Bad Cat Cub V EL34 - Head

The Bad Cat Cub V EL34 head is a premium, hand-wired tube amplifier designed for players who demand tonal versatility, high-quality construction, and professional-level performance. Built in Costa Mesa, California, the Cub V is part of Bad Cat's hand-wired series and combines decades of amplifier expertise with carefully selected modern features. This 40-watt head is powered by a pair of EL34 power tubes and delivers a dynamic, articulate sound suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

A key feature of the Cub V is its switchable EF86/12AX7 preamp section, offering two distinct tonal characters in one amplifier. The EF86 provides rich harmonics and added gain, ideal for players seeking enhanced touch sensitivity and dynamic response. The 12AX7 option delivers a more traditional tone with well-defined mids and sparkling highs. With five 12AX7s, a 5AR4 rectifier, and a custom Bad Cat transformer set, the Cub V offers high headroom, organic saturation, and a smooth breakup when pushed.

The Cub V also includes dual footswitchable master volumes, allowing players to switch between two output levels on the fly - ideal for dynamic live settings or controlled volume changes during performance. Additional tone-shaping tools include a 4-way depth control, linear bass and treble controls, and a tube-driven spring reverb for natural, studio-quality ambience. A buffered effects loop ensures that time-based effects integrate seamlessly without tone loss.

Built with reliability and durability in mind, the Cub V features true point-to-point hand-wiring on a heavy-duty aluminium chassis, voidless Baltic birch cabinetry, and rugged Heather tolex with premium leather corners. A 4/8/16 ohm switch allows for flexible speaker output options, making it easy to pair with different cabinets.

Every Cub V comes with a 2-button footswitch for controlling reverb and master volumes, as well as a fitted amp cover for added protection during transport. Whether used in the studio, on stage, or at home, the Cub V offers exceptional build quality, tonal range, and performance for serious guitarists.