Ashdown has diversified its guitar amp range with the mid-priced SX series, giving classically styled valve amps a fresh, modern twist.
Dubbed by the Britsh amp builder as “cost-effective gems,” they combine ECC83 and EL34 tubes to “pay homage to vintage legends,” while adding modern features to make them more than nostalgic re-creations.
Thus the new SX collection, headlined by its 50-watt head, the SX-50H, melds together “classic elegance and modern innovation” thanks to a range of output options and an in-built digital reverb.
A five-watt offering is available in head and combo formats, with the 50-watt version a head exclusive. There are also Celestion 70/80 Speaker-bolstered 1x12, 2x12, and 4x12 partner guitar cabs tailored to work perfectly with its trio of new amps.
The SX-50H is powered by three EXCC83 and two EL34 tubes for a three-channel, footswitch-compatible amp. Its clean channel comes with dedicated bass and treble controls, while its two overdrive channels each have their own gain knobs.
There’s also a universal three-band EQ, and a digital Digilog by Belton reverb for “lush, immersive ambiance.”
The “pure valve-drive power” of these amps can be used with eight- and 16 Ohms cabs, “allowing you to experience rich, warm, and dynamic tones,” that remain “authentically classic” at all times.
It’s worth noting that the five-watt models are single channel-only and are powered by just one ECC83 and EL84. That same Celestion 12" 70/80 speaker sits in the combo, while a recording out socket simulates the response of a Celestion Alnico speaker.
The digital reverb and series effects loops are present across all three amps, with Ashdown placing a lot of time and energy into their connectivity to meet the needs of the gigging musician.
A standout feature found on all three amps can be found on the rear panel. A toggle Stage/Studio switch can reduce its output volume without damaging its tones… or not, if you want to rack up the decibels in a live environment.
Advancing their connectivity features, the SX-50H also has two recording out jacks, labeled Live and Dead for recording with the cab, or for silent recording directly into a DAW.
Ashdown may be best known for its innovations in the world of bass guitar amplification, but it has been strengthening its guitar amp roster in recent weeks. The SX follows the launch of its budget-friendly Killer Tone digital combo amps.
“Whether it’s huge British crunch or fully saturated American-styled tones, the SX Heads and Combo will not disappoint,” Ashdown says.
The five-watt head (SX-5H) is the cheapest option of the bunch at $617. This rises to $729 for the Celestion-packed combo. The SX-50H is priced at $839 with the sister cabs starting at $333.
Head to Ashdown to learn more.
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