Just got mine this week. My Tiny Terror is now not so tiny with 100watts, an effects loop, and DI out to the mixer for direct recording, it also sounds amazing clean but with all headroom and the effects added and through a 4x12 cab. I will now be able to record from all my guitar amps direct (yay). The PS100 sounds so good and is the perfect tool for guitar tube amps. I am very happy with it🙂
The Fryette PS100 is an essential piece of equipment I could not live without. It doesn't rely on software so it won't ever become obsolete. Among all the other fantastic goodies, it has this glorious effects loop that works with anything you throw at it. My only complaint is that you need TWO if you want to go stereo.😄
I have owned Power Station-2 for more than 6 months and I WARN you that you should NEVER BUY this. Since PS-2 is so good that I keep buying 100w tube amp heads which I wouldn't even imagine buying if I didn't have PS-2.
I read about these and there were none around d here to try. I picked up a new 50w PS2A on a roll of the dice and have been floored with its capabilities. I use it in my second bedroom home studio with a range of 40-50 watt amps at practice volumes that are phenomenally good. Best piece of outboard gear I’ve ever owned, worth every penny.
So glad I waited. I was not aware of this product until today. I'd owned the UAD OX & sent it back due to it amplifying non-musical noise that seems to come from the digitizing process. Regardless I also didn't find the presets to sound different from each other - nobody could solve this problem though I'd done nothing wrong. I called both UAD & Sweetwater support & the consensus was send it back. Still looking for a better solution of the "reactive load" type of approach I also tried the Roland but it was more filled with features & gimmicks -- presumably because their reactive load solution really didn't do it either. Now that I've heard this I can tell it's the best solution for me. The other solutions seem to be trying to add something to the sound. This seems to just take the sound of the amp at it's best & create that same sound independent of volume & maintain your gain staging across varying SPL's.
My PS1 is one of the best things I've ever purchased. Big amps go quieter, small amps go louder, the effects loop is great and it doubles as a power amp for my HX Stomp and Fryette GP/DI.
A few hours before I watched your video I purchased the Ps100 You confirmed what I was thinking Fryette is backorder I have to wait 2 weeks they can't keep them on the shelves LOL 😆 I feel better Knowing how happy You are about your Fryette ps100 Thanks !
I picked one of these up as well and absolutely love it! I did have to replace a fuse inside the unit but it was very easy to do. Highly recommend and great vid as always!
I own the standard PS1. When i seen this one and seen the "dual" i almost thought it allowed to connect 2 heads, Which i thought would be super cool but nope, You can only run one amp to it. A TRUE dual version of this would be awesome. I still dont see having dual controls with just one amp input being all that useful. Also these do use 2 6L6 power tubes. Its almost like running a tube amp into another tube amp.
Making small amps loud is, to me, its USP and best feature. My wee Carr Mercury is an epic sounding amp but it's only 8w. However, with my Fryette I could use it anywhere. I actually bought my first one to amplify a Kemper and it's great for that too.
This is a re-amplifier unit using solid state power amp transistors that takes the tube amp's output, attenuates it, and re-amplifies the original signal received. This was pioneered years ago by a Japanese man named Ho and called it the Ho Attenuator. It does in fact sound the most transparent of all the types of attenuators available. There are a few others out there doing the same thing each with their own added controls and features. Some for crazy money and some a little more reasonable. Just trying to explain to those out there curious about how this works and is attained.
The power station uses resistors to knock the amp’s output to line level, then amplifies the signal with a tube amp. Nothing like the ho, ultimate, etc. The bad cat unleash and boss waza are similar to the ps, but both reamp with solid state output.
It’s not at all like the Ho attenuator. In method or sound. Fryette reamps with 2x6L6 power section. Sound quality is exceptional, over ANY attenuator (with the possible exception of the BOSS TAE).
@@torryc so there’s 2 6L6s crammed inside of that little chassis? If so how does it dissipate the heat when in full power mode? It must rely on VVR (variable voltage to power tubes) to control the output level? I just need to see inside of one I guess to know what’s happening.
The Fryette PS 100 and PS2 are by far the most useful pieces of gear I own….I had the Boss TAE before I got the Fryette,but after playing thru the PS100 for a bit,I got rid of the TAE….The Fryette is all analog,your signal never gets converted to digital,the adjustable reactive load switches really add flexibility,and finally,the tube power amp sounds fantastic…..it restores the relationship of your speakers reacting with a tube amp….The Boss sounds great,but something was missing with the SS power amp….The PS100 is one of those things that after having it,you wonder how you got by without it….
I own one and absolutely love it! I have a Mesa Boogie MK2c+ that despite its master volume just never sounded as good as it should at a volume my wife would let me play at in my home studio, I was almost thinking of selling the boogie. With the Power Station it now sounds fantastic at a level that I play at and remain married. Thumbs up
You have bigger issues than loud amps if you need permission from your wife to do anything. Were you raised by a single mother? I detect extremely low testosterone levels or self castration. Get help bud!
Gackiness is a technical term used to describe yuck. Thanks for the great video Tim. I am finally getting one of these units. I love your fender bassman head I have a 1967 myself can't wait to be able to turn it up.
Too bad you cannot get the driven cone tone and cab sound when its turned down. As far as reducing volume and not altering the information , yes VERY impressive unit. This vid has just increased the used price of this like anyone would even part with one.
Not a guitarist, but studio guy watching out of interest. Imho the most cool thing about this is the FX loop, as you're able to add effects AFTER the amp, kinda like in the mixing stage (ofc the speaker's still there, but hey - don't get greedy!). But DO get creative, my dear guitar guys!
This reminds me of the old SRD Power Soak Distortion unit, but better. I just use a volume pedal through the effects loop and get the same results. I'm able to get that concert auditorium sound without the hearing damage. When I back off on volume I still get that great tube driven sound. So many gadgets and so little cash.
