NAMM 2017: Victory Amplification V40 Deluxe and V130 Super Countess
Victory's new models are natural evolutions of their award-winning amplifiers.
Victory Amplification have announced two new models for NAMM 2017, the V40 Deluxe and V130 Super Countess.
The V40 Deluxe is is the next evolution of the V40 The Duchess head. A 2 x 6L6-powered all-valve amp with classic American cleans through to ’60s British drive, the Deluxe offers a lot from its single channel. Features include high- and low-power modes, a hard-bypassable series effects loop, plus footswitchable valve-driven tremolo and spring reverb. The reverb has controls for level and tone, enabling you to have a relatively darker or brighter toned reverb. Available in two formats: a 1 x 12 widebody combo with Celestion G12H-75 Creamback speaker and a head in a traditional wooden sleeve, the V40 Deluxe is part of the Victory Heritage Series.
Specifications
- Type: Single-channel all-valve 1x12 combo or head, with valve-driven spring reverb and tremolo
- Power: 2 x 6L6: 42 watts high power / 7 watts low power
- Size (mm): Combo: 598(w) x 453(h) x 250(d). Head as V130
- Weight: Combo: 24kg Head: 12.5kg
- SRP pricing, Jan 2017: £Sterling / €Euro / $USD
- 1 x 12 Combo: £1,569 / €1,799 / $1,849
- Head: £1,249 / €1,439 / $1,449
V130 The Super Countess is evolved from Victory's best-selling V30 The Countess model. Upgraded for 2017, features now include an up-scaled, wooden-sleeve version, with a mighty 100-watt 6L6 power section and four footswitchable modes, two per channel.
The high-headroom Clean channel has footswitchable ‘clean’ and ‘crunch’ modes, the latter providing on-the-edge breakup tones to full-on classic rock drive. (V30 The Countess does not have the ‘crunch’ mode.) The Overdrive channel has two voice settings; Voice II is the classic V30 OD sound, while Voice I is new and offers tighter bottom end and slightly lower gain.
Specifications:
Type: Two-channel / four-mode all-valve head
Power: 4 x 6L6: 100 watts high power / 30 watts low power
Size (mm): 480(w) x 235(h) x 235(d)
Weight: 16kg
SRP pricing, Jan 2017: £Sterling / €Euro / $USD
Head: £1,329 / €1,529 / $1,499
NAMM 2017: Black Country Customs LA100BL and TI-BOOST
There's cool, and then there's Tony Iommi cool...
Black Country Customs have announced the LA100BL, an recreation of the amp used by Tony Iommi on the first Black Sabbath album. Alongside the amp, the Laney-owned brand have also unveiled the TI-BOOST, which takes its inspiration from the Rangemaster pedal favoured by Iommi.
The LA100BL head & LA412 are a faithful, hand built, point-to-point wired, reissue of the original amp and cab Tony used at the beginning of his Black Sabbath career. Everything in the amp is as it was in the original. From the hand drilled turret board, the parts list, the authentic hand wiring process and the original box frame styled output transformer. It is as close to the real thing as buying an original LA100BL.
The TI-BOOST functions in the same way as Iommi's legendary modified Range master – with a significant bass cut and mid boost, but Black Country Customs have included a little more gain and EQ options to make it more appealing to more players looking to find their own sounds.
Check out Laney's demo of the rig below:
NAMM 2017: Vox Launch 3 new MV-50 Amps
Vox reveal the all new MV50 series.
2017 has dawned, and with it Vox have launched three whole completely new magnificently teeny new amplifier heads, and a pretty sweet cab to compliment the range.
Introducing the MV-50 series; a truly original and revolutionary series of micro-amps. Weighing barely one single pound the MV series utilises Vox's new Nutube technology to provide a whopping 50w of power to rival the tone and volume of all your favourite roadie worthy valve amps.
Partnered with a carefully matched analogue pre-amp to preserve all the richness and warmth of an old school amp, along with a modern, light weight class D power circuit to guarantee enough face melting volume to make this range of tiny devils capable of anything!
The range consists of three amplifier heads, each providing something different. The AC head offers all the tonal characteristics of the legendary AC-30. Perfect for traditional players, or just for the many millions of players in love with the legendary sound of the AC-30...but not so in love with the idea of lugging one around.
The Clean offers a Fendery sparkle perfect for the player demanding all the headroom, and minimal break up.
