Hartke LX5500 500w Tube Preamp Bass Head

Hartke LX5500 Head 500W Tube Preamp

Capture the true character of your bass guitar with the Hartke LX5500. Combining a classic 12AX7 Class A tube preamp with a highly efficient Class D power section, this 500-watt bass head delivers massive tone in a remarkably lightweight 8lb chassis. Designed for the stage and the studio, the LX5500 provides the versatility and power demanded by modern bassists.

Hartke Tone Stacked

The onboard Hartke Tone Stack EQ is designed specifically for rich bass tone, featuring familiar bass and treble controls alongside Frequency and Shape knobs for extensive midrange control. Engage the Brite button to boost high frequencies, bringing out the top end of your bass and highlighting natural harmonic overtones for a distinct, vibrant sound.

Total Control

The LX5500 features two essential onboard effects to enhance your playing and expand your sonic arsenal. An integrated Drive control lets you mix in a comfortable amount of grit or max it out for a healthy dose of fuzzy goodness. Additionally, a built-in compressor allows you to dial in just the right amount of punch and presence, smoothing out transients for players who use slapping, tapping, and thumb picking techniques.

The Ins and Outs

Lightweight enough to take anywhere and versatile enough for any setup, the LX5500 is the ideal amplifier for stage and rehearsal. An XLR direct output with pre and post EQ selection allows direct connection to a PA or recording console. An 1/8″ headphone output is ideal for quiet practice sessions, while an 1/8″ auxiliary input can be used to connect phones or MP3 players.

Technical Specifications

Continuous Average Output Power
500 watts @ 4 ohms, 330 watts @ 8 ohms

Preamp
Class A, with 12AX7 Low Noise High-Mu Twin Triode

Input
>1MΩ unbalanced

Compressor Ratio
Fixed 2:1

Compressor Threshold
Off to -30dBu to Input

Mute
>80dB (100dB typical) at Direct Output & Speaker Output

Brite Switch
10kHz, +8dB Gain @ 2 o’clock; +5dB Gain @ min

Bass Knob
+8/-14dB @ 80Hz relative to 12 o’clock

Shape Knob
+11/-3dB relative to 12 o’clock

Frequency Knob
200Hz-800Hz

Treble Knob
+5/-20dB @ 6kHz relative to 12 o’clock

FX Loop Send
200Ω impedance balanced

FX Loop Return
20kΩ balanced, 5.5dBu for Rated Output Power

Tuner Output
100Ω unbalanced

Direct Output
210Ω balanced

Stereo Aux Input
3kΩ unbalanced, -10dBV

Headphones
80mW max @ 32Ω

Dimensions
14” x 10.6” x 2.6” / 355mm x 270mm x 73mm

Weight
8lb / 3.6kg

Learn more about Hartke

View more Hartke at Marshall Music

Why Buy From Marshall Music

At Marshall Music, we’re passionate musicians and audio experts dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear. We offer a massive selection of premium musical instruments, music technology, professional audio equipment, and accessories from the world’s top brands.

Get honest expert advice, competitive prices, fast delivery, and outstanding service from a team that truly understands music. Whether you’re buying your first guitar or building a professional studio, we make sure you get the right equipment at the right price — every time.

Shop with confidence at Marshall Music — your premier South African music store.

Why Buy From OneStopMusic

At OneStopMusic, we’re passionate musicians and audio experts dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear. We offer a massive selection of premium musical instruments, music technology, professional audio equipment, and accessories from the world’s top brands.

Get honest expert advice, competitive prices, fast delivery, and outstanding service from a team that truly understands music. Whether you’re buying your first guitar or building a professional studio, we make sure you get the right equipment at the right price — every time.

Shop with confidence at OneStopMusic — your trusted one-stop music store.