Ampeg SVT III Pro 450w Head, Second-Hand Overview
Built in 1997 during the St. Louis Music era and proudly Made in the USA under SLM electronics. These Ampeg amplifiers were renowned for their robust construction, designed to endure for decades.
This particular model is an early iteration of the SVT-III Pro, distinguished by its distinctive red and blue graphics. It represents an evolution from its predecessor, the SVT-III (non-Pro), and later received the label SVT-3 Pro in a white and black color scheme. Essentially, it combines the preamp of the SVT-II Pro/SVT-2 Pro with a Solid-State Power amp section, resulting in a more compact and portable unit (weighing less than half the original). While it maintains the warm Ampeg sound legacy, it offers the flexibility and reliability characteristic of the Ampeg SLM era amplifiers.
The SVT-3 Pro remains a favorite workhorse for bass players, and due to popular demand, it continues to be manufactured today. Unlike the SVT Classics or SVT-2 Pro, the SVT-III Pro accommodates both 4 and 8 Ohms, providing increased versatility by allowing connection to smaller cabinets.
Key Specifications:
- RMS Power Output (8 Ohms): 275-Watts.
- RMS Power Output (4 Ohms): 450-Watts.
- Preamp: Tubes (3 x 12AX7).
- Driver Tubes: 1 x 12AX7, 1 x 12AU7.
- Power Amp: Solid-State.
- Tone Controls: 3-Band.
- Mid Tone Control: 5-Position.
- Graphic EQ: Yes, 9-Band.
- Ultra Lo & Ultra Hi Selectors.
- XLR Balanced Output with control knob.
- 3 Speaker Outputs (1 Speakon - 2 1/4").