The SX-5H delivers 5 watts of all-valve warmth with ECC83 and EL84 tunes, offering rich, vintage tones in a compact format. With digital reverb, an effects loop, and a speaker-emulated out for recording, it's the perfect blend of classic tube character and modern flexibility. It is ideal for studio, stage, or home sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS Weight: 9.2kgSingle Channel Pre Amplifier with Genuine Accutronics Reverb Block1 x JJ Electronics ECC83s Preamplifier TubesBass, Middle, Treble and ControlsMaster Volume ControlStealth Switch Reduces Overall Volume and Activates Speaker Tone Compensation for Studio UseSeries Effects Loop Dimensions (H x W x D): 220 x 435 x 240 mmAux Input for Backing Tracks, MP3 etcSpeaker Mute Switch for Silent RecordingRecording Out Socket - Filtered to Simulate the Response of a Celestion Alnico SpeakerUp to 5 Watts output from 1 x JJ Electronics EL84 Valve16 & 8 Ohm Speaker Outputs for use with Different Speaker CabinetsPlywood Tolex Covered Classically Style Cabinet The Ashdown SX-5 Head stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of classic craftsmanship and modern innovation, offering guitarists an amplifier that transcends the boundaries of sonic expression. At its core, the 5-watt all-valve power of the SX-5 Head, driven by 1xECC83 and 1xEL84 tubes, delivers a rich, warm, and dynamic tonal palette that resonates with authenticity. Whether you find yourself in the studio, commanding thestage, or exploring your musical identity in the intimate space of your garage, the Ashdown SX-5 Head ensures an unparalleled sound experience. The addition of digital reverb brings a touch of spaciousness, enriching your playing with depth and dimension. Meanwhile, the effects loop empowers you to seamlessly integrate your favorite pedals, expanding your sonic landscape. The SX range of Valve Amplifiers by Ashdown is amanifestation of sonic engineering at its finest. Impeccable craftsmanship meets a wealth of features designed to meet the demands of today's versatilemusicians. From stage performers to studio artists, and those refining their skills at home, the SX series guarantees unparalleled sonic excellence. In the realm where classic meets modern, the SX-5 Head beckons you to explore the timeless beauty of valve amplification. Discover the ultimate blend of classic warmth and contemporary innovation, allowing your music to come alive in ways you've never imagined. Ashdown, the home of tone, extends an invitation to unleash your sound with the Ashdown SX-5 Head—a companion for the hardworking guitarist seeking both tone and flexibility in their musical journey. (function() { if(!window.hypervisualIsEditorContext) { var sliderOptions = { loop: true, autoplay: { delay: 4000 }, effect: 'slide', fadeEffect: { crossFade: true }, containerModifierClass: 'hypervisual__slider-container-', wrapperClass: 'hypervisual__slider-wrapper', slideClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide', slideActiveClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-active', slideDuplicatedActiveClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-duplicate-active', slideVisibleClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-visible', slideDuplicateClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-duplicate', slideNextClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-next', slideDuplicatedNextClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-duplicate-next', slidePrevClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-prev', slideDuplicatedPrevClass: 'hypervisual__slider-slide-duplicate-prev', buttonDisabledClass: 'hypervisual__slider-button-disabled', lazyLoadingClass: 'hypervisual__slider-lazy', lazyStatusLoadingClass: 'hypervisual__slider-lazy-loading', lazyStatusLoadedClass: 'hypervisual__slider-lazy-loaded', lazyPreloaderClass: 'hypervisual__slider-lazy-preloader', preloaderClass: 'preloader', zoomContainerClass: 'hypervisual__slider-zoom-container', notificationClass: 'hypervisual__slider-notification' }; sliderOptions.pagination = { clickable: true, el: '.hypervisual__slider-pagination', bulletClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-bullet', bulletActiveClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-bullet-active', modifierClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-', currentClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-current', totalClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-total', hiddenClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-hidden', progressbarFillClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-progressbar-fill', clickableClass: 'hypervisual__slider-pagination-clickable' }; sliderOptions.navigation = { nextEl: '.hypervisual__slider-button-next', prevEl: '.hypervisual__slider-button-prev', }; var slider = new Swiper ('#hypervisual__slider_951265604', sliderOptions); window.addEventListener("load", function(event) { slider.el.className = slider.el.className.replace('hypervisual__slider-container-pending', ''); slider.update(); slider.pagination.render(); slider.pagination.update(); }); } })(); SX USER MANUAL DOWNLOAD
• Aux Input: Yes (for backing tracks, MP3, etc.)
• Effects Loop: Series
• Recording Out: Speaker-emulated output (Celestion Alnico simulation)
• Speaker Outputs: 16Ω and 8Ω for external cabinets
• Speaker Mute Switch: Yes (silent recording)
PERFORMANCE
• EQ: Bass, Middle, Treble controls
• Reverb: Digital Accutronics reverb block
• Stealth Switch: Reduces overall volume + activates speaker tone compensation for studio use
• Cabinet Build: Plywood, tolex-covered, classic style
• Tonal Character: Warm, vintage all-valve tone with modern recording/live flexibility
• Designed for: Studio, stage, and home sessions
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
• Height: 220 mm
• Width: 435 mm
• Depth: 240 mm
• Net Weight: 9.2 kg
5 Watts of Pure Tube Warmth
Compact Valve Power
The Ashdown SX-5H delivers the unmistakable tone of an all-valve amp, driven by a JJ ECC83 preamp tube and EL84 power tube. With 5 watts of power, it strikes the perfect balance, low enough for natural breakup at manageable volumes, yet dynamic enough to deliver rich, vintage-inspired tones full of warmth and character.
Shape Your Tone with Precision
Classic Controls with Modern Touches
Equipped with a single-channel preamp, the SX-5H offers intuitive bass, middle, treble, and master volume controls for sculpting your sound. A genuine Accutronics reverb block adds spaciousness and depth, while the stealth switch reduces output and applies tone compensation, making it ideal for quiet practice or studio sessions.
Silent Recording and Emulated Output
Studio-Ready Flexibility
For recording, the SX-5H includes a speaker-emulated output, filtered to replicate the response of a Celestion Alnico speaker. A speaker mute switch enables silent recording without sacrificing tone, while 16 & 8 ohm outputs give you the freedom to connect different speaker cabinets for live performance or rehearsal.
Integrate Your Pedals, Expand Your Sound
Built for the Modern Guitarist
The SX-5H is designed to integrate seamlessly with your setup. A series effects loop allows you to add pedals and multi-effects without compromising tone, while an aux input lets you play along with backing tracks for practice or performance. This combination of classic valve character and modern convenience ensures versatility in every situation.
Orders placed before 3pm (Monday-Thursday) are dispatched on the same day. UK Customer orders are shipped on a next-day delivery service via TNT.
Do You Shop To Outside Of The UK?
Currently, we do not facilitate orders to outside of the UK. If there is a specific product that you are after, be sure to check our Dealer Locator to find your closest Ashdown dealer!
If you cannot find a local dealer, please do not hesitate to get in touch and we will try and assist!
Do Ashdown Products Come With A Warranty?
Yes! All Ashdown product purchased include a 5 year warranty, giving you peace of mind and long-term support.
For more information on warranties, visit our Warranty Info page!
Where Can I Buy Ashdown Spares and Accessories?
Spare parts, footswitches, and accessories can be purchased directly through our in-house service team. If you're looking for something specific, our team will be happy to point you in the right direction!
How Can I Contact Ashdown Support?
Our passionate UK-based team is always ready to help. You can get in touch by phone or email, and we'll be happy to assist with any questions.
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