VENTURE BASS HEADS

VENTURE BASS CABS

SVT SUITE

SGT-DI

HARDWARE

CLASSIC ANALOG BASS PREAMP

SCRAMBLER BASS OVERDRIVE

V-4B

SCR-DI

HERITAGE SVT-CL

PF-50T

PF-20T

MICRO CL

MICRO VR

SVT-7PRO

SVT-4PRO

SVT-3PRO

SVT-CL

VENTURE BASS HEADS

The Venture® Series is an entirely new product family from Ampeg! Venture amplifiers and cabinets deliver the modern style and features sought by contemporary bassists—continuing a tradition of innovation that stretches back to the dawn of the electric bass. The ultra-portable Venture amplifier heads are small and light enough to fit into a gig bag, a laptop bag, or our optional Venture carrying bags, making them ideal for the travelling bassist. Venture amplifiers pack plenty of punch via their Class D power sections—more than enough power to drive any of the Venture Series speaker cabinets, or practically any other cab bassists may encounter on their travels.

Easy-to-use and intuitive controls, a legacy preamp, 3-band EQ with sweepable mids, Ultra Hi and 3-way Ultra Lo switches, an enhanced Super Grit Technology (SGT) overdrive circuit with SVT® and B15 voicings, an effects loop, an XLR direct output, an Aux input, a Phones output, and Neutrik® speakON® high-performance speaker output jacks. The V12 and V7 amplifiers also include a variable one-knob compressor, and Preamp Out and Power Amp In jacks.

They have solid-state preamps and Class D power amplifiers.

We started with the beloved SGT overdrive circuit found on our Rocket Bass® amps and added a Voice switch that lets you choose between the sound of the studio stalwart B-15 or the monster grind of the legendary SVT. The Grit and Level controls, in tandem the Voice switch, make for a super-versatile overdrive that lets you go from mild tube fatness to all-out mayhem.

Lots of legacy Ampeg products have a Midrange boost/cut control combined with a 5-way Frequency control that selects the frequency to be boosted or cut. We replaced them with a single duo-concentric control that combines both functions, but instead of being limited to five fixed frequencies, one control sweeps the entire range including the “in between” frequencies. You can still dial in the same familiar sounds as before—but you can also get a little more nuanced or even surgical with your midrange tailoring if you choose.

Yes. Venture heads include a stereo 1/8" Aux input, allowing you to connect an audio player and play along with any music. Plus, as a bonus you can also feed your in-ear monitor mix through the amp for a better live performance experience.

Venture heads also include our treasured Ultra Hi and 3-way Ultra Lo switches for added tonal flexibility.

The V12 is a whopping 1200 watts @4Ω and 1%THD, the ultra-compact V3 is rated at 300 watts @4Ω and 1%THD, and the V7 sits nicely in the middle at 700 watts @4Ω and 1%THD.

Each Venture head is 50-60% lighter than our Portaflex® heads! The V12 weighs 8.3 lbs./3.76 kg, the V7 weighs 6.12 lbs./3.10 kg, and the V3 weighs just 3.9 lbs./1.77 kg.

A 1/4" TRS dual footswitch will remotely toggle the SGT circuit (tip) and Mute (ring) on/off. If you connect a TS single footswitch, it will toggle the SGT on/off. That works with Ampeg AFP-1, AFP-2, and AFS2 footswitches, or most other “latching” footswitches. The front panel SGT On/Off switch is disabled when a footswitch is connected to the Switch jack, while the front panel Mute switch remains functional when a footswitch is connected.

Aside from their different output power ratings, the V12 and V7 have the following features that the V3 does not:

  • Preamp Out and Power Amp In
  • Mix control for the effects loop
  • One-knob variable compressor
  • Dual parallel Neutrik speakON speaker outputs (the V3 has a single Neutrik speakON/1/4" combo output)

Neutrik NL2 and NL4 speakON connectors are both compatible with the V3 amp’s single Neutrik speakON/1/4" combo output, as are standard 1/4" connectors. The dual parallel Neutrik speakON speaker outputs on the V12 and V7 amps are only compatible with NL2 speakON connectors.

Yes. Heavy duty padded Venture carry bags and the AFS2 footswitch are both available from the Ampeg Webshop: ampeg.com

Here you go:

FEATURE VENTURE V12 - VALUES
Output Power Rating @ 1% THD (@ 4 Ohm) 100 VAC = 1032W
100-240 VAC = 1220W
(The output delta is less than 1 dB between the two outputs at 100V and 240V, respectively.)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 80 dB (20 Hz–20 kHz unweighted)
Maximum Gain @ 1 kHz 65 dB
Input Impedance 1 Meg
Power Amp Class D - ICE power (switching)
Tone Controls Bass: +/- 14 dB @ 40 Hz
Mid: +/- 14 dB @ selected frequency
Treble: +17/–14 dB @ 4 kHz
Power Requirements 100 VAC
100-240 VAC
50-60Hz
1600W Max
Size (H x W x D) 3.1 x 14.6 x 10.8 in
77.8 x 370 x 273.8 mm
Weight (Approximate) 8.3 lbs
3.76 kg
All specifications subject to change.


FEATURE VENTURE V7 - VALUES
Output Power Rating @ 1% THD (@ 4 Ohm) 100-240 VAC = 700W
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 80 dB (20 Hz–20 kHz unweighted)
Maximum Gain @ 1 kHz 60 dB
Input Impedance 1 Meg
Power Amp Class D - ICE power (switching)
Tone Controls Bass: +/- 14 dB @ 40 Hz
Mid: +/- 14 dB @ 500 Hz
Treble: +17/–14 dB @ 4 kHz
Power Requirements 100-240 VAC
50-60Hz
1000W Max
Size (H x W x D) 3.1 x 11.4 x 10 in
77.8 x 290 x 254 mm
Weight (Approximate) 6.12 lbs
3.10 kg
All specifications subject to change.


