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Average Price: $667
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Description
Unleash the power and versatility of the Tech 21 Bass VT 500, a bass amplifier head designed to cater to the discerning tastes of modern bassists. This compact powerhouse is equipped with a 500-watt Class D power amp, ensuring you have all the headroom you need, whether you're jamming in the studio, rehearsing, or rocking out at a midsized gig. Inspired by the renowned SansAmp VT Bass DI pedal, the VT 500 delivers a wide array of tones, from vintage tube warmth to cutting-edge rock grit.
The intuitive control panel features a powerful 3-band EQ along with Drive and Blend controls, allowing you to sculpt your sound with precision. The Character knob gives you the flexibility to emulate a range of classic and contemporary bass sounds, while the Bite switch provides an extra edge to your tone. Notably, the built-in SansAmp circuitry ensures that your carefully crafted sound is faithfully transmitted to the soundboard via the balanced XLR line-out, making sure the audience hears exactly what you intend.
With its portable design, this amp head is not just about big sound; it’s also about convenience. The VT 500 includes a dedicated headphone output for quiet practice sessions and a built-in effects loop for incorporating your favorite pedals. Elevate your bass playing experience with the Tech 21 Bass VT 500—a perfect blend of innovation and tradition.
Key Features:
- 500-watt Class D power amp for robust performance
- SansAmp VT preamp for diverse tonal possibilities
- Character control for a wide range of bass tones
- Balanced XLR SansAmp line output for consistent live sound
- Built-in effects loop with bypass switch
- Dedicated headphone output for silent practice
- SpeakON inputs for professional-grade connectivity
Product specs
| Brand | Tech 21 |
| Model | VT 500 Bass Amp Head |
| Finish | Silver / Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Bass Heads |
| Electronics | Solid State |
| Impedance | 4 ohms, 8 ohms |
| Number of Channels | 1 Channel |
| Number of Inputs | 1 Input |
| Output Power (Watts) | 500 |
| Power Tube Type | None |
FAQs
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What kind of tone can I expect from the Tech 21 Bass VT 500?
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The Tech 21 Bass VT 500 is designed to emulate classic tube amp tones, offering a wide range from clean and punchy to gritty and overdriven sounds. It's ideal for bassists seeking vintage warmth with modern reliability.
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Is the Tech 21 Bass VT 500 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, with 500 watts of power, the Tech 21 Bass VT 500 is more than capable of handling live gigs, providing ample volume and headroom for most performance settings.
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Does the Tech 21 Bass VT 500 work well with effects pedals?
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The Tech 21 Bass VT 500 is known for its versatility and works well with a variety of effects pedals, making it a great choice for bassists who like to experiment with their sound.
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What are the connectivity options for the Tech 21 Bass VT 500?
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The Tech 21 Bass VT 500 features a single input and supports both 4 ohm and 8 ohm speaker configurations, providing flexibility for different cabinet setups.
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Is the Tech 21 Bass VT 500 a solid-state amplifier?
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Yes, the Tech 21 Bass VT 500 is a solid-state amplifier, offering reliability and consistent performance without the need for power tubes.
Videos
Tech21nyc
Tech 21 VT Bass 500 - Amp Rundown
Reviews
PROS
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Wide tonal range from clean to full on Lemmy territory
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Fits easily in a gear bag with other essentials
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Offers SVT-style tones and tube emulation
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Straightforward controls for easy use
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Compatible with rack mounting hardware
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Character and Blend knobs allow for detailed sound shaping
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Works well with various cab configurations
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High-quality at a competitive price point
CONS
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Lacks a 3.5mm AUX input for quiet practice
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EQ section might miss some mid growl with certain cabs
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Volume output more akin to 300W amps until driven harder
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Knobs are very sensitive, requiring time to dial in the right sound
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Tech 21 Bass VT 500.
Features and functionality
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The Tech 21 VT Bass 500 combines the VT bass pedal with a 500W power amp, offering versatility from clean to almost fuzzy tones with a high-quality DI out.
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The VT Bass 500 includes a cab sim switch and a high-cut feature, addressing previous criticisms about 'clanky-ness' in earlier versions.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners appreciate the VT Bass 500 for its ability to maintain a consistent tone, making it suitable for various musical styles and settings.
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Mods and upgrades
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It's suggested that using a VT Bass preamp with a lightweight rack power amp can replicate the VT Bass 500 experience, providing flexibility in setup.
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Comparisons
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The VT Bass 500 is noted for its versatility, with some users preferring it over other amps like the Fender Rumble 500 due to its focused sound and effective EQ.
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Users who transitioned from the VT Bass (v1) to the VT Bass 500 appreciate the improved tonal control with the cab sim switch.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
VERY diverse tones.
This thing’s most important knobs are definitely Character and Blend. You can go for a mellow, punchy, 70’s Precision style to an overdriven, fuzzy tone reminiscent of Motörhead or Muse. That being said, the knobs are very sensitive (which is good) and I reccomend taking some time to really dial in the right sound.
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Tech 21 Bass VT 500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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