I am a Spark Live „early owner“. I bought it as a practice amp for bass… and: Sound in channel 2 is perfect! Putting my padelboard in Channel 3 is perfect, too. Channel 1 needs some tweaking for a good bass sound - but then OK. I made sessions with gentle drums… Plus acoustic guitar in channel 1, Bass in 2 and keyboard 3. That was very good! It will act as a street PA system! Putting Bass with preamp in „4“ you even can add vocals. I have a decent sounding acoustic amp and electric guitar amp at home now, too. All this with battery to go to my balcony. And yes: we used it live on a garden party. Later in the evening it was a real good Bluetooth speaker and people danced. I have two batteries - but did only use one till now. In the end: This is still the best bass practice amp I ever heard ;-) + my wife accepts size and design in the living room. It is heavier than other systems… but the sound is with wood (not plastic). Ahh… and I can rehearse a whole set of my cover band to a Spotify playlist… Plus I have some drummers to spice up my bass training. I sold a Roland Mini Bass Amp and a Roland Street Cube. … compared to those the sound is much better! …plus the price is OK. There is no perfect system when it comes to mobility, battery power and rehearsal amp. But this one ticks many many many boxes.
Serious question, what do you mean this 140 watt amp doesn’t cut through the mix when playing next to a drummer? I own a boss katana 50 and a 100 artist. I usually use the 50 at rehearsal room and it cuts well through the mix. And the 100 for gigging at a bar with the 50 as monitor. I find it hard to believe that this 140 watt amp doesn’t have enough juice. Or did I miss understudy what you said?
I guess you could solve the input problem by buying a spark go and plugging the headphone out into the stereo line in input 3 and 4. This would give guitar with fx input 1, vox with fx input 2, and spark bass tone in 3/4. You get same spark tone all round and still all mains power free.
Thank you for being so careful and honest in your review. Other reviewers (promoters) fail to explain that the only channel #1 has amp simulation. I so close to buying one for tiny gigs with vocal, guitar, bass and keyboard/backing music. I am sure that the bass input issue can be overcome (Eg: Boss Katana Go) but why the misrepresentation from other RUclipsrs?
Thanks for your review I think you answered the main question I had about this! As soon as I saw this amp my main and really only interest in using it would be as a standalone Amp/P.A for small to medium SOLO or DUO gigs possibly even busking. You answered quite affirmatively that YES it was perfect for that. I still want to see how it actually sounds with a MIC and Guitar played through it live…hows the tone etc… thanks!
I wonder if you can help me with something here please; I understood from your review that Input 3 and 4 are individually mono, but can be combined as a stereo input. Like you I really can’t hear a difference in the stereo spread when I change the orientation (my Yamaha THR 10 manages a MUCH more impressive stereo spread and that’s a third the size) So I contacted Positive Grid and got a really confusing reply, telling me that if you plug something in to Inputs 3 and 4 they sums it as a mono input. Now this not only contradicts with my understanding from this video but it also contradicts with the Live user manual, and even the labelling on the back of the amp itself. But that info came from PG themselves - so now I’m totally confused!
Yeah I really like this amp. Can also pair it with 1 or more FRFR Spark Cab(s) to boost the volume or more usefully have another sound source for coverage. Granted that now means more than one thing you have to lug around, but it's pretty scalable
The reason they have said nothing could be that you don’t get many views on your videos. Start getting over 10000 and they’ll take notice. 1000 or so views are all over RUclips. I like your videos so am surprised you don’t have more views.
Thanks for the great review. I don't much about products in this area. What is the nearest equivalent product (portable combined PA + guitar amp) that actually would be loud enough for a rock band in a pub gig?
Agree wholeheartedly with James' conclusion here. I've been using my Spark Live for a few weeks now. It's a great bit of gear and ideal as a guitar/vocal/backing track amp for small venues or putting on an intimate show for a few friends in the house but a PA it ain't.
Personally i dont mind the amp. I bought one myself and for the money its not THAT terrible. People think its supposed to compete with their tube amps and that's simply not going to happen. Good video though 🤘
Lots of good info here. I recently purchased this product and encountered a strange problem where after a few minutes of use it makes a horrible, deafening white noise sound. Have you encountered this problem?
