H&K Adds Head, Cabs to Quantum Bass Line

(Click for a close-up)

The new big gun in the Quantum Series series is the QT 600 bass amp. This bass head is driven by a 600-watt amp with Dynavalve technology that marries classic tube power amp architecture to inconspicuous semiconductor components to foster harmonic transients that enrich the spectrum with fatter, more concise, explosive, and louder tone, according to Hughes & Kettner.

The key to the QT 600's performance, the Tube Touch Circuit-powered input stage offers ample dynamic headroom. The 4-band Parallel EQ (a technology appropriated from the high-end studio sector) gently tweaks signals, affecting only the selected frequencies. There's also a pre/post assignable DI Out.

Preamp Controls:

• Gain Knob
• Mute Button
• Tube Touch Circuit
• Hot Indicator
• 4-band Pure Parallel EQ
• Punch Button
• Bass Shape Button
• Mid Boost Button
• Tube Growl Knob
• Fat Indicator
• Master Knob

Connections:

• Active Input
• Passive Input
• Tuner Out
• Line Out
• DI Out, balanced
• Pre/Post EQ assignment
• Ground Lift Switch
• Headphones
• FX Loop
• Punch/FX Loop Footswitch
• External Loudspeaker

MSRP for the QT 600 is 1,690 Euro.

And to go along with the QT 600, Hughes & Kettner has announced six new Quantum Series cabinets. All models ship with neodymium speakers developed in cooperation with Eminence. Alongside reduced weight and improved impulse response, all models feature integrated HF systems that radiate a homogenous soundscape across a very wide pattern of throw.

All enclosures are crafted of six-ply Okume plywood, a robust material that is lightweight and roadworthy. Quantum Pro Series bass cabinets sport Speakon connectors, durable steel grilles and generously sized grips; the larger models are equipped with casters.

The cabinet line consists of:

• QS 210 PRO - 2x10, 450 Watts, 4/16 Ohms, MSRP: 790 Euro
• QS 410 PRO - 4x10, 900 Watts, 8 Ohms, MSRP: 1110 Euro
• QS 610 PRO - 6x10, 1350 Watts, 5.3 Ohms, MSRP: 1690 Euro
• QS 810 PRO - 8x10, 1800 Watts, 4 Ohms, MSRP: 1990 Euro
• QS 115 PRO - 1x15, 300 Watts, 8 Ohms, MSRP: 790 Euro
• QS 2115 PRO - 2x10+1x15, 750 Watts, 2.8 Ohms, MSRP: 1110 Euro

Both the QT 600 head and the new cabinets are also expected to ship in May 2004.