FEATURE VENTURE V3 - VALUES
Output Power Rating @ 1% THD (@ 4 Ohm) 100-240 VAC = 310W
Signal-to-Noise Ratio 80 dB (20 Hz–20 kHz unweighted)
Maximum Gain @ 1 kHz 60 dB
Input Impedance 1 Meg
Power Amp Class D - ICE power (switching)
Tone Controls Bass: +/- 14 dB @ 40 Hz
Mid: +/- 14 dB @ 500 Hz
Treble: +17/–14 dB @ 4 kHz
Power Requirements 100-240 VAC
50-60Hz
450W Max
Size (H x W x D) 2.6 x 9.1 x 10.3 in
65 x 231 x 261.5 mm
Weight (Approximate) 3.9 lbs
1.77 kg
All specifications subject to change.

We are dedicated to making the most innovative, reliable, and roadworthy bass products available—and the V7 just needs a little additional development time to fully meet the high expectations of bassists such as yourself.

Let’s just say they won’t take you to the cleaners!

Neutrik and speakON are registered trademarks of Neutrik AG Corporation.

VENTURE BASS CABS

The Venture® Series is an entirely new product family from Ampeg! Venture amplifiers and cabinets deliver the modern style and features sought by contemporary bassists—continuing a tradition of innovation that stretches back to the dawn of the electric bass. Venture Series cabinets are available in the most popular configurations, enabling bassists to choose the right cab—or combination of cabs—for any gig. These stylish cabinets are ruggedly constructed and covered in carbon fiber-style Tolex, so they’ll hold up gig after gig, while at the same being some of the lightest bass enclosures currently available. Optional Portaflex®-style grille assemblies offer an aesthetic alternative. Venture cabs are loaded with lightweight custom Lavoce® neodymium woofers and high-frequency drivers. And you can protect your Venture cab with an optional heavy-duty padded cover.

There are currently six: VB-112, VB-115, VB-210, VB-212, VB-410 (all 8Ω), & VB-88 (4Ω)

  • Ultra-lightweight yet ruggedly constructed
  • Carbon fiber-style Tolex covering and modern Ampeg logo
  • Custom Lavoce neodymium woofers and high-frequency drivers
  • Variable high-frequency attenuator
  • Dual parallel Neutrik® speakON® / 1/4" combo inputs

To begin with, there are five different configurations available rather than the three offered in the former Pro NeoTM line. Venture cabs are also 40-50% lighter than Pro Neo cabs, thanks to our totally new approach to construction and material selection, and you have a choice of either modern or (optional) Portaflex-style vintage aesthetics. Finally, Venture cabs are loaded with new Lavoce® neodymium woofers and high-frequency drivers. Sonically, we feel Venture cabs will set a new standard, much like Pro Neo cabs did back in the early 2000s.

  • VB-112: 26.5 lbs./12 kg
  • VB-210: 28 lbs./12.7 kg
  • VB-115: 34 lbs./15.4 kg
  • VB-212: 40 lbs./18.1 kg
  • VB-410: 42 lbs./19 kg
  • VB-88: 67 lbs./30.4 kg

Optional Portaflex-style grille assembly accessories are available for each Venture cab. They can easily be swapped out for the modern-style grilles that come with the cabs, and are available from the Ampeg Webshop: ampeg.com

Of course. All cabs fit perfectly on top of one another except the VB-212 and VB-88, which can be oriented horizontally to stack with other Venture cabs.

In addition to the VB-212 and VB-88, the VB-112 and VB-210 cabs also have additional feet that enable them to be positioned on their sides.

Well, this is all subjective, but we love the following pairings:

  • VB-210 on top of a VB-115
  • Dual VB-212s stacked horizontally
  • VB-410 on top of a VB-115
  • VB-112 on top of a VB-410

There are three settings: -6dB, 0dB (no attenuation), and (driver) Off.

All Venture cabs feature dual parallel locking Neutrik speakON / 1/4" combo inputs that support Neutrik NL2 and NL4 connectors, as well as standard ¼" connectors.

Of course. Just be sure to check the impedance and power output settings of your amplifier before connecting. We have tested Venture cabs with various Ampeg and non-Ampeg heads.

Yes. There are heavy-duty padded Venture cab covers, as well as the aforementioned Portaflex-style grille assemblies, all available from the Ampeg Webshop: ampeg.com

Behold!

FEATURE VB-112 VB-115 VB-210 VB-212 VB-410 VB-88
Power Handling
(RMS AES)
250W 250W 300W 500W 600W 800W
Peak Power 500W 500W 600W 1000W 1200W 1600W
Impedance
Frequency Response
(-3dB range)
38Hz - 17.4Hz 30Hz - 17.4Hz 39Hz - 17.4Hz 39Hz - 17.4Hz 28Hz - 17.4Hz 28Hz - 17.4Hz
LF drivers 1 x 12" 1 x 15" 2 x 10" 2 x 12" 4 x 10" 8 x 8"
HF horn 80° conical
Sensitivity 99 dB 1W/m 99 dB 1W/m 98.5 dB 1W/m 101 dB 1W/m 99 dB 1W/m 102 dB 1W/m
Maximum SPL
(2 Meter distance)
124.2 dB 127.3 dB 124.3 dB 131.7 dB 131.5 dB 132 dB
Inputs/Outputs Two NL2 speakON - 1/4" combination jacks
Orientation Vertical or
horizontal
Vertical Vertical or
horizontal
Vertical or
horizontal
Vertical Vertical
Size (HxWxD)
Not including rubber feet
15.0x22.8x17.3 in
381x578x439 mm
22.8x22.8x17.5 in
578x578x445 mm
16.1x22.8x17.3 in
410x578x439 mm
31.1x19.1x17.3 in
790x485x439 mm
25.7x22.8x17.5 in
654x578x445 mm
45.1 x 20.1 x 15.2 in
1145 x 511 x 385 mm
Weight 26.5 lbs
12 kg
34 lbs
15.4 kg
28 lbs
12.7 kg
40 lbs
18.1 kg
42 lbs
19 kg
67 lbs
30.4 kg
All specifications subject to change.