The Rock is geared up towards the heavier player. Emulating the ageless tone of British style overdrive.
Each Amplifier is available solo or partnered with a specifically designed 25w 8" Vox cabinet, classically styled to perfectly accent the gorgeous looking range.
BOSS unveil new Katana amp range
BOSS latest range of amplifiers offer WAZA tones in giggable sizes
BOSS have just introduced the Katana amp series, a new lineup of guitar amplifiers born of the development process behind the acclaimed Waza amplifier. Offering class-defying tone, touch response, and presence, Katana amps are designed for gigging guitarists who also need a a quality amp for recording and practice at home.
The Katana lineup consists of three combos and a head. The 50-watt Katana-50 and 100-watt Katana-100 are each equipped with a custom 12-inch speaker. The Katana-100/212 has 100 watts of power and is equipped with two custom 12-inch speakers. The 100-watt Katana-Head is designed for use with an external speaker cabinet but interestingly includes an integrated monitor speaker for tone preview and practice.
Each Katana amp features five selectable amp characters: Clean, Crunch, Lead, Brown, and Acoustic as well as 55 BOSS effects, which are customizable using the free BOSS Tone Studio editor software. Users can load 15 different effects in the amp at one time, and use up to three effects at once. The Tone Settings feature in the Katana amps allows players to store amp and effects settings to recall tweaked setups instantly. It’s also possible to connect optional footswitches and expression pedals for hands-free control. The Katana-Head supports control via MIDI as well.
While the Katana amps include many advanced features, they offer intuitive interfaces that allow players to dial in sounds quickly. An innovative Power Control function lets users achieve cranked-up tones at low volumes, a great benefit for playing on small stages and practicing at home.
SUMMER NAMM 2016: Supro 1600 Supreme 6V6 amp
Supro's tribute to Keef will start you up!
Supro USA has announced the 1600 Supreme, an all-tube tribute to rock guitar icon Keith Richards. This historic replica sees the return of the Chicago-made 1x10 amplifier used extensively by the Rolling Stones guitarists throughout decades of rock and roll hits.
With ample headroom for use with pedals and plenty of volume on tap for playing live, the new Supro 1600 Supreme carries on this legacy as the the no-frills, grab-and-go amplifier. From warm jazz and clean country twang to dirty blues and hard rock, the Supreme projects loud, clear, punchy tone, with unrivaled clarity, touch dynamics and low noise floor---even when pushed into glorious 6V6 power-tube overdrive.
The legendary Supro preamp found in the 1600 Supreme features a pair of parallel gain stages fed into a shared tone knob. This versatile, dual-input preamp allows two instruments to share the same combo amplifier, as well as providing the convenient option of plugging a single instrument into IN1+2, for double the gain. The two inputs can also be used with an A/B or A/B/Y switch to accomplish channel switching for both clean and dirty tones with one guitar.
Features:
- 1959 Vintage Supro Cosmetics and Circuitry
- 2 Channels with Parallel Link and shared tone control
- 25 Watts Cathode-Bias "Class-A" Power Amp
- Ample headroom for live performance with pedals
- 1×10" Custom Voiced Supro BD10 speaker
- EXT Speaker jack for matching extension cabinet
- 3x JJ 12AX7 preamp tubes
- 2x JJ 6V6 power tubes
- Gold Faceplate
- Black Rhino Hide Tolex
- 17 5/8" x 7 1/2" x 15 1/2"
- 33.6 lbs / 15.3 kg
- Assembled in NY, USA
Check out Supro's demo of the new 1600 Supreme below:
Dr. Z Release DB4 Amplifier
This new amp was designed in collaboration with Brad Paisley.
Dr. Z Amplifiers have announced the DB4, a brand new amplifier designed in collaboration with Brad Paisley. Described as a "rich and warm sounding British-voiced amp", the DB4 utilises a 5879 U.S. made pentode preamp tube similar to the one found in the Gibson GA-40 Les Paul amplifier.
The DB4 will be offered as a head, 1x12 “Classic-Lite” combo loaded with a Celestion Alnico Gold, and 2x12 “Blues-breaker” combo loaded with two Celestion Alnico Blue speakers.
