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Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 - 500-watt Bass Head Demo

500W Bass Amplifier Head with Compressor, 6-band Graphic EQ, IR Cabinet Simulation, and XLR DI Output
11 Write review Item ID: Micro500V2d1

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Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 - 500-watt Bass Head
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The Microtubes Bass Revolution Continues

The Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 bass amplifier head takes the acclaimed Microtubes amp to a new level of versatility. In addition to the renowned Microtubes overdrive/distortion engine, Microtubes 500 v2 adds a studio-quality VCA compressor, a flexible 6-band graphic EQ, and the ability to store three IR cabinet simulation presets for lifelike direct performance and recording. All this combined with 500 watts of amplification makes the Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 bass amplifier head a comprehensive solution for both the stage and the studio.

Related Videos: Microtubes 500 v2 - 500-watt Bass Head

Well-equipped for direct recording and performance

While it does offer an impressive 500 watts to push some serious air through a speaker cabinet, the Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 amp head has everything you need for outstanding direct tones, too. Fitted with a rear-panel XLR DI output, it has memory for up to three IR cabinet simulations, and you can upload your own via USB.

Ample connectivity options for any type of bass rig

The Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 has the flexibility you need to integrate with practically any bass rig. Dual speaker outputs offer 1/4-inch or speakON connectivity. A send/return loop makes it easy to integrate pedals and other effects processors. You can even optimize the Microtubes 500 v2’s performance for any type of bass pickups, thanks to its Passive/Active input mode selector.

Your ideal practice companion

Whether you’re waiting backstage before a performance or waiting for your turn in the studio, Sweetwater knows it pays to stay warmed up on your instrument. The Microtubes 500 v2 features a 3.5mm aux input for your smartphone, and a headphone output with its own volume control. Even with your rig fully set up, you can set up a private practice session to work on lines or simply jam along with your favorite tracks.

Darkglass Microtubes 500 v2 Bass Amplifier Head Features:

  • 500W solid-state bass amplifier head
  • Passive/Active switch optimizes performance for passive or active bass pickups
  • Aux input and headphone output allow you to practice along with a music player
  • Acclaimed Microtubes drive engine allows you to dial in harmonic richness and sonic girth
  • VCA compressor for controlling dynamics and fattening your tone
  • 6-band EQ gives you powerful tone shaping options
  • Memory for 3 IR cabinet simulations, uploadable via USB
  • FX loop; Footswitch jack
  • TS/speakON combo speaker output jack
  • XLR DI output

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Additional Media

Bass Guitar Amp Buying Guide

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Tech Specs

  • Type: Solid State
  • Number of Channels: Single Channel
  • Total Power: 500W Class D
  • Compression: Yes
  • EQ: 6-band Graphic EQ
  • Inputs: 1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8" (aux)
  • Outputs: 1 x SpeakON-1/4" combo (3 ohm minimum), 1 x XLR (direct out)
  • Headphones: 1 x 1/4"
  • Effects Loop: Yes
  • USB: 1 x USB-C
  • Footswitch I/O: 1 x 1/4" (Microtubes, mute)
  • Footswitch Included: No
  • Software: Darkglass Suite (load/change IR)
  • Cooling System: Internal Fan, Side Vents
  • Power Source: Standard IEC AC cable
  • Height: 2.79"
  • Width: 9"
  • Depth: 7"
  • Weight: 5.29 lbs.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: M500V2

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Customer Reviews

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You may think you don't want these distortion channels......but you do.

I came to this head from an Ampeg PF-500, which I actually liked quite well, but........while it is designed to give you a classic SVT tube sound, you really only get that tone with the gain pretty much dimed. At that setting it does it well, but then what? EQ is about all you have left.

The microtubes 500 can replicate that sound and so much more. The key is the distortion channels plus the blend pot.

The clean channel on this head is very good, it even rivals the likes of the Aguilar TH500. Many discerning bassists would be happy with this head without ever engaging the "Microtubes Engine". But that Microtubes Engine is where the magic happens. You have 2 distortion profiles to choose from, and the controls you are given over those profiles give you many options.

Here's what I recommend:

First dial in the clean sound you want, take your time, its there. Then, switch on the microtubes and crank that "blend" pot all the way to the right. At this point forget your clean sound for a moment and dial in an overdriven tone you like. Again, take your time, its there. Play around with both distortion channels.

Got it?

Now, twist that blend pot to the left until the amount of clean tone you dialed in becomes prominent enough for you.

Bada bing bada boom, Bob's your uncle, Fanny's your aunt.
by Kevin from Cincinnati on
Music background: Working bands as a younger man, now more of a hobbyist.

Killer Amp!

This amp thumps like a mofo! Such quality sound and so much tonal variety. I have been told that Darkglass is second to none and although I haven't tried a lot of other amps, I would agree. This is top of the line!
by Noah from Oregon on
Music background: Metal & Punk

This is a amp I’ve been waiting for

Pros,
Amp is really loud
Eq is easy to dial in
Compressor works just as good as a Cali 76tx
Cab sim stock are good x7 is my favorite.
Works with 3rd party irs this is a major plus
Headphones sound just like the amp and no adjustments needed major plus set it forget it.
On board drive is killer!
Cons
No foot switch (come on darkglass!)
Darkglass suite needs a lot of work

I will say this the amp is definitely best amp of 2020 the 900 was good but it was super loud. And clipped way to easy this amp just works and works great if you want this I recommend getting it!
by Sweetwater Customer on

Fantastic Sound!

The Darkglass Microtubes has an amazing sound right out of the box. I've only been playing on it for a few weeks and am still dialing in the EQ since I have some very different sounding instruments with very different tones. I recommend buying the Darkglass Super Intelligent Footswitch for Microtubes if you are playing out live.
by Eric Corley from Austin, TX on

Two distortions, three cab sims, compression, EQ, and a wall of sound for a reasonable price.

What's not to like?
If you enjoy Darkglass' distortion, this is a great amp for you.
Practicing at home with this and an Ampeg 410, the volume knob stays below 9 o'clock because this thing is ready to shake walls and crack windows.
by Nicholas Fougerousse from MIDVALE, UT on
See also: Bass Amp Heads, Darkglass, Darkglass Bass Guitar Amp Heads
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