Neutrik and speakON are registered trademarks of Neutrik AG Corporation.
Lavoce is a registered trademark of Lavoce Co., LTD Limited Company.

SVT SUITE

SVT Suite is a 64-bit bass amplifier plugin that marks Ampeg’s first foray into the plugin world. No third parties, no proprietary hardware, just straight up bass tone directly from the most trusted name in bass amplification.

SVT Suite features 3 legendary SVT heads— The all-new Heritage 50th Anniversary SVT (which is essentially 2 heads in one due to the channel jumping), the popular tube/solid-state hybrid SVT-4PRO, and the cream-of-the-crop backline staple, the Heritage SVT-CL.

Absolutely. Pair any of those 3 heads with 8 diverse Ampeg bass cabs miked with 6 different microphones. You can adjust the position of the microphones and blend in 1 of 3 room mics for a little more live room feel.

You certainly can. You can load up to 2 of your own third-party IRs or mix and match with our supplied cabs.

Glad you asked. We all know the ultimate bass rig doesn’t stop with heads and cabs, so we included 5 essential bass pedals: the Ampeg Liquifier analog chorus, Opto Comp analog optical compressor, and Scrambler bass overdrive…along with the all new Rocktaver octave divider and Phasifier phase shifter. You can reorder the order of the pedals to your taste.

Well, how could we forget that coveted DI signal? We got you covered with one of the most sought-after bass DIs ever made, the SVT-DI. That’s right, we included a parallel SVT-DI path, and even added a saturation knob for extra tube color.

Sure does! In fact, we’ve included over 60 factory presets, including signature Artist & Producer tones from some of the best of the best in bass.

There is no licensing available through iLok. It is authorized on first run of the plugin. Just log in with your Ampeg/YGG username and password and click "authorize computer".

Licensing is tied to Ampeg/YGG accounts and up to four computers can share a single license.

  • Download the latest version of SVT Suite at https://ampeg.com/svtsuite-download
  • Run https://ampeg.com/svtsuite-download the SVT Suite installer. We suggest you temporarily disable all third-party antivirus programs during installation. Follow the prompts and restart your computer if required.
  • Launch your DAW, plug-in host, or recording software, and insert SVT Suite into an audio track as an effect. (Note: the plug-in may also be used via an aux bus.)
  • Log in with your account you used to purchase or activate SVT Suite.
  • Click "Authorize This Computer" or the blue link displayed in the dialog.

If you can't authorize your computer with SVT Suite, You may have exceeded the limit of authorized devices for your Ampeg/YGG account.

Visit https://ampeg.com/account/devices/ for more information on de-authorizing an old device. You may also contact Customer Service at https://ampeg.com/support/ to resolve authorization issues. You may have exceeded the limit of authorized devices for your Ampeg/YGG account. Visit https://ampeg.com/account/devices/ for more information on de-authorizing an old device. You may also contact Customer Service to resolve authorization issues.

Yes. You can try before you buy! A free trial is available at https://ampeg.com/software and is fully functional for 15 days.

To follow are the requirements to install and use the SVT Suite software on your computer system. Note that SVT Suite is a 64-bit plugin and, therefore, requires that your host DAW application supports 64-bit plugins.

Mac Computers:

  • Mac OS X 10.14 or later*
  • For plugin: 64-bit AAX Native, Audio Units (AU), VST® (VST2 or VST3) host DAW software

Windows Computers:

  • Windows 10 and later (64-bit versions only)*
  • For plugin: 64-bit AAX Native, VST (VST2 or VST3) host DAW software

Minimum Hardware Requirements

  • Dual-Core 2.0GHz processor or faster
  • 4GB of RAM
  • 100MB of free disk space
  • Internet connection required for license authorization and use of trial version
  • DAW host software to support AAX, AU, or VST plugin
  • Audio interface for your DAW host app and the SVT Suite standalone app (must include an ASIO® device driver for Windows computers)
  • SVT supports sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96kHz

Supported Hosts

  • SVT Suite has been tested and officially qualified in these DAW versions and plug-in formats.
  • If your DAW or DAW version is not listed below, we recommend trying the SVT Suite demo first to confirm compatibility.
  • Your operating system must be compatible with your DAW in order for SVT Suite to work properly. Please refer to your DAW’s documentation for supported operating systems.

Mac

  • Pro Tools 2020, 2021 (AAX Native)
  • Studio One Professional 5 (VST3, AU)
  • Cubase 10.5, 11 (VST3)
  • Ableton Live 11 (VST3)
  • REAPER 6 (VST3, AU)
  • Bitwig Studio 3 (VST3)
  • Digital Performer 10 (AU)
  • FL Studio 20 (AU)
  • Logic Pro X 10.6.2 (AU)
  • GarageBand 10 (AU)

Windows

  • Pro Tools 2020, 2021 (AAX Native)
  • Studio One Professional 5 (VST3, AU)
  • Cubase 10.5, 11 (VST3)
  • Ableton Live 11 (VST3)
  • REAPER 6 (VST3)
  • Bitwig Studio 3 (VST3)
  • Digital Performer 10 (VST3)
  • FL Studio 20 (VST3)
  • Cakewalk by BandLab (VST3)

Worldwide customers can purchase SVT Suite from https://shop-us.ampeg.com.
SVT Suite is available for $199.99
In the United States, customers can also purchase SVT Suite from Sweetwater.com

Yes. Nearly every parameter in SVT Suite can be automated.

Yes, nearly every parameter in SVT Suite can be controlled via MIDI CC.

The standard return policy is 15 days from the date of purchase.

Not at launch. We are working on it.

Yes. SVT Suite includes Retina support at launch.

Yes, Undo/Redo is included at launch, along with A/B Compare.

Yes, version 1.10 and higher has a Tuner (Needle and Strobe) with selectable reference 425Hz - 455Hz.

Yes, version 1.10 and higher now has a stand-alone version in addition to the plugin.