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech The time it messed up on me was at a live gig, very embarrassing. Now I’ve been using it for nearly an hour at home with no problems… 🤷🏻♂️
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech I tried everything. Every amp model I have saved, backing tracks, microphone channel, tried disconnecting the internet and it worked just fine. I’ll keep playing with it and hopefully it performs well at the next open mic I host.
Someone may have already pointed this out. I agree with most everything you say in this video. However, I believe it is a little short in that there is a feature you seem un-aware of. The MIDI interfaces on the back allow for 2 Spark Lives to be linked together and controlled with a single Spark App. I have not tried this myself as my studio/practice space is too small and I also have dedicated PA with a Sub for my strike pro kit, and a Spark Cab connected to a Spark 40 with the Ulooper for guitar work "I also bought the Spark 2 on preorder". A single Spark live aligns with everything you point out relative to the use cases mentioned. However, when doing rock or metal music with drums getting beaten like they owe you money, one Spark live is probably not going to keep up as you say, but what about 2 of them?
I've tried using 2 Spark Live's together and from what I can see, it is NOT the case that when you connect the MIDI out from one Live to the MIDI In on the other, the app controls both Lives. Yes, if you use MIDI commands from the master Live, it will pass them over (think 'MIDI Thru') to the slave amp, but the app doesn't behave this way. I've contacted PG and suggested a firmware update that allows one app to control both, and also an update that allows 2 Lives to be paired in stereo in the same way that Sonos Roam speakers can be (at present if you have 2 Lives, you can only stream music 2 one at a time, which is a major limitation IMHO)
@@littlespaceman With regard to your statement about streaming, that would be accurate as you can only connect to only one BT interface or the other, and the BT connection is doing the streaming. With regard to MIDI, my understanding is you have to connect two MIDI cables for this to work "out to in and in to out" as stated by Positivegrid "Connect wired MIDI controllers or link and control 2 Spark LIVE amps together, with a pair of standard 5-pin MIDI in/out sockets." Did you do that?
@@The_Darksayian Hi. That'a not necessarily true about BT streaming - you can stream via BT to multiple devices, but the devices must have Audio Sharing or whatever variation a manufacturer comes up with to allow this. iPhone can do it, and I presume Androids can do it (I don't own an Android) So I think PG have missed a trick here, one that it would be great if they addressed with a firmware update; also worth saying that as the Spark Live has wifi, it might be an option to use wifi to pair 2 Spark Lives together, as you can with the Sonos Roam speakers, to create a stereo pair. This would be a really nice feature. At the moment I don't really see any major advantage of having 2 Lives (in fact I'd say the cons outweigh the pros) so I think PG need to up their game a bit in this area to give people a reason to by a pair of these. Regarding MIDI, no, you don't need to connect 2 MIDI cables; if you think about it, how would you then get MIDI in to the master amp if you were to connect both MIDI connections between the 2 Lives? All you need to do is to have your MIDI controller connected to the MIDI In of the master amp, and the MIDI Out of the master connects to the MIDI In of the slave amp. Really it should be called 'MIDI Thru' because that is basically what is happening. And all that happens is the slave gets a replica of the MIDI commands going to the master; what you'd then need to do is copy the presets you have on the master to the slave, in order to get the same sound from both (or of course have a slightly different preset on the slave to get a slightly different sound from each amp)
@@littlespaceman Actually, Positive grid states you need to connect both. I have not tried and dont know for certain. However, it would be logical that you would use two cables as midi functions best when in a chain for clock syncing and such. I am not advocating for or against, just information I read and thank you for your reply.
