Great demo !! I actually bought one of these, del'd late summer. I like it but had trouble synching it to my phone. Support staff tried to help and we finally determined my $99 phone couldn't cut it (800 and needs a 801 or something). I used to jam with albums starting when i was 15 in '72 and played in a cover band and now play whatever i think of, a set it and forget it then add various od's and such player so i'm happy with what the Spark does. I've had a CyberTwin for 15 years,.,.,i use one preset. Bought the Spark in case it died.
wow that is magic how you come up with those tones so fast and then throw in all your liks and triks. Just bought one of these so trying to learn how to use it. Thanks!
Awesome I just found your channel, I’m not sure why I’ve never come across your channel before, anyway I just ordered one of these and I’m pretty excited about it. Great video!
I got my Spark as a Christmas present (much better than socks or after shave...) and your videos have helped me get a lot more out of it, so thanks a lot. I've been using mine with a Patrick James Eggle Macon (LP Std style) but i really like the way it sounds with your T style, so I think I'll start using my PJE Oz T with it... the articulation seems much better. Great tip on the 'No Bass' too. I'll try it. Cheers!
My Spark is my number one home practice and sometimes recording amp. It's really great after you dial in what's right for you as a player. I do have my big rig toys, but I love this just as much. I do use it as a blue tooth speaker outside when I have guest over, and nothing but good compliments form how it sounds.
Hi Paul, that was a great video. I agree 100% with the idea of a video teaching how to set amps up to get different tones. My knowledge of this is poor and it really makes things difficult. I have the Boss Katana 2 head. Bought some tones off your web site but would be greatful for any lessons on how to set up tones in general. I really liked your version of crunch via the clean channel for the MK1 but it seems different on the MK2.
This is exactly how such a demo must look and sound like: without all that phaser/flanger/chorus bullshit and with proper hands holding the guitar making it sound. Great stuff.
Brilliant, Paul. I’ve been looking at these and the THR2 series from Yamaha. I’ll be anxious to see your upcoming videos with the Spark but I think I’m leaning more this way as the feature set is more attractive to me.
I’m using mine with bias fx2 and bias amp2 with a Scarlett device and a midi commander it is crazy compact and yet very versatile and sounds amazing. I would have save a lot of money if it would have been invented 20 years ago just in over drive and fuzz pedals alone I’ve stop counting. What I love with bias fx2 you can swap the effect position in the chain in 2 second no cable time consuming you have so many possibilities so many amp you can mod your amps with bias amp2 you can mod pedals with bias pedals it’s like never ending possibilities and the most important, it sound amazing.best by ever don’t look at the price, it’s cheap but sound like thousands of bucks!
Charles - I also have been using Bias FX and Amp (and Pedal) since Amplitube started sliding away (I know about AT 5 ...). Could you share how BiasFX 2 and Amp 2 tie in to the Spark. Not much data out there that I've found.
Currently have the go. Thinking the 40w will work well once I relocate the practice area to the Garden Room, leaves some change for a Telecaster to go alongside the Les Paul!
The Spark is an amazing amp once u start digging into it. I find for the high gain stuff, all I need is the 5150 and Soldano, unfortunately, I feel the Marshall amps are mostly a miss, especially for high gain, although u can get some nice bluesy/clean tones. The effects are great and the interface is very intuitive. I wish my old Kemper had that interface :( And yes the bass response is ridiculous but u can easily dial it out. For the $ this amp is a steal, and it sounds great with headphones. Thanks for another insightful video Paul, really appreciate all the Katana tips!
Hey tonelizard what headphones do u use iv tried 2 different mid priced headphones 1st srt was tirtle beach high end gaming set a 10.i think..them..i just got tha sennheiser 200..i like tha a 10 gam8ng headset..but im very dissapointed with tha sennheiser..im very interested in what u seem 2 kno
@@myhauntedlife421 Hey man, sorry for the late response, I didn't check my messages. You'll laugh but I've been using an old pair of Bose Soundsport wired earbuds. But my favorite headphones are the Audio Technica ATH M50. I have two pairs of those I use for serious recording, practicing, etc...www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ATHM50x--audio-technica-ath-m50x-closed-back-studio-monitoring-headphones
@@alfianbanjaransari4096 that’s a great question, I had a Yamaha thr10x for years and was addicted to the “brown” channel. I sold the Yamaha once I started dialing in my tone on the Spark. The Spark and Boss katana are very different animals. I currently own a Boss Katana 100 MK2. They can get very loud, and behave like a tube amp, I find they sound better the more u crank them, especially for the high gain stuff, it really starts to breathe. For sitting in front of a tv and practicing at low volume or with headphones the Spark is perfect. If u need a real amp that can get loud or play with others the Katana is the best amp on the market for the money. Just my 2 cents though ;)
@@tonelizard unfortunately that makes the Katana unappealing as I need something that'll sound consistent throughout all volumes. The Spark doesn't have cab sims nor take IRs iirc, no? The THRii & recently released Blackstar ID Core V3 have built in cab sims. I'm pretty sure it's all EQ trickery at this pricepoint though (nothing comparable to a handful of carefully tuned IRs). If I were to take a spin on the question: Why not just get the full fledged Bias FX+amps & play them via a tablet+powered speakers? Isn't that what the Spark essentially is? Thanks!
Great video demo, I’ve been looking at these but there seems to be problems with shipping time and lots of mixed reviews, but this sounds pretty damn good for a practice amp and the price is good, 👍
I just bought one for my bday cpl weeks ago.... man its amazing. It's so cool to be able to really explore pedals, etc without spending 100s of dollars at the same time
That was a fantastic video and quick demo! Its exactly what I was looking for. Quick question how did you capture the tones for the video? I see you didn't mic it.