  • ARM64 support for Apple Silicon
  • Optimized meter response to peaks/transients
  • Optimized MIDI Learn Mode
  • Addition of Artist presets from Rudy Sarzo, Steve Cook, and Vincen García.

SGT-DI

SGT-DI™ is The All-In-One Bass Box. It’s our new preamp and DI that features an onboard compressor, an enhanced Super Grit Technology™ overdrive circuit with SVT® and B15 voices, a 3-band EQ with a sweepable Mid control, and an IR Loader/Cab Simulator.

We took the beloved SGT™ circuit from the Rocket Bass combo amps and added a Voicing switch that lets you choose between the sound of the studio stalwart B-15 or the monster grind of the legendary SVT. The Grit and Level controls, in tandem the Voice switch, make for a super-versatile overdrive. SGT-DI lets you go from mild tube fatness to all-out mayhem.

We built the SGT overdrive circuit from the ground up to give you what we believe is the most accurate and comprehensive representation of Ampeg overdrive available. The Scrambler produces the specific grind of an SVT, whereas the SGT covers the complete range of warm tube-driven sounds from both the SVT and the B15, including a bit of low-end boost.

Lots of legacy Ampeg products have both a Midrange boost/cut control and a 5-way Frequency control that selects the frequency to be boosted or cut. We replaced them with a single concentric control that combines both functions, but instead of being limited to five fixed frequencies, you can sweep the entire range including the “in between” frequencies. You can still dial in the same familiar sounds as before—but you can also get a little more nuanced or even surgical with your midrange tailoring if you choose.

SGT-DI boasts the first IR Loader/Cab Simulator ever incorporated into an Ampeg product. It has two sections, one of which contains three onboard classic Ampeg cabs, and the other three user slots that you can load your own IRs into using the free Ampeg IR Loader application (downloadable at https://ampeg.com/software/).

The cream of the crop: a Heritage™ Reissue B-15, a Heritage SVT-410HLF, and the highly-coveted original Squareback 810.

We’ve actually preloaded those three slots with Ampeg SVT-112, SVT-210, and SVT-212 cabs—but you can replace them with up to three of your own IRs.

Yes. These will be denoted in the Ampeg IR Loader application with a diamond icon.

Our free Ampeg IR Loader application allows you to edit and save things like the Hi Cut, Lo Cut, and Level settings for each IR, and you can also rename and reorder the IRs.

SGT-DI supports the use of IR .wav files of practically any sample depth and bit rate available from third-party vendors (IR .wav files are automatically converted to mono 32-bit float/48kHz at 2048 resolution upon import).

SGT-DI works perfectly as a rehearsal tool. It includes a stereo 1/8" Aux input with Level control, allowing you to connect an audio player and play along with any music (and as a bonus you can also feed your in-ear monitor mix through it for a better live performance experience).

SGT-DI also includes our treasured Ultra Hi and 3-way Ultra Lo switches.

SGT-DI’s variable one-knob compressor comes after the tone controls and SGT circuit. The Comp knob acts as a threshold control and at max is a 10:1 ratio.

There are three primary gain stages that can affect your clipping LED (when Cab LED turns red). The first is the Vol control located on the leftmost top/inner concentric knob, which adjusts the Preamp level. SGT Level, located on the outer rightmost knob, controls the overall level of the SGT overdrive circuit. The Cab Level control, located on the left panel, adjusts the overall IR level.

We wanted to give you as many routing options as possible in a compact DI pedal. The Preamp output signal includes the compressor, preamp, and SGT circuits—but not the Cab/User IR and Aux input signals. The Line Out/Phones output includes the compressor, preamp, SGT, Cab/User IR (when active), and Aux Input signals. The DI balanced output includes the compressor, preamp, SGT signals, and Cab/User IR signals—but not the Aux input signal.

Because SGT-DI is The All-In-One Bass Box and therefore the perfect fly rig, we wanted to make sure you had a small carry bag for those throw-and-go situations. It can be found here - https://shop-us.ampeg.com/accessories/

Supported Operating Systems

  • 64-bit Mac and Windows®
  • macOS v10.15 and later (Intel and Silicon)
  • Windows 10 and 11

Please refer to the IR Loader installer’s Release Notes or Ampeg Customer Support for specific details regarding support for the very latest Mac and Windows operating systems.

Minimum Hardware Requirements

  • Dual-Core 2.0 GHz processor
  • 4GB of RAM
  • 100MB free disk space
  • Internet connection required for updating firmware and for Line 6 Marketplace asset license authorization

Additional product specifications can be found in the Online Owner’s Manual, available at https://ampeg.com/support/manuals/.

Heritage, SGT, Super Grit Technology, SGT-DI, SVT, Line 6, and Helix are trademarks or registered trademarks of Yamaha Guitar Group, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other jurisdictions.
Mac and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.

HARDWARE

Any of our 8-ohm cabinets will work. There are options available from the Classic, Pro Neo, and Portaflex series of amps. Many customers will go with the Portaflex series due to the similar aesthetics. You can check out these cabinets here: https://ampeg.com/bass-enclosures/.

SVT Suite is a 64-bit bass amplifier plugin that marks Ampeg’s first foray into the plugin world. No third parties, no proprietary hardware, just straight up bass tone directly from the most trusted name in bass amplification.

Please visit our SVT Suite FAQ for more information: https://ampeg.com/faq/svt/.

SGT-DI™ is The All-In-One Bass Box. It’s our new preamp and DI that features an onboard compressor, an enhanced Super Grit Technology™ overdrive circuit with SVT® and B15 voices, a 3-band EQ with a sweepable Mid control, and an IR Loader/Cab Simulator.

Please visit our SGT-DI FAQ for more information: https://ampeg.com/faq/sgt-di/.

The Venture® Series is a new product family from Ampeg. The ultra-portable, Class D-powered Venture amplifier heads are small and light, yet they pack a punch, making them ideal for the travelling bassist. Venture cabs are some of the lightest bass enclosures currently available and are loaded with lightweight custom Lavoce® neodymium woofers and high-frequency drivers.

Please visit our Venture FAQ page for more information: Venture Series Heads, Venture Series Cabs.

Here is a list of our most current bass head’s impedances:

  • SVT-CL/VR - 2 & 4 ohms
  • Heritage SVT-CL/SVT 50th Anniversary - 2 & 4 ohms
  • SVT-7PRO - 4 & 8 ohms
  • SVT-4PRO - 2, 4, & 8 ohms (stereo), 4 & 8 ohms (mono-bridged)
  • SVT-3PRO - 4 & 8 ohms
  • V-4B - 2, 4, & 8 ohms
  • PF-20T/PF-50T - 4 & 8 ohms
  • PF-350/500/800 - 4 & 8 ohms
  • Micro VR - 4 & 8 ohms
  • Micro CL - 8 ohms

The following cabinets are four-ohm enclosures:

  • SVT-810E/AV (2 x 8 Ohms/4 Ohms)
  • Heritage SVT-810E/AV (2 x 8 Ohms/4 Ohms)
  • SVT-610HLF
  • SVT-410HLF
  • Heritage SVT-410HLF
  • SVT-212AV

The following cabinets are eight-ohm enclosures:

  • SVT-810E/AV (2 x 8 Ohms/4 Ohms)
  • SVT-410HE
  • SVT-15E
  • SVT-210AV
  • SVT-112AV
  • All Pro Neo cabinets
  • All Portaflex cabinets

It can be done, but this is not recommended.

The preferred cable is 12-gauge with Speakon-to-Speakon connectors. Be sure to wire the Speakon on the "amp" end for +1 (positive) and +2 (negative) for amps manufactured prior to October 2012. On the "cabinet" end wire the Speakon for +1 (positive) and -1 (negative). It is a good idea to label each end so there is no confusion at the gig. For amps manufactured after October 2012, a standard, off-the-shelf +1/-1 Speakon cable should be used. The correct Mono-Bridge cable wiring for your amp is printed on the rear of the chassis.

Tube replacement may become necessary after one to three years, depending on environment, usage and care. Generally speaking, a tube does not need to be replaced unless it becomes noisy or microphonic.

No. Using instrument cable to hook up your speakers can cause intermittent power loss, cause your amp to oscillate and damage the amp and/or your speakers. We recommend using 18-gauge or heavier (16, 14, or 12) cables.

Any Ampeg amplifier with a solid-state output (SVT Pro series, Micro VR/CL, Portaflex series) can be used without speakers attached to the speaker jacks. The amp must have a speaker load if the amp has a tube output section (SVT-CL/VR Heritage SVTs, and V-4B), as not doing so can result in extensive damage to the amplifier. The exceptions are the PF-20T and PF-50T, which have built-in loads.

You can download it from our website here: https://ampeg.com/support/manuals/.
Manuals for Legacy products are found at https://ampeg.com/support/discontinued.html.

The SVT-3PRO will handle a minimum impedance of 4 ohms. This allows the bassist to use (2) eight-ohm enclosures or (1) four-ohm enclosure for maximum output (450 watts).

The SVT-4PRO has a built-in crossover and dual power amps. This allows the user to operate the amp in bi-amp or mono bridge mode.

Ampeg products are covered with a durable, fabric-backed vinyl material. Clean with a dry, lint-free cloth. Never spray cleaning agents onto your Ampeg product. Avoid abrasive cleansers which would damage the finish. Keep out of continued direct sunlight to avoid vinyl seam curling or discoloration.

CLASSIC ANALOG BASS PREAMP

The Classic Preamp delivers a wide range of authentic Ampeg tones in a compact pedal.

The Classic Preamp is powered by either a standard 9V battery or the optional AC adapter.

Unscrew the four screws on the bottom of the pedal to access the battery.

This is often due to a dying battery. Try changing your battery or plugging in the optional AC adapter. You may also want to check your cables and instrument.

Check to ensure that the optional AC adapter or battery had the correct voltage and/or polarity. Ensure that your cables are plugged into the correct input/output jacks.

Yes. You will need to either use batteries, or purchase the proper AC adapter for the country you will be using it in.

This is not recommended. Most headphones have a very high impedance. You will in all likelihood not get the results you are looking for.

Yes, as long as the output is 9 Volts DC and the plug is center Negative. The current should be 100ma or higher.

Typically the Classic Preamp is best used between your bass and the input of your amplifier but it can also be used in an effects loop.

Yes, absolutely. The Classic Preamp outputs a line-level signal comparable to most other preamps.

No. The Classic Preamp should only be connected to the input or effects loop of your amplifier.

The Classic Preamp has a minimal current draw, so a fresh battery should last around 8-10 hours.

On the inside of your pedal is a jumper that you can move to pad your input down by 15db. Unscrew the four screws from the bottom of the pedal to access the jumper. Pins 1-2 are used for normal operation. Move the jumper to Pins 2-3 for 15db pad.

SCRAMBLER BASS OVERDRIVE

The Scrambler is an overdrive pedal that delivers classic Ampeg grit, grind, and sag.

The Scrambler is powered by either a standard 9V battery or the optional AC adapter.

Unscrew the four screws on the bottom of the pedal to access the battery.

This is often due to a dying battery. Try changing your battery or plugging in the optional AC adapter. You may also want to check your cables and instrument.

Check to ensure that the optional AC adapter or battery had the correct voltage and/or polarity. Ensure that your cables are plugged into the correct input/output jacks.

Yes. You will need to either use batteries, or purchase the proper AC adapter for the country you will be using it in.

This is not recommended. Most headphones have a very high impedance. You will in all likelihood not get the results you are looking for.

Yes, as long as the output is 9 Volts DC and the plug is center Negative. The current should be 100ma or higher.

Typically the Scrambler is best used between your bass and the input of your amplifier but it can also be used in an effects loop.

Yes, absolutely. The Scrambler outputs a line-level signal comparable to most other preamps.