@@The_Darksayian No, that is not correct, you don't need to connect both; I have tried it, and you only need to connect one. As I said, how would you get MIDI commands in to the master amp if both of its MIDI ports are already used connecting it to the slave amp? Not sure where PG say you need to connect both, but from the Spark Live User Manual; "O - MIDI Ports (Standard 5 Pin DIN) Input - Connect a wired MIDI controller to control built-in effects and other features. Output - Connect to another Spark LIVE to sync them"
Been waiting for this review as I got mine on pre order too and you told me you had yours on the live show. I’m an at home player who does short covers and uploads to YT & TT. It’s perfect for my needs. Slight issue discovered that needs addressing but more than happy so far. Keep up the good work Jivey 👍🏻
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech UPDATE After extensive testing and investigation by our product team, they have confirmed that the issue may arise from a high sensitivity of the G-sensor, which is utilized to detect the orientation of the amplifier. Consequently, we would advise you to try placing the amplifier on a flat surface, avoiding the use of a speaker stand or placing it on an uneven surface where it might be susceptible to tilting or displacement due to sound vibrations. Rest assured, this is an issue we are currently aware of and prioritize addressing through an upcoming firmware update to enhance this aspect of the amplifier.
Thanks for this review! I have a Spark 2 on order and the marketing is so cringey, it almost kept me from purchasing. They are a bit disingenuous in their claim that going from 40 to 50 more watts is 25% louder. That isn't how decibels work. I'm not completely sold on the tones I've heard yet, but I should be able to return it if I don't gel with it.
thank you so much I was going to purchase one of these but after your review, I think I will try the new Spark 2 after it gets reviews and bugs worked out I don't think this one for me
@TSR - Jivey Talks Tech Man you did a fantastic job on this video. You Sir have earned my Sub. On the spark Live I think I am going to buy it as A practice amp. I think it shines at that and it's easy to pop in the car and carry to my mates house for a jam session. That IMHO beats lugging around 2 4x12 cabs and my amp head. Plus if i want to get a lil late night practice in I am not having the law called on me for waking the entire Neighborhood lol
I owned a Spark Live for about 3 weeks. I didn't find it to be enough for my solo guitar/vocals with backing tracks gigs. It didn't provide enough punch as I play a wide variety of genres.
Great Video, and thanks for calling out Positive Grid on their OVER INFLATED Marketing. I too like PG products owning 40, Go, Live, and X, but I have been saying they need to chill on their marketing technique it makes them look bad at this point. Don’t even try to leave a comment like this on a PG group members as all the blind followers will put you on the chopping block
My app keeps crashing or somebody remote controls it from the app in their phone.. I have to revert back to the Boss cube street 2 as it is more reliable for solo gigs
Why isn't my signal coming out in stereo? I am running my stereo device into the left and right into the left and right inputs properly into the back but my signals are being summed to mono (yes my spark is being placed in landscape/stereo position) If this is normal it's a huge deal breaker and very misleading I've already returned my Spark cab because of its limited mono only capability but truly believed that this was a true stereo system that I could use for running my other guitar modelers through in stereo I sell tons of spark gear at the music store that I work at because of my fondness of it but if this isn't capable of stereo through external inputs I will be encouraging my customers to follow my lead with returning theirs within their return window timeframe Major oversight on positive grids part I seriously hope I'm wrong about this but if I'm not This thing's going back to the store I work at & where I bought it
it's good to see that PG is consistent with human relations. they have crappy customer service and crappy relations with content creators trying to help them go figure
Why don't you just take the Spark 40 and run it to a pair of powered FR FR speakers? Head Rush, Yamaha, Mackie, JBL, EV, QSC ... they all make them. Yamaha's are the best IMO. And trust me, they're A LOT LOUDER than 150 watts, depending on what model you get. But I know, they're also expensive, especially for the high end ones. Did I mention they're LOUD? I have a pair of 2000 watt Head Rush FR FR powered speakers and the Spark 40 suddenly becomes the FACE RIPPER ASS SHREEDER GUT PUNCHER BALL BUSTER.
@@stevewilliams1122 You just need to pop the front off the Spark 40 and find some better, higher power speakers that will fit in the box. Google is your friend here. Undo the screws, pop of the spade connectors and hook up the new speakers. Any (I think they are 6 inch) speaker that is 40W or more *and they all are) will be fine. Just make sure it's a good brand of speaker.