Specifications
- Power Output 18/38 watts
- Output Tubes 4 - EL84
- Preamp Tubes 2 - 12AX7
- Rectifier 5AR4
- Controls Volume, Rotatory Tone Switch, Cut
- Other 4, 8, 16 Ohm speaker outs
- Half/Full power switch
- Removable casters (2x12 combo only)
- Configurations Head
- 1x12 “Classi-Lite” combo
- 2x12 “Bluesbreaker” Combo
- Colors Head and 1x2 Combo: Black, Blonde, Red
- 2x12 “Bluesbreaker” Combo: Black, Red, Navy Blue
- Dimension & Weight Head: 19”W x 9 3⁄4H x 9 1⁄2D 26 lbs.
- 1x12 “Classic-Lite” Combo: 23”W x 20 1/8”H x 10”D 42 lbs.
- 2x12 “Bluesbreaker” Combo: 32 1/4”W x 23 1/8”H x 10 1/2”D 68 lbs.
NAMM 2016: Marshall CODE amplifiers
Marshall's latest offering includes authentic amp modelling and Bluetooth compatibility.
Marshall and Softube have joined forces to produce the brand new CODE series of amplifiers.
Offering classic and contemporary Marshall tones, the Marshall-Softube modelling includes 14 preamps, four power amps and eight speaker cabinets. Preamps include JTM45 2245, 1962 Bluesbreaker, 1959SLP Plexi, JCM800 2203, JCM2555 Silver Jubilee, JCM2000 DSL100, JVM410H and with the power amp models listed by their valve types. EL34, 5881, EL84 & 6L6 models all appear alongside 1960, 1960V, 1960AX, 1936V, 1912, 1974X speaker cabs.
Offered in 25w, 50w and 100w varieties, there is a CODE combo for every situation. They're joined by a 100w head and series-specific 4x12 cabinet and a compatible footswitch. The entire range is Bluetooth compatible and allows players to stream audio and remotely control the amp via the Marshall Gateway app.
Marshall CODE Series Features:
• 100 user editable presets
• 14 preamp models
• 4 power amp models
• 8 speaker cabinet models
• 24 pro quality FX
• Up to 5 FX simultaneously
• Bluetooth & USB connectivity
• Marshall Gateway compatible
• Headphone output
• Line input
• Tuner
• Programmable footcontroller (sold separately)
Check out Marshall's video demo below:
NAMM 2016: Vox AC Series heads and cabs
Money can't buy me love, but it can now buy me a Vox head and cab!
New for 2016, Vox have announced the reintroduction of their legendary AC-15 and AC-30 heads, coupled with a charming 2x12 cabinet housed in the same chassis as their ever-present AC-30 combo amp.
The announcement isn't especially unexpected, and it certainly doesn't blow the doors off in terms of unique or innovative NAMM releases for this year, but it is nonetheless an extremely important addition to Vox's catalog.
That might seem like an odd statement considering it is nothing more than the separation of two existing combo amplifiers into head and cab's, and that, in both cases, the separation adds at least an extra few pounds to the overall weight of what is already one of the heaviest, most cumbersome amplifiers in its class.
It has certainly been met with mixed reactions by the guitar community. Weight is a hot topic at the moment, and despite being utterly, utterly irrelevant, people have started banging on about it a lot recently. Amplifier manufacturers, ignore this at your peril! Of course, Vox have been reissuing the same amp for nearly 60 years with very little progression in the rest of their catalog, so it's unlikely that they'll pay any attention to this trend.
The reason that this reintroduction is so very important, is that it makes Vox a viable option for touring musicians again. Touring musicians are a key demographic for amplifier manufacturers to appeal to; they buy frequently, they're touring, so the manufacturers equipment is being showcased all over the place, and touring musicians tend to be very loyal, reliability is important, and it, generally speaking, guarantees repeat custom.
Now I'm not suggesting that combos aren't a reasonable option for touring musicians, but 9 times out of 10 it is preferable to use separates for ease of change overs, supporting slots etc. Not to mention, if you're touring, you might want to bring a spare, and who wants to bring a spare combo... let alone an AC-30! The head offers you flexibility, it also gives players the option to partner it with other cabinets should they choose.
The Vox AC-15 and 30 are a massively important part of musical heritage, and until now they have been difficult to integrate into a modern set up for a lot of musicians. Separating them into head units at such affordable prices puts them well within the reach of most musicians and provides interesting competition to Orange and Fender's dominance of the budget amplifier head market.
