The pocket-sized headphone amp can now handle 10 classic amp models, from vintage Basssman tones to modern Rumble punch.
Fender has launched a major firmware update for the Mustang Micro Plus, their compact headphone amp, adding full bass capabilities to the mix. What started as a guitarist’s tool now functions as a complete bass rig in your headphones, making it a silent practice solution for both guitarists and bassists.
For those unfamiliar with the Mustang Micro Plus, it’s designed as your personal practice amp. Plug it straight into your instrument’s jack, connect wired earbuds or headphones, and choose from the onboard presets. Built-in Bluetooth audio streaming lets you jam along to songs and videos in real time, which makes running through tracks at home super straightforward.
The update adds 10 classic bass amp models, spanning decades of low-end evolution, including:
- Rumble V2/V3
- Super Bassman
- Bassman TV
- Dual Showman
- SWR Redhead
- Rockin’ Peg
- Flip Top
- KGB 800
- Monster. E
Fender’s also thrown in a Switchable Input Pad for players running hot pickups or active electronics. This is so your signal stays clean and controlled, preventing the kind of clipping that can make practice tricky.
The Mustang Micro Plus already has a solid reputation among guitarists for late-night practice and couch noodling. Adding bass capability transforms it into something more versatile—bassists and guitarists in the same household can now share the same bit of kit without compromise. Given how much bass practice happens in headphones anyway (most neighbours don’t appreciate low, deep tones seeping into their home), having dedicated bass amp models rather than trying to make guitar amps work is a practical addition.
Each bass amp model has been designed to sound convincingly real through headphones, which is trickier than it sounds when you’re dealing with low frequencies and the psychoacoustics of closed-back listening. For bassists who’ve been eyeing the Mustang Micro Plus but held off because it was guitar-focused, this update removes that barrier. The fact that it’s free makes it even better—existing owners will get expanded functionality without reaching for their wallets, and new buyers get both guitar and bass covered in one compact package.
The firmware update is available now as a free download. Bassists looking for a practice solution that doesn’t involve compromise finally have an option in the Mustang Micro Plus, while guitarists who occasionally pick up a bass get a bonus tool they weren’t expecting.
Head to Fender to learn more.