I have the 50 watt version. It is absolutely indispensable. It's also a stand alone power amp. I have a Kingsley Constable on order and I can't wait to pair the two.
Will be interested to hear how that combos works for you. I have a few Kingsleys (Constable, Page, Page DS, Maiden, Jester) and thinking of ordering a Fryette for both a super-convenient Kingsley/Fryette pre-power combo…and to tame my too-loud Two Rock. These things look amazing.
Another plus for the ps-100 is it sounds great on my modelers like Axe FX III and Helix with all of my guitar cabs. Better than full range class D solutions IMHO. Downside is it looks like I need to try two of them to handle the stereo effects.
Thanks so much for sharing this piece of equipment. I have a marshall dsl40 that I cranked up for the first time after having it for 3 years. Omg. The tone is the tone I've been looking for all my life but it was crazy loud. This is certainly something to check out.
Allan Holdsworth made a unit he called the “Harness” in the 90s . It was the simplest most unique design ever ( there’s a surprise) . Brought a raging 100 watt amp down to line level and it was not big $$$$. No heat , no tone loss. Music was not his only realm of genius. Never marketed never advertised, just a few chaps around the laundry room knew.
I had two of those movie projector amps back in the 60's. Those amps can read the sound off a film using the photo electric cell. That's one of the tube looking things you can see that's not a tube. I made some experiments where I transferred sound into light and back into sound. I was in seventh grade and way below average as a student but my band won the battle of the bands and I won the state science. "It was a very good year". I made one portable devise that I could walk down the street with. I was able to point the flashlight toward my window at the movie projector amp and I could talk through the light beam and it was clear. I saw years later that spies used that same technology to communicate over the Berlin wall. I made these things with no formal training in electronics. My father was an amazing man, he taught me all the cool stuff. He knew a little about everything. Music, Art, Technology. He fought in WW2 as a pilot in the Philippines. He came back had 9 kids with has wife Mary and they both lived long and joyful lives. I miss them both dearly. Anyway, those darn amps, yeah!
I’m of the opinion that speaker distortion, at volume, is what sounds good. Nothing changes that except super-inefficient speakers that are tuned for great distortion at moderate output. That innovation would be the real solution, and probably cheaper than the Fryette.
I use a PS-2 to make my Bassman head, Hiwatt DR504 & Vox AC50 quieter and my Vibro Champ louder. Does a great job with both tasks. The effects loop lets me use a reverb pedal with the amps cranked up…no crazy reverb-into-distortion messiness.
that thing is cool!!! just wish it would do two amps at once...i'm playin in stereo with a mesa mark IV and a EVH 50W stealth...can't play real loud usually...
I have a 1982 JCM 2203 and that thing is loud! The PS-100 makes it usable at home. More than that, if I ever get my hands on a Plexi I can play it in my bedroom no problem 😁
I have a Friedman Plex i just got it and it is very LOUD. Great amp based on Dave Friedman's personal '68 Super lead. The master control volume works pretty good but i still want to turn it up some more past 2 though and get more of that Plexi goodness. I've been looking at these Power Stations too and they are pricey but people must like them because they're sold out all the time, everywhere. Especially the PS-2a. That's all i really need is that one. For me it's the price holding me back at the moment, already spent a lot on the new amp.
@@AchillesWrath1 I'm here because I have a BE-100 DLX/Mesa OS 412 in a small room. *laugh* I can freaking rip it during the day; lady of the house & neighbors don't care. I'm a night owl, though. You're 100% right. The MV is incredible, but a lot of that Friedman mojo just isn't there under 2 - 2.5 .
Nice - I actually preferred the guitar tone, - when you lowered the volume. "Killer Guitar Sound" It's a great piece-of-gear for gigs or Recording. oNe LoVe from NYC
That's a pretty cool device if it allows players to reduce the size/amount of gear they haul around (i.e. a smaller amp+this unit) and yet still get enough volume for gigs. Pretty cool.
I have a Deluxe Reverb Tone Master which includes a built in attenuator that varies from 0.2 to 22 watts. I like the volume on about 7 for that sweet spot and attenuated to a lower output it sounds awesome.
Wow how can I get one is there a waiting list for this unit boy it sounds better then a regular attenuator has more use man I'm digging this thanks man u rock
So great to meet you at Rick’s show on Wednesday. I was really hoping you’d be a special guest, thanks so much for making the trip an for all you do to inspire me!
Yep...there are times you have to play quiet. My "problem" is the better it sounds the louder I want it. : ) . When you're in the groove air needs moved!
The power station is the best piece of gear ever. It is so versatile. Run any amp as hot as one wants, recording, amplify a small amp up, run a preamp into it and use it as poweramp …. It is the ultimate problem solver.
@@knbstone Absolutely! I mostly use my power station with a non master-volume Marshall head and I am eternally grateful for the power station to give me the capability of adding an effects loop. It makes a huge difference since the goodness in the amp comes from power tube distortion and I am not one of the people who like to have their delay in front of a dirty amp - echoplex history or not, it just sounds bad to me but I absolutely love using the Fx loop on the PSII.
This thing is absolutely amazing! Other than my guitars and amps it’s the greatest piece of gear I’ve ever bought. I use it with my my Marshall 1962HW Bluesbreaker and it allows me to keep it cranked and play it at manageable volumes along with an effects loop for my reverb or time based effects. It also allows me to use multiple cabs. Which my Bluesbreaker by itself doesn’t. It also is a reamp that can make any low wattage amp up to 50 watts! It’s a tube driven(6l6) power amp. It would be perfect for anyone using amp simulators or multi effects to go straight into a cab. I’ve been singing the praises of the power station for several years. It truly is incredible!
