Markbass Mini CMD 151P IV Piezo 151 1X15 500W

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The Mini CMD 151P IV continues the line of Markbass combos focused on performance and mobility: amps designed to deliver maximum usable power, fast response, and immediately usable sound both in rehearsal and on stage. This "IV" version marks a logical evolution of the concept by integrating the Little Mark IV Combo head and modern dynamic management and line output features. Within the range, it stands as a premium "all-in-one" solution: large speaker format (1x15) for solid foundation, combined with a compact chassis and manageable weight to keep up with a busy gig schedule.

Who This Amp Is For

This combo is aimed at bassists who want a true bass sound (full, deep, clear) without multiplying components (head + cabinet) and without sacrificing power. It suits both intermediate and professional musicians: in studio for its flexible line output and clean tone, in rehearsal for its available volume, and on stage for its punch and ability to stay defined in the mix. Style-wise, it excels in jazz, funk, pop, gospel, modern rock, and any situation where precision, a sharp attack, and firm lows are sought, with the option to soften the high end if needed.

Features and Innovations

The Mini CMD 151P IV focuses on straightforward ergonomics and genuinely useful tools for real-world conditions. It features a clear control layout with gain and Master Volume, complemented by a 4-band EQ (bass, low mids, high mids, treble) to finely adjust the bass's place in the band: thicken the lows, clean the low mids, boost presence, or open the highs depending on playing style and instrument. For even quicker shaping, two presets are available: "Flat" for a linear, natural, balanced response, and "V" for a more defined contour (ideal for slap and percussive playing). These settings can be selected on the front panel or via the footswitch input.

Markbass adds a bi-band limiter designed to preserve dynamics while keeping the lows clean: the attack remains fast and the sound holds up when pushing volume or playing hard. The Old School filter gradually cuts high frequencies to achieve a rounder, more "vintage" character, very handy with new strings, an overly present tweeter, or to approach an old-school tone without losing the foundation. Finally, the addition of a front panel mute is a game changer on stage: silent tuning, bass changes, pedalboard management-all done cleanly between songs.

The line output section is designed for modern needs: you can adjust the line out level directly on the front panel and choose whether the XLR output is pre or post EQ. Pre-EQ provides the sound engineer with a stable, neutral signal; post-EQ sends your signature (EQ, filter, voicing) exactly as you hear it on stage. The amp also includes an insert for easily integrating external processing in the chain (compression, EQ, preamp, etc.) depending on your setup.

The Sound

With its Markbass custom neodymium speaker and piezo-electric tweeter, the Mini CMD 151P IV offers a wide frequency response: present and quick lows typical of a well-controlled 15-inch speaker, and a high end that brings out finger attack, pick, or slap pops. The overall character remains very "plug and play": you easily get a clean, clear, powerful sound with good note definition even at higher volumes. The MPT amplification technology focuses on efficiency and low-end response, resulting in a sense of reserve and control, especially appreciated on strong attacks and lines that need to carry the band.

In practice, the "Flat" voicing provides a balanced base that respects the instrument and playing style: perfect for passive basses, walking lines, nuances, and "studio" sounds. The "V" voicing offers a more modern contour, with a percussive and brighter output, very effective in funk and contexts where the bass must pop without masking the kick drum. If you want a less bright top end, the Old School filter calms the highs to regain a more traditional roundness without having to redo the entire EQ. The result: a combo capable of switching from a clean hi-fi sound to a softer tone in a few moves, while remaining musical and coherent in a mix.

Technical specifications

Category	Bass combo	Number of speakers	1
Effects loop	Yes	EQ	4 channels
Cabinet impedance (Ω)	8 Ω	Color	Black
Category	Amplifier	Power output	300 W
Speaker diameter	15"

Type	bass combo	Function	Mute, selectable on front panel or footswitch controlled
Configuration	1x15 inch + piezo-electric tweeter	Limiter	bi-band
Speaker	Markbass custom neodymium	Line output	XLR pre/post EQ with front panel volume
Power	500W at 4 ohms	Speaker outputs	6.35mm Jack and Speakon
Amplification technology	MPT	Footswitch input	preset and mute selection (depending on configuration)
Controls	gain, bass, low mids, high mids, treble, Master Volume	Dimensions (mm)	464 (H) x 464 (W) x 480 (D)
Filter	Old School	Weight	18.5 kg
Presets	"Flat" and "V"