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Description

The SWR SM-900 is a bass amplifier head that combines professional-grade performance with user-friendly features, making it a staple for bassists seeking both power and versatility. Engineered for exceptional clarity and punch, this amp head is a favorite among touring musicians and studio professionals alike. The dual power amplifier design ensures rich tonal depth and seamless switching between mono and stereo modes, catering to diverse playing styles and settings.

Central to the SM-900's appeal is its sophisticated tone sculpting capabilities. The amplifier includes a 3-band semi-parametric EQ, allowing precise control across a wide range of frequencies. Whether you’re aiming for a warm, vintage feel or a modern, crisp sound, the SM-900 provides the flexibility needed to achieve your desired tone. Additionally, an onboard limiter ensures your sound remains controlled, even at high volumes.

The integrated effects loop is another standout feature, enabling smooth integration of external effects processors without compromising sound integrity. With its robust build and high-quality components, the SWR SM-900 is designed to endure the rigors of live performances while delivering consistent, high-quality sound.

Key Features:

  • Dual power amplifier design for mono and stereo operation
  • 3-band semi-parametric EQ for detailed tone shaping
  • Onboard limiter to maintain sound control at high volumes
  • Integrated effects loop for seamless external effects integration
  • Designed for professional stage and studio use
Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Old School SWR SM900, dbx 160A rack rig & Nordstrand & MXR - DEMO

Video thumbnail for Old School SWR SM900, dbx 160A rack rig & Nordstrand & MXR - DEMO by Andy Irvine

Old School SWR SM900, dbx 160A rack rig & Nordstrand & MXR - DEMO

Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Video thumbnail for Lorita Andy Irvine Signature - Fantone 5 & 1990 SWR SM900 by Andy Irvine

Lorita Andy Irvine Signature - Fantone 5 & 1990 SWR SM900

Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Video thumbnail for With my 1966 Fender jazz bass and SWR head SM900 by Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

With my 1966 Fender jazz bass and SWR head SM900

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Rino Rogerbass Conteduca

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about SWR SM-900.

Features and functionality

  • The SWR SM-900 lacks a high-pass filter between the pre and power amp, leading to potential speaker overload without external HPF use.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend using a high-pass filter pedal like Thumpinator, fdeck, or Broughton to manage sub-audible frequencies and enhance headroom.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Suggested EQ settings include boosting low mids around 250Hz and keeping the Aural Enhancer below 11 o'clock for a balanced sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report the amp's ability to reproduce extremely low frequencies down to 15Hz, which requires careful EQ to avoid speaker damage.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Pairing with a Goliath II or Golight cab is recommended to capture the signature SWR sound, enhancing overall tonal quality.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how John Paul Jones uses SWR SM-900

John Paul Jones

Bassist, Keyboardist

Led Zeppelin

...
Verified via Archive

"I’ve got my good ol’ Manson 4-string, plus a 10-string and some 12-strings he’s made for me. The 10-string is in octave courses, tuned EADGC, and the 12-string is BEADGC. Those go through an SWR SM-900 with 4x10 and 1x15 cabinets."

See how Ryan Martinie uses SWR SM-900

Ryan Martinie

Bassist

Mudvayne

...
Verified

According to this interview, Ryan used SWR SM-900 head.

See how Trevor Dunn uses SWR SM-900

Trevor Dunn

Bassist

Melvins

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:23, you can guess that the amp that Trevor adjusts is an SM-900

See how Tony Campos uses SWR SM-900

Tony Campos

Singer, Bassist

Static?X

...
Verified via YouTube

In a 2003 post available on GuitarGeek via the Wayback Machine, Tony Campos is shown using the SWR SM-900 bass amplifier head.

See how Henry Bogdan uses SWR SM-900

Henry Bogdan

Bassist

Helmet

...
Verified via TalkBass.com

Henry Bogdan, bassist for Helmet, is noted for using the SWR SM-900 bass amplifier head, as discussed on TalkBass.com.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use SWR SM-900, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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    violao
    violao

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