Pricing and availability

* 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

The H&K Tubeman Plus Rack Preamp (circa 1993) is a tube guitar preamplifier with optional MIDI controlability. It is a 3 channel amplifier with independant Master Volume controls for each channel and shared EQ controls. The is a shared gain for Clean/ Crunch and a separate gain for the Lead channel which also has a switch to revoice the preamp for a LEAD 2 sound. This preamplifier uses a single 12AX7A preamp tube.

More details: http://www.stagecue.com/tm_plus.html

Product specs

Brand Hughes & Kettner
Model Tubeman Plus
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Guitar Preamps
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Pedal Format Rackmount
Reverb None

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus?

The Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus serves as a guitar preamp, designed to provide tube-driven tones and can be used for both direct recording and live performances.

Is the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Tubeman Plus is suitable for live performances as it offers tube-driven sound quality and features a rackmount format for easy integration into a live rig.

Does the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus include built-in reverb?

No, the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus does not include built-in reverb, allowing users to pair it with their preferred external reverb effects.

What type of electronics does the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus utilize?

The Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus utilizes tube electronics, which are known for delivering warm and dynamic guitar tones.

How does the rackmount format of the Tubeman Plus benefit guitarists?

The rackmount format of the Tubeman Plus allows for easy integration into studio and live rack setups, providing a compact and organized solution for guitarists.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about H&K Tubeman plus.

Setup and maintenance

  • Bypassing the Marshall's preamp by connecting the Tubeman Plus output directly to the effects loop return improves sound quality significantly.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Tubeman Plus functions as a preamp, making it crucial to adjust the master output volume when bypassing the amp's preamp to avoid volume control issues.

    Source
  • The Tubeman Plus includes a 'bias' feature that allows switching between a warmer UK metal sound and a sharper US metal sound, enhancing tonal versatility.

    Source

User experience

  • Some setups may require something plugged into the Marshall's effects loop send to activate the return circuit, or an effects bypass switch might need adjustment.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Directly integrating the Tubeman Plus with a rig can lead to significant tonal improvement over certain Marshall amps like the VS100H, especially when using the effects loop.

    Source
  • The LED lights on the Tubeman Plus are particularly useful for gigs on dark stages, aiding visibility and pedal operation.

    Source

Other

  • When troubleshooting, testing different cables and ensuring connections are secure can help identify issues with signal flow in complex setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Preferred over MXR 5150 and BE-OD for capturing a vintage Marshall sound with a more modern twist when adjusting the bias knob.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At approximately $45, it's considered a highly cost-effective option for its performance and tonal flexibility, especially among distortion pedals.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Hot licks (MX May 95)

muzines.co.uk

The Hughes & Kettner Tubeman Plus is a guitarist's dream for both live and studio settings, offering a versatile range of sounds from crystal clear tones to gritty, overdriven distortions. Its user-friendly design ensures easy access to settings, appealing to musicians who prefer a straightforward plug-and-play experience. The optional MIDI interface expands its capabilities, although its lack of a display for stored settings could leave studio users fumbling in the dark. Despite this minor setback, the Tubeman Plus shines with its impressive sound quality, making it a valuable addition to any serious musician's gear collection. While not quite a must-have due to its MIDI limitations, its ability to transform a basic sound into a rock god's riff justifies the investment.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andy Timmons uses H&K Tubeman plus

Andy Timmons

Guitarist

Danger Danger

...
Verified via Pinterest

As seen in this "Ear X-tacy" era Hughes & Kettner ad found on Pinterest.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Effects Pedal Accessories

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides