New low-watt tube heads are coming.

[newey]

A bit more money than the Epi VJs and Vox small tube heads that we were discussing recently, but Ampeg has jumped into the fray with a 5/2.5 watt switchable head, 6V6/6L6 powered.

These are a bit more money than the others, but has more of a tone stack (advertised as "Baxendall", no less). And, it's a classic design as well. Our younger members may not remember this, but back in the 60's and 70's, Ampeg were renowned for their guitar amps as well as their bass amps.

Ampeg GVT 5

If EL84s are more your style- guess who also has a new 5 watt head:

Marshall Class 5 head

Gee, both retail for $350. If you think that's a coincidence, there's a suspension bridge in Brooklyn I have for sale . . .

Blackstar, Epi and Vox kind of had this market segment all to themselves- the low-watt tube head thing. Orange did some as well, but more upmarket. These come in squarely in the middle, price-wise. Fender is, no doubt, working on their own version, and I'd venture to guess it'll be right around that $350 price point.

[JohnH]

I like Marshalls and the on the Marshall forum, the Class 5's are universally loved. They seem to capture the classic plexi sound in a small package. There are no bells and whistles though, you get volume and a tone stack and thats all. No high gain, no effects or channel switching.

But I think they sound great and I want one.

J

[Yew]

Hey newey, could I have some more info on that suspension bridge? Would you be willing to swap it for a cantilever bridge in London?


The main Reason I didnt get a Class 5 (or an Orange AD5) is the lack of gain control, it couldnt have fit into my surroundings. And I really like the sound of my Tiny terror, so it doesnt matter

[newey]

Would you be willing to swap it for a cantilever bridge in London?

No, we've already got the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona . . .

[soa324]

Check these out.

www.ampmaker.com/store/SE-5a-5W-British-overdrive-amplifier.html

Great amp. easy to build too. there are some clips on Youtube.

[ijustwannastrat]

soa324, great website. I almost pulled the trigger due to the low cost, but the one issue is that he's from the other side of the puddle. I believe I would not like to give up my right arm for shipping.....

[soa324]

As am I. Im sure there are kits available your side too?? well worth looking into. I built mine as a head unit in the end. looks cool. maybe I will upload a pic.

[newey]

Back in November, I said:

Fender is, no doubt, working on their own version, and I'd venture to guess it'll be right around that $350 price point.

I'm a flippin' psychic . . .


Fender Super Champ Head

Ok, so it's a modelling amp, and not as simple and straightforward as the others. And no "low power switch". But it comes in a bit below the price point of the others.

[4real]

I accidentally came across these new offerings from fender...the pawn shop prizes...



Small quirky all tube amps...look like a lot of fun and a cute look...plus, the 13 watter has an accordion input, what's not to like there!