Bad Cat Cub V EL84 1x12 Combo vs Bad Cat Hot Cat 1x12 Combo
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right Tube Guitar Combos for your music.
Last updated: July 1, 2026 • Next update: July 8, 2026
Bad Cat Cub V EL84 1x12 Combo
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
This Cub V is a serious contender if you crave that classic Bad Cat tone in a manageable package. It's a fantastic low-wattage amp perfect for home recording, smaller gigs, or anyone who wants that vintage British amp vibe with a modern refinement—especially great for rock, blues, and roots players.
$3,079
Bad Cat Hot Cat 1x12 Combo
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
5/10
The Hot Cat is a serious contender if you're chasing a focused, powerful rock tone. It's built like a tank and delivers that classic Bad Cat midrange punch—perfect for blues, classic rock, and anything needing a bit of grit. It's not a do-everything amp, but it *nails* what it does.
$2,199
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Bad Cat Cub V EL84 1x12 Combo | Bad Cat Hot Cat 1x12 Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Bad Cat | Bad Cat |
| Model | Cub V EL84 1x12 Combo | Hot Cat 1x12 Combo |
| Price | $3078 | $2198 |
| Expert Rating | ⭐ 4.6/5 | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
| Power (Watts) | 20 | 45 |
| Tubes | 3 x 12AX7 preamp, 2 x EL84 power | 4 x 12AX7 (Preamp), 2 x EL34 (Power Amp) |
| Speaker | 1 x 12’ Bad Cat Custom Celestion V30 | 1x12” Celestion Vintage 30 |
| Channels | 2 | 2 (Clean/Lead) |
| Effects | Bias-Modulated Tremolo, Reverb | Spring Reverb |
| Weight | 21.3 kg | 21.3 kg |
| Pros | + Exceptional clean headroom for a 20W amp, remarkably tight and defined. | + Exceptional clean headroom, surprisingly responsive at lower volumes. |
| Pros | + Bad Cat’s signature midrange punch delivers incredible cut and sustain. | + Bad Cat's signature midrange focus cuts through any mix effortlessly. |
| Pros | + The custom Celestion V30 provides a responsive, articulate voice. | + The Celestion Vintage 30 delivers a classic, powerful rock tone. |
| Pros | + Solid, roadworthy construction; clearly built to last decades. | + Robust build quality; clearly designed for gigging and lasting years. |
| Cons | - Premium-priced, a significant investment for most guitarists. | - Limited tonal versatility; excels at rock, less suited for extreme genres. |
| Cons | - Tremolo is serviceable, but not a standout feature compared to others. | - Premium-priced, a significant investment for many guitarists. |
| Cons | - Limited tonal palette; excels in rock/blues, less versatile for extreme genres. | - 45 watts can be loud; may be too much for home practice without attenuation. |
| Category | Tube Guitar Combos | Tube Guitar Combos |
| Article Number | 610588 | 597437 |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bad Cat's clean channel is tighter and more focused, lacking the 'spongy' feel of a Deluxe Reverb, but offering more headroom before breakup.
The reverb is a well-implemented analog spring reverb, adding a nice depth without being overly splashy.
It really shines with hotter pickups – think PAF-style or higher output – to really drive the EL84s, but it’s also surprisingly good with vintage single coils.
The clean channel is quite transparent, so it takes pedals exceptionally well, especially overdrive and boost pedals to add some extra edge.
Yes, it’s a classic spring reverb, offering a lush, vintage vibe; it’s not overly splashy, but adds a nice depth to the sound.
The Hot Cat's midrange focus and Bad Cat’s voicing creates a distinct, powerful character that many other amps simply don't achieve, making it stand out from the crowd.
