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Description

When you need a bass amplifier head that combines portability with performance, the Ashdown PiBass-240 steps up to the plate. Engineered in collaboration with the celebrated bassist Wojtek Pilichowski, this amp head is designed to cater to both seasoned musicians and budding bassists. Weighing in at a mere 3.3 lbs, it’s a featherweight contender that doesn’t skimp on power, delivering a robust 240 watts of output. Whether you're rocking a passive or active bass, the PiBass-240 ensures you can effortlessly dial in your desired sound with its versatile 3-band EQ and active/passive input selector.

Ideal for players who traverse different musical genres, the PiBass-240 offers a bright switch to sharpen your tone and a DI output for seamless integration into any PA system or recording setup. This makes it an excellent choice for both live performances and studio sessions. Plus, the headphone jack makes those late-night practice sessions possible without disturbing the peace.

This amp head is more than just a piece of gear; it's a testament to precision engineering and musical versatility, reflecting Pilichowski's dynamic playing style and Ashdown's commitment to quality.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight design at only 3.3 lbs
  • 240 watts of power with an 8-ohm output
  • Active/passive input selector for diverse bass compatibility
  • 3-band semi-parametric EQ for precise tonal control
  • Direct Injection (DI) output for easy connection to sound systems
  • Headphone jack for quiet practice sessions

Product specs

Brand Ashdown
Model PiBass-240 Bass Head
Year 2010s
Categories Bass Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Solid State
Impedance 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 240
Power Tube Type None
Reverb None

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Ashdown PiBass-240 Bass Head?

The Ashdown PiBass-240 offers a punchy, clear tone with a solid-state design ideal for bass players seeking a reliable and consistent sound. It provides a clean sound profile, making it suitable for various music genres.

Is the Ashdown PiBass-240 Bass Head powerful enough for live performances?

Yes, with 240 watts of output power, the Ashdown PiBass-240 is capable of delivering ample volume for small to medium-sized venues, making it a great choice for gigging bassists.

Does the Ashdown PiBass-240 Bass Head have any built-in effects?

No, the Ashdown PiBass-240 does not include built-in effects like reverb, allowing you to shape your tone using external pedals or effects units as needed.

What type of speaker cabinet is compatible with the Ashdown PiBass-240?

The Ashdown PiBass-240 is designed to work with an 8-ohm speaker cabinet, ensuring optimal performance and sound quality.

How many inputs does the Ashdown PiBass-240 Bass Head have?

The Ashdown PiBass-240 features one input, designed for connecting a bass guitar directly to the amplifier head.

Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown Engineering

Wojtek Pilichowski - Playing the Ashdown PiBass-240 (mk1) through a MAG-410H

Video thumbnail for Wojtek Pilichowski - Playing the Ashdown PiBass-240 (mk1) through a MAG-410H by Ashdown Engineering

Wojtek Pilichowski - Playing the Ashdown PiBass-240 (mk1) through a MAG-410H

Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown Engineering

Video thumbnail for Ashdown present, Wojtek Pilichowski & the PiBass-240 by Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown present, Wojtek Pilichowski & the PiBass-240

Ashdown Engineering

Ashdown Engineering

Video thumbnail for NAMM '14 - Ashdown Rootmaster RM-MAG-420 and PiBass-240 Demos by Premier Guitar

NAMM '14 - Ashdown Rootmaster RM-MAG-420 and PiBass-240 Demos

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2014: Ashdown PiBass 240 Portable Bass Amp by sonicstate

NAMM 2014: Ashdown PiBass 240 Portable Bass Amp

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for [PROMO] ASHDOWN PIBASS 240 by Bassline Music Shop

[PROMO] ASHDOWN PIBASS 240

Bassline Music Shop

Bassline Music Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ashdown Engineering PiBass-240 Bass Head.

Features and functionality

  • The Ashdown PiBass-240 requires a minimum load of 8Ohm, which can limit its power output compared to other models that support 4Ohm loads.

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  • The Ashdown PiBass-240 head can be paired with a cheap Ashdown 4x10 cab for stationary use in rehearsal spaces.

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User experience

  • Owners with back issues appreciate the Ashdown's lightweight design, making it suitable for easy transport over short distances.

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Comparisons

  • Some users prefer the Ashdown over TC Electronic models, citing fewer unnecessary features, which can be appealing for those who don't want extra functionalities like TC's Tone Print.

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  • The Ashdown PiBass-240 is sometimes compared to Hartke HA3500 for reliability; Hartke is noted for versatile ohm-switchable Hydrive speakers.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Ashdown is praised for its ability to handle a range of styles from funk to metal, offering versatility that some find lacking in more classic-sounding brands like Fender.

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  • Owners with back issues should note the challenge of moving an Ashdown 4x10 cab due to its significant weight.

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Build quality

  • Ashdown's engineering is trusted, with older models noted for robust tone, particularly when used with lower-tuned guitars.

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Value and pricing

  • The Ashdown PiBass-240 is often seen as a budget-friendly solid option within the 120-150 pound range in the UK market.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ashdown Pibass -240 and Mi 12 Speaker Review : π = 240 Watts - Audiofanzine

audiofanzine.com

Ashdown’s PiBass-240 Bass Head offers an alluring price and compact size, ideal for beginners. Yet, it’s marred by build quality issues such as crooked switches and noisy components. While its versatile EQ can deliver varied tones, it’s not user-friendly for novices, requiring advanced tweaking skills. Ultimately, it’s a promising concept but needs refinement to truly compete in the budget amp market.

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