Can you comment on its music playback qualities. You hinted at it when describing the reverb in the video, but does it have a wide stereo image like a Yamaha thr?
My Spark 40 has been cutting out intermittently.- either with the guitar or computer USB connection. Each dead period lasts for a minute or 2. Firmware update did not resolve the issue. So right now its useful only to hold the door open or as step to reach high places. I'm waiting to hear from PG.
First off - you play great and that Suhr is SICK. I just don't think the PG Spark is worth almost $400 Canadian when there are so many other options available. Now, if they made a 15 / 20 watt version and got rid of ALL THE USELESS DEFAULT BASS I might reconsider at a $200 price point. At 40 watts I might just as well plug in my JCM800 or Hot Rod Deville - and the HRD has the added bonus of letting me take a line out from my computer - letting me run pretty much any preamp - real or vst - through that amazing Fender tube power amp.
Hi garcemac, cheers. It’s not 40 watts like a valve amp, it wouldn’t be able to get anywhere near what your Hot Rod can do volume wise. Think of this as a home practice tool.
How did you record the sound for this demo? Is there a way to control how much "gain/sound" is going into the direct USB line. Basically do i need to have the speaker's really loud if i want to get a decent input signal on garageband (for example)? I've seen videos of people not receiving a loud enough signal when going directly into a DAW.
@@TheStudioRats Thanks for the reply. Do you mind telling me a bit more about how that works I'm quite new to this. Was there a reason you used the mini jack instead of direct via USB? Also, where does the mini jack go into, an audio interface? I have a Steinberg UR 12 with just one quarter inch input. Would appreciate any insights. Thanks a lot!!
@@sends2aaron use your reading and compression skills. Comment I replied to “you don’t need 100 watts for recording”. My reply was that realization was made a long time ago. To help you understand better, the 5 watt fender champ from the 50’s and 60’s has been a go to recording amp since it was invented. The spark isn’t the first ever low watt amp made. Try thinking a little before replying to comments.
Funny I wave watched quite a few vids on this little amp and it seems that all of their models are bass heavy! A lot of people complaining that they have to turn the bass off and turn up the mid and treble to get things to sound right.
What are your thoughts about the Spark vs the Line 6 HX Stomp connected to a clean amp? Forego the backing track stuff and focus instead on emulation quality, features and flexibility. Great review!
Hi Rommel, I’m afraid I haven’t tried the hx stomp but I used to have a helix. I think the helix is way more versatile but it’s really a different beast. Think of the spark as a practice amp that you can use in the studio if needed.
@@TheStudioRats Thanks, Paul. The modern formula is now Amp + Modeler + App. The Spark clearly ticks all three plus a few more tricks. For those of us who have accumulated tons of gear over the years, the question is whether to downsize by getting yet another piece of gear. LOL. As tempting as this toy sounds, I'll skip it since I have a Katana Head mkII and the so-called Line 6 "dream rig." And the HX Stomp... Thanks again for the awesome review!
Sounds good. I have questions. Does it do stereo - like for chorus/tremolo/ping pong slapback? If I was to use this live how do I switch from one sound to another. I assume there are outs to my mixer?
Hi, can one use an external wah pedal with the Spark Amp. As far as i know the software does not allow the built in wah to be controlled by a midi pedal. Thanks
Hi Nazmo, thanks mate. None of the patches are uploaded. The reason being is that I’m trying to get people to understand the effects and to be able to program themselves.
Thanks for your reply and your video! Haha, I can understand the "tough love" thing🤣. I have created quite a few of my own patches and uploaded them under Nazmo King. I just created an ambient tone I love yesterday ( not uploaded yet ).
That was a great clean with tremolo! Actually, after some dialing in a bit, it all sounded great. ..... Impressed! how is the string feel compared to a Katana? which to me has a great playing feel.
Someone else has already asked, but could you please explain how you recorded the sound for this video? I noticed no mic there, I'm nearly 60 and this new stuff takes a bit longer to get used to!!! Thanks
Hi man. Well done. By the way...have u mic the amp for this video or is his real volume? tnx a lot! I'm still thinking about a katana amp, but in this period i'm stuck at home and i could probably only play at home and this amp is really sexy to do so :) Sry for my English, i'm a bit rusty :P Tnx in advance for the answer!
How are you recording the amp in this video. I dont see a mic. Are you running a lead out of the headphone jack into your audio interface? Thanks in advance for any info. PS, I was scrolling farther down and found the answer I was looking for. Headphone jack it is. The demo here sounds great. Thanks for making it.
Have you had any issues with the Spark 40 having a crackle or rattle in the speakers? Mine sounds almost blown out with output at about 10 o'clock (around 40-50% volume) playing with my Telecaster or Les Paul and clean tones. I can't tell if this is the amp telling me "hey, this is a bit too low freq and too loud" or if the speakers are blown out. I get a growly or "pop" sound sometimes too.
Had my amp for a month. Would like some help as I'm an oldie. Learning since you been gone can I make amp sound a bit like the song ? Just to give me a kicstart not sure how
Yes I believe you can by stacking one of the delays with one of the reverbs. Do some experimenting, but I was able to get such tones by playing around with these combinations. Keep in mind you're limited in the order of the effects and combinations so you'll have to work within these parameters.
would you say it is gigable with the output to a desk to help, small bar low volume type gigs? it does sound really nice, i would probably use my pedals and it as an amp only that would take place of carrying my mesa and twin box for café type gigs.
Are you plugging in this amp straight through to audio interface or is it micd up to audio interface? Just curious i dont see a mic in front of the amp?