I have two “boutique” Souletone amps (a JTM45 clone, the Fourty Five and a 18/20 watt Marshall, the Wilber1820) that, in addition to being the best Marshall style amps I have ever heard or played, they incorporate London Power Scaling as opposed to an attenuator. I’m wondering how this compares to the device you demonstrated. And have you ever heard of Souletone Amps?
Soultone? I’ve had a Soultone and the Fryette Power Station. There’s no comparison. London PS is a big compromise in tone. The Fryette is not. The Fryette is a marvel. (I haven’t tried the TAE, but from testimonials from friends who own it, I suspect they are similar in quality.)
Yes, those are really sweet. There's been a real play for attenuators these days, and they're doing a great job at it too. I have grown to really love non-master volume amps, just straight tube paths are the shizzy. I live in NYC and would not be able to use my amp without one. I do have a Rivera RockCrusher; sounds great. They've made such great steps on attenuators these days and yes, a good reactive one will cost you. My set up is not that dissimilar to what you're showing, mic'd attenuated amp and into a board with headphones on and make up the gain there, and wife still loves me and neighbors still say hi to me. The nice thing about the Fryette is how you can do a return/send which is really sweet if you want to add reverb to something like that to an old Plexi that doesn't have that option and you can't really put that reverb pedal in front of that if it's overdriven and expect it to sound good...but on the way out. Love it. Some of them have ohm-matching as well (not sure about that Fryette) which is great for speaker use on any amp, just match the ohms.
This thing is the real deal. Still the only attenuator on the market that doesn’t taint the original sound. Well worth the money. You can even use Freyette Attenuators to make a small amp bigger. Applause!
If you use the Fryette with an amp and cabinet switcher, then you can use the effect loop on the Fryette for all of your amps if they are connected to your switcher.
Thanks Tim! (sure wish I had access to this 30 years ago before I blew my hearing out with my JCM 800 setup, but my bands played a lot different back then; i.e. loud).
When I was a kid I had a peavy Deuce and I would turn the Pre and WAYYY up and Post WAYYY DOWN to get distortion from it. It never sounded that great and I didn’t like the amp that much and one day I was at my sisters and they had a 500 acre farm . Well I turn it up !!! And I could not believe what I was hearing, I was outside under the barn and I was like DAYUM THIS SOUNDS LIKE AC/DC LOL!! Yeah I sold it for $200 well I gave it to a friend because he spent a lot of money to make it snow in South Georgia in the summer and he was afraid to go home empty handed. We live and learn or we live and continue to make Terrible Decisions. I quit playing guitar for about 20 years and started back about 1 1/2 yrs to 2+ years ago and have made some decent improvement , just wish I could have done this years ago but it’s better late than later huh 🤔 lol
Very handy indeed, is it powered by a seperate power supply or does one stick a 3 prong into AC outlet in wall ? Must be AC only to drive built in amp.
Tim, Steve Fryette knocked it out of the park with this. And according to his historical account it is something he came up with years ago to tame his Hiwatt 100, which is the DNA to his Pitbull UL and Deliverance series from my understanding. I love that the effects loop is after the preamp and power amp. I have the ps2 through the Bogner Helios or a Bogner xtc3534 and a 4x12. Makes the jet engine come down to the right level. Built like a tank, and I hear the 100 ps not only has the footswitch for the two "channel" settings of the fryette, but also is slightly more transparent than what I have in the ps2 a, according to some testimonials. I figured you were using one, glad to see it!
Sweet video Tim. My PS-100 just arrived yesterday after a long wait - they do sell out like you say. Very excited to get it hooked up later today. I can’t believe how HEAVY this thing is. Built like a block of iron!
I have the single channel version and I love it to death. The dual channel version, besides having that whole other very useable channel, has a couple of other features that my single channel does not. Such as the line out volume. That alone almost makes me want to buy this (newer) beast. I use mine to tame my Vox AC15HW, and it really does sound great at any volume. I live in an apartment building, so this is VERY necessary. Great review, Tim!
This is great, but the problem is that they cost, in some cases, as much as an amp. This one, the Mesa, Boss, and the Universal Audio boxes all work great, but they are just too expensive.
My Tone King Gremlin - in my bedroom closet for recording - has an Iron Man attenuator - it works fairly well clicked down - But this (expensive) device goes farther. Great.
Question (Not an engineer, so excuse the dumb question) One of the main reasons I don't have a nice tube amp is because tube amps have no headphones out. I live in a small house with no separate room to play in, so I have a setup in one corner of the family room where the kids watch TV, Everything goes through headphones. Tube amps, don't have headphone jacks. Does this have the equivalent of a headphone jack? Can I FINALLY buy a nice tube amp, feed it into this, and use headphones without disturbing anybody in the house?
I have been playing only acoustic for years (sometimes mic'd), but I am just getting into electric, so a LOT of this is so far over my head. But little pieces start to fit together just listening to you . Thanks.
I have the Power Station 2 channel deal and the Boss Waza - in my studio and rehearsal room. Last night I had my Soldano SLO going into the Power Station….cranked to 7…… man we are living in a great time for guitar!!!! Love it!!!!
These are great on stage. Have used one for about 18 months. Use it with a GigRig G2 so the channel switching is built in to any G2 setting. Also highly recommend running your FX loop through it as well, which is also switchable from the back and from a controller like the G2. The tone options are fantastic and allow you that little extra control based on the room your playing in. Well worth its price and highly recommended. Also a great choice if you are using a modeler and want to send its output to a cab, or to capture amps silently to a modeler like the Quad Cortex.
Hi, this is interesting - I’m considering one for Christmas. I have a Classic Reverb Sig that’s just too loud. It has a MV but move beyond 0.5 and it flattens all sentient life. The Fryette sounds perfect. You mention it’s possible to run your own amp’s FX loop into the Fryette, is that right? As opposed to using the Fryette’s one? I have a G3 and the Two Rock has a great FX loop so this is interesting….once I get my head round how this would work!