No. The Scrambler should only be connected to the input or effects loop of your amplifier.

The Scrambler has a minimal current draw, so a fresh battery should last around 8-10 hours.

On the inside of your pedal is a jumper that you can move to pad your input down by 15db. Unscrew the four screws from the bottom of the pedal to access the jumper. Pins 1-2 are used for normal operation. Move the jumper to Pins 2-3 for 15db pad.

V-4B

The most notable difference is in its cosmetics; the power and standby switch are toggle switches instead of rocker switches. The ’71 original also has a pilot and a standby light while the new one does not. If you look closely, you’ll also see that the new one is a single channel amp instead of a 2-channel amp like the original. On the output side, the new V-4B has a balanced line-level direct output and the speaker output does not have an impedance selector switch. Instead, it features different connectors for specific load impedance.

You may change the tubes to a different brand. Just make sure that they are the same type: 6L6 for the power tubes, 12AX7 and 12AU7 for the driver tubes, and 12AX7 for the preamp tubes. For the 4 power tubes, always use a matched set of 4.

If you have one 8Ω cab, use the 8Ω output. If you have two 8 cabs, connect each of them to one of the 4Ω outputs. If you have one 4Ω cab, use one of the 4Ω output. If you have two 4Ω cabs, connect each of them to one of the 2Ω outputs. If you have one 2Ω cab, use one of the 2Ω outputs.

The signal coming out of all of the outputs are the same, namely post-Gain, post-EQ, and post-Master. The difference is that Preamp and Slave outs are unbalanced, and balanced out is, well, balanced. Also, if you are using the Power Amp input, that signal is only available in Slave and Balanced outputs, not Preamp out.

We highly recommend taking the amp to an authorized service center for biasing. Biasing the V-4B involves exposing yourself to heat and electric shock that may be fatal. If you insist, please use the following as reference:

  1. Connect load to amplifier
  2. Turn R16 (BIAS ADJUSTMENT POT) fully CCW (MINIMUM SETTING)
  3. Turn master control fully CCW (MINIMUM SETTING)
  4. Turn power switch to on then wait for 2 minutes.
  5. Turn Stand by on
  6. Make sure there is nothing plugged into the input channels
  7. Wait for 10 minutes
  8. Measure VDC across R12, the cathode resister of V5
  9. Adjust R16 until you measure 450mVDC across R12
  10. Measure VDC across R13 (V6). It should fall between 400mVDC - 500mVDC.
  11. Repeat step #10 for R14 (V8), then R15 (V7)
  12. All measurements for V5, V6, V8, AND V7 should be within 400mVDC -500mVDC
      If #12 is true, enjoy 100W OF V-4B
      If #12 is false the tubes are not properly matched for the V-4B. You will need to get new tubes at this point.

SCR-DI

The Scrambler is an overdrive circuit that allows for varying amounts of tube-like grind and distortion.

The SCR-DI is powered by either a standard 9V battery or the optional AC adapter.

Unscrew the 4 feet on the bottom of the pedal to access the battery.

This is often due to a weak battery. Try changing your battery or plugging in the optional AC adapter.

Check to ensure that the optional AC adapter or battery has the correct voltage and/or polarity. Ensure that both cables are plugged into the correct input/output jacks.

Yes. You will need to purchase the proper AC adapter for the country you will be using it in.

Yes, as long as the output is 9-12 Volts DC and the plug is center Negative. 500ma or higher.

Typically the SCR-DI is best used between your bass and the input of your amplifier but it can also be used in an effects loop.

No. The signal is always travelling through at least the input circuit of the pedal.

This is often due to a ground loop caused by other audio equipment. Try using the Ground Lift to get rid of the hum.

Take the pedal out of the equation. Are you still getting hum? If so, try isolating other gear in the signal chain. Often the source of noise is the bass itself, especially when using single coil pickups.

The Aux in will accept any line-level audio signal-connect in your phone, mp3 player, CD player, tape deck, computer, record player, etc.

The SCR-DI should only be connected to the input or effects loop of your amplifier.

No, this audio will only be available at the headphone jack.

The Scrambler-DI has a minimal current draw, so a fresh battery should last around 8 hours.

The headphone out should work great with any standard headphones.

On the inside of your pedal is a jumper that you can move to pad your input down by 15db. Unscrew the 4 feet from the bottom of the pedal to access the jumper. Pins 1-2 are used for normal operation. Move the jumper to Pins 2-3 for 15db pad.

No, the THRU output is wired in parallel to the INPUT jack, before the pad circuit, so it is your unaltered bass signal.

No. You’ll still have audio from the pedal at those outputs. If you want to practice silently, you’ll need to unplug the outputs.

Yes, of course. The SCR-DI outputs a line-level signal comparable to most other preamps.

Normal: 1 Meg Ohm
15dB pad: 83k Ohm

HERITAGE SVT-CL

No you cannot run the HSVT-CL without a load/speaker cab because it will damage the tubes and transformers.

No the HSVT-CL can only run at a 2 or 4 ohms load. Having an 8 ohm load on the HSVT-CL will damage the amp.

Preamp Tube: 2 x 12AX7 / Driver Tube: 1 x 12AX7, 2 x 12AU7 / Power Amp Tube: 6 x 6550

The Standby/Power LED will flash between red and green when the amp sees a problem with the power tube circuit on the HSVT- CL and will turn off the output. This usually means that you have a bad power tube.

Yes you will need to bias the HSVT-CL after replacing the tubes. Below are the steps for setting the tube bias.

