Carlsbro BASS BOMBER 1980S-90S

MG-A063

The Carlsbro Bass Bomber (most commonly designated as the BC2140) is a classic solid-state bass combo amplifier from the legendary British manufacturer Carlsbro. Known for their rugged, no-nonsense construction and dependable workhorse reliability, Carlsbro amps were a staple of the UK gigging and rehearsal scene through the 1980s and 1990s.

Key Specifications

• Amplifier Type: Solid-State Bass Combo
• Power Output: 125 Watts RMS
• Speaker Configuration: Single 15-inch custom driver paired with a high-frequency horn (tweeter) for added clarity and high-end definition.
• Inputs & Preamp: Ultra-high-impedance universal jack input designed to handle both active and passive basses cleanly, complemented by a variable input gain control.
• Tone Shaping: 3-band active EQ featuring dedicated bass, middle, and treble controls (often with mid-sweep capabilities depending on the exact production run).
• Build: Heavy-duty wood-ply cabinet wrapped in tough black Tolex with robust corner protectors and a front metal grille.

Pros & Performance Notes

• Deep, Thumping Low-End: The combination of a 125-watt power stage and a 15-inch speaker delivers a rich, room-filling vintage bottom end that punches well above its price tag.
• Tank-Like Durability: True to Carlsbro’s reputation from that era, the internal components and chassis are massively over-engineered and built to survive years of being hauled around in the back of vans.
• The Catch: Like many analog amps from decades past, scratchy potentiometers (pots) or oxidized input jacks are common due to age, meaning a quick spray of contact cleaner is often needed to clear out any crackle. It is also heavy and cumbersome to lug around compared to modern lightweight Class-D micro-rigs.