7 месяцев назад
Why do people in the gear world speak in abbreviations? MIC PRE'S?? Is it NOT...Microphone pre amplifiers?
Good tips, Tim. And I like Keith’s “Five Watt World” hat! But what’s the advantage to using the Fender Bassman amp? And a Bell & Howell FILMOSOUND AMP? That’s a trick I’d never heard of! I’m extremely familiar with Bell & Howell gear - in public school, it seems I ended up being the kid who ran the projector. So B&H, Victor projectors (and those from the 1940’s and 50’s had KILLER amps in them) were good for all kinds of things. But THIS application is one I’d never thought os!
When I was updating my attenuator, and after using a Weber for years, it came down to this and the BOSS Tube Amp Expander. I ended up going with the BOSS because I preferred the tone I got with that since you can tune the reactance, and its boost, EQ, FX loop, etc. are all MIDI controllable so can I just run it off my switcher.
Would it be ok to ask you how long have you had the boss Tae, approx? Are you running a 100w master volume or non master volume into it? I’m interested in it but reading some people saying it ‘may’ have blown their transformers…though user error could be the reason, but some saying it wasn’t. Suhr, two notes, fryette and boss are my options.
but the fryette uses a tube power amp so you still retain the dynamics when loading it down compared to the waza class d solid state power amp. U can add effects in your daw in the end.
@@Woundstring Yeah, man, of course it's ok. I'm running a Suhr SL68 into it which does have a PPIV master volume, but I leave it on 10 so it's out of the circuit. Basically running it as a non-master volume amp, as God and Jim Marshall intended. I've had it about two years now. I run the amp jumpered at about 7 and a half into it on the bright channel, and around 4 on the second input. I've heard rumors about blown transformers too, but suspect people aren't matching the amp's output impedance. But then if you always run your amp really hard you're more likely to have a failure anyway. I also use it with my Boss Kantana I've had about 9 months. Don't know why since it's a modeler, but even the Katana sounds better with the volume up past at least 3, and even set to .5 watt, 3 is bugging the neighbors loud. One thing I like most about the TAE is when I'm using it as a recording interface. I've got greenback, EVH, and blackback IRs loaded in and they sound as amazing as when I'm playing out my greenback loaded 4x12s. And when live, having the FOH out for the sound guy makes him happy and I don't have to blow the eyebrows off the front rows to get "that" tone.
@@0megalul309 The dynamics come from the reactance in the attenuator section, not in the power amp section. The power amp section should not change the tone or anything else after attenuation, and in my experience neither the TAE nor the fryette changed the overall tone.
@@robhughesguitar you are reamping the attenuated signal. A tube power section like in the fryette is always gonna be more dynamic than the tae's ss power amp
Awesome thing (expensive? Does a lot) Q1: Is this for tube amps? Q2: I have a Katana Artist Usually at 0.5 Watts. Haven’t I discovered the sweet spot yet? Q3: How loud is it in your studio? With the loop for pedals it is moe tha
![FendiDa Rappa - Clock Dat ft. Shamar Marco [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3NBU8KHdxYY/mqdefault.jpg)
Just got mine this week. My Tiny Terror is now not so tiny with 100watts, an effects loop, and DI out to the mixer for direct recording, it also sounds amazing clean but with all headroom and the effects added and through a 4x12 cab. I will now be able to record from all my guitar amps direct (yay). The PS100 sounds so good and is the perfect tool for guitar tube amps. I am very happy with it🙂
The Fryette PS100 is an essential piece of equipment I could not live without. It doesn't rely on software so it won't ever become obsolete. Among all the other fantastic goodies, it has this glorious effects loop that works with anything you throw at it. My only complaint is that you need TWO if you want to go stereo.😄
I always use two amps and damn wish this would do both 50 watt JMPs I use.
The 2A has 2 outputs. Not sure they they only put one on the 100. Granted the 2A is 50 watts vs 100. But those are the 2 choices...
You can’t run a wet dry wet off of this?
I have owned Power Station-2 for more than 6 months and I WARN you that you should NEVER BUY this.
Since PS-2 is so good that I keep buying 100w tube amp heads which I wouldn't even imagine buying if I didn't have PS-2.
I read about these and there were none around d here to try. I picked up a new 50w PS2A on a roll of the dice and have been floored with its capabilities. I use it in my second bedroom home studio with a range of 40-50 watt amps at practice volumes that are phenomenally good. Best piece of outboard gear I’ve ever owned, worth every penny.
Thanks Tim, they're hard enough to find used as it is!
The impedance selector is awesome! So Cool.
Tim has sold so many pedals and amps. Just look in my studio lol! You’re the man Tim. Thanks for sharing your experience and hard work and passion.
Thank you so much for the comment
@@timpierceguitar thank you for taking time to reply. All the best my friend.
So glad I waited. I was not aware of this product until today. I'd owned the UAD OX & sent it back due to it amplifying non-musical noise that seems to come from the digitizing process. Regardless I also didn't find the presets to sound different from each other - nobody could solve this problem though I'd done nothing wrong. I called both UAD & Sweetwater support & the consensus was send it back.
Still looking for a better solution of the "reactive load" type of approach I also tried the Roland but it was more filled with features & gimmicks -- presumably because their reactive load solution really didn't do it either. Now that I've heard this I can tell it's the best solution for me. The other solutions seem to be trying to add something to the sound. This seems to just take the sound of the amp at it's best & create that same sound independent of volume & maintain your gain staging across varying SPL's.
OH GREAT!!! I saved my whole life to get that $5K dream amp. Now I got to spend another grand so not to hear it. lol
My PS1 is one of the best things I've ever purchased. Big amps go quieter, small amps go louder, the effects loop is great and it doubles as a power amp for my HX Stomp and Fryette GP/DI.
