Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
$3,299.00
Reverb
$2,787.35 New
$1,899.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$3,299.00
zZounds
$3,299.00
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$2,899.00 $2,880.00 $19.00 · All time low

Average Price: $2,911

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head is your gateway to a world of tonal exploration. Handcrafted with precision in the USA, this amp head is a marvel of true point-to-point wiring, ensuring unmatched sound clarity and performance. Equipped with switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes, it offers a wide palette that ranges from shimmering cleans to gritty overdrive, making it an ideal companion for diverse musical genres.

The Cub V’s tube-driven spring reverb adds a lush, atmospheric depth to your sound, enhancing every note with classic warmth. With dual master volume controls, you have the flexibility to tailor your output for any setting, whether it's a cozy studio session or a bustling live performance. The built-in buffered effects loop ensures seamless pedal integration, maintaining the integrity of your sound throughout your signal chain.

Designed for musicians who demand both versatility and reliability, the Cub V features a robust Baltic birch cabinet and custom Bad Cat transformers, promising durability and superior tone. With a convenient two-button footswitch included, switching between preamp tubes and volume settings is a breeze, allowing you to focus on your performance.

Key Features:

  • 40W hand-wired tube amp with EL34 power tubes
  • Switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes
  • Tube-driven spring reverb for added depth
  • Buffered effects loop for seamless pedal integration
  • Dual master volume controls
  • Custom Bad Cat transformers
  • Handcrafted in the USA with Baltic birch cabinet
  • Includes two-button footswitch and cover

Product specs

Available since May 2025
Powerrate in W 40 W
Power Amplifier Tubes EL34
Channels 1
Reverb Yes
Footswitch Yes

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head use?

This amp head uses EL34 power tubes and offers switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes, providing versatile tonal options for different musical styles.

Is the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 40-watt power rating, the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 is powerful enough for live performances in small to medium-sized venues.

Does the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head include built-in reverb?

Yes, it features a tube-driven spring reverb, adding depth and warmth to your sound.

Can I use effects pedals with the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head?

Absolutely, it includes a buffered effects loop for seamless integration with your effects pedals.

What makes the Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head stand out in terms of sound quality?

The amp head features custom Bad Cat transformers, which are known for delivering premium sound quality and enhancing tonal richness.

The Studio Rats

The Studio Rats

BADCAT Cub V - BADCAT's Flagship Amp Just Got Better

Video thumbnail for BADCAT Cub V - BADCAT's Flagship Amp Just Got Better by The Studio Rats

BADCAT Cub V - BADCAT's Flagship Amp Just Got Better

The Studio Rats

The Studio Rats

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head.

Comparisons

  • The Bad Cat Lynx is noted for having 7 gain stages and a great master volume, delivering a clean to crushing sound without pedals.

    Source
  • The Lynx provides a rich, transparent, 3-D sound at all gain levels, ideal for achieving bedroom volume Tool tones without additional equipment.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner of a Bad Cat Hot Cat mentioned past reliability issues, such as howling due to loose chassis screws and components disconnecting due to wiring.

    Source
  • An owner of a Bad Cat amplifier reported frequent maintenance needs due to the "flying in the air wiring," which required annual repairs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Bad Cat Cub V: Refined Cats with Huge Tones - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

The Bad Cat Cub V EL34 40-Watt Guitar Amp Head impresses with its hand-wired circuit design, which promises clarity and robust performance. The ability to switch between 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes adds versatility, while the 5-way depth control allows for varied sound textures. Its simple control layout is user-friendly, making it easy to achieve great tube amp tones. However, the boutique craftsmanship comes at a premium price point, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. Overall, this amp head is celebrated for delivering high-quality sound and reliability, appealing to serious musicians seeking top-tier tonal experience.

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