  1. Connect a speaker cabinet to the amplifier then power on amp and allow the unit to sit in ‘Standby for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Make sure the master volume is at minimum, then take the unit out of ‘Standby’ and check the Bias LEDs. Both LEDs should be lit green. If not, turn the Bias controls unit the LEDs are lit green. If you cannot get the LEDs to turn to green there could be a defective of mismatched tube.
  3. Now check for any unusual sound and possible glowing form the Power Tubes.
  4. Now play your bass for 20 minutes to warm up your amp. You may notice that the Bias LEDs illuminate red while playing. This is normal.
  5. Now turn down your bass and set it down, leaving all amp controls alone. With no input signal, adjust each Bias control so that the LEDs are lit to green.
    - If neither of the LEDs are illuminated the amp is over-biased (counter- clockwise). Will make the amp sound thin and distorted.
    - If the green and red LEDs are lit, the amp is under-biased (clockwise). Will make the amp sound big and full but reduce the life of the power tubes.
    - Setting the LEDs just as the green LED illuminates will give a poorer tone but longer tube life.
    - Setting the LEDs just as the red LED illuminates will be better tone but shorter tube life.
  6. One the Bias controls have been set they should not have to be changed except as need for tube replacement, or compensate for tube aging.

PF-50T

The PF-50T will accommodate any cabinet or combination of cabinet as long as the total load equals 4 or 8 ohms. Please see your owner’s manual for additional information.

There are two 12AX7 tubes, one 12AU7, and two 6V6 tubes.

Our engineers have worked many long hours and spent many sleepless nights to design an amp that works flawlessly and sounds like an angel’s choir in Paradise. The included tubes are EXACTLY the right ones for this amp. But hey, if you think you know better than the people who designed the amp, go right ahead. Also, keep in mind that using non-specified components which may lead to malfunction are not covered by warranty.

For best results, your power tubes should be a matched pair.

Only if you replace the power tubes. It’s a good idea to check your bias from time to time whether your tubes are changed or not.

Yes. Please refer to the Owner’s Manual for bias-setting instructions.

You may have a bad tube, or worse! It’s a good idea to get your amp checked out by a repair technician at one of our friendly authorized service centers.

This means that your amp is in a Fault condition. Make sure you have good power coming into the amp. If the power is all good, it is a good time to get your amp checked out by a repair technician at one of our friendly authorized service centers.

When this switch is engaged, it connects the ground connection to help reduce residual hum and buzz sometimes picked up in the signal cables.

In general, you can use the -15db input if you have a bass with a hotter output signal (something with active pickups, for instance).

You can daisy chain one cabinet to the next, assuming your cabinets are wired in parallel. All Ampeg cabinets are wired in parallel.

This is not recommended. The resulting impedance would be 2.666 ohms, which is lower than what the output transformer is rated for.

Warping is more likely to be caused by temperature and humidity changes as with anything made from wood. The current flip-top cabinets are plenty strong enough for this application.

Yes! The PF-50T has a built-in load that is activated when no speakers are present. This allows for taking a direct signal to the mixing board. The impedance switch can be in either position.

This signal is tapped right after the first gain stage, essentially acting as a ‘thru’ or like a traditional DI for a direct sound from your bass guitar.

This signal is tapped after the Main Volume knob.

The warranty period for the PF-50T is 2 years electronics and 90 days on tubes. For the latest warranty information, visit https://ampeg.com/support/warranty/

PF-20T

The PF-20T will accommodate any cabinet or combination of cabinet as long as the total load equals 4 or 8 ohms. Please see your owner’s manual for additional information.

There are two 12AX7 tubes, and two 6V6 tubes.

Our engineers have worked many long hours and spent many sleepless nights to design an amp that works flawlessly and sounds like an angel’s choir in Paradise. The included tubes are EXACTLY the right ones for this amp. But hey, if you think you know better than the people who designed the amp, go right ahead. Also, keep in mind that using non-specified components which may lead to malfunction are not covered by warranty.

For best results, your power tubes should be a matched pair.

Only if you replace the power tubes. It’s a good idea to check your bias from time to time whether your tubes are changed or not.

Yes. Please refer to the Owner’s Manual for bias-setting instructions.

You may have a bad tube, or worse! It’s a good idea to get your amp checked out by a repair technician at one of our friendly authorized service centers.

This means that your amp is in a Fault condition. Make sure you have good power coming into the amp. If the power is all good, it is a good time to get your amp checked out by a repair technician at one of our friendly authorized service centers.

When this switch is engaged, it connects the ground connection to help reduce residual hum and buzz sometimes picked up in the signal cables.

You can daisy chain one cabinet to the next, assuming your cabinets are wired in parallel. All Ampeg cabinets are wired in parallel.

This is not recommended. The resulting impedance would be 2.666 ohms, which is lower than what the output transformer is rated for.

Warping is more likely to be caused by temperature and humidity changes as with anything made from wood. The current flip-top cabinets are plenty strong enough for this application.

Yes! The PF-20T has a built-in load that is activated when no speakers are present. This allows for taking a direct signal to the mixing board. The impedance switch can be in either position.

This signal is tapped right after the first gain stage, essentially acting as a ‘thru’ or like a traditional DI for a direct sound from your bass guitar.

This signal is tapped after the Main Volume knob.

The warranty period for the PF-20T is 2 years electronics and 90 days on tubes. For the latest warranty information, visit https://ampeg.com/support/warranty/

MICRO CL

No. The head is designed with only one 8Ω speaker output.

The input on the left is a direct input with no gain reduction built into the circuit. The input on the right is designed with a -15dB gain reduction circuit for active basses that provide too much input.

The AUX input can provide playback from a consumer source such as an .mp3 player or cd player.

The headphone jack will break the signal if anything is plugged into it. You must remove the headphone jack to resume signal to your cabinet.

The output MicroCL is unbalanced.

MICRO VR

Yes. The two identical outputs are wired in parallel, and you can use either one, or use both. Make sure the total speaker impedance load is 4 ohms or greater. For example, you could connect: Two 16 ohm speakers (an 8 ohm load), Two 8 ohm speakers (a 4 ohm load) or one 4 ohm speaker.

Generally, yes. The power section of this amp is solid-state, therefore having no load connected most likely will not harm the amp. However for safety reasons always connect a load to the amp. If you have to have no load connected, please use extra caution especially around the speaker output connectors since they may carry strong electrical current or maybe accidentally be shorted.