Totally agree!
A few hours before I watched your video I purchased the Ps100
You confirmed what I was thinking Fryette is backorder I have to wait 2 weeks they can't keep them on the shelves
LOL 😆 I feel better
Knowing how happy
You are about your
Fryette ps100
Thanks !
Finally! A coherent and concise, how to, connection, setup and adjustments with visual and audio demos.😊👍
I picked one of these up as well and absolutely love it! I did have to replace a fuse inside the unit but it was very easy to do. Highly recommend and great vid as always!
I own the standard PS1. When i seen this one and seen the "dual" i almost thought it allowed to connect 2 heads, Which i thought would be super cool but nope, You can only run one amp to it. A TRUE dual version of this would be awesome. I still dont see having dual controls with just one amp input being all that useful. Also these do use 2 6L6 power tubes. Its almost like running a tube amp into another tube amp.
This says you can: ruclips.net/video/gc_vE6OL6Rs/видео.html
1970s "lets put it to 11" ... 2020s "can we put it lower than 1?"
Making small amps loud is, to me, its USP and best feature. My wee Carr Mercury is an epic sounding amp but it's only 8w. However, with my Fryette I could use it anywhere. I actually bought my first one to amplify a Kemper and it's great for that too.
Hi Tim
Can you please do a review of the newer Fryette Power Load IR silent electric guitar recording box .... looks amazing !
Very Best - Kenny
I own one and love it!
Powerful tone magic! Cheers Tim!!
Half way through, I was reminded of the tone on the Big Sugar song "If I had My Way"
This is a re-amplifier unit using solid state power amp transistors that takes the tube amp's output, attenuates it, and re-amplifies the original signal received. This was pioneered years ago by a Japanese man named Ho and called it the Ho Attenuator. It does in fact sound the most transparent of all the types of attenuators available. There are a few others out there doing the same thing each with their own added controls and features. Some for crazy money and some a little more reasonable. Just trying to explain to those out there curious about how this works and is attained.
The power station uses resistors to knock the amp’s output to line level, then amplifies the signal with a tube amp. Nothing like the ho, ultimate, etc. The bad cat unleash and boss waza are similar to the ps, but both reamp with solid state output.
It’s not at all like the Ho attenuator. In method or sound. Fryette reamps with 2x6L6 power section. Sound quality is exceptional, over ANY attenuator (with the possible exception of the BOSS TAE).
@@torryc so there’s 2 6L6s crammed inside of that little chassis? If so how does it dissipate the heat when in full power mode? It must rely on VVR (variable voltage to power tubes) to control the output level? I just need to see inside of one I guess to know what’s happening.
The Ho attenuator is solid state power amp, resistive load, the Fryette is all tube power amp, Reactive load. No comparison.
The Fryette PS 100 and PS2 are by far the most useful pieces of gear I own….I had the Boss TAE before I got the Fryette,but after playing thru the PS100 for a bit,I got rid of the TAE….The Fryette is all analog,your signal never gets converted to digital,the adjustable reactive load switches really add flexibility,and finally,the tube power amp sounds fantastic…..it restores the relationship of your speakers reacting with a tube amp….The Boss sounds great,but something was missing with the SS power amp….The PS100 is one of those things that after having it,you wonder how you got by without it….
I own one and absolutely love it! I have a Mesa Boogie MK2c+ that despite its master volume just never sounded as good as it should at a volume my wife would let me play at in my home studio, I was almost thinking of selling the boogie. With the Power Station it now sounds fantastic at a level that I play at and remain married. Thumbs up
You have bigger issues than loud amps if you need permission from your wife to do anything. Were you raised by a single mother? I detect extremely low testosterone levels or self castration. Get help bud!
Gackiness is a technical term used to describe yuck. Thanks for the great video Tim. I am finally getting one of these units. I love your fender bassman head I have a 1967 myself can't wait to be able to turn it up.
Picked up svt classic today. Sounds great!
My Street would really love this
3:05 minutes into the video and I am sold, and I thought I would finally be able to save money for a couple months.... thanks Tim!
Too bad you cannot get the driven cone tone and cab sound when its turned down. As far as reducing volume and not altering the information , yes VERY impressive unit. This vid has just increased the used price of this like anyone would even part with one.
Not a guitarist, but studio guy watching out of interest. Imho the most cool thing about this is the FX loop, as you're able to add effects AFTER the amp, kinda like in the mixing stage (ofc the speaker's still there, but hey - don't get greedy!). But DO get creative, my dear guitar guys!
This reminds me of the old SRD Power Soak Distortion unit, but better. I just use a volume pedal through the effects loop and get the same results. I'm able to get that concert auditorium sound without the hearing damage. When I back off on volume I still get that great tube driven sound. So many gadgets and so little cash.
You ever consider marrying a rich girl?
Now we just need someone to build new tube factories.
I thought you had found a solution to the sudden lack of exports of tubes made in Russia.
There is a solution. Switch to JJ’s. They aren’t made there.
That’s a big ‘ol upgrade from the old Power Soak!
I have the 50 watt version. It is absolutely indispensable. It's also a stand alone power amp. I have a Kingsley Constable on order and I can't wait to pair the two.
Will be interested to hear how that combos works for you. I have a few Kingsleys (Constable, Page, Page DS, Maiden, Jester) and thinking of ordering a Fryette for both a super-convenient Kingsley/Fryette pre-power combo…and to tame my too-loud Two Rock. These things look amazing.
I like my THD Hotplate. It's not as nice as the Fry but it sounds very good.
Another plus for the ps-100 is it sounds great on my modelers like Axe FX III and Helix with all of my guitar cabs. Better than full range class D solutions IMHO. Downside is it looks like I need to try two of them to handle the stereo effects.
A simple db meter would go along way to explaining the effect.
