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Sound:
Bought the 112 b-stock from ZZounds. Amp arrived in absolutely perfect condition. Had some slight microphonics initially that I cured by moving the preamp tubes around. Decided to swap out all tubes with Tung Sols. Glad I did. Amp is even more amazing now. I have owned and used a number of amps (Fender, Marshall, etc.) in the past. This has the best tonal qualities of these amps and offers much more flexibility in sound options.
Feature:
The reverb and delay are both exceptional. Tonal shaping capabilities on both channels (Gold and Mercury) are almost infinite. Would have a hard time understanding how you couldn't get the tone you want out of this amp.
Ease of Use:
Even with so many tonal choices, the controls and functionality of the amp are very intuitive. Yes, some of the toggles are small, but they are easy to remember and use--even in low light situations.
Quality:
The 112 version is surprisingly large and very heavy. Solid construction throughout. Every aspect of the amp is very nice and rugged. Internal connections, etc. are all first rate. (I know it's a US designed/Chinese manufactured amp.)
Value:
Purchased the amp for $699. New preamp tubes for about $70. Well worth that investment. Even at $1,399, this amp would be a good value.
Manufacturer Support:
No experience with support. The user manual is a little sparse, however.
The Wow Factor:
Amp looks killer. Great lines and retro kind of design vibe.
Overall:
Extremely satisfied with the amp. Would recommend highly to anyone who wants a full featured tube amp for home or professional use.
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Sound:
Alchemy fits the bill of this sweet little amp, very versatile. You might have to EQ in post production unless you have some pro (expensive) pre amps. Great, great resposiveness which is why I bought it, the cleans, partial dirty and raging distortion all come flying at you, much like a Fender classic but is way more flexible. You can achieve a lot of great tones from this amp with no digitized buzz getting in the way that occurs even with the best modeling technology. The cleans sparkle very beautifully. For sure use it live and for recording but this thing speaks well on stage whether you want to sing, bark, cry or shred. Pedals do very well with the alchemist and there are endless ways to in line your overdrive, distortion, chourus, flangers etc. I have actually not tried the effects loop yet because there had been no need. Just plug in and play in any situation. This thing is pretty loud for 40 watts! In a metal band you might need to mic to the PA if you are ultra loud. Your guitar bros will be trippin on this thig because you can just keep getting more and more out of it. I love it and can not stop playing until my hands are worn out. Really, really great for the blues and any type of expression. Hook a screaming demon wah pedal to this thing and OMG, eyes will pop!
Feature:
OK there is no direct line out, what's the deal with that? That's the only reason I give an 8 here.
The pedal is cool with the boost really making it even more flexible and diverse. The little "shaping" switches on the amp are difficult to see though but I think Mr. Bogner wanted a low profile look to off-set the overall classic design. Once you have a tone set it should not matter much except when recording, have a pad and pencil ready. The mid range shift can be a pain because there are too many ways to tweak it but if you know what you want its all there. It would be cool if there were an ultra clean setting/ switch so you would not have to turn the gain all the way down on the "gold" channel to get acoustic type sounds. Effects loop is included.
Ease of Use:
The alchemist is very easy to use with very intuitive feel to it. It can really suprise you at times. Very professional, match it up against any marshall or fender, I have and I bought it instead of the others (I already have a marshall and a line 6 Vetta II). The hand book has some decent classic settings to get you rolling then just tweak from there.
You need something new that is high quality? This is it.
Quality:
Top notch quality, built like a tank and just as heavy. Almost 80 lbs it think. Get a dolly. I've had no issues with it in 6 months.
Value:
Its about the right price especially if you can find a sale/ blowout or have a coupon for a local store.
Manufacturer Support:
N/A
The Wow Factor:
Yeah its cool looking. You thought Bogner was going to cut short on great looks? Its a great edition to my arsenal.
Overall:
See above about comparing to Fenders and other amps. It really needs a direct out though so you can record scratch tracks with out the need to mic up. I love getting he speaker to over drive at high volumes, it justs so juicy I can't get enough. I don't foresee needing another amp for many years.
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