Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
$3,199.99
Reverb
$2,699.99 New
$2,349.99 Used
Musician's Friend
$3,199.99
Thomann
$2,599.00 $2,590.00 $9.00 · All time low

Average Price: $2,808

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Handcrafted in the heart of Costa Mesa, California, the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head is a testament to the art of precision audio engineering. This professional-grade amplifier is meticulously handwired with true point-to-point wiring, ensuring that every component works in harmony to deliver a vibrant and dynamic soundscape. The switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes offer a dual tonal palette, shifting effortlessly from crystalline cleans to gritty, robust overdrive. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Cub V's tube-driven spring reverb and dual master volume controls provide the versatility you need to match any playing style.

Powered by two EL84 tubes, this 15-watt powerhouse delivers a punchy, resonant sound ideal for intimate gigs, recording sessions, and rehearsals. Embrace the classic warmth of the 12AX7 tubes or opt for the more aggressive tones of the EF86 for a broader range of musical expression. The built-in buffered effects loop ensures your pedal setup remains clear and articulate, making this amp a reliable companion for musicians who value quality and adaptability.

Wrapped in a compact Baltic birch cabinet, the Cub V is road-ready and built to last, combining durability with portability. Weighing in at just over 30 pounds, it's easy to take from practice to performance, ensuring your tone is always on point. With a 5-year limited warranty, the Bad Cat Cub V offers not just sound, but peace of mind for the discerning musician.

Key Features:

  • 15W hand-wired tube amplifier
  • Switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes
  • Tube-driven spring reverb
  • Buffered effects loop for seamless pedal integration
  • Durable Baltic birch cabinet
  • Dual master volume controls
  • Includes a 2-way footswitch
  • Handcrafted in the USA

Product specs

Available since May 2025
Powerrate in W 15 W
Power Amplifier Tubes EL84
Channels 1
Reverb Yes
Footswitch Yes

FAQs

What type of music is the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head suitable for?

The Bad Cat Cub V EL84 is versatile and excels in genres requiring classic tube-driven tones, such as rock, blues, and jazz, thanks to its EL84 power tubes and switchable 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes.

Does the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head have built-in reverb?

Yes, the Bad Cat Cub V features a tube-driven spring reverb, providing rich and atmospheric warmth to your sound.

Can the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head handle gigging with a drummer?

With its 15-watt power output, the Bad Cat Cub V can be loud enough for small gigs and rehearsals, especially when paired with an efficient speaker cabinet.

What kind of effects loop does the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head have?

The Bad Cat Cub V is equipped with a buffered effects loop, allowing for seamless integration with your effects pedals without signal loss.

Is the Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head suitable for home use?

Yes, the 15-watt power rating makes it suitable for home use, providing ample volume for practice while maintaining excellent tube tone at lower levels.

John Nathan Cordy

John Nathan Cordy

I Gigged the NEW Bad Cat Cub V Handwired Boutique Amp - it's an EL84 Chime Machine

Video thumbnail for I Gigged the NEW Bad Cat Cub V Handwired Boutique Amp - it's an EL84 Chime Machine by John Nathan Cordy

I Gigged the NEW Bad Cat Cub V Handwired Boutique Amp - it's an EL84 Chime Machine

John Nathan Cordy

John Nathan Cordy

Video thumbnail for The New Bad Cat Cub V 15 Demo with John Thompson by Palen Music Center

The New Bad Cat Cub V 15 Demo with John Thompson

Palen Music Center

Palen Music Center

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 EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head.

Comparisons

  • The Dr. Z Z-28 Mk. II offers similar characteristics to the Cub V but with less gain; a boost pedal compensates effectively.

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  • TopHat Supreme 16 and 65 Amps London are recommended alternatives, both offering EF86 and EL84 setups similar to Bad Cat Cub V.

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  • The Bad Cat Cub V is quieter and breaks up earlier than the Dr. Z Maz 18, making it more suitable for achieving breakup sounds at lower volumes.

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  • The Cub V is favored for a tighter sound with less sag compared to the Vox AC15, aligning more closely with Matchless amps in terms of tonal preference.

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  • The Bad Cat Cub V is often compared to the Dr. Z Z-Plus, with users noting the Cub V's earlier breakup and suitability for lower volume settings.

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Features and functionality

  • The Cub V Heritage series is hand-wired, contrasting with competitors' PCB construction, suggesting superior longevity and reliability.

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  • The new Cub V Heritage series retains its unique point-to-point wiring, appealing to purists looking for traditional craftsmanship.

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  • The Cub V head excels as a pedal platform, effectively enhancing tones with pedals like the Rat or Fuzz Face for diverse soundscapes.

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Value and pricing

  • Older Cub combos can be found at good prices if buyers are patient, offering similar performance to newer models.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Cub V pairs excellently with pedals like the Wampler Tumnus, enhancing its versatility for rock and chimey, articulate tones.

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  • The Cub V is particularly favored by players who prefer a balance between vintage and modern tones, offering versatility for a range of musical genres.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Cub V for its manageable volume levels, contrasting with the Maz 18's loudness even at lower settings.

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  • Owners of the Cub V praise its capability to maintain tonal integrity at varying volume levels, making it ideal for both home and gig settings.

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Build quality

  • The hand-wired construction of the Cub V is highlighted for facilitating easier repairs and modifications, contributing to its long-term reliability and user satisfaction.

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Critic Reviews

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

gearnews.com

The Bad Cat Cub V EL84 15-Watt Guitar Amp Head is a boutique gem, boasting point-to-point hand-wired circuits that promise clarity and robustness. With the ability to switch between 12AX7 and EF86 preamp tubes, and a 5-way depth control, it offers a versatile tonal palette. The simple control layout makes it user-friendly, ensuring quick access to rich tube sound. Though priced higher than mass-produced amps, its premium craftsmanship justifies the cost for those seeking top-tier tone. The inclusion of a tube-driven spring reverb adds to its allure. However, its boutique nature and price may not suit every budget.

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