Friedman Runt 20 Guitar Amplifier Head (20 Watts)

When you need a rough-and-ready amp head that can seriously rock, grab a Friedman Runt 20. Its all-tube amplification and versatile EQ ensure tonal triumph.

The Runt-20 is a 20-watt all tube head that delivers Friedman's legendary tone and versatility in a compact 2-channel amp. The Runt-20's power section is driven by two EL-84s, with three 12AX7s in the preamp. The "simple" clean channel features a volume knob and 3-position bright switch that delivers anything from pristine cleans to a slightly broken-up tone, which is great for blues and country. The heart and soul of the Runt-20 is the overdrive channel, which takes you from classic rock to all-out assault. Use the Boost switch and Gain knob to dial in the perfect amount of overdrive. A global presence control shapes the high-frequency response of the Runts power section.

The Runt delivers the tight bottom end and midrange that is typically only found in much higher-wattage amps by utilizing custom transformers and the cleanest signal path possible. The Runt is ideal for many styles of music from blues to classic rock and heavy metal by merely adjusting the gain and master controls.

Plugging into the Runt, you will instantly notice the harmonically rich detailed chords and resonating single note lines. This amp cleans up exceptionally well with the guitar's volume knob, even with the amp on higher gain settings.

This is the first amp Dave Friedman has ever made with an internal load and cab-simulated XLR output. Comparing this analog circuit to some of the most intricate computer-based IRs, Dave achieved a direct output you can proudly send to front of house or use in the read more studio. The Runt also allows you to play "silently," meaning you can safely play the amp WITHOUT having a speaker cabinet connected. The XLR output includes a ground-lift, level, and center/edge of speaker cone simulation switches.

The Runt was designed to take pedals well, and it loves boosts, ODs, phasers, flangers, tremolos, and wahs. The ultra-transparent no tone loss, buffered, series effects loop takes time-based effects pedals and rack units equally well. The head cabinet features beautiful black Tolex, with Baltic Birch construction, and is built to withstand the rigors of the road.

- Friedman History:
Dave Friedman is the man behind the signature tones of rock icons Eddie Van Halen, Steve Stevens, and Jerry Cantrell. Dave Friedman has been building, modding, and repairing amplifiers for many of the world's biggest stars for the past 25 years. Friedman's innovative designs and meticulous construction have made him legendary in the world of professional touring musicians while earning him a loyal clientele from all over the world. Two of Friedman's mainstays have been modifying amps to each player's specific tonal palette and consulting with other established amplifier companies to improve their own designs.

Dave Friedman's extensive knowledge and pursuit of tonal superiority inspired him to develop his own series of production amplifiers under the name Friedman Amplification. In the past, having Friedman build or modify your amp required a certain level of notoriety, but now his sonic wizardry is available to everyday players.

- Friedman runt-20 head at a glance:
- From clean to legendary Friedman lead tone
- XLR Cabinet Simulated Output
- Play silently - do not need to connect a cab
- Ultra-transparent, buffered, series effects loop
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.p65Warnings.ca.gov.
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- Model: Friedman Runt-20 Head
- Type: All Tube - Assembled in USA
- Channels: 2 Channels
- Total Power: 20 Watts. Silent play feature allows playing to front of house with no cab connected.
- EQ Clean Channel: Volume and 3-position bright switch. Overdrive Channel - Gain, Master, Bass, Middle, Treble, and Gain boost switch. Global Presence Knob.
- # of: Tubes 5
- Preamp Tubes: 3 x 12AX7
- Power Tubes: 2 x EL-34
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4" instrument
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" (8/16 ohm impedance switch), 1 x Cab Simulated XLR - with Ground, Level, and Center/Edge Axis switches
- Footswitch: Channel Select Switch
- Effects Loop: Yes, buffered Series FX loop
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Base Item
Shipping Weight: 28.5 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 12 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): RUNT-20 HEAD
Warehouse Resealed
Shipping Weight: 28.5 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 12 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): RUNT-20 HEAD

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Email: friedmanamps@gmail.com
Web: https://friedmanamplification.com/contact

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (2 ratings)
Submitted March 17, 2023 by Jason I in Tampa, FL

"Killer amp"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
I've owned and played through many amps over the years. The Friedman runt is one of my favorites. It has a ton of tonal versality on the clean channel. This amp is great for rock and blues. The gain channel with boost is good enough for metal rhythm but definitely not leads.The sound through a cab vs the DI through the loadbox is identical when mic'd.

Musical Background:

20 years playing guitar

Musical Style:

Rock, Neoclassical, Metal
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