Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $968

High-end/Boutique

$200

$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

Unleash pure power with the Marshall VBA400 Head, a formidable choice for bassists who demand a commanding stage presence. Crafted by one of the most iconic names in amplification, the VBA400 head is a testament to Marshall's legacy of robust sound and durability. With a monstrous 400 watts of all-valve power, this amplifier head is designed to deliver deep, resonant bass tones that can fill any venue, from intimate clubs to expansive arenas.

The VBA400's straightforward design allows bass players to focus on their performance without getting lost in a maze of controls. Its minimalist front panel features essential controls for gain, bass, middle, treble, and master volume, ensuring easy access to your signature sound. The amp's integrated DI output offers seamless connectivity for recording or direct PA integration, making it a versatile tool for both live performances and studio sessions.

Engineered for reliability, the VBA400 includes fan cooling and robust construction to withstand the rigors of touring. Whether you're pushing the limits of your sound or laying down a solid groove, the VBA400's all-valve design ensures your tone remains warm and dynamic.

Key Features:

  • All-valve power amplifier delivering 400 watts
  • Simple, intuitive controls for gain, bass, middle, treble, and master volume
  • Integrated DI output for direct recording or PA support
  • Fan cooling system for enhanced reliability
  • Designed for rugged performance on the road

Product specs

Brand Marshall
Model VBA VBA400 400-Watt Tube Bass Guitar Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2001 - 2013
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Bass Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Impedance 2 ohms, 4 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 400
Power Tube Type None
Reverb None

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Marshall VBA400 for bass guitar?

The Marshall VBA400 delivers a powerful and rich tube-driven tone, known for its warmth and punch. It's ideal for rock and metal genres, providing deep lows and clear mids that cut through the mix.

Is the Marshall VBA400 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 400-watt output, the Marshall VBA400 is well-suited for live performances, offering enough power to handle large venues while maintaining clarity and presence.

How does the impedance setting affect the performance of the Marshall VBA400?

The VBA400 supports 2 ohms and 4 ohms impedance settings, allowing you to pair it with a variety of speaker cabinets for optimal performance and flexibility in different setups.

Does the Marshall VBA400 have multiple channels for versatility?

The Marshall VBA400 features a single channel, focusing on delivering a consistent, high-quality bass tone without the need for channel switching.

Can the Marshall VBA400 handle effects pedals well?

Yes, the Marshall VBA400 is known to work well with effects pedals, allowing bassists to shape their sound further while benefiting from the amp's robust tube tone.

Dengia64

Dengia64

MARSHALL VBA 400 (valve bass amplifer). Tested with Fender&Rickenbacker!

Video thumbnail for MARSHALL VBA 400 (valve bass amplifer). Tested with Fender&Rickenbacker! by Dengia64

MARSHALL VBA 400 (valve bass amplifer). Tested with Fender&Rickenbacker!

Dengia64

Dengia64

Video thumbnail for Marshall VBA 400+Rickenbacker 4300+Torpedo VB-101 by Official Enlightened

Marshall VBA 400+Rickenbacker 4300+Torpedo VB-101

Official Enlightened

Official Enlightened

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Marshall VBA400 Head.

Features and functionality

  • The Marshall VBA400 is a massive 400-watt bass head, known for its ability to produce extremely high volume levels, suitable for large venues.

    Source
  • It's been noted that the VBA400 excels in scenarios without adequate PA support, making it a reliable choice for larger, unsupported venues.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the VBA400 can be found at relatively low prices compared to its power output, but it is notably heavy and challenging to transport.

    Source
  • Owners report that pairing the VBA400 with an appropriate cabinet significantly enhances its performance in live settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted that using a Marshall guitar amp with a bass, like Lemmy from Motörhead, can work for specific styles but requires a proper bass cab to prevent speaker damage.

    Source
  • The VBA400 is described as "crushing" in performance and more than enough for varied gig environments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The VBA400 is compared to the JCM800 Super Bass, with the former offering more power at 400 watts versus the latter's 100 watts, but both cater to bass frequencies.

    Source
  • The Marshall VBA400 is compared to the Traynor Smallblock 250h, with the VBA400 offering a more powerful output suitable for larger gigs.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Caleb Scofield uses Marshall VBA400 Head

Caleb Scofield

Singer, Bassist

Cave In

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live video of Cave In’s 2003 show in Belgium, we can see Caleb using the Marshall VBA400 on top of what appears to be a Marshall VBC 8x10 cabinet. The head and cabinet can be clearly seen behind him at the 1:37 mark.

Genre Usage

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

More Marshall Bass Amplifier Heads

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    koken
    koken

    Gear IQ 2413