Great review and analysis, James. As one of those original purchasers of the Spark who waited interminably long periods of time to get the amp which then sounded terrible with glitchy software, I sold it and got a Yamaha THR (couldn’t be happier). Pos Grid has terrible customer service and support. Gotta hand it to them, they certainly can get a load of RUclipsrs to sing praises of these even though the reviews are full of caveats about issues with the amp. Better off with a good modest priced digital unit and run thru a PA, FRFR or Katana power amp in.
I bought a spark 40 because of all the RUclips praises. Found out I can't update the firmware because you need a pc or mac computer. I only have a phone and android tabs. Can't for the life of me figure out how to update the app. It sounds like a steaming pile of freshly dumped shit. They talk about all the Jimi Hendrix pedals and amps but conveniently forget to say you have to pay extra to unlock them. All the overdrive pedals and fuzz boxes sound exactly the same, and it's impossible to dial it down for a cleaner OD or fuzz. The high low cut and damp knobs on the reverbs don't change anything in the slightest bit. The mod section has a chorus, flanger, and phaser, then 5 million tremolo pedals in which the only difference is the pedals skin. IMO it sounds better when I don't use the app at all. At least it has a clean/crunch tone that just barely doesn't make me puke. The only good news is I bought it used at a pawn shop, so I only got ripped for $125. 🤷 How bad does the spark 40 suck? Well, if this gives you an idea, right now I fantasize about owning a Line 6 Spider II Combo. If that gives you an idea.😂
A week ago I would say I agree with you; I’ve had a Spark Mini and a Go and sold them both. Then I got a Spark Live (it was the only solution for my needs - multiple inputs including a mic input and also fx. And battery powered too) I wasn’t expecting much… but I’ve got to say I think it sounds - and more importantly ’feels’ - absolutely great using the guitar input and onboard processing / fx. No-one is more surprised by this than I am! And there are catches - you still have to pay extra for the Hendrix package and the battery. But really, it sounds great. And it even manages a really good ‘edge of break-up’ sound too…
@@iluvdaguitarlol. This all sounds like a “you” problem! I can get great tones out of it. It sounds like you’re expecting it to be some kind of live performance amp. It’s just a little practice amp! The Yamaha may sound better (subjective) but it’s also more than twice the price!
@@officialWWM Yes, I fully expected to be able to play live stadium shows with it.....unmiked. It's definitely a "me" problem. Me thinks it sucks. Of course, I do play high end guitars. Maybe it's designed to be played with shitbox guitars.
@@iluvdaguitar did you ever own a tiny practice amp with a 6 inch speaker? This thing costs less than a lot of those and sounds a hundred times better. However, if you do t like it, it’s not actually mandatory for you to buy one…you can just move along 🙄
Hey James! How about you and Paul put this thing through its paces!…..Paul did a brilliant review previously that was by far the best review on the internet. I can understand your/his disappointment and being overlooked at NAMM but how about overlooking that and give us Spark Live owners a proper review!…….Something Positive Grid has been unable to do. I bought one of these because I had a Spark40 which sounded a bit muddy and wasn’t really up to a pub gig. Please, please, please! You and Paul give us a real, in depth review of this! Thanks mate! 👍
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTechSorry if I got up your nose mate!…..But I meant an in depth review of the inputs, amp models, pedals, mic preamp, mic effects etc. In comparison to the Spark40. No offence intended at your review! 🤔 And why not use the mixers eq?
@@mitchelljarvis2010 we might get around to a more full review but it’s not our job to do something Positive Grid should have already done….. or paid someone to do. I just wanted to raise awareness about how good Spark Live is, but how the info on the website should be taken with a large pinch of salt.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTechFair enough, understood. I bought a Spark40 originally and Paul’s review really helped me understand noisegate, compression, and all the pedals that amp has to offer! His review was brilliant. I’m just really a novice guitar player but recently joined a guitar class that after term has a live gig. I bought The Spark live because I felt the Spark40 was lost in a gig scenario and sounded muddy. I wanted to see if the acoustics of the Spark live was any better and if it could cope with a small gig. I’m using it more as an amp rather than a PA. I just needed more clarity and more volume!
