Darkglass Microtubes 900 V2: 900 Watts of Signature Bass Distortion at 6.4 Pounds
The Darkglass Microtubes 900 V2, updated for 2024 at $1,299, is the latest iteration of the bass head that helped define the modern metal and progressive bass tone. Delivering 900 watts at 4 ohms in a chassis weighing just 6.4 pounds, the MT900 V2 combines switchable Vintage Microtubes and B3K drive circuits with a VCA compressor, 6-band graphic EQ, three IR cabinet simulation presets, and MIDI control. It is one of the most powerful and feature-rich lightweight bass heads on the market.
Darkglass Microtubes 900 V2 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Class D Bass Head |
| Street Price | $1,299 USD |
| Power | 900W @ 4 ohms / 500W @ 8 ohms |
| Drive | Switchable VMT (Vintage Microtubes) and B3K |
| Compressor | Studio-grade VCA |
| EQ | 6-band graphic (ultra-quiet) |
| Cabinet Sim | 3 IR presets |
| Connectivity | MIDI, Intelligent Footswitch compatible |
| Input | Passive/active selector |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs (2.9 kg) |
| Dimensions | 10.5″ W x 10″ D x 2.75″ H |
Dual Microtubes Drive Engines
The heart of the MT900 V2 is its dual drive engine system. The Vintage Microtubes (VMT) circuit delivers warm, tube-like saturation with rich harmonic content that sits beautifully in a mix without overpowering other instruments. The B3K circuit shifts to a more aggressive, modern distortion character with tighter low end and more pronounced upper-mid bite. Both circuits can be engaged independently, and their parameters are MIDI-controllable for preset-based switching during live performances.
VCA Compressor and 6-Band Graphic EQ
The studio-grade VCA compressor provides transparent dynamic control that preserves the character of the drive circuits while taming peaks and evening out the signal. The 6-band graphic EQ offers more precise frequency sculpting than the typical 3 or 4-band parametric EQ found on most bass heads, with each band using ultra-quiet circuitry to maintain the lowest possible noise floor. This combination gives the MT900 V2 the kind of detailed tone control usually reserved for outboard studio gear.
900 Watts in a Lunchbox
At 6.4 pounds and roughly the size of a large hardcover book, the MT900 V2 is deceptively powerful. The 900-watt Class D power section delivers authoritative clean headroom at 4 ohms, and the three onboard IR cabinet simulation presets allow direct-to-PA or recording use without an external cabinet. MIDI support and compatibility with Darkglass’s Intelligent Footswitch system make it a sophisticated touring tool despite its modest dimensions.
Who Should Buy the Darkglass Microtubes 900 V2
The MT900 V2 is the head of choice for metal and progressive bassists who need aggressive drive with clean headroom, touring musicians who want maximum power in minimum weight, and players already invested in the Darkglass ecosystem through pedals and footswitches. For a different drive character, the Alpha Omega 900 offers the dual Alpha/Omega drive engines at a lower price point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Microtubes 900 V2 and Alpha Omega 900?
Both deliver 900W in the same compact chassis. The MT900 V2 uses VMT and B3K drive circuits (warm/aggressive), while the AO900 uses Alpha and Omega drive engines (tight/warm). The MT900 V2 is priced higher at $1,299 vs $749 for the AO900.
Compare with the Alpha Omega 900 or explore the Infinity combo series.