GaN guitar amps?


With the success of GaN amps from the likes of @atmasphere and others, I was wondering if that technology could possibly infiltrate and possibly supplant guitar players’ beloved tube amps?  Seems like a no brainer given reliability and weight savings in a pro-audio environment.  Am I missing something here?

soix

Showing 3 responses by designsfx

YES! But I think it’s use would be driven by the style of music played with it. I have a a couple of solid state amps- one is really good when used with acoustic steel string/classical guitars and can be nice for mellow electric. When it comes to what players call “tone” it’s almost certain there will be an overdriven tube amp in play.
 

There are some famous SS amps- Fender was known for this (think early Clapton with Cream). I could see someone using GaN possibly with an amp modeling processor or some other DSP driven solution but in the end I see most players going for tubes. My 45+ year old Marshall 100 watt is still the best amp I’ve ever owned- and one of the best I’ve heard!

@jasonbourne52 

Ha! There is no way your tweaky SS Fender FX/combo sounds as good as the older “relic” Twin you have- unless it’s just not functioning! 

I’m sure it may satisfy for low level practice sessions but when it comes down to getting really singing praise the solid state will come out with a sore throat.

Break out the twin and keep the newer one as an ottoman for your favorite chair!