@@mitchelljarvis2010 The Spark 40 is a home practice amp, not really anything more. It's going to get lost in a band environment. Dunno about the Spark Live, which may be better for this, but if you want a gigging amp, you would have been better off with a Boss Katana 50 than the Spark 40. The Katana 50 around the same price as a Spark 40 (less if you go on the used market and get an older model, which are still great) and are suitable for both bedroom use and gigging. They are, I will add, more versatile in general with better, more tweak-able effects, and I (and many others) think they sound better. The older models lack Bluetooth (I suspect the mk3 will have) but that can be added easily with a £20 dongle.
I am a Spark Live „early owner“. I bought it as a practice amp for bass… and: Sound in channel 2 is perfect! Putting my padelboard in Channel 3 is perfect, too. Channel 1 needs some tweaking for a good bass sound - but then OK.
I made sessions with gentle drums… Plus acoustic guitar in channel 1, Bass in 2 and keyboard 3. That was very good! It will act as a street PA system! Putting Bass with preamp in „4“ you even can add vocals.
I have a decent sounding acoustic amp and electric guitar amp at home now, too.
All this with battery to go to my balcony.
And yes: we used it live on a garden party. Later in the evening it was a real good Bluetooth speaker and people danced.
I have two batteries - but did only use one till now.
In the end: This is still the best bass practice amp I ever heard ;-) + my wife accepts size and design in the living room.
It is heavier than other systems… but the sound is with wood (not plastic).
Ahh… and I can rehearse a whole set of my cover band to a Spotify playlist…
Plus I have some drummers to spice up my bass training.
I sold a Roland Mini Bass Amp and a Roland Street Cube. … compared to those the sound is much better! …plus the price is OK.
There is no perfect system when it comes to mobility, battery power and rehearsal amp. But this one ticks many many many boxes.
Serious question, what do you mean this 140 watt amp doesn’t cut through the mix when playing next to a drummer? I own a boss katana 50 and a 100 artist. I usually use the 50 at rehearsal room and it cuts well through the mix. And the 100 for gigging at a bar with the 50 as monitor. I find it hard to believe that this 140 watt amp doesn’t have enough juice. Or did I miss understudy what you said?
I guess you could solve the input problem by buying a spark go and plugging the headphone out into the stereo line in input 3 and 4. This would give guitar with fx input 1, vox with fx input 2, and spark bass tone in 3/4. You get same spark tone all round and still all mains power free.
Good idea🤟
Thank you for being so careful and honest in your review. Other reviewers (promoters) fail to explain that the only channel #1 has amp simulation. I so close to buying one for tiny gigs with vocal, guitar, bass and keyboard/backing music. I am sure that the bass input issue can be overcome (Eg: Boss Katana Go) but why the misrepresentation from other RUclipsrs?
@@undercrackers56 simple….. they were getting paid….. I paid for my unit.
Thanks for your review I think you answered the main question I had about this! As soon as I saw this amp my main and really only interest in using it would be as a standalone Amp/P.A for small to medium SOLO or DUO gigs possibly even busking. You answered quite affirmatively that YES it was perfect for that. I still want to see how it actually sounds with a MIC and Guitar played through it live…hows the tone etc… thanks!
I wonder if you can help me with something here please; I understood from your review that Input 3 and 4 are individually mono, but can be combined as a stereo input.
Like you I really can’t hear a difference in the stereo spread when I change the orientation (my Yamaha THR 10 manages a MUCH more impressive stereo spread and that’s a third the size)
So I contacted Positive Grid and got a really confusing reply, telling me that if you plug something in to Inputs 3 and 4 they sums it as a mono input.
Now this not only contradicts with my understanding from this video but it also contradicts with the Live user manual, and even the labelling on the back of the amp itself.
But that info came from PG themselves - so now I’m totally confused!
Yeah I really like this amp. Can also pair it with 1 or more FRFR Spark Cab(s) to boost the volume or more usefully have another sound source for coverage