Ampeg

Ampeg: The Essential Bass Amplification Brand

Since its founding in 1946 in Linden, New Jersey, Ampeg has established itself as an absolute reference in the world of bass guitar amplification. It all began when Everett Hull, a passionate jazz double bassist, imagined a pickup to place inside his double bass to amplify its sound. From this innovation was born the brand "Michael-Hull Electronic Labs," quickly renamed "Ampeg" (a contraction of "American" and "peg," the tuning peg of the double bass).

The SVT: A Legend on Stages Worldwide

In 1969, Ampeg revolutionized the music industry by launching the SVT (Super Vacuum Tube), the most powerful instrument amplifier ever designed at the time. With its 300 watts of all-tube power, the SVT became the ultimate weapon for professional bassists. Used by legends such as John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), Paul McCartney (The Beatles), Sting, Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers), and countless other artists, the SVT is today the most famous and respected bass amplifier on the planet.

The current SVT range includes iconic models like the SVT-CL (classic all-tube), SVT-VR (vintage version), SVT-7 Pro (ultra-light), as well as the legendary SVT-4 PRO and SVT-3 PRO heads. All these models offer that unique sonic signature, that inimitable Ampeg "grain" that has defined the sound of bass in rock, pop, funk, jazz, and many other musical genres.

The Portaflex B-15: The Sound of Studios Worldwide

It is hard to talk about Ampeg without mentioning the legendary B-15 Portaflex, also known as the "Flip-Top." Introduced in 1960, this 30-watt all-tube bass combo with its 15-inch speaker quickly became the quintessential studio amplifier. With its ingenious "flip-top" design (the amp tilts to expose the tubes), the B-15 was used on countless legendary recordings, notably by James Jamerson on Motown classics.

Today, the modern Portaflex series includes the PF-50T, PF-20T (all-tube) and PF-350, PF-500, PF-800 (solid state) heads, perpetuating the sonic heritage of the B-15 in contemporary formats.

Whether you are a demanding stage bassist or a studio musician seeking the perfect sound, Ampeg offers a solution for every need:

• SVT Heritage: The high-end series crafted in Woodinville, Washington, for purists of all-tube sound.
• Rocket Bass (RB): Lightweight, powerful, and affordable combos for musicians on the go. Models RB-108, RB-112, RB-115, and RB-210.
• Portaflex: The range that blends tradition and modernity with versatile heads and cabinets.
• BA Series: Practice and stage combos perfect for beginners and traveling musicians.

The Ampeg Legacy: Quality, Power, and Reliability

For over 75 years, Ampeg has remained faithful to its mission: offering bassists the best possible sound, whether on stage, in the studio, or at home. Every Ampeg amplifier is designed with quality components, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering passion for music. Now part of the Yamaha Guitar Group, the brand continues to innovate while preserving the sonic heritage that built its worldwide reputation.

Whether you play in an amateur band, a professional orchestra, or record in a renowned studio, choosing Ampeg means choosing sonic excellence and legendary reliability. Join the community of bassists who trust Ampeg to bring their music to life with power, clarity, and character.