Overview
This episode of That Pedal Show explores how modern guitar amplifier attenuators can be used not only to reduce volume for home use, but also to make small amps significantly louder for gigging, while preserving tone and dynamics. The hosts compare various devices and share hands-on experiences and preferences.
Introduction & Context
- This is part two of a series on modern attenuators, focusing on making small amps louder.
- Modern attenuators offer more flexibility than simply reducing volume, providing options to increase it as well.
Using Small Amps with Attenuators
- Small tube amps like the Bugera Infinium T5 can be used at low volumes suitable for home use.
- Attenuators can boost the signal from small amps, making them gig-ready without losing tonal quality.
- Standard pedalboard effects (drive, modulation, delay, reverb) were used in all sound demos.
Fryette Power Station Demonstration
- The Fryette Power Station is a reactive load attenuator with a 50-watt valve power amp section.
- It allows both attenuation (quieter) and amplification (louder) of the amp signal.
- Offers depth, presence, brightness, and resonance controls for fine-tuning tone.
- Effects loop enables placement of time-based effects after the amp’s gain stage for improved clarity.
- Showcases increased dynamic range and gig-level volume from a small amp.
Two Notes Torpedo Reload 2 Demonstration
- The Reload 2 is a stereo, solid-state, analog load box and power amp (215 watts per side).
- Offers dual outputs, stereo effects loop, and DI for recording or live use.
- Lacks built-in IRs but allows re-amping and integration with external software.
- Provides significant clean headroom and preserves amp compression/feel.
- Noted differences in feel and transient response compared to tube power amps.
Comparative Impressions & Discussion
- Fryette Power Station preferred for its tube power section and musical response.
- Two Notes Reload 2 favored for stereo capabilities and flexibility in recording or re-amping.
- Solid-state headroom feels different from tube dynamics; better for certain soundscapes.
- Additional attenuators like Boss Waza Tube Amp Expander and Palmer Super Soaker offer unique advantages (software IRs, headphone outs, stereo FX, home usability).
Recommendations & Takeaways
- Using a small amp with an attenuator to make it louder is more satisfying than reducing a large amp’s volume.
- Modern attenuators provide new options for both home players and gigging musicians.
- Choice of device depends on needs: gigging, home practice, stereo rigs, or recording flexibility.
Decisions
- Prefer small amp plus attenuator for gig volume.
- Fryette Power Station is the top choice for tube-like amplification.
- Reload 2 is favored for stereo setups and re-amping.
Action Items
- TBD – Dan & Mick: Experiment further with IRs and direct outs in future episodes.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Explore more use-cases for stereo attenuators and integrating with digital IRs.
- Assess user feedback from comments on preferred setups and experiences.