Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 V2: Cabinet Suite IR Loading Comes to the Tone Hammer
The Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 V2, updated for 2024 at $999, represents the most significant upgrade the Tone Hammer 500 has received since its original release. The headline feature is Aguilar’s new Cabinet Suite, an IR loading system that comes pre-loaded with Aguilar SL and DB cabinet impulse responses and supports custom third-party IRs. Combined with dual XLR balanced outputs, 2.67-ohm impedance support, and universal mains for international touring, the TH500 V2 transforms from a pure amplifier head into a complete direct recording and live performance solution.
Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 V2 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Solid State Bass Head (Class D) |
| Street Price | $999 USD |
| Power | 500W @ 4 ohms / 250W @ 8 ohms |
| Min Impedance | 2.67 ohms |
| EQ | 3-band with adjustable mid frequency (180Hz-1kHz) |
| Drive | AGS (Adaptive Gain Shaping) |
| Cabinet Suite | IR loader with Aguilar SL/DB presets + custom IR support |
| Outputs | Dual XLR balanced, speaker out, headphone, aux input |
| Features | Effects loop, universal mains |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
Aguilar Cabinet Suite
The Cabinet Suite is the most meaningful addition to the 2024 revision. Pre-loaded with impulse responses of Aguilar’s own SL and DB series cabinets, the system allows the TH500 to send a fully cabinet-simulated signal through its dual XLR outputs directly to a mixing board, recording interface, or in-ear monitor system. For players who go direct at gigs or want to record without miking a cabinet, this eliminates the need for external IR loaders or cabinet simulator pedals. The system also supports custom third-party IRs, opening up a world of tonal possibilities beyond the Aguilar ecosystem.
Dual XLR and 2.67-Ohm Support
The dual balanced XLR outputs provide maximum flexibility for live and studio applications, allowing independent feeds to front-of-house and monitors, or stereo recording configurations. The 2.67-ohm impedance support means bassists can run three 8-ohm cabinets simultaneously, a configuration that was previously not possible with the Tone Hammer line. Universal mains power eliminates voltage concerns for international touring.
Who Should Buy the Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 V2
The TH500 V2 is the sweet spot of the updated Tone Hammer line for most working bassists. It offers the Cabinet Suite IR loading that the TH350 lacks, delivers 500 watts of clean power for most venue sizes, and costs $100 less than the TH700. It is particularly valuable for players who frequently go direct, record in studios, or use in-ear monitors.
Related Amps & Gear
If you found this review helpful, check out these related articles:
- Boss Katana Artist Gen 3: Flagship 100W Combo With Waza Speaker and Bloom Circuit
- Boss Katana Gen 3: Seven Models of Evolved Tube Logic From $299
- HeadRush Firmware 2.4: ENGL Powerball II Models and New Drive Effects
- Bare Knuckle Rebel Yell Review: Steve Stevens’ Signature Tone
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aguilar Cabinet Suite?
The Cabinet Suite is Aguilar’s built-in IR (impulse response) loading system that comes pre-loaded with Aguilar SL and DB cabinet simulations and supports custom third-party IRs. It allows you to send a fully cabinet-simulated signal through the XLR outputs.
Can the TH500 V2 run at 2.67 ohms?
Yes. The 2024 revision supports a minimum impedance of 2.67 ohms, allowing you to run three 8-ohm cabinets simultaneously.
Compare with the TH700 for more power, or explore the AG500 V2 for a 4-band EQ alternative.