Mini Amp

[Paul Hutzler]

I'm looking for a mini amplifier with an effects loop. I want to use the power amp section of the unit to amplify my pre amp (origin effects fender deluxe modeler pedal) for some loud overdriven Neil Young 5E3 sounds. Any recommendations on a good unit? Thank you, steel men and steel women.

[Max Lee]

Quilter offers many formats of compact and lightweight solid state preamp and power amp packages. I gigged a Tone Block 202 as a standalone amp head for a couple years but now run a tonex one straight into the FX return (bypassing preamp, EQ, and unfortunately also reverb). Sounds great (good enough for Travis Toy!) and it is nice to know that I have a combo if the tonex ever farts out.

If you just need a power amp, I can recommend the Carvin Mach100 which can do 50W to 2 channels/speakers. There is also the Electro-Harmonix 44 Magnum which puts out 44 watts.

[D Schubert]

You didn't say anything about your budget, or how much power/loudness you need. That being said.....

I bought a Quilter MicroPro 200 (1st generation) with 8" speaker years ago, and it has become my favorite amp for nearly every application. The EFX loop input sends you straight to the power amp (200w into 4 ohms) using the cabinet speaker, or unplugging that, and using two larger cabinets. Clean enough to use as a small PA when coupled with a mixing board, so might be just what you're looking for. Besides that, lots of controls/models on the pre-amp side. Small footprint, weights about 20 pounds.

[Paul Hutzler]

Thanks those ideas are helpful. I did not know about the Mach 100. Yes, I really only want a power amp or I only want to use the power amp part of the amplifier not the preamp. There's not a ton of options out there besides the Magnum 44, the Harley Benton, and I guess now I've learned the Mach 100 (I'm sure there are more) for a guy that wants a compact power amp only set up. I have a preamp and a parametric EQ. I'm aiming for $200 or less but could go up to $400.

[Marty Nemanick]

If you're looking for a power amp only with a small footprint, the Straight Ahead 500 watt power amp that forum member Jay Ganz builds are hard to beat and would fit your budget.