To me it seems this will please some yanks but I can't see it selling too much elsewhere. It's the total opposite of what the majority of bassists seem to want right now. The trend, as I see it, is towards smaller and lighter!
Personally, and IMHO, I don't think Ashdown have released ANYTHING of interest since the original ABM series, and have made what I would consider to be some totally daft design choices in the past (who wants a 1000 watt amp that isn't really a 1000 watt amp? That one is still runnning!).
They've given the ABM a facelift 4 times now, if you include the Klynstron series (what a rip off!). Some say there was an entire redesign along the way, but to me it sounds similar enough to be no different!
The superfly series was a total disaster by all accounts and the seemingly mythical 'giant' series so far would seem like it's going the same way.
Having said that they did get it pretty spot on with the ABM. Best amp I've ever played through for my requirements - I've flipped on an Aguilar AG500 and a Thunderfunk and kept my original ABM combo.
*rant mode off*
Funny I've never had any trouble with the rotary + slider eq... but then I normally leave the eq off and just use the shape, drive and occasionally octave. Never heard an amp that sounds as good for me.
Really they could strip the ABM down to an input jack, gain, drive and volume and sell that in the 'giant' series shell and make a killing! There's loads of people who just want an amp with a 'louder' knob and noone, as yet, has given it to them!