Markbass Little Ag 58R 500W

Key Information About the Markbass Little AG 58R Amp

• Andrew Gouché signature bass amp head, designed for a warm, natural gospel/R&B sound that sits prominently in the mix
• 500 W RMS at 4 ohms (and 300 W RMS at 8 ohms ): ideal power reserve from studio to stage, especially with an additional cabinet
• Highly effective 5-band equalizer + adjustable bi-band limiter to shape attack, lows, and dynamics without losing character
• Ultra-compact format (2.17 kg) with balanced XLR DI and live-oriented connectivity

Historical Context and Positioning Within the Range

The Markbass Little AG 58R continues the brand's line of ultra-portable heads, with specifications directly derived from the demands of Andrew Gouché, a key figure in modern gospel bass sound. This "58R" version maintains the ergonomic philosophy of the range (quick access to controls and connectivity) while targeting a very musical sonic signature: ample lows, clear definition on sustained notes, and a controlled high end to maintain presence without harshness. For those seeking even more power, this amp head is also available in a 1000 W version called the Little AG 1000 58R.

Who This Amp Is For

The Little AG 58R is aimed at intermediate to professional bassists who want a straightforward amp head that is precise enough to meet demanding contexts. In rehearsal, it delivers an immediately usable sound and comfortable volume headroom. In the studio, its DI and fine EQ allow for a clean, controlled capture with a genuine "amp" feel under the fingers. On stage, it excels in styles where the bass must carry the song without bleeding: gospel, R&B, funk, pop, soul, fusion, and also modern rock when a clear foundation and well-controlled lows are desired.

Features and Innovations

Designed for effective use in real concert conditions, the Little AG 58R combines a clear architecture (gain, master, DI level) with precise shaping tools. The 5-band EQ targets selected frequencies to work the lows (65 Hz, 100 Hz), articulation (500 Hz), presence (1.4 kHz), and air (6 kHz), facilitating adaptation to a room, cabinet, or active/passive bass. The adjustable bi-band limiter helps stabilize dynamics: ideal for maintaining consistent finger attack, slap, or very "ghost note" lines while preventing the lows from overflowing when pushing volume. For integration, there is a front-panel insert loop for effects/processors, as well as a balanced XLR DI output with pre/post EQ selector and ground lift switch, convenient for sending a clean signal to the mixing console. A mute function allows silent changes, and an optional footswitch input enables control of Mute / EQ without letting go of the instrument.

Sound Character

The Little AG 58R aims for a warm, natural, and immediate sound, with dynamics that remain lively even at low volume, and a response that highlights the fingerstyle playing typical of gospel/R&B aesthetics. The lows are broad but controllable, the midrange is easy to shape to place the bass "up front" without harshness, and the highs can stay smooth while retaining the definition needed for attacks, harmonics, and slap. The bi-band limiter plays a central role in the feel: it allows shifting from a more modern response (tight, stable) to a rounder, more "old school" touch depending on the setting and right hand technique. Paired with a 4-ohm cabinet, the head unleashes its full power (500 W RMS) and becomes a very serious stage solution, while remaining one of the most portable options in its category.

Technical specifications

Category	Bass amp head	Color	Black
Effects loop	Yes	Finishing	Steel
Category	Amplifier	Power output	500 W
EQ	5 channels

Power	300 W RMS into 8 ohms	Ground switch	yes (ground lift)
Controls	Gain, Master Volume, DI Volume	Input for optional footswitch	Mute / EQ
Limiter	adjustable two-band	Speaker outputs (rear panel)	2 x 6.35 mm Jack + 1 x Speakon
Mute switch	yes	Dimensions	276 mm (W) x 256 mm (D) x 83 mm (H)
Insert loop	front panel	Weight	2.17 kg
DI output	balanced on XLR	Included accessories	user documentation
EQ selector	pre-post EQ