The GAIN knob varies the amount of signal driving the preamplifier. The VOLUME knob controls the overall output level.

The effects loop send will break the signal if anything is plugged into it. To complete the circuit you need to have the return plugged in and make sure all effects are functional and plugged correctly.

We generally recommend using a self- powered D.I. box because Ampeg XLR line outs can sometimes be low.

SVT-7PRO

While they both provide the same function which is to deliver the amplifiers output to your cabinet, there are certain benefits of using a Speakon connector over 1/4”. They lock into their sockets preventing accidental disconnection, shield any contacts from human touch, and do not short out when being connected or disconnected while the amp is powered on.

The red LED that is located near the input jack is a very important indicator to watch. What it is telling you when it is flashing can be a few different things. Your bass output is too high, the Gain control is too high, you have your EQ (bass, mid, treble, boost switches) turned up too high, or any combination of the three. To solve the problem, turn your master volume all the way down, EQ set to noon, boost switches out. Now play your bass normally and adjust the gain control so that you can play how you prefer without lighting up the Peak LED. Now you can go ahead and turn up your master volume to a normal level and adjust your EQ to your taste. At this point if you see your peak LED lighting, you may want to turn down your master volume or bass EQ a bit.

What you are connecting your XLR line out to will determine what to do with this switch. If you are going from this output directly to a mixers Mic input, then you want to have this switch pushed in. If you are plugging it into something like an external power amp or powered speaker you would have this switch out.

When you have two cabinets (of the same ohm rating) connected to the SVT-7Pro, the output (watts) are essentially split between the two cabinets.

The SVT-7Pro is capable of driving cabinets up to a total impedance of 4 ohms. This means either one cabinet rated at 4 ohms or two cabinets rated at 8 ohms each.

SVT-4PRO

We stop shipping bridge mono cable with SVT-4Pro awhile back. You may purchase speaker cable with Speakon connectors from most music stores.

In the current production, the all of the Speakon outputs are wired pin '1+' for positive and pin '1-' for negative. In the older production unit, the bridged Speakon output is wired pin '1+' for positive and pin '2+' for negative, and the other two Speakon outputs are wired pin '1+' positive and pin '1-' negative.

The most visible difference is in the logo in the front face and the power connector in the back. If you have the current production, the front face only has the Ampeg logo not the Ampeg writing, and the back will only have input power connector and no output power connector.

The tubes inside your SVT-4 Pro should last a very long time. If you notice an increase in noise or drop in output level, you may want to try replacing them. Typically they will last for many years.

Generally, yes. The power section of this amp is solid-state, therefore having no load connected most likely will not harm the amp. However for safety reasons always connect a load to the amp. If you have to have no load connected, please use extra caution especially around the speaker output connectors since they may carry strong electrical current or maybe accidentally be shorted.

SVT-3PRO

The SVT-3 Pro has a solid state output section that does not require any end user maintenance or biasing. The tubes in the preamp do not require biasing either.

The tubes inside your SVT-3 Pro should last a very long time. If you notice an increase in noise or drop in output level, you may want to try replacing them. Typically they will last for many years.

The SVT-3 Pro is capable of driving cabinets up to a total impedance of 4 ohms. This means either one cabinet rated at 4 ohms or two cabinets rated at 8 ohms each.

While they both provide the same function which is to deliver the amplifiers output to your cabinet, there are certain benefits of using a speakon connector over 1/4”. They lock into their sockets preventing accidental disconnection, shield any contacts from human touch, and do not short out when being connected or disconnected while the amp is powered on.

The red LED that is located near the input jack is a very important indicator to watch. What it is telling you when it is flashing can be a few different things. Your bass output is too high, the Gain control is too high, you have your EQ (bass, mid, treble, boost switches) turned up too high, or any combination of the three. To solve the problem, turn your master volume all the way down, EQ set to noon, boost switches out. Now play your bass normally and adjust the gain control so that you can play how you prefer without lighting up the Peak LED. Now you can go ahead and turn up your master volume to a normal level and adjust your EQ to your taste. At this point if you see your peak LED lighting, you may want to turn down your master volume or bass EQ a bit.

SVT-CL

No you cannot run the SVT-CL without a load/speaker cab because it will damage the tubes and transformers.

No the SVT-CL can only run at a 2 or 4 ohms load. Having an 8 ohm load on the SVT-CL will damage the amp.

Preamp Tube: 2 x 12AX7 / Driver Tube: 1 x 12AX7, 2 x 12AU7 / Power Amp Tube: 6 x 6550

The Standby/Power LED will flash between red and green when the amp sees a problem with the power tube circuit on the SVT- CL and will turn off the output. This usually means that you have a bad power tube.

Yes you will need to bias the SVT-CL after replacing the tubes. Below are the steps for setting the tube bias.

  1. Connect a speaker cabinet to the amplifier then power on amp and allow the unit to sit in ‘Standby for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Make sure the master volume is at minimum, then take the unit out of ‘Standby’ and check the Bias LEDs. Both LEDs should be lit green. If not, turn the Bias controls unit the LEDs are lit green. If you cannot get the LEDs to turn to green there could be a defective of mismatched tube.
  3. Now check for any unusual sound and possible glowing form the Power Tubes.
  4. Now play your bass for 20 minutes to warm up your amp. You may notice that the Bias LEDs illuminate red while playing. This is normal.
  5. Now turn down your bass and set it down, leaving all amp controls alone. With no input signal, adjust each Bias control so that the LEDs are lit to green.
    - If neither of the LEDs are illuminated the amp is over-biased (counter- clockwise). Will make the amp sound thin and distorted.
    - If the green and red LEDs are lit, the amp is under-biased (clockwise). Will make the amp sound big and full but reduce the life of the power tubes.
    - Setting the LEDs just as the green LED illuminates will give a poorer tone but longer tube life.
    - Setting the LEDs just as the red LED illuminates will be better tone but shorter tube life.
  6. One the Bias controls have been set they should not have to be changed except as need for tube replacement or compensate for tube aging.