Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (72)
$799.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (14)
$749.00
Amazon
4.4 (22)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (8)
$699.00 New
$659.12 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (4)
$749.00
zZounds
5.0 (6)
$799.00
Thomann
4.8 (37)
$777.00

Average Price: $739

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Quilter Labs Aviator Cub". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern innovation with the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub. As Quilter's most advanced single-channel combo amplifier, the Aviator Cub brings the essence of three legendary California amp sounds into one lightweight powerhouse. Whether you're craving the mid-forward punch of a '60s Tweed, the bell-like clarity with a touch of grit from a '62 Blonde, or the iconic scooped mids and shimmering highs of a '65 Blackface, this amp delivers with ease.

The custom-designed 12-inch speaker, crafted in collaboration with Eminence, ensures that each note rings with vintage warmth and clarity, while handling up to 50 watts of power. This makes it an ideal choice for players who need a versatile amp for both stage and studio. With a built-in limiter for controlled sustain, a 3-band EQ, and a comprehensive effects loop, the Aviator Cub offers a plethora of tonal adjustments. Plus, the addition of line and headphone outputs means you're ready for silent practice or instant connection to a PA system.

Key Features:

  • 50-watt, single-channel combo amplifier
  • Three distinct inputs: Tweed, Blonde, and Black, each offering unique tonal characteristics
  • Custom-designed 12-inch Eminence speaker for authentic vintage sound
  • Built-in limiter for volume control and sustain
  • 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • Effects loop for integrating your favorite pedals
  • Line and headphone outputs for flexible practice and performance options

Product specs

Type Solid State
Number of Channels Single Channel
Output Power 50W
Speaker Size 1 x 12" Quilter Special by Eminence
Reverb Yes
EQ 3-band EQ
Inputs 3 x 1/4" (tweed/blonde/black)
Outputs 1 x 1/4" (line)
Effects Loop Yes
Headphones 1 x 1/4"
Construction Material Black Tolex
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 16.5"
Width 16.5"
Depth 10.8"
Weight 21.5 lbs.

FAQs

What type of amplifier is the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub?

The Quilter Labs Aviator Cub is a solid-state combo guitar amplifier with a single channel, designed to deliver 50 watts of power through a 12-inch speaker.

Does the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub have built-in reverb?

Yes, the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub includes built-in reverb, allowing for enhanced tonal depth and ambiance in your sound.

What are the input options on the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub?

The Quilter Labs Aviator Cub features three 1/4" inputs labeled as tweed, blonde, and black, each offering different tonal characteristics inspired by classic amp sounds.

Is the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub suitable for gigging?

With its 50-watt output and 12-inch speaker, the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub is powerful enough for small to medium-sized gigs, providing a robust and clear sound.

Does the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub have an effects loop?

Yes, the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub is equipped with an effects loop, allowing you to integrate external effects pedals into your signal chain effectively.

QuilterLabs

QuilterLabs

Quilter Aviator Cub Demo By RJ Ronquillo

Video thumbnail for Quilter Aviator Cub Demo By RJ Ronquillo by QuilterLabs

Quilter Aviator Cub Demo By RJ Ronquillo

QuilterLabs

QuilterLabs

Video thumbnail for Quilter Aviator Cub by QuilterLabs

Quilter Aviator Cub

QuilterLabs

QuilterLabs

Video thumbnail for Quilter Aviator Cub - Full Independent Review by Texas Blues Alley

Quilter Aviator Cub - Full Independent Review

Texas Blues Alley

Texas Blues Alley

Video thumbnail for How does the Aviator Cub compare against the real vintage amps? by QuilterLabs

How does the Aviator Cub compare against the real vintage amps?

QuilterLabs

QuilterLabs

Video thumbnail for 2021 Quilter Aviator Cub - Demo @wolfegtrs by Wolfe Guitars

2021 Quilter Aviator Cub - Demo @wolfegtrs

Wolfe Guitars

Wolfe Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Quilter Aviator Cub Fixed My BIGGEST Amp Mistake! by Tom Butwin

The Quilter Aviator Cub Fixed My BIGGEST Amp Mistake!