NAMM 2016: Orange 4 Stroke bass amplifier
Orange's latest bass offering included a four band parametric EQ.
Orange have announced a brand new bass head for 2016, the 4 Stroke.
Full of features aimed at professional bassists, the 4 Stroke offers all analogue design, extensive 4 band parametric EQ section and footswitchable class A compression. Available in 300 or 500W in a 2U rack mountable chassis.
Orange 4 Stroke Features:
• Class AB solid state amplifier.
• Active four band parametric EQ
• Footswitchable Class A compression
• Balanced and line outputs
• 2x parallel Speakon outputs
NAMM: Orange Tiny Terror 10th Anniversary Edition
The original lunchbox amp gets a 10 year anniversary model.
Ten years on from its introduction, the Orange Tiny Terror remains one of the most popular small guitar heads around, and is widely regarded as kickstarting the lunchbox amp revolution. To commemorate ten years of Tiny goodness, the Orange Custom Shop has produced 110 limited edition Tiny Terror compact half-stacks.
Codenamed ‘Shiny Terror’, the 10th Anniversary model is a point-to-point hand-wired version of the original, housed in a stunning mirror-effect, polished stainless steel chassis. Each amp head also comes complete with its own open-back speaker cabinet. Finished in British racing green and fitted with a brace of 10” Celestion G10 Gold alnico speakers, the pair dovetail seamlessly to produce the ultimate Terror tone.
Orange's designer, Ade Emsley talks about the 10th Anniversary Edition…
"I like to keep things simple. The Tiny Terror is probably the amp I’m most proud of. The idea was to make a small amp that didn’t sound like a small amp – all valve, tight, punchy, springy – that didn’t have that ‘5 Watt single-ended amp sound’, which definitely sounds like a small amp! The Tiny Terror meant you could take a proper amp in a gigbag on the train or the bus to the show, borrow a 4×12″ cab from another band on the bill and blow everyone away.
I love output valve distortion and, for me, EL84s have the most musical saturation. 15 Watts cranked is the perfect volume to achieve it. The circuit I came up with for the Tiny Terror was designed with that in mind. It’s a unique channel with only three controls – gain, volume and tone – but it gives you everything from clean to pretty ridiculous. The first gang of the gain pot increases the gain of the first stage and the second gang of the pot increases the impedance of the second stage. This results in the signal pushing into the output valves evenly all the way up. It’s a real musician’s amplifier, so when you play softly you get glistening cleans, and when you dig in it crunches up into rich overdrive – all with the touch of your hands.
The 10th Anniversary model is a hand wired version of the standard Terror. The more traditional components add a certain character to the sound. Carbon comp. resistors pass a signal in a certain way and, with a proper hard-wired amp, you’re effectively soldering solid core legs of components together, so the top end is even sweeter and more defined. The construction of this 10th Anniversary edition is actually slightly different from my hard-wired prototypes. The first Tiny Terror I made was on a tag board, whereas the 10th Anniversary model is totally true point-to-point on a strip. It’s much more fiddly and involved this way but you end up with something that looks as smart as it sounds."
Orange Tiny Terror 10th Anniversary Features:
• Point-to-point handwired head utilises the finest components and heavy gauge copper wire.
• Striking polished steel chassis with ‘Pic’s Only’ styling.
• Bespoke cabinet with 18mm birch plywood shell housing a pair of Celestion G10 Gold drivers.
• Limited to 110 pieces, with each including a certificate of authenticity, signed by Orange founder and CEO Cliff Cooper.
Check out Orange's Tiny Terror documentary here:
NAMM 2016: Peavey MiniMEGA bass head
It's mini, it's MEGA.
After the success of their mini Electric heads (which received some of the highest praise possible in the Guitar Nerds GOTY rundown!) last year, it was inevitable that Peavey would look to transfer that sweet combination of heritage and modern functionality into their much-adored bass line.
The MiniMEGA boasts everything that you’d expect from a bass head in 2016. Four-band EQ, various voicing controls, speakon connections, effects loop, tuner out, DI out (switchable pre/post), MIDI in, dialable compression and of course a carry case. They really seem to have hit the nail on the head with the spec here. At just over 4kg, pretty much anyone can slam out 1000watts (at 4ohms) at any venue, or keep that boomy Peavey tone in the bedroom with the master volume control.
Let’s also not gloss over the best feature of this amp though. A USER DEFINABLE SURFACE COLOUR CONTROL. Top work, Peavey.