PG integrated two new EQ pedals recently which helps immensely in reducing the overbearing bass. The one thing I'm not happy with (bought 2nd hand one) is that it doesn't have a grounded power supply and when using just the amp (no gate) the hum is excruciating and a true horror as you go up the amp modeler toggle, hi-gain and metal are unbearable. Haven't had time to test with the noise gate yet. Waiting to hear back from PG on a replacement PSU, if they won't supply me one I'll have to order one, a 3 prong grounded one. Otherwise, all the videos I've watched on it...amazing is an understatement, except for the hum. Hence, for now I only get good playability on clean.
Update, I contacted PG and they agreed to send me a new grounded PSU which I already received and wow! let me tell you there is a huge, huuuuuge difference, the improvement, like barely no hum at all, not to say any since I haven't had time to test it in entirety, but enough to see that the grounded PSU makes all the difference in the world. Now, when I get done with a ton of renovations that the wife is excited about, I'll be able to test more. I was planning on putting my analog Noise Gate between the guitars and the amp, but this just eliminated the need. Seriously, I'm amazed at how much this little Spark can do and how loud it is...and with the new EQ Pedals they added, I expect to be having a lot of fun when I'm not jamming with the boys! Next addition, a bluetooth pedal, probably the XSonic Airstep Spk edition which has a looper, yay! If you can get your hands on a Spark40 for a good price...paid 230CAD for mine..., it's worth it!
Hi again, I know this has nothing to do (directly) with the Positive grid, but have you tried the new Quad Cortex ? I am looking to up my studio with quality amp sim to replace my guitar amp for quality recordings for album production. Any idea ? thank you so much.
Paul, i'm late to this video, but wonder if you've had a chance to try the Yamaha THR(30ii). I keep going back and forth between whether to buy this or the Yamaha, and it doesn't help that the net chatter seems to mostly be that the Spark is far more versatile but the Yamaha is closer to real tube amp sound. I used to have the older THR10x, and loved it, but most of these Spark videos sound really, really good and reviewers are enthusiastic about them. Ironically, i have a Kemper, which i love, but i don't always really want to deal with 'all of it.' Which makes the Yamaha, by contrast, attractive-more simplicity. I wonder, if i got the Spark, if i'd be back to being just as involved with all the options and all the possibilities that i sometimes don't want to deal with on the Kemper. Either way, though-i'd choose based on tones. I think.
@@TheStudioRats Well, I’ve had the Yamaha for a few weeks, but I just ordered the (Pearl) Spark. The Yamaha is pretty good at cleans and mid gain, but I’m not nearly as happy with the high gain as I was when I had the old THR10x. And I keep coming back to your Spark videos which sound fantastic. I’m sorta surprised you recommended the Yamaha! Well, I’ll make a comparison when the white Spark ships (October), but I have a feeling I’m going to prefer the Spark’s versatility. I’m not concerned about the functionality of all the other features-just good amps and basic effects. Your Spark Hi Gain video was impressive-they should have hired you to make the presets.
Well, the Spark arrived today. The Yamaha will be sold/returned tomorrow. I’m surprised you thought I’d prefer the Yamaha. The Spark just has much more of the ‘fun factor,’ it’s much more versatile, it looks better (Pearl is gorgeous), and it sounds fantastic. I wish the Spark had an integral wireless situation, that it’s volume could be controlled by the app like the Yamaha, and that the device output/volume knob weren’t so touchy/sensitive, but other than that, it’s a really good amp. It has only been a matter of hours, but I’m so glad I decided to buy them both. Now I know. I wonder if PG did anything to tweak the bass on these new units. I don’t know what the uproar was about, re: it being unusably bassy. It definitely does lean that way, but not so far that the controls (even without the Eq pedal) are enough to get me in the happy zone. Tomorrow, I’m going to recreate and store all of your video tones….
@@valebliz i found the reality to be quite opposite. Zero low end on the thr for one thing. Playing metal on it sounded wrong no matter what cab sim i tried. It just sounded tinny when compared to the Spark.
Hey Paul, just received my Spark Amp and wanted to know how you had the amp hooked up for this video to get that sound! There are enough great sounds to make this a keeper. I have access to my Focusrite Scarlett and MAC with garage band. Thx
I own both. They sound pretty different just because of the 1 bigger speaker vs 2 smaller ones, but ultimately this is amazing for filling a practice space with sound, but not with amp. I do like interacting with the mustang better because the spark app isn't very intuitive to me
Hi information required. I ordered mine on 17 November, I was told it would be dispatched in December. Sure enough 2 December told it had been shipped with GLS. Had two updates for shipping on the same day from Germany. Been 12 Days now and it doesn't seem to have moved. Anyone know if this is normal. I live in England. Thanks
@@TheStudioRatscan not blame positive grid. They have passed it to a local courier , it seems to have disappeared down a black hole after it left them.
hi Alan i ordered mine Nov 27th they said shipping Dec 17th i got it on the 19th, took 3 weeks so don't no if i was just lucky or they are sorting out the backlog, my son just ordered one on Dec 27th told him it will be shipped on Jan 30th, everyone seems to be having different experiences with them, frustrating mate but a great little amp never the less, hope you have got it now
No. You have to purchase it direct from them. And then you pray that it arrives within 6 months. For a very short period there some on Amazon UK but they soon went.
@@TheMarkio1988 go to the website now and it's £184 with the bag free. That price fluctuates on a daily basis. If you want one just have patience rather than give a profit to some money grabber on e bay
This thing didnt last me to a month. Its just not for me. Way too boomy and noise gate really sucks. When dialed it higher, it sucked ot the tone. Save up and buy katana instead imo.
I just couldn't get along with this amp and sold it within 3 weeks of getting it. That said, I have a Katana Artist and a Line 6 DT50 tube amp. I have had several tube amps as well...