Tom Butwin

Tom Butwin

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers three classic Fender voices: '60 Tweed, '62 Blonde, '65 Blackface

  • Lightweight design at 21.5 lbs makes it highly portable

  • Versatile with effects loop and headphone jack for varied use

  • Eminence speaker delivers surprisingly large sound from a compact cabinet

  • Active EQ allows for precise tonal adjustments

  • Capable of silent recording with cab sim for apartment-friendly use

  • Takes pedals well, making it a reliable pedal platform

  • High headroom and volume suitable for gigs without mic'ing

  • Digital reverb provides a surf-ready, non-cheesy splash

  • Quilter's six-year warranty offers peace of mind

CONS

  • Built-in reverb may not meet all users' expectations

  • Can pick up electrical noise in less-than-ideal environments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Quilter Labs Aviator Cub.

User experience

  • The amp's lightweight design at 22lbs makes it highly portable, particularly appealing for musicians needing to move gear frequently.

    Source
  • Multiple owners report significantly reduced high-gain hiss and consistent tonal quality across various pedal setups and guitars.

    Source
  • While the Mach 3 is preferred for additional features, some owners note its tremolo lacks intensity, contrasting with traditional Fender tremolo sound.

    Source
  • A six-year warranty offers peace of mind, enhancing the overall satisfaction for users transitioning from heavier amps.

    Source
  • After switching from tube amps, users note the Aviator Cub provides substantial pedal platform capabilities and impressive sustain, akin to tube amp performance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Aviator Cub's line out and headphone volume control are highlighted as particularly useful for quiet practice settings.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the Aviator Cub's limiter control for evening out volume levels, especially at higher gain settings.

    Source
  • The Aviator Cub includes a speaker-emulated line out and an effects loop, making it versatile for live setups directly to the front-of-house.

    Source
  • The Quilter Aviator Cub's three voicings cater well to diverse genres, including surf rock, where it performs as a primary gigging amp.

    Source
  • The amp is equipped with a limiter knob allowing for loud, clean tones, particularly useful for maintaining clarity at high volumes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Aviator Cub is noted for its ability to maintain clarity and sustain during high-gain solos, even at a distance from the amp.

    Source
  • Users find the Aviator Cub suitable for home use due to its ability to operate quietly, making it ideal for practice without disturbing others.

    Source
  • Jazz players using archtops with humbuckers find the Cub's clean tones and headroom sufficient even at higher volumes, especially with minimal effects like reverb.

    Source
  • The "Blonde" voicing is praised for its jangly tone, making it a favorite for those seeking a balance between classic Fender styles.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners describe the Quilter Aviator Cub's 50 watts SS as less loud than a 50-watt tube amp but comparable in perceived loudness to a 120W SS amp.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from Strymon Iridium and Headrush setups appreciate the Aviator Cub's analog feel and portability over digital simulations.

    Source
  • While pricier, the Aviator Cub is noted for its lightweight design and consistent sound quality, especially when compared to options like the Katana.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some buyers find the Aviator Cub more cost-effective than a Fender Deluxe Reverb while still offering similar tonal capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Quilter Labs’ Aviator Cub | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

Quilter Labs’ Aviator Cub offers a delightful blend of vintage tones in a lightweight package, making it perfect for players who prioritize portability without sacrificing sound quality. With three distinct voice settings reminiscent of classic Fender amps, it shines in clean and driven applications alike, proving to be a versatile addition to any rig. However, the high-gain settings might leave some players wanting more bite, and it may not fully satisfy those craving extreme distortion. Still, its build quality, low maintenance, and pedal-friendliness make it a strong contender for practice, recording, and live performances. Overall, the Aviator Cub hits many sweet spots but may not cater to every tonal preference.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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hankthewolf

Fantastic

I own one of these, I think it’s a tube amp killer! A must for gigging musicians!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Julian Lage uses Quilter Labs Aviator Cub

Julian Lage

Guitarist

The Nels Cline 4

...
Verified via Photo

Julian Lage is confirmed to have used the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub during a recording session with Miles Okazaki and Mary Halvorson, as documented by Quilter Labs on Instagram.

See how Elvis Costello uses Quilter Labs Aviator Cub

Elvis Costello

Singer, Guitarist

Elvis Costello & The Imposters

...
Verified

Elvis Costellos is confirmed to have performed with the Quilter Labs Aviator Cub at his concert at the Greek Theatre.

Genre Usage

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