Does this heat up the tubes. Like ox. Because that burns up the tube s
Thanks so much for sharing this piece of equipment. I have a marshall dsl40 that I cranked up for the first time after having it for 3 years. Omg. The tone is the tone I've been looking for all my life but it was crazy loud. This is certainly something to check out.
Awesomesauce!
Allan Holdsworth made a unit he called the “Harness” in the 90s . It was the simplest most unique design ever ( there’s a surprise) . Brought a raging 100 watt amp down to line level and it was not big $$$$. No heat , no tone loss. Music was not his only realm of genius. Never marketed never advertised, just a few chaps around the laundry room knew.
I need one of these. Badly. That way I can play my 2 60s Fenders, my 80s J120 and my DSL40C without making my wife mad and my kids complain. 😬😂🤣
I had two of those movie projector amps back in the 60's. Those amps can read the sound off a film using the photo electric cell. That's one of the tube looking things you can see that's not a tube. I made some experiments where I transferred sound into light and back into sound. I was in seventh grade and way below average as a student but my band won the battle of the bands and I won the state science. "It was a very good year". I made one portable devise that I could walk down the street with. I was able to point the flashlight toward my window at the movie projector amp and I could talk through the light beam and it was clear. I saw years later that spies used that same technology to communicate over the Berlin wall. I made these things with no formal training in electronics. My father was an amazing man, he taught me all the cool stuff. He knew a little about everything. Music, Art, Technology. He fought in WW2 as a pilot in the Philippines. He came back had 9 kids with has wife Mary and they both lived long and joyful lives. I miss them both dearly. Anyway, those darn amps, yeah!
Great story! I hadn’t heard that about projector amps
Great story, excellent way to start my day...peace....
So, Tim, the increased Mic Pre isn't colouring it at all either???? Is that right?
I’m of the opinion that speaker distortion, at volume, is what sounds good. Nothing changes that except super-inefficient speakers that are tuned for great distortion at moderate output. That innovation would be the real solution, and probably cheaper than the Fryette.
Great video, thanks! How does it compare to UA’s OX?
I use a PS-2 to make my Bassman head, Hiwatt DR504 & Vox AC50 quieter and my Vibro Champ louder. Does a great job with both tasks. The effects loop lets me use a reverb pedal with the amps cranked up…no crazy reverb-into-distortion messiness.
I wonder if using the line out would yield better results than my suhr reactive load box.
Dammit I didn’t even know about this device!
that thing is cool!!! just wish it would do two amps at once...i'm playin in stereo with a mesa mark IV and a EVH 50W stealth...can't play real loud usually...
I have a 1982 JCM 2203 and that thing is loud! The PS-100 makes it usable at home. More than that, if I ever get my hands on a Plexi I can play it in my bedroom no problem 😁
I have a Friedman Plex i just got it and it is very LOUD. Great amp based on Dave Friedman's personal '68 Super lead. The master control volume works pretty good but i still want to turn it up some more past 2 though and get more of that Plexi goodness. I've been looking at these Power Stations too and they are pricey but people must like them because they're sold out all the time, everywhere. Especially the PS-2a. That's all i really need is that one. For me it's the price holding me back at the moment, already spent a lot on the new amp.
@@AchillesWrath1 I'm here because I have a BE-100 DLX/Mesa OS 412 in a small room. *laugh* I can freaking rip it during the day; lady of the house & neighbors don't care. I'm a night owl, though. You're 100% right. The MV is incredible, but a lot of that Friedman mojo just isn't there under 2 - 2.5 .
Good Morning Tim, May all be well! I noticed several comments saying this will prematurely burn/fry amp tubes? Is that true? ☮️
Hey Tim, hope you can review the new Fryette Power Load IR..
Revolutionary gear! Thanks for sharing!
Outrageous! If only it had been available 40 years ago! Oh, well...
Try using the line out into something like the Celestion Speakermix Pro. I preferred this option to the UA Ox.
Best piece of gear that I own! I have 2. Thanks Tim!
Nice - I actually preferred the guitar tone, - when you lowered the volume. "Killer Guitar Sound" It's a great piece-of-gear for gigs or Recording. oNe LoVe from NYC
That's a pretty cool device if it allows players to reduce the size/amount of gear they haul around (i.e. a smaller amp+this unit) and yet still get enough volume for gigs. Pretty cool.
I’m not sure it works in reverse like that..?? But I could be wrong..
@@HarryFindley3 ..Really..?? Shoot..!! Why buy a big tube amp..? Now I gotta rethink everything..
So this works similarly to the Boss Waza tube amp expander?
@@castleanthrax1833 thanks for the tip. I'll go on amazon to see how many years it will take me to buy one.
@@castleanthrax1833 😮💨 nope. 1333 euros.
Tim at about 6:30 was that a Mosrite in the background? If so, I’d love to hear you play it!👍
I use a Dr. Z airbrake on my deluxe. Sounds incredible.
I have a Deluxe Reverb Tone Master which includes a built in attenuator that varies from 0.2 to 22 watts. I like the volume on about 7 for that sweet spot and attenuated to a lower output it sounds awesome.
Wow how can I get one is there a waiting list for this unit boy it sounds better then a regular attenuator has more use man I'm digging this thanks man u rock
So great to meet you at Rick’s show on Wednesday. I was really hoping you’d be a special guest, thanks so much for making the trip an for all you do to inspire me!
Yep...there are times you have to play quiet. My "problem" is the better it sounds the louder I want it. : ) . When you're in the groove air needs moved!
The power station is the best piece of gear ever. It is so versatile. Run any amp as hot as one wants, recording, amplify a small amp up, run a preamp into it and use it as poweramp …. It is the ultimate problem solver.
…to say nothing of the effects loop that it adds to every amp that doesn’t have one!!