I bought my Spark and loved it for four months. Then it started making a very loud hum upon turning the amp on. It's completely unplayable. Searching around I have found there are some serious grounding issues with the amp. Positive Grid promised they would send me a new grounded transformatore. I have yet to receive it. I waited two months for the am, I played it four and am waiting another two hoping to play it. Clearly I'm not happy and I can't reccomend it anymore!
I have just set mine up and had the hum/grounding issue, I checked and I had the updated power supply. I then updated the firmware and all seems to be good now, give that a check just in case that's an issue matteo.
@@jayxpea That's the main reason I'm getting the THR30ii. It has line outs and an aux in, that can be used as a true send/return effects loop for use with loopers and other effects pedals. Otherwise I'd get this, it's much cheaper.
I agree that pretty much every tone has way too much bass. I’ve played around with it for a few months and I haven’t found a good tone because the bass is so muddy even if I turn it all the way off. I’m using a PRS SE and unless I’m using the neck pickup only to cut through the bass, it’s pretty awful. I’m not a professional by any means but it’s not at all what I was expecting and the customer service is atrocious.
Great demo !! I actually bought one of these, del'd late summer. I like it but had trouble synching it to my phone.
Support staff tried to help and we finally determined my $99 phone couldn't cut it (800 and needs a 801 or something).
I used to jam with albums starting when i was 15 in '72 and played in a cover band and now play whatever i think of, a set it and forget it then add various od's and such player so i'm happy with what the Spark does. I've had a CyberTwin for 15 years,.,.,i use one preset. Bought the Spark in case it died.
Nice review and nice playing! This is a really fun amp. I get a lot of great, different tones out of it and I'm always surprised by this little rig.
I am enjoying so much all your spark videos sir. I find all of them very useful
I’m really glad they help.
Very straightforward loved watching this one thanks bunches!!
wow that is magic how you come up with those tones so fast and then throw in all your liks and triks. Just bought one of these so trying to learn how to use it. Thanks!
Cheers Kent
Learned a lot in a short vid on how to get great times from this amp, thanks
It’s a pleasure Tom.
Awesome I just found your channel, I’m not sure why I’ve never come across your channel before, anyway I just ordered one of these and I’m pretty excited about it. Great video!
I got my Spark as a Christmas present (much better than socks or after shave...) and your videos have helped me get a lot more out of it, so thanks a lot. I've been using mine with a Patrick James Eggle Macon (LP Std style) but i really like the way it sounds with your T style, so I think I'll start using my PJE Oz T with it... the articulation seems much better. Great tip on the 'No Bass' too. I'll try it. Cheers!
My Spark is my number one home practice and sometimes recording amp. It's really great after you dial in what's right for you as a player. I do have my big rig toys, but I love this just as much. I do use it as a blue tooth speaker outside when I have guest over, and nothing but good compliments form how it sounds.
Great playing Paul. Very tasteful player.
neat presentation....got a lot of respect for this baby
Hi Paul, that was a great video. I agree 100% with the idea of a video teaching how to set amps up to get different tones. My knowledge of this is poor and it really makes things difficult. I have the Boss Katana 2 head. Bought some tones off your web site but would be greatful for any lessons on how to set up tones in general. I really liked your version of crunch via the clean channel for the MK1 but it seems different on the MK2.
That SLO sounds GREAT with those pickups, TOO!
cheers.
This is exactly how such a demo must look and sound like: without all that phaser/flanger/chorus bullshit and with proper hands holding the guitar making it sound. Great stuff.
cheers.
Oh ya man all I need is muh geetar and amp no effects bro that's how a real man plays huuarg crush a beer can on your head manly
I got your fix for the bass problem. I got myself an EQ pedal and I use it before my Spark and it works wonders
wow great vid..its great you will be doing ...how to use the amp and programs sounds, create your own up coming, look forward to those.....thanks
Brilliant, Paul. I’ve been looking at these and the THR2 series from Yamaha. I’ll be anxious to see your upcoming videos with the Spark but I think I’m leaning more this way as the feature set is more attractive to me.
Cheers Brian! Yep I think you'll enjoy the Spark.
it's well worth the money...i love mine
I’m using mine with bias fx2 and bias amp2 with a Scarlett device and a midi commander it is crazy compact and yet very versatile and sounds amazing. I would have save a lot of money if it would have been invented 20 years ago just in over drive and fuzz pedals alone I’ve stop counting. What I love with bias fx2 you can swap the effect position in the chain in 2 second no cable time consuming you have so many possibilities so many amp you can mod your amps with bias amp2 you can mod pedals with bias pedals it’s like never ending possibilities and the most important, it sound amazing.best by ever don’t look at the price, it’s cheap but sound like thousands of bucks!
I have this AMP also. Many are following suit with modeling amps with a PS.
Charles - I also have been using Bias FX and Amp (and Pedal) since Amplitube started sliding away (I know about AT 5 ...). Could you share how BiasFX 2 and Amp 2 tie in to the Spark. Not much data out there that I've found.
@@RocktCityTim You'd use it as a sound card and run BiasFX on your computer
Currently have the go. Thinking the 40w will work well once I relocate the practice area to the Garden Room, leaves some change for a Telecaster to go alongside the Les Paul!
The first amp with the tremolo sounds incredible
The Spark is an amazing amp once u start digging into it. I find for the high gain stuff, all I need is the 5150 and Soldano, unfortunately, I feel the Marshall amps are mostly a miss, especially for high gain, although u can get some nice bluesy/clean tones. The effects are great and the interface is very intuitive. I wish my old Kemper had that interface :( And yes the bass response is ridiculous but u can easily dial it out. For the $ this amp is a steal, and it sounds great with headphones. Thanks for another insightful video Paul, really appreciate all the Katana tips!
