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Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2

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$110.00 Price Tier: Budget

5.0 (2)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

Find out who is using Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2

2 community setups

2 wishlisted

12 saved

Page last updated Jun 28, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 28, 2026.

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5.0 (5)

$110.00 9 available Used

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Average Price: $110

Budget/Beginner

$249

$500+

Price Tier

In the Guitar Preamp Pedals category, Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Go straight to the console with rich tube-amp sound!

A new version of the acclaimed Tubeman has revamped circuitry for even greater expressiveness and response. With 3 channels for clean, crunch, and lead. Its speaker simulation has been upgraded to match that of the new Red Box Pro. 3-band EQ and a voicing control in channel 3. It performs channel switches instantly and free of clicks, and has output both to the mixer and to a power amp.

Product specs

Brand	Hughes & Kettner
Model	Tubeman 3-Channel Guitar Recording Station MKII
Year	2000s
Made In	France
Categories	Overdrive and Boost Pedals, Preamps

FAQs

What type of guitar amplifier is the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2?: The Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2 is a 3-channel guitar recording preamp, designed to deliver a range of tones from clean to overdrive, suitable for both live performances and studio recording.
Can the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2 be used for direct recording?: Yes, the Tubeman MK2 features a built-in speaker simulator, allowing you to connect directly to a recording interface or mixing console without needing a physical amplifier or cabinet.
Does the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2 work well with other effects pedals?: The Tubeman MK2 is compatible with most effects pedals, making it a versatile addition to your pedalboard, whether you need to boost your signal or add effects before or after the preamp stage.
What are the main tonal characteristics of the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2?: The Tubeman MK2 offers a wide range of tones, from clean and warm to aggressive overdrive, making it suitable for various music genres, including rock, blues, and metal.

Reviews

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PROS

Channel 1 offers fantastic clean tones with depth and dynamics
Excellent compatibility with pedals, enhancing flexibility
True preamp design with high-quality components
Unique sound signature, blending tube warmth with portability
Versatile usage: works as a direct box, pedal, or preamp
Built-in Red Box for effective cabinet simulation
Transparent overdrive on Channel 2 for subtle enhancements

CONS

Mid frequency control could be better
Replacing the valve is challenging and inconvenient
Channel 3's distortion might not suit all users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2.

Features and functionality

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The Tubeman MK2 has two outputs: one for guitar power amp ('Return' insert) and another for mixer with integrated speaker emulation.
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The Tubeman MK2, a three-channel preamp with a built-in Red Box, is praised for fitting seamlessly on a pedalboard, minimizing the need for carrying an amp.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners find it effective to use the Tubeman Mixer output with reverbs like Strymon Cloudburst, routing into interfaces such as the Scarlett 4i4 3rd gen.
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A preamp or buffer between the Tubeman MK2 and an audio interface can enhance signal quality.
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Software and compatibility

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Users recommend using an IR in DAWs without needing additional poweramp simulation for optimal sound when connected to a PC.
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Comparisons

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Owners compare the Tubeman MK2 to the Mesa Boogie Cab Clone, noting the Tubeman's compact form factor and versatility in a live performance setting.
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The Tubeman MK2 is contrasted with the Hughes & Kettner Tubemeister series, highlighting its suitability for those needing a pedalboard-friendly solution over a traditional amp setup.
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User experience

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It's noted that users find the Tubeman MK2 effective for achieving a wide range of tones without sacrificing the natural feel of the guitar.
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Critic Reviews

Hughes and Kettner Tubeman II

houstonmusicreviews.com

The Hughes & Kettner Tubeman MK2 offers tonal versatility and quality for both studio and stage use. Its three channels—Clean, Crunch, and Lead—provide a wide range of sounds, from clean ballads to searing metal tones. However, the shared EQ for all channels limits control, and the lack of a bypass switch can be inconvenient. The proprietary power supply adds an extra hassle, especially if misplaced. While the Tubeman's construction is robust and its sound impressive, the price is steep compared to alternatives like the Sansamp TRI-AC, which offers more preamp voicings at a lower cost. Despite these drawbacks, the Tubeman's sound quality remains its strongest asset.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

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dmitryr

144

almost 5 years ago

Great Pre Amp!

Not sure why this device is rated in the scope of overdrives - this is the Pre Amp!!! I has very nice sound for guitar. It possible to use as pre amp befor an anp or for playing into the mixer.

I used this for home recording - it has Red Box inside - so cabinet simulation is very good!

Clean sound is nice, it really feeling like an lamp amp. Channel 2 is seems to be transparent overdirve. Channel 3 is distortion wich i don't use.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Keyboardist

Genres:

Electronic Rock Pop