@@knbstone Absolutely! I mostly use my power station with a non master-volume Marshall head and I am eternally grateful for the power station to give me the capability of adding an effects loop. It makes a huge difference since the goodness in the amp comes from power tube distortion and I am not one of the people who like to have their delay in front of a dirty amp - echoplex history or not, it just sounds bad to me but I absolutely love using the Fx loop on the PSII.
@@franknguitars7671 Totally agree
Is there latency? Or are the notes immediately pushed to the speaker?
No latency as it’s all analogue.
This thing is absolutely amazing! Other than my guitars and amps it’s the greatest piece of gear I’ve ever bought. I use it with my my Marshall 1962HW Bluesbreaker and it allows me to keep it cranked and play it at manageable volumes along with an effects loop for my reverb or time based effects. It also allows me to use multiple cabs. Which my Bluesbreaker by itself doesn’t. It also is a reamp that can make any low wattage amp up to 50 watts! It’s a tube driven(6l6) power amp. It would be perfect for anyone using amp simulators or multi effects to go straight into a cab. I’ve been singing the praises of the power station for several years. It truly is incredible!
I have two “boutique” Souletone amps (a JTM45 clone, the Fourty Five and a 18/20 watt Marshall, the Wilber1820) that, in addition to being the best Marshall style amps I have ever heard or played, they incorporate London Power Scaling as opposed to an attenuator. I’m wondering how this compares to the device you demonstrated. And have you ever heard of Souletone Amps?
Soultone? I’ve had a Soultone and the Fryette Power Station. There’s no comparison. London PS is a big compromise in tone. The Fryette is not. The Fryette is a marvel. (I haven’t tried the TAE, but from testimonials from friends who own it, I suspect they are similar in quality.)
Yes, those are really sweet. There's been a real play for attenuators these days, and they're doing a great job at it too. I have grown to really love non-master volume amps, just straight tube paths are the shizzy. I live in NYC and would not be able to use my amp without one. I do have a Rivera RockCrusher; sounds great. They've made such great steps on attenuators these days and yes, a good reactive one will cost you. My set up is not that dissimilar to what you're showing, mic'd attenuated amp and into a board with headphones on and make up the gain there, and wife still loves me and neighbors still say hi to me.
The nice thing about the Fryette is how you can do a return/send which is really sweet if you want to add reverb to something like that to an old Plexi that doesn't have that option and you can't really put that reverb pedal in front of that if it's overdriven and expect it to sound good...but on the way out. Love it. Some of them have ohm-matching as well (not sure about that Fryette) which is great for speaker use on any amp, just match the ohms.
This thing is the real deal. Still the only attenuator on the market that doesn’t taint the original sound. Well worth the money. You can even use Freyette Attenuators to make a small amp bigger. Applause!
Amazing, the gear available today that I would have loved in the 80’s. 😀
If you use the Fryette with an amp and cabinet switcher, then you can use the effect loop on the Fryette for all of your amps if they are connected to your switcher.
bought the ps2a looking forward to using it soon with Fractal FM9 and JCM800 50 watt
Thanks Tim! (sure wish I had access to this 30 years ago before I blew my hearing out with my JCM 800 setup, but my bands played a lot different back then; i.e. loud).
I’ve had one for years. Love it! I got mine when my kids were born, but now I bring it when I play out too.
...the hoops we will jump through to get "that" sound....amazing....my mother would have called it "Yankee Ingenuity"
When I was a kid I had a peavy Deuce and I would turn the Pre and WAYYY up and Post WAYYY DOWN to get distortion from it. It never sounded that great and I didn’t like the amp that much and one day I was at my sisters and they had a 500 acre farm . Well I turn it up !!! And I could not believe what I was hearing, I was outside under the barn and I was like DAYUM THIS SOUNDS LIKE AC/DC LOL!! Yeah I sold it for $200 well I gave it to a friend because he spent a lot of money to make it snow in South Georgia in the summer and he was afraid to go home empty handed. We live and learn or we live and continue to make Terrible Decisions. I quit playing guitar for about 20 years and started back about 1 1/2 yrs to 2+ years ago and have made some decent improvement , just wish I could have done this years ago but it’s better late than later huh 🤔 lol
Very handy indeed, is it powered by a seperate power supply or does one stick a 3 prong into AC outlet in wall ? Must be AC only to drive built in amp.
Sounds great! Thanks for sharing Tim :)
Fryette is the goat. Rack bois know of the fryette 2/150 power amp lol
Tim, Steve Fryette knocked it out of the park with this. And according to his historical account it is something he came up with years ago to tame his Hiwatt 100, which is the DNA to his Pitbull UL and Deliverance series from my understanding. I love that the effects loop is after the preamp and power amp. I have the ps2 through the Bogner Helios or a Bogner xtc3534 and a 4x12. Makes the jet engine come down to the right level. Built like a tank, and I hear the 100 ps not only has the footswitch for the two "channel" settings of the fryette, but also is slightly more transparent than what I have in the ps2 a, according to some testimonials. I figured you were using one, glad to see it!
Thanks so much
ive watched this 4 times,1 question i do have you didn't show was how loud is the cab in your isolation room?
it sounds really good btw 😀
So you're still cooking your tubes? 🤔
But not your ears or annoying neighbours/sound guy.
These things are truly amazing. I’ll just never have a thousand dollars for one lol.
Never used one. Never heard one. But have always wanted one. And yes, it is as good as I thought it would be!
Sweet video Tim. My PS-100 just arrived yesterday after a long wait - they do sell out like you say. Very excited to get it hooked up later today. I can’t believe how HEAVY this thing is. Built like a block of iron!
I have the single channel version and I love it to death. The dual channel version, besides having that whole other very useable channel, has a couple of other features that my single channel does not. Such as the line out volume. That alone almost makes me want to buy this (newer) beast. I use mine to tame my Vox AC15HW, and it really does sound great at any volume. I live in an apartment building, so this is VERY necessary. Great review, Tim!
I think it’s amazing that the audio quality of RUclips and my phone speakers is able to reproduce the subtle differences in sound that you describe.
This is great, but the problem is that they cost, in some cases, as much as an amp. This one, the Mesa, Boss, and the Universal Audio boxes all work great, but they are just too expensive.
My Tone King Gremlin - in my bedroom closet for recording - has an Iron Man attenuator - it works fairly well clicked down - But this (expensive) device goes farther. Great.
Great video Tim does it work with combos too?
Question (Not an engineer, so excuse the dumb question) One of the main reasons I don't have a nice tube amp is because tube amps have no headphones out. I live in a small house with no separate room to play in, so I have a setup in one corner of the family room where the kids watch TV, Everything goes through headphones. Tube amps, don't have headphone jacks. Does this have the equivalent of a headphone jack? Can I FINALLY buy a nice tube amp, feed it into this, and use headphones without disturbing anybody in the house?
I have been playing only acoustic for years (sometimes mic'd), but I am just getting into electric, so a LOT of this is so far over my head. But little pieces start to fit together just listening to you . Thanks.
It's truly brilliant technology eh?.
yeah in same boat, mainly acoustic but trying to learn about electric Tim's awesome 2
@@Hikaru109Ichijyo do you follow tick beat and rhett scull too? Great tips on tone.
@@mrredritehand I hope so
If not, a deep and expensive rabbit hole. Or, maybe both?
@@RAkers-tu1eyMost of these guys are honest and very helpful. But good guitar tone is cheap nowadays.
I have the Power Station 2 channel deal and the Boss Waza - in my studio and rehearsal room. Last night I had my Soldano SLO going into the Power Station….cranked to 7…… man we are living in a great time for guitar!!!! Love it!!!!
These are great on stage. Have used one for about 18 months. Use it with a GigRig G2 so the channel switching is built in to any G2 setting. Also highly recommend running your FX loop through it as well, which is also switchable from the back and from a controller like the G2. The tone options are fantastic and allow you that little extra control based on the room your playing in. Well worth its price and highly recommended. Also a great choice if you are using a modeler and want to send its output to a cab, or to capture amps silently to a modeler like the Quad Cortex.
Hi, this is interesting - I’m considering one for Christmas. I have a Classic Reverb Sig that’s just too loud. It has a MV but move beyond 0.5 and it flattens all sentient life. The Fryette sounds perfect. You mention it’s possible to run your own amp’s FX loop into the Fryette, is that right? As opposed to using the Fryette’s one? I have a G3 and the Two Rock has a great FX loop so this is interesting….once I get my head round how this would work!
Why do people in the gear world speak in abbreviations? MIC PRE'S?? Is it NOT...Microphone pre amplifiers?
Steven Fryette, making the world sound better! I wear a Fryette t-shirt once a week and have a sticker on my car. I idolize the guy I guess, ha!
Good tips, Tim. And I like Keith’s “Five Watt World” hat! But what’s the advantage to using the Fender Bassman amp? And a Bell & Howell FILMOSOUND AMP? That’s a trick I’d never heard of! I’m extremely familiar with Bell & Howell gear - in public school, it seems I ended up being the kid who ran the projector. So B&H, Victor projectors (and those from the 1940’s and 50’s had KILLER amps in them) were good for all kinds of things. But THIS application is one I’d never thought os!
When I was updating my attenuator, and after using a Weber for years, it came down to this and the BOSS Tube Amp Expander. I ended up going with the BOSS because I preferred the tone I got with that since you can tune the reactance, and its boost, EQ, FX loop, etc. are all MIDI controllable so can I just run it off my switcher.
Would it be ok to ask you how long have you had the boss Tae, approx?
Are you running a 100w master volume or non master volume into it?
I’m interested in it but reading some people saying it ‘may’ have blown their transformers…though user error could be the reason, but some saying it wasn’t.
Suhr, two notes, fryette and boss are my options.
but the fryette uses a tube power amp so you still retain the dynamics when loading it down compared to the waza class d solid state power amp. U can add effects in your daw in the end.
@@Woundstring Yeah, man, of course it's ok. I'm running a Suhr SL68 into it which does have a PPIV master volume, but I leave it on 10 so it's out of the circuit. Basically running it as a non-master volume amp, as God and Jim Marshall intended. I've had it about two years now. I run the amp jumpered at about 7 and a half into it on the bright channel, and around 4 on the second input. I've heard rumors about blown transformers too, but suspect people aren't matching the amp's output impedance. But then if you always run your amp really hard you're more likely to have a failure anyway. I also use it with my Boss Kantana I've had about 9 months. Don't know why since it's a modeler, but even the Katana sounds better with the volume up past at least 3, and even set to .5 watt, 3 is bugging the neighbors loud.
One thing I like most about the TAE is when I'm using it as a recording interface. I've got greenback, EVH, and blackback IRs loaded in and they sound as amazing as when I'm playing out my greenback loaded 4x12s. And when live, having the FOH out for the sound guy makes him happy and I don't have to blow the eyebrows off the front rows to get "that" tone.
@@0megalul309 The dynamics come from the reactance in the attenuator section, not in the power amp section. The power amp section should not change the tone or anything else after attenuation, and in my experience neither the TAE nor the fryette changed the overall tone.
@@robhughesguitar you are reamping the attenuated signal. A tube power section like in the fryette is always gonna be more dynamic than the tae's ss power amp
Awesome thing (expensive? Does a lot)
Q1: Is this for tube amps?
Q2: I have a Katana Artist Usually at 0.5 Watts. Haven’t I discovered the sweet spot yet?
Q3: How loud is it in your studio?
With the loop for pedals it is moe tha
This product is amazing, so versatile, and indispensable. It took me FOREVER to get, but wow was it worth it.