Hey tonelizard what headphones do u use iv tried 2 different mid priced headphones 1st srt was tirtle beach high end gaming set a 10.i think..them..i just got tha sennheiser 200..i like tha a 10 gam8ng headset..but im very dissapointed with tha sennheiser..im very interested in what u seem 2 kno
@@myhauntedlife421 Hey man, sorry for the late response, I didn't check my messages. You'll laugh but I've been using an old pair of Bose Soundsport wired earbuds. But my favorite headphones are the Audio Technica ATH M50. I have two pairs of those I use for serious recording, practicing, etc...www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ATHM50x--audio-technica-ath-m50x-closed-back-studio-monitoring-headphones
Hi @tonelizard
Do you recommend the Spark, THR10ii or Katana?
@@alfianbanjaransari4096 that’s a great question, I had a Yamaha thr10x for years and was addicted to the “brown” channel. I sold the Yamaha once I started dialing in my tone on the Spark. The Spark and Boss katana are very different animals. I currently own a Boss Katana 100 MK2. They can get very loud, and behave like a tube amp, I find they sound better the more u crank them, especially for the high gain stuff, it really starts to breathe. For sitting in front of a tv and practicing at low volume or with headphones the Spark is perfect. If u need a real amp that can get loud or play with others the Katana is the best amp on the market for the money. Just my 2 cents though ;)
@@tonelizard unfortunately that makes the Katana unappealing as I need something that'll sound consistent throughout all volumes. The Spark doesn't have cab sims nor take IRs iirc, no? The THRii & recently released Blackstar ID Core V3 have built in cab sims. I'm pretty sure it's all EQ trickery at this pricepoint though (nothing comparable to a handful of carefully tuned IRs).
If I were to take a spin on the question: Why not just get the full fledged Bias FX+amps & play them via a tablet+powered speakers? Isn't that what the Spark essentially is? Thanks!
Great video demo, I’ve been looking at these but there seems to be problems with shipping time and lots of mixed reviews, but this sounds pretty damn good for a practice amp and the price is good, 👍
Cheers, yes I’ve heard there’s been problems, there’s also quite a healthy secondhand market.
Ordered mine 3-3-21 just checked and its on fed ex truck in route for delivery . Delivery is scheduled for 3-19-21 .
I want a spark 40 so bad, in trying to save up for one now. It sounds amazing
they are amazing...I love mine...
I just bought one for my bday cpl weeks ago.... man its amazing. It's so cool to be able to really explore pedals, etc without spending 100s of dollars at the same time
That was a fantastic video and quick demo! Its exactly what I was looking for. Quick question how did you capture the tones for the video? I see you didn't mic it.
Hey Logan, I used the headphone out.
Outstanding Paul, However I did miss what you said about the rectifier ramp can you write that back to me please
Damn, this man can play.
I sub'd. Really good channel. Cheers
Can you comment on its music playback qualities. You hinted at it when describing the reverb in the video, but does it have a wide stereo image like a Yamaha thr?
That CLEAN! Are those Wide Range Humbuckers? I've been searching for a set of humbuckers that I actually like, and those sound AMAZING...
Hi, they are the suhr thornbuckers in that guitar, thanks for the comments.
@@TheStudioRats right on! I put a thornbucker on my HSS strat and I couldn't be happier.
It’s the amp
The amp sounds like that not the guitar !!
And if we compare it to a well-configured Boss Katana?
You showed us your “tremolo smile”.
Thanks Paul √
Anytime.
beautiful thinline tele
Cheers Vincent.
My Spark 40 has been cutting out intermittently.- either with the guitar or computer USB connection. Each dead period lasts for a minute or 2. Firmware update did not resolve the issue. So right now its useful only to hold the door open or as step to reach high places. I'm waiting to hear from PG.
First off - you play great and that Suhr is SICK. I just don't think the PG Spark is worth almost $400 Canadian when there are so many other options available. Now, if they made a 15 / 20 watt version and got rid of ALL THE USELESS DEFAULT BASS I might reconsider at a $200 price point.
At 40 watts I might just as well plug in my JCM800 or Hot Rod Deville - and the HRD has the added bonus of letting me take a line out from my computer - letting me run pretty much any preamp - real or vst - through that amazing Fender tube power amp.
Hi garcemac, cheers. It’s not 40 watts like a valve amp, it wouldn’t be able to get anywhere near what your Hot Rod can do volume wise. Think of this as a home practice tool.
It would be great to compare PG and Divided by 13 that you have behind for understanding the huge difference in the price.
How did you record the sound for this demo? Is there a way to control how much "gain/sound" is going into the direct USB line. Basically do i need to have the speaker's really loud if i want to get a decent input signal on garageband (for example)? I've seen videos of people not receiving a loud enough signal when going directly into a DAW.
Hi, It was recorded through the minijack output.
@@TheStudioRats Thanks for the reply. Do you mind telling me a bit more about how that works I'm quite new to this. Was there a reason you used the mini jack instead of direct via USB? Also, where does the mini jack go into, an audio interface? I have a Steinberg UR 12 with just one quarter inch input. Would appreciate any insights. Thanks a lot!!
I can imagine this little amp would be very useful for recording guitar parts - you don't need 100 watts for recording!
I think that conclusion was made a long long time ago...
@@user-tz2zz5ij1s The spark was not for sale a long long time ago.
@@sends2aaron use your reading and compression skills. Comment I replied to “you don’t need 100 watts for recording”. My reply was that realization was made a long time ago. To help you understand better, the 5 watt fender champ from the 50’s and 60’s has been a go to recording amp since it was invented. The spark isn’t the first ever low watt amp made. Try thinking a little before replying to comments.
