Pricing and availability

Average Price: $2,200

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R Handwired Series 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head, a meticulously crafted amplifier head that brings vintage sound and modern reliability to the forefront of your musical experience. This amp head is a part of Bad Cat's esteemed Handwired Series, celebrated for its superior craftsmanship and attention to tonal detail. Designed for guitarists who appreciate the warmth and richness of tube amplification, the Cub IV 15R is powered by two EL84 tubes and features a dual-channel design, allowing you to seamlessly switch between a clean, articulate sound and a more driven, overdriven tone.

The Cub IV 15R is not just about great sound; it's about versatility and control. With its interactive tone stack, you can shape your sound with precision, ensuring that each note resonates with clarity and character. The K Master™ circuit is a standout feature, providing full control over the master volume without losing the amp's natural tonal qualities. Whether you're performing on stage or practicing in your studio, the Cub IV 15R delivers uncompromising sound quality and dynamic response.

Ideal for both professional and amateur musicians, the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R Handwired Series Amp Head promises a sonic experience that is both powerful and nuanced, making it a reliable choice for any guitarist looking to elevate their sound.

Key Features:

  • Handwired construction for superior sound quality
  • 15 watts of power, ideal for small to medium venues
  • Dual-channel design for versatile sound shaping
  • Interactive tone stack for precise tonal control
  • K Master™ circuit for maintaining tone at any volume
  • Powered by two EL84 tubes for a classic, warm sound

Product specs

Brand Bad Cat
Model Cub IV 15R Handwired Series 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Year 2018 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Heads
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Electronics Tube
Impedance 16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 15
Power Tube Type EL84
Powered Unpowered
Reverb Spring Reverb

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R use?

The Bad Cat Cub IV 15R uses EL84 power tubes, which are known for their bright, chimey tones and are popular in British-style amplifiers.

Is the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R suitable for gigging with a drummer?

With 15 watts of power, the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R is suitable for small to medium gigs, especially when mic'd. Its tube-driven sound can cut through a mix, but for larger venues, additional amplification may be necessary.

Does the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R handle pedals well?

Yes, the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R is known for its ability to handle pedals effectively, making it a versatile choice for players who use a variety of effects.

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R?

The Bad Cat Cub IV 15R offers a classic British sound with a warm midrange, clear highs, and a responsive low end, complemented by its spring reverb for added depth.

What kind of reverb does the Bad Cat Cub IV 15R feature?

The Bad Cat Cub IV 15R is equipped with a spring reverb, which provides a rich, natural-sounding ambiance typical of vintage amplifiers.

Bad Cat Amps

Bad Cat Amps

Bad Cat Amps Cub IV Official Demo

Video thumbnail for Bad Cat Amps Cub IV Official Demo by Bad Cat Amps

Bad Cat Amps Cub IV Official Demo

Bad Cat Amps

Bad Cat Amps

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Bad Cat Cub IV 15R Handwired Series 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head.

Comparisons

  • The Bad Cat Cub IV is noted for its Vox-like sound, contrasting with Mesa’s gain-focused structure, which some owners find less appealing.

    Source
  • Some enthusiasts suggest checking out Matchless amps, which are described as "cheaper Bad Cats" with unique tones and more options for modifying the preamp tubes.

    Source
  • The Morgan AC20 Deluxe is noted for its closeness to vintage Vox sound, more so than current Vox offerings, with an EF86 preamp providing a distinctive tone.

    Source
  • The Frenzel HB15, similar to an AC15 with a Matchless Hotbox Pre-amp, offers a range from clean chime to more aggressive tones, with 6L6 power tubes adding Fender-like qualities.

    Source

Build quality

  • The build quality of newer Bad Cat models is considered less robust than the earlier Sampson-era units, which some owners have noted.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Mesa Mark V is recognized for its versatile clean channel, closely resembling the Fender Twin Reverb with a more neutral reverb and additional voicings.

    Source
  • The Bad Cat Cub IV 15R is highlighted for being available at great prices used, especially with the release of the newer Cub V model.

    Source
  • The Frenzel HB15 has a "no negative feedback" switch, which enhances midrange chime and introduces grit as the gain is increased, providing versatility in tonal output.

    Source
  • The Victory VC35 is praised for its lightweight design, included carry bag, and the flexibility of its master volume and FX loop, making it highly portable and versatile.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Mark V’s tightness and defined gain structure make it highly effective for cutting through band mixes, particularly in complex musical arrangements.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Bad Cat Guitar Amplifier Heads

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides