticulously designed to deliver the rich, warm tones that tube amps are celebrated for. With its 100-watt power output and dual KT-88 power tubes, this amp head promises a robust and dynamic range from smooth, velvety lows to punchy, growling highs. Perfect for the road, its rugged 18mm marine-grade birch-ply cabinet ensures durability, while the internal cooling fan keeps it performing reliably through every gig.
For the discerning bassist, the CTM offers extensive tone-shaping capabilities. Standard tone controls are complemented by deep, mid-shift, and bright switches, allowing for precise articulation of your desired sound. Whether you're channeling the mellow vibes of the '60s, the gritty growl of the '70s, or crafting your own modern bass tone, the CTM has you covered.
Recording or performing direct is a breeze with the tube-driven, transformer-derived DI output, ensuring your sound retains its purity and integrity. Additionally, its dual inputs accommodate both active and passive basses, making it versatile for any player's setup. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Ashdown CTM Tube Bass Amplifier Head delivers the powerful, authentic tube tone that bassists crave.
Key Features:
- 100-watt tube bass amp head
- Tube-driven, transformer-derived DI output
- 2 KT-88 power amp tubes for exceptional punch and headroom
- Deep, mid-shift, and bright switches for detailed tone control
- Rugged 18mm marine-grade birch-ply cabinet
- Dual inputs for active and passive basses
- Internal cooling fan for reliable performance
Product specs
| Type | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Output Power | 100W |
| EQ | 3-band, Mellow/Deep/Shift/Bright Switches |
| Preamp Tubes | 2 x 12AX7, 2 x 12AU7 |
| Power Tubes | 2 x KT88 |
| Inputs | 2 x 1/4" (High/Low) |
| Outputs | 3 x 1/4" (8/4/2 ohms), 1 x XLR (DI) |
| Effects Loop | Yes |
| Cooling System | Internal Fan, Top Air Vent |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 12.4" |
| Width | 25.4" |
| Depth | 11.8" |
| Weight | 28.6 lbs. |
FAQs
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What kind of tubes does the Ashdown CTM-100 use, and how do they affect the sound?
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The Ashdown CTM-100 uses 2 x 12AX7 and 2 x 12AU7 preamp tubes, along with 2 x KT88 power tubes. These tubes deliver a classic, warm tube tone with rich harmonics, ideal for bass players seeking a vintage sound.
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Is the Ashdown CTM-100 suitable for live performances with a full band?
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Yes, the Ashdown CTM-100's 100-watt output power is sufficient for live performances, providing enough volume and headroom to compete with a full band, including a drummer.
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What EQ options are available on the Ashdown CTM-100?
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The Ashdown CTM-100 features a 3-band EQ with additional Mellow, Deep, Shift, and Bright switches, allowing bassists to shape their tone precisely for various musical styles.
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Does the Ashdown CTM-100 have an effects loop?
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Yes, the Ashdown CTM-100 includes an effects loop, enabling you to integrate external effects pedals or processors into your signal chain.
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Can the Ashdown CTM-100 be used with different speaker cabinet impedances?
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Yes, the Ashdown CTM-100 has outputs for 8, 4, and 2 ohm speaker cabinets, providing flexibility to match different cabinet configurations.
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What are the input options on the Ashdown CTM-100?
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The Ashdown CTM-100 offers two 1/4" inputs for high and low-level signals, accommodating different bass output levels and playing styles.
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How does the Ashdown CTM-100 handle DI output for recording or live sound?
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The Ashdown CTM-100 includes a balanced XLR DI output, making it easy to connect directly to a mixing console or audio interface for recording or live sound applications.
Videos
Ashdown Engineering
Ashdown Engineering CTM 100 Watt All Valve Bass Head
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ashdown Engineering CTM Tube Bass Amplifier Head.
User experience
Use cases and applications
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The Ashdown LB30 provides rich tube warmth without being pushed hard and delivers significant volume with a good cabinet, suitable for smaller venues or practice.
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The Peavey VB-2, with its 200-watt output and dedicated overdrive channel, is noted for its 'crunchy' and 'nasty' tones similar to Lemmy's style.
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The Fender Bassman series, particularly the 300-watt version, is mentioned as being extremely loud, suggesting practicality issues for smaller venues.
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Features and functionality
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The Ashdown ABM EVO II 900 was praised for its full-bodied bass tone and built-in analog octaver, though reliability issues have been noted.
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CTM-15's gain control enables it to achieve louder volumes than the Little Bastard despite its lower wattage.
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Little Bastard offers a D.I. and effects loop, providing versatility for different setups.
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Comparisons
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The Ashdown CTM-100 at $2000 is a direct competitor to the Ampeg V-4B, highlighting limited options for 100-watt tube bass heads.
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Traynor amps offer a 100-watt option that grinds well and is more affordable in the U.S. and Canada, weighing around 22 lbs.
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The Mesa Prodigy provides 250 watts at full power, can be halved to 125 watts, and weighs under 30 lbs, praised for its clean sound and pedal compatibility.
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CTM-15 is preferred for jazz due to its gain control, while Little Bastard's features suit rock band settings with a D.I. option for PA integration.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Great Tube Amp
I use an Ashdown CTM-300 all-tube amp. Boasting six KT-88 power tubes and five preamp tubes, it's a true 300 watt beast. I discovered this amp through Jason Isbell's bass player, Jimbo Hart, and I fell in love with the tone. Overall, the EQ options are pretty subtle, but that's what I love about it. I can get a wonderful, organic Americana rock, rootsy country tone no problem, and if I want to get a little more punk I can crank the gain and crunch those tubes.
I tried the Orange, Ampeg SVT and Fender Bassman heads prior to settling on this head. Those are all great amps, but Ashdown just happened to be the one for me.
Only downsides are the weight (75 lbs or so) and the light in the VU meter burned out relatively quick (VU meter still works).
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