@@user-tz2zz5ij1s I apologize to myself on your behalf, for having to deal with your ignorance.
Funny I wave watched quite a few vids on this little amp and it seems that all of their models are bass heavy! A lot of people complaining that they have to turn the bass off and turn up the mid and treble to get things to sound right.
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Does it take a wah pedal well?
Excellent info, and your chops are ridiculous!
What are your thoughts about the Spark vs the Line 6 HX Stomp connected to a clean amp? Forego the backing track stuff and focus instead on emulation quality, features and flexibility. Great review!
Hi Rommel, I’m afraid I haven’t tried the hx stomp but I used to have a helix. I think the helix is way more versatile but it’s really a different beast. Think of the spark as a practice amp that you can use in the studio if needed.
@@TheStudioRats Thanks, Paul. The modern formula is now Amp + Modeler + App. The Spark clearly ticks all three plus a few more tricks. For those of us who have accumulated tons of gear over the years, the question is whether to downsize by getting yet another piece of gear. LOL. As tempting as this toy sounds, I'll skip it since I have a Katana Head mkII and the so-called Line 6 "dream rig." And the HX Stomp... Thanks again for the awesome review!
Sounds good. I have questions. Does it do stereo - like for chorus/tremolo/ping pong slapback? If I was to use this live how do I switch from one sound to another. I assume there are outs to my mixer?
It does not I’m afraid.
Do you still like it as of 2-12-2022 ? I’m waiting for them to make it portable & line outs. Need some sort of BT foot switch with expression control.
Hi, can one use an external wah pedal with the Spark Amp. As far as i know the software does not allow the built in wah to be controlled by a midi pedal. Thanks
you can assign an external expression pedal
@@aayandadan9340 thanks for the reply, assume there is no latency issues for example with a Wah effect.
Wow, you have created some great tones here! Have you loaded any up to Tone Cloud that we can pull down?
Hi Nazmo, thanks mate. None of the patches are uploaded. The reason being is that I’m trying to get people to understand the effects and to be able to program themselves.
Thanks for your reply and your video! Haha, I can understand the "tough love" thing🤣. I have created quite a few of my own patches and uploaded them under Nazmo King. I just created an ambient tone I love yesterday ( not uploaded yet ).
That was a great clean with tremolo! Actually, after some dialing in a bit, it all sounded great. ..... Impressed! how is the string feel compared to a Katana? which to me has a great playing feel.
Someone else has already asked, but could you please explain how you recorded the sound for this video?
I noticed no mic there, I'm nearly 60 and this new stuff takes a bit longer to get used to!!! Thanks
Hi Mick, sure, I’ve taken a feed from the headphone jack. If you do this just don’t turn it up too high.
@@TheStudioRats Thank you, I was just contemplating that, I even dug out a lead to try it!!
Hi man. Well done. By the way...have u mic the amp for this video or is his real volume? tnx a lot! I'm still thinking about a katana amp, but in this period i'm stuck at home and i could probably only play at home and this amp is really sexy to do so :) Sry for my English, i'm a bit rusty :P
Tnx in advance for the answer!
Hi Vincenzo, I recorded this with the headphone out (turned down) into an interface.
@@TheStudioRats very good outcome !
Du you save all your sounds in the Spark Cloud? Ind if, can we get the names? Thanks a lot!
You do a lot of work but send it to the cloud ...so we can use it!
Hi. Is there an option to choose laney ihr sound in this amp? Thank you!
How are you recording the amp in this video. I dont see a mic. Are you running a lead out of the headphone jack into your audio interface? Thanks in advance for any info.
PS, I was scrolling farther down and found the answer I was looking for. Headphone jack it is. The demo here sounds great. Thanks for making it.
Anytime. Out of the headphone jack.
Have you had any issues with the Spark 40 having a crackle or rattle in the speakers? Mine sounds almost blown out with output at about 10 o'clock (around 40-50% volume) playing with my Telecaster or Les Paul and clean tones. I can't tell if this is the amp telling me "hey, this is a bit too low freq and too loud" or if the speakers are blown out. I get a growly or "pop" sound sometimes too.
I havent had any issues, try contacting them to see if you can get a replacement.
Had my amp for a month. Would like some help as I'm an oldie. Learning since you been gone can I make amp sound a bit like the song ? Just to give me a kicstart not sure how
Great vid thanks...already have one just looking for laughs ;)
Are the sounds from line out or from the speaker cabinet? Thanks.
Is it possible to stack delays on the app/amp to get some Hank Marvin tones?
Thanks
Yes I believe you can by stacking one of the delays with one of the reverbs. Do some experimenting, but I was able to get such tones by playing around with these combinations. Keep in mind you're limited in the order of the effects and combinations so you'll have to work within these parameters.
Nazmo King ...thanks for the info 👍
🎉
would you say it is gigable with the output to a desk to help, small bar low volume type gigs? it does sound really nice, i would probably use my pedals and it as an amp only that would take place of carrying my mesa and twin box for café type gigs.
i'm considering a topedo x for a di and load box for the mesa, probably more my cup of tea. but, this would be a great practice tool.
How does this sound using headphones? Are some effects stereo when using them? Thanks - terrific demo!
It’s sounds it’s best through headphones
is it possible to connect midi footswitches with the spark?
Are you plugging in this amp straight through to audio interface or is it micd up to audio interface? Just curious i dont see a mic in front of the amp?
Headphone out into interface
Yamaha THR30, spark or something else? What would you recommend for home practice?
I’m afraid I’ve only tried he spark out of those suggestions. but have a look at a katana.
Anyone that has this- I assume it uses all the same patches as you built for your Spark40?
PG integrated two new EQ pedals recently which helps immensely in reducing the overbearing bass. The one thing I'm not happy with (bought 2nd hand one) is that it doesn't have a grounded power supply and when using just the amp (no gate) the hum is excruciating and a true horror as you go up the amp modeler toggle, hi-gain and metal are unbearable. Haven't had time to test with the noise gate yet. Waiting to hear back from PG on a replacement PSU, if they won't supply me one I'll have to order one, a 3 prong grounded one. Otherwise, all the videos I've watched on it...amazing is an understatement, except for the hum. Hence, for now I only get good playability on clean.
Update, I contacted PG and they agreed to send me a new grounded PSU which I already received and wow! let me tell you there is a huge, huuuuuge difference, the improvement, like barely no hum at all, not to say any since I haven't had time to test it in entirety, but enough to see that the grounded PSU makes all the difference in the world. Now, when I get done with a ton of renovations that the wife is excited about, I'll be able to test more. I was planning on putting my analog Noise Gate between the guitars and the amp, but this just eliminated the need. Seriously, I'm amazed at how much this little Spark can do and how loud it is...and with the new EQ Pedals they added, I expect to be having a lot of fun when I'm not jamming with the boys! Next addition, a bluetooth pedal, probably the XSonic Airstep Spk edition which has a looper, yay! If you can get your hands on a Spark40 for a good price...paid 230CAD for mine..., it's worth it!
Wow you really dialed that amp in.....how do you record it ?? thru the headphone out ?? Thanks !!!
thanks yep headphone out.
Hi again, I know this has nothing to do (directly) with the Positive grid, but have you tried the new Quad Cortex ? I am looking to up my studio with quality amp sim to replace my guitar amp for quality recordings for album production. Any idea ? thank you so much.
We are waiting for a quad cortex to turn up, I’ll get a review done as soon as it arrives.
@@TheStudioRats thank you for your reply. Looking forward to your review !
Paul, i'm late to this video, but wonder if you've had a chance to try the Yamaha THR(30ii). I keep going back and forth between whether to buy this or the Yamaha, and it doesn't help that the net chatter seems to mostly be that the Spark is far more versatile but the Yamaha is closer to real tube amp sound. I used to have the older THR10x, and loved it, but most of these Spark videos sound really, really good and reviewers are enthusiastic about them. Ironically, i have a Kemper, which i love, but i don't always really want to deal with 'all of it.' Which makes the Yamaha, by contrast, attractive-more simplicity. I wonder, if i got the Spark, if i'd be back to being just as involved with all the options and all the possibilities that i sometimes don't want to deal with on the Kemper. Either way, though-i'd choose based on tones. I think.
Personally I would buy the Yamaha the spark is good but definitely has flaws. I hope you find what you want.
@@TheStudioRats Yeah, that's where i'm leaning. Thank you, sir.
[Newly subscribed.]
@@TheStudioRats Well, I’ve had the Yamaha for a few weeks, but I just ordered the (Pearl) Spark. The Yamaha is pretty good at cleans and mid gain, but I’m not nearly as happy with the high gain as I was when I had the old THR10x. And I keep coming back to your Spark videos which sound fantastic. I’m sorta surprised you recommended the Yamaha! Well, I’ll make a comparison when the white Spark ships (October), but I have a feeling I’m going to prefer the Spark’s versatility. I’m not concerned about the functionality of all the other features-just good amps and basic effects. Your Spark Hi Gain video was impressive-they should have hired you to make the presets.
Well, the Spark arrived today. The Yamaha will be sold/returned tomorrow.
I’m surprised you thought I’d prefer the Yamaha. The Spark just has much more of the ‘fun factor,’ it’s much more versatile, it looks better (Pearl is gorgeous), and it sounds fantastic. I wish the Spark had an integral wireless situation, that it’s volume could be controlled by the app like the Yamaha, and that the device output/volume knob weren’t so touchy/sensitive, but other than that, it’s a really good amp.
It has only been a matter of hours, but I’m so glad I decided to buy them both. Now I know. I wonder if PG did anything to tweak the bass on these new units. I don’t know what the uproar was about, re: it being unusably bassy. It definitely does lean that way, but not so far that the controls (even without the Eq pedal) are enough to get me in the happy zone.
Tomorrow, I’m going to recreate and store all of your video tones….
My issue is that i am looking for the true Fender sound. It cost another $99 to $ 299? So a catch...
ARe we hearing the actual speakers in this demo? Or are you running a line out into the video?
We see no mics in front of the speakers, so guessing this is a line out of some description.
It doesn't have a line out just an USB.
the actual speakers aren't very good. I don't like the way mine sounds
can you also import your own that you buy from the web
Hey bud. What recording software/daw stuff are you using?
Hi Colby I mainly use Studio One and LUNA.
Mines got the terrible buzz / hum hopefully new power lead on its way
can i use my spark40 as guitar power amp only ? thinking of getting the Friedman IRX as the Spark40 pre-amp.
You can’t I’m afraid
Have you have tried the Yamaha THRII? Which one you like more?
I had both ...but i sold the thr30 about 2 weeks after i got my spark.
@@diegofiorillo6412 why? The spark has a nice app but sounds wise it seemed inferior in every review i ever watched.
@@valebliz i found the reality to be quite opposite. Zero low end on the thr for one thing. Playing metal on it sounded wrong no matter what cab sim i tried. It just sounded tinny when compared to the Spark.
@@diegofiorillo6412 maybe it's because I hardly play anything more than a crunch/rock sound, which on the thr are quite good.