NAMM 2016: Roland Blues Cube Hot
The latest Blues Cube is smaller, lighter and more productive.
Roland have announced the Blues Cube Hot, the latest addition to the Blues Cube guitar amplifier series.
With 30 watts of power and a custom 12-inch speaker, this compact combo is designed for home or studio use, but still retains plenty of volume for gigging. Roland’s acclaimed Tube Logic design provides authentic tube tone by carefully reproducing the inner workings of the revered tweed-era tube amp in every way, including preamp and output tube distortion characteristics, power supply compression, speaker interaction, and much more. By utilising this technology, the Blues Cube Hot offers lighter weight and vastly improved reliability.
Roland Blues Cube Hot Features:
• Custom 12-inch speaker with a rich, full voice that’s enhanced by a classic open-back cabinet design and poplar construction.
• Single-channel configuration offers easy and intuitive operation, with a wide range of sounds accessible from a single knob.
• Boost and Tone switches provide further tone-shaping options. Additional controls include a three-band EQ, master volume, and onboard reverb.
• Variable Power Control provides settings of 0.5 W, 5 W, 15 W, and Max, allowing users to enjoy this musical, cranked-up tone while matching the volume to any situation.
• Footswitch jacks for remote control of the Boost and Tone functions.
• USB connectivity for capturing record-ready tones directly into computer recording applications.
Vox announce AV Series combos
Three new models that feature analogue modelling technology.
Vox Amplification have announced the AV Series, a brand new range of amplifiers that combine 12AX7 valves and analogue amp modelling. With three models available, the AV Series ranges from the small, home-use AV15 to the giggable AV60. The full specifications are:
AV15
• 15 Watts of power through a custom VOX 8” speaker
• True analog circuit design complete with a twin triode 12AX7 tube
• Achieve authentic tones with eight, all-analog amp models
AV30
• 30 Watts of power through a custom VOX 10” speaker
• True analog circuit design complete with two 12AX7 tubes
• Achieve authentic tones with two sets of eight, all-analog amp models
AV60
• 60 Watts of power through a custom VOX 12” speaker
• True analog circuit design complete with two 12AX7 tubes
• Achieve authentic tones with two sets of eight, all-analog amp models
Check out Vox's video demo of the AV Series below:
Supro announce three new tube amplifiers
Three stylish new combos from Supro.
US amp manufacturer Supro have announced three new-all tube amp combos.
The Supro Titan, a 50 watt 1x10 combo with reverb and tremolo, the Jupiter 1x12 combo with three position rectifier, and Rhythm Master a 1x15 combo with reverb and tremolo, have all joined their ever-growing stable of classic valve amp designs.
Titan (1642RT)
The Supro Titan (£1229) is a 50 Watt, 1x10" tube combo that features the Class-A Supro sound. Intended for the gigging guitarist who needs a small size, yet high-power, the Titan is a vintage flavored amp tube that can handle the output from a massive pedal board full of fuzz, delay and other stomp-boxes, without the need for an effects loop.
Combining the traditional, cathode-biased, 6L6 power section found in the high power Supro amps of the 60’s with the cabinet dimensions of Supro's award-winning Tremo-Verb model (with HP10 driver), the Titan delivers unrivaled definition and projection in a remarkably compact, gig friendly package. Never sterile or clinical sounding, the Titan has a huge, warm, full bodied sound with enough volume to play any size venue.
Tube driven six-spring reverb and output tube tremolo add depth and dimension to the Titan’s glorious sound. As with all Supro reverb amps, the tremolo is found after the reverb, creating a haunting, vintage-correct modulated reverb effect that is unique to the Supro range.
FEATURES
· Class-A (50 Watts)
· Independent BASS and TREBLE controls
· All-tube reverb
· Output-tube tremolo
· Silicon Rectifier
· 6L6 power tubes
· 1×10 Supro HP10 HEMP CONE speaker
· Blue Rhino Hide tolex
· Assembled in NY, USA
· Engineered by Bruce Zinky, Thomas Elliot and David Koltai
TUBE COMPLEMENT
· 4x 12AX7
· 1x 12AT7
· 2x 5881 / 6L6
Supro Jupiter (1668RT)
The Supro Jupiter (£1329) is a top-of-the-line amp intended for the performing guitarist who needs a vintage sound that handles the output from a complex pedal rig. The Jupiter amplifier offers headroom punch and stage volume without sacrificing the fundamental dynamics and tonal characteristics that have made Supro amps famous.
