
Bass Combo Amplifier Head – ASHDOWN RM-500-EVO-II
500W Lightweight Bass Amplifier Head with 5-Band EQ, Built-In Compressor and Headphone Preamp
The Ashdown Rootmaster RM-500 EVO II is a powerful and lightweight 500-watt bass amplifier head designed to deliver classic Ashdown tone, reliability and versatile performance. Weighing just 2.1kg (4.6lbs), it is suitable for small, medium and larger live performances when paired with an appropriate speaker cabinet. Its preamp features separate passive and active instrument inputs, allowing compatibility with instruments that have different output levels. The trademark Ashdown VU meter helps monitor input signal levels, while the Shape button, 5-band EQ, onboard compressor, valve-emulated overdrive and sub-harmonic controls provide extensive tone-shaping options. An onboard headphone preamp supports silent practice, making the amplifier useful both on stage and at home. The Drive and Sub-Harmonic functions can also be controlled using an optional FS 2 footswitch. A dedicated mute button allows silent tuning and instrument changes, while the VU meter changes from orange to blue when mute is activated.
Description
The Ashdown Rootmaster RM-500 EVO II is a powerful and lightweight 500-watt bass amplifier head designed to deliver classic Ashdown tone, reliability and versatile performance. Weighing just 2.1kg (4.6lbs), it is suitable for small, medium and larger live performances when paired with an appropriate speaker cabinet. Its preamp features separate passive and active instrument inputs, allowing compatibility with instruments that have different output levels. The trademark Ashdown VU meter helps monitor input signal levels, while the Shape button, 5-band EQ, onboard compressor, valve-emulated overdrive and sub-harmonic controls provide extensive tone-shaping options. An onboard headphone preamp supports silent practice, making the amplifier useful both on stage and at home. The Drive and Sub-Harmonic functions can also be controlled using an optional FS 2 footswitch. A dedicated mute button allows silent tuning and instrument changes, while the VU meter changes from orange to blue when mute is activated.
Key features
500W Power Output
Delivers 500 watts of power for performances in small, medium and larger venues when paired with suitable speaker cabinets.
Ultra-Lightweight Design
Weighs just 2.1kg (4.6lbs), making it convenient to transport and set up for rehearsals, gigs and touring.
Passive and Active Inputs
Separate passive and active input sockets accommodate bass guitars with different output levels.
Ashdown VU Meter
The trademark VU meter helps monitor input signal levels for accurate input adjustment and changes from orange to blue when the amplifier is muted.
5-Band EQ
Provides comprehensive equalisation for shaping and refining the bass tone.
Shape Button
Offers an additional tone-shaping option to help customise the amplifier's sound.
Built-In Compressor
Helps control signal dynamics and produce a more consistent bass sound.
Valve-Emulated Overdrive
The Drive control adds valve-style overdrive for extra character and tonal aggression.
Sub-Harmonic Controls
Adds extra depth and fullness to the bass tone.
Footswitch Compatibility
The Drive and Sub-Harmonic functions can be controlled using an optional FS 2 footswitch, sold separately.
Headphone Preamp
Supports silent practice, allowing the amplifier head to double as a convenient home practice solution.
Mute Function
Allows silent tuning and instrument changes without interrupting the performance setup.
Versatile Performance
Designed for use across different venue sizes when matched with the appropriate speaker cabinet.
Technical specifications
- Brand
- Ashdown
- Model
- RM-500-EVO-II
- Product Type
- Bass Amplifier Head
- Power Output
- 500 Watts
- Weight
- 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs)
- Instrument Inputs
- Separate Passive and Active input jack sockets
- Equalisation
- 5-band EQ
- Tone Controls
- Shape button, Drive control and Sub-Harmonic controls
- Dynamics Processing
- Onboard compressor
- Headphone Preamp
- Yes
- Mute Function
- Yes
- Footswitch Compatibility
- FS 2 footswitch (sold separately)
- Speaker Cabinet Compatibility
- Requires a suitable external speaker cabinet
