Joining the company's Bass Amp 2.0 lineup, the TC Electronic BH500 offers a number of tone-shaping tools such as TubeTone, SpectraComp, and bass-tuned tone controls, along with an integrated tuner and three user memories that let you change tones seamlessly during a performance.

When combined with TC's new BC410 / BC212 / BC210 cabinet range, it stacks up to become a customized rig for small bar gigs, indoor rock clubs, outdoor stadium concerts, and more.

The BH500 features SpectraComp, the TubeTone effect, storable tones (presets), a built-in bass tuner, Tone Controls, and the TweeterTone control.

According to the manufacturer, a conventional compressor is often dominated by the lower string, but with SpectraComp, which is taken directly from the original RH450, you get "per string" multiband compression that evens out the compression across all strings, in turn providing an even and solid tone that cuts through any mix, no matter how you play.

The TubeTone effect, originally introduced on the RH450 unit, borrows key features from a full preamp and a power amp. This effect is said to deliver a classic tube warmth, plus the punch of a fully overdriven rock sound.

As for presets, the BH500 can store three of your favorite sounds. The unit also lets you switch seamlessly between tones so that you don't have to fuss much to get decent tones.

The built-in bass tuner allows you to tune silently, while the included four-band EQ lets you shape your fundamental tone and two contour filters let you scoop the mid-range frequencies. The tweeter control is usually located on the rear side of the cabinet, but on the BH500, it is located on the front panel. Using the filters, you can modify its sound even further and get better control over "edgy" high frequencies.

Available as a plug and play unit, the BH500 is pretty much ready to use out of the box. For rehearsing or jamming purposes, you can connect your portable music player to the AUX input. Likewise, you can plug in your headphones for silent practicing, and the drivers will be muted automatically. For recording purposes, the BH500 includes a balanced XLR output.

For more information about the new BH500, please visit tcelectronic.com.