The Jupiter model features Supro’s unique switchable rectifier topology, allowing musicians to select 35-Watts (Class A) or 45 / 60 watts (Class AB) to suit the gig at hand. The 35 watt cathode bias mode uses the legendary Thunderbolt power amp topology for a harmonically saturated, tube-rectified sound that combines wonderfully with this 1x12” platform. The 45 and 60 watt grid bias modes provide more volume and headroom as well as the faster transient response associated with Class AB power amps.
The switchable power amp topology of the Jupiter not only allows for players to change the texture and output volume of the amp but it also provides two very different, all-tube tremolo effects depending on whether Class A (cathode bias) or Class AB (grid bias) mode is selected. The cathode bias tremolo is vintage Valco/Supro all the way, where the overall depth of the effect changes along with the dynamics of your playing. The grid bias tremolo is gives a much deeper, stronger and more pronounced throbbing effect. Since the tremolo is performed by modulating the bias of the output tubes, the reverb necessarily comes before the tremolo effect, for a mesmerizing combination of pure tube reverb and tremolo when both effects are combined.
FEATURES
· Switchable Class-A (35 Watts) or Class-AB (45 / 60 Watts)
· Independent BASS and TREBLE controls
· All-tube reverb
· Output-tube tremolo
· Tube or Silicon Rectifier
· 6L6 power tubes
· 1×12 Supro HP12 HEMP CONE speaker
· 5U4 Tube Rectifier
· Blue Rhino Hide tolex
· Assembled in NY, USA
· Engineered by Bruce Zinky, Thomas Elliot and David Koltai
TUBE COMPLEMENT
· 4x 12AX7
· 1x 12AT7
· 2x 5881 / 6L6
· 1x 5U4
Supro Rhythm Master (1675RT)
The 1675RT Rhythm Master offers the huge, bold sound of the 1x15” Thunderbolt amp, but need a lush, all-tube reverb to fill out their sound. Rooted in Supro tradition, this vintage inspired model is loaded with independent bass and treble controls, six-spring long pan reverb, output tube tremolo and switchable Class A / Class AB power amp wiring for 35, 45 or 60 watts of vintage American tone.
The Rhythm Master’s USA made custom 15” driver is the most accurate and true sounding 15” guitar speaker on the market, with a full, broadband sound that is never muddy. To create this signature speaker, Supro worked with Eminence to combine the best elements of classic 15” speakers with modern construction methods and materials to achieve a vintage voiced driver with superior power handling and juicy bottom end.
The unique power amp topology of the Rhythm Master not only allows for players to change the texture and output volume of the amp but it also provides two very different, all-tube tremolo effects depending on whether Class A (cathode bias) or Class AB (grid bias) mode is selected. The cathode bias tremolo is vintage Valco/Supro all the way, where the overall depth of the effect changes along with the dynamics of your playing. The grid bias tremolo is gives a much deeper, stronger and more pronounced throbbing effect. Since the tremolo is performed by modulating the bias of the output tubes, the reverb necessarily comes before the tremolo effect, for a mesmerizing combination of pure tube reverb and tremolo when both effects are combined.
FEATURES
· Switchable Class-A (35 Watts) or Class-AB (45 / 60 Watts)
· Independent BASS and TREBLE controls
· All-tube reverb
· Output-tube tremolo
· Tube or Silicon Rectifier
· 6L6 power tubes
· 1×15 Supro TB15 speaker
· 5U4 Tube Rectifier
· Blue Rhino Hide tolex
· Assembled in NY, USA
· Engineered by Bruce Zinky, Thomas Elliot and David Koltai
TUBE COMPLEMENT
· 4x 12AX7
· 1x 12AT7
· 2x 5881 / 6L6
· 1x 5U4
SUMMER NAMM 2015: Roland announce Jazz Chorus JC-40
The 40 watt amp to celebrate 40 years of lush tone.
From the press release:
Hamamatsu, Japan, July 8th, 2015 — In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the iconic Jazz Chorus guitar amp series, Roland is proud to present the all-new JC-40. Compact and gig-ready, this 40-watt stereo amp features the famous “JC clean” tone and signature Dimensional Space Chorus effect respected by guitarists for decades. The JC-40 also includes evolved features for modern players, including enhanced onboard effects and a front-panel stereo input for stereo pedals, multi-effects, and amp modelers.
