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Ashdown AAE-CTM Valve Preamp

Rackmount Bass Preamp with Effects Loop and 2 Direct Outputs
$649.99

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Ashdown AAE-CTM Valve Preamp
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Old-school Amplified Bass Tone

The AAE-CTM valve preamp from Ashdown presents preamp output with a vintage approach, following the success of it's older cousin, the CTM-30 Little Stubby head. With its rackmount form, the AAE-CTM leverages it's all-valve tones to replicate the warm, full-bodied tone of old-school valve amps. This preamp features easy-to-use EQ dials, letting you fine-tune your bass tone to perfection, all while providing a balanced, amplified low end to keep your tone in check. Of course, this unit would not be complete without its send and return effects loop, allowing for more customization in the form of whatever effects you feel like adding to the mix. Plus, with a USB-C output and Pre/Post EQ DI outputs, you'll have a world of connectivity possibilities in tandem with the AAE-CTM, a must-have feature for many bassists at Sweetwater.

Golden all-valve glow

The AAE-CTM preamp conjures modern and antique tones with it's ECC81, ECC82, and ECC83 preamp valves. With an easy-to-use traditional EQ control, it's a cinch to find your perfect sound, and you'll find that the unit produces a mellow, full-range output.

Ashdown AAE-CTM Valve Preamp Features:

  • Traditional rotary bass, middle, and treble control
  • Pre/post EQ DI outputs
  • All-valve tones for an analog sound
  • USB-C output
  • Convenient rackmount build
  • Send and return effects loop

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Tech Specs

  • Type: Preamp
  • Form Factor: Rackmount
  • Rack Spaces: 1U
  • Analog/Digital: Analog
  • EQ: 3-band EQ
  • Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
  • Outputs: 2 x XLR (post EQ/pre EQ), 1 x 1/4" (headphones)
  • Other I/O: 2 x 1/4" (FX loop)
  • USB: 1 x USB-C
  • Computer Connectivity: USB
  • Tube: 1 x ECC81, 1 x ECC82, 1 x ECC83
  • Power Source: Standard IEC AC cable
  • Manufacturer Part Number: AAE-CTM VALVE PRE

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

Ashdown preamp, incorrect tube info

I acquired this Ashdown AAE-CTM tube preamp and wanted to replace the preamp tubes with NOS tubes. I had Ashdown send me a schematic to clarify my questions. Their are 3 preamp tubes. First tube LEFT, looking at the front of the unit is an ECC81 which is a 12at7. The next 2 tubes are 12ax7's. This is what the schematic states! There is no ECC82(12au7).
The 12at7 is a JJ, the 2-12ax7's seem to be Ei.Tube location inside the preamp is not labeled!
I have not used the preamp as of yet. I find it odd that Ashdown did not put the model name anywhere on this unit?
I will leave a review on functionality and tone in a few months. This unit is well built.
Music background: Everything Music
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