@@valebliz yeah maybe. The crunch and cleans are fantastic on the thr.
Hey Paul, just received my Spark Amp and wanted to know how you had the amp hooked up for this video to get that sound! There are enough great sounds to make this a keeper. I have access to my Focusrite Scarlett and MAC with garage band. Thx
I used a stereo mini jack to two jacks, just run the headphone level quiet
Stereo mini jacks to different speakers?
Sorry I thought you said you were plugging it in to your Scarlett?
plug it into 2 channels on your Scarlett, pan left and right, jobs a good’n
@@TheStudioRats Thanks for the help. I used the headphone out and split as you said to my KRK Rokit 5 powered speakers. Sounds fantastic!
What's really mind blowing is how difficult they are to deal with.
I’m thinking of shooting a video about the problems with Positive Grid.
The apps can be find and use for android?
How did you record the amp? Via USB?
I recorded using the mini jack out:
How many months did you wait for delivery?
I think it was about 2 weeks.
what key and mode/scale is that in the intro??
Its all in C major.
@@TheStudioRats THANK YOU
do these things have line outs ?? could you go into a PA or cabinet ?
Yes
@@FastSloW-qt8xf Where? There's only headphone out.
No, it doesn't. But it does have a headphone out.
I was also told that the mustang amp sounded better is that true
I own both. They sound pretty different just because of the 1 bigger speaker vs 2 smaller ones, but ultimately this is amazing for filling a practice space with sound, but not with amp. I do like interacting with the mustang better because the spark app isn't very intuitive to me
Hi information required. I ordered mine on 17 November, I was told it would be dispatched in December. Sure enough 2 December told it had been shipped with GLS. Had two updates for shipping on the same day from Germany. Been 12 Days now and it doesn't seem to have moved. Anyone know if this is normal. I live in England. Thanks
Im hearign this a lot Alan, shocking customer service.
@@TheStudioRatscan not blame positive grid. They have passed it to a local courier , it seems to have disappeared down a black hole after it left them.
hi Alan i ordered mine Nov 27th they said shipping Dec 17th i got it on the 19th, took 3 weeks so don't no if i was just lucky or they are sorting out the backlog, my son just ordered one on Dec 27th told him it will be shipped on Jan 30th, everyone seems to be having different experiences with them, frustrating mate but a great little amp never the less, hope you have got it now
@@geoffsansom2008 Hi Geoff mine arrived mid December. Still trying to work it out, sounds great with my new Stat.
Great repro of oil Shadow tunes.
@@alan68 glad you got it mate, yeah still exploring with mine, but some great tones, my son has ordered one now lol
God damn! First with the "HOT ONES" show and now this? That dude is everywhere...
You might have to explain that comment... hot ones??
Can it plug into a larger cabinet?
5:11
Can this be purchased in the uk? I can’t find it anywhere!?!?
No. You have to purchase it direct from them. And then you pray that it arrives within 6 months. For a very short period there some on Amazon UK but they soon went.
@@michaeldean7220 damn! I’ve seen a few on eBay but they are going for over £300
@@TheMarkio1988 go to the website now and it's £184 with the bag free. That price fluctuates on a daily basis. If you want one just have patience rather than give a profit to some money grabber on e bay
This thing didnt last me to a month. Its just not for me. Way too boomy and noise gate really sucks. When dialed it higher, it sucked ot the tone. Save up and buy katana instead imo.
The extra software packages are extremely expensive...
Look for the deals. You can pick up BiasFX 2 for under US$70 most of the time (unless you're after the full kit).
Yahaha THR 30 all the way
It is a bass amp as well.
Yes I think it does have a few bass amp models
Hi , subscribed... some clean tone demos please :)
Are we going to see some bigger combo amps come out ?
I just couldn't get along with this amp and sold it within 3 weeks of getting it. That said, I have a Katana Artist and a Line 6 DT50 tube amp. I have had several tube amps as well...
drugs kill pal
@@joebloggs4754 so... I have to be on drugs to not like the amp?
@@BillVerdon No but it sure would help as would mental illness !
Guys like you that can really play could make a banana sound good.....
Is that a thin line telecaster
It certainly looks like one
It’s based on one but it obviously isn’t a Fender. Sounds good though. I made one myself using Warmouth :-)
I bought my Spark and loved it for four months. Then it started making a very loud hum upon turning the amp on. It's completely unplayable. Searching around I have found there are some serious grounding issues with the amp. Positive Grid promised they would send me a new grounded transformatore. I have yet to receive it. I waited two months for the am, I played it four and am waiting another two hoping to play it. Clearly I'm not happy and I can't reccomend it anymore!
Yeah I’m hearing a lot about these problems. Hope you get it sorted soon.
I have just set mine up and had the hum/grounding issue, I checked and I had the updated power supply. I then updated the firmware and all seems to be good now, give that a check just in case that's an issue matteo.
Is it possible to plug a looper through this?
Only by going in the front, there’s no fx loop.
@@TheStudioRats appreciate the response
@@jayxpea That's the main reason I'm getting the THR30ii. It has line outs and an aux in, that can be used as a true send/return effects loop for use with loopers and other effects pedals. Otherwise I'd get this, it's much cheaper.
I agree that pretty much every tone has way too much bass. I’ve played around with it for a few months and I haven’t found a good tone because the bass is so muddy even if I turn it all the way off. I’m using a PRS SE and unless I’m using the neck pickup only to cut through the bass, it’s pretty awful. I’m not a professional by any means but it’s not at all what I was expecting and the customer service is atrocious.
Hi Tanner, PRS guitars are notoriously dark so I’m afraid you’ll really have to bring the bass back on the amp.
Does it sound really good?
For what it is, yes.