First introduced in 1975, the Jazz Chorus series has earned legendary status among pro players as the benchmark in clean guitar tone, and its sound can be heard on generations of popular recordings in every genre of music. The amp series is equally revered for its integrated stereo amplification system and Dimensional Space Chorus effect, which delivers unique dimension and depth that’s unattainable with any other single amp.
With the JC-40, guitarists can enjoy this genuine, industry-standard tone in a scaled-down amplifier with innovative modern refinements. Two independent power amps and custom-designed 10-inch speakers deliver punchy stereo sound that won't get buried in the band, while durable, road-tough construction ensures years of reliable operation on stage and in the studio.
The onboard effects in the JC-40 are all newly refreshed for enhanced performance. The Dimensional Space Chorus now offers selectable fixed or manual modes for increased tonal range, and renewed vibrato and reverb operate in stereo for rich, deep performance. There’s built-in distortion as well, updated with a smooth, satisfying tone that’s great for all types of music.
In addition to a normal mono input, the JC-40 features a true stereo input that allows players using stereo effects devices to achieve wide, inspiring sound without having to carry around two separate amps. The rich JC clean tone is a perfect palette for external stereo pedals like delays, reverbs, and various modulation effects. It’s also ideal for advanced gear that employs amp modeling, multi-effects, and/or synth capabilities, such as the GT-100, GP-10, and ME-80 from BOSS and GR-55 guitar synth from Roland.
The JC-40’s rear panel is outfitted with all types of connectivity. The effects loop works with mono or stereo devices, and offers selectable serial or parallel operation. Line Out jacks provide a convenient mono or stereo feed to a mixing board or recorder, while the headphones jack is great for quiet practice. Users can also connect optional footswitches to turn the JC-40’s chorus/vibrato, reverb, and distortion effects on/off while performing.
MUSIKMESSE 2015: Marshall Astoria Series
A brand new all-valve series from the UK legend.
British amplification legends Marshall have unveiled a brand new, all valve line. Constructed in the Marshall factory in Bletchley, England, the Astoria range features three all-valve, 30 watt models with each available as a combo or head and matching 1x12 cabinet.
Marshall's website describes the three distinct models:
"The Astoria Classic is a single channel amplifier that will appeal to purists who want loud, clean valve tone, and to boutique pedal enthusiasts who will find it the perfect pure-valve foundation for their sound.
The Astoria Custom is a single channel amplifier for tone seekers who want it vintage but with the convenience of contemporary features and switching: footswitchable valve driven FX Loop, tone shaping pull switches and footswitchable gain boost.
The Astoria Dual, with two footswitchable channels, goes from vintage pure-valve cleans, to dirty-sweet overdrive, to higher gain harmonic distortion. Combine this with footswitchable FX Loop and extended tonal shaping for added performance flexibility."
The boutique styling and UK build make the Astoria series a very promising proposition. With availability listed as Summer 2015, these are certainly an Amp Of The Year contender.
Marshall Launch Class 5 Roulette Range
The legendary UK builder returns to one of their most popular models.
Marshall Amplification has announced a new Special Edition Class 5 Roulette series. Produced by Marshall's new Design Store, the Class 5 Roulettes are based on the C5-01 combo and the Class 5 Head, two of the most popular low-wattage valve amps of recent years. The head, cab and combo are handmade in the UK and are available in red or black.
The Class 5 Roulette combo features a specially designed 10” Celestion G10F-15 speaker, two ECC83 double triode preamp valves, a single EL84 pentode output valve, a three-band EQ and 5 watts of class A output power. Also included are a low power switch and headphone and speaker outputs.
The Class 5 Roulette sticks to the same specification as the combo, with the 16 ohm matching cab being open back for different tonal characteristics.
Billie Joe Armstrong to open guitar store
Green Day frontman announced new Broken Guitars retail store.
Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong has announced his his plans to open a guitar store with longtime collaborator, and Pinhead Gunpowder cohort, Bill Schneider. Named Broken Guitars, the store will open on April 3rd at 423, 40th St, Oakland, California. According to Schneider, the shop will open with around 75 guitars on display, with many culled from the collections of the proprietors. The store will also offer amplifiers and will have a technician on staff for repairs.