Ashdown Classic Tube Magnifier UK-CTM-100 100W Bass Amp Head - Black

The Guitar Center Exclusive Ashdown Classic Tube Magnifier UK-CTM-100 delivers the unmistakable feel of a classic all-tube bass amp—thick, responsive low-end, smooth compression and a harmonic richness that builds as you push it. Handcrafted in the UK, this 100W head combines a multi-stage valve preamp with a pair of KT88 output tubes to produce everything from warm, rounded vintage tones to saturated, full-bodied overdrive. Its passive EQ and interactive controls—including Mellow, Deep, Mid Shift and Bright switches—allow you to shape your sound in a hands-on, musical way, while a valve-driven DI and effects loop extend its usability across stage and studio environments. Designed for players who value feel as much as tone, it delivers a fully realized tube experience with the control and flexibility needed for modern performance.

All-Tube Design With KT88 Power Section for Depth, Harmonics and Dynamic Response

The UK-CTM-100 is built around a fully valve-driven signal path, combining a multi-stage preamp loaded with ECC832 and ECC82 tubes with a pair of KT88 output valves to deliver a rich, responsive playing experience. The power section produces strong low-end authority with natural compression and harmonic complexity, while the preamp responds dynamically to your touch, cleaning up or breaking up depending on how hard you play. To maintain optimal performance, the amp features user-adjustable bias, with a switchable VU meter that allows you to monitor each output tube individually. Each output valve is individually fused and easily replaceable, simplifying tube maintenance and replacement.

Passive EQ and Interactive Switching for Musical, Hands-On Tone Shaping

The tone-shaping section centers around a passive EQ circuit, where bass, middle and treble controls interact to shape your sound in a highly musical way. Because the circuit is fully passive, each adjustment affects the overall response, encouraging a more hands-on approach to dialing in tone. Additional switches—including Mellow, Deep, Mid Shift and Bright—allow you to fine-tune your sound further, from smooth, rounded low-end to more focused midrange presence and articulate top-end detail. Engaging the Mellow control softens the overall response for warmer, vintage-inspired tones, while the remaining switches provide more targeted shaping across the frequency spectrum. The result is a flexible, responsive system that rewards careful adjustment and experimentation.

Valve-Driven DI, Effects Loop and Road-Ready Construction for Reliable Performance

Designed for both stage and studio use, the UK-CTM-100 includes a valve-driven, transformer-isolated DI output that delivers a consistent, full-bodied signal directly to front-of-house or recording setups. A front-mounted valve-driven effects loop preserves tonal integrity when integrating external pedals and processors. The amplifier is housed in a rugged 18 mm marine-grade birch ply enclosure with heavy-duty hardware and integrated cooling, providing substantial protection for regular transport and performance. Together, these features pair classic tube-amp construction with practical connectivity and performance-ready design.

The UK-CTM-100: Classic Tube Tone With Modern Control

The Ashdown UK-CTM-100 brings together the feel and character of traditional tube amplification with the control and usability required for modern performance. With its all-valve signal path, interactive tone controls and robust construction, it delivers a responsive, expressive playing experience built on depth, clarity and control. Built in the UK and available as a Guitar Center Exclusive, the UK-CTM-100 offers classic tube character with practical features for stage and studio use.

Ashdown Amplification Arrives at Guitar Center

Since 1997, Ashdown has built its reputation on powerful, road-ready amplification trusted by bassists on stages around the world. From its iconic Bass Magnifier amps and bass cabinets to pedals, guitar amplification and artist-driven designs, the family-run company has remained dedicated to giving players distinctive tone and dependable performance while renewing its commitment to UK-built craftsmanship. Guitar Center is proud to partner with Ashdown, bringing the brand’s celebrated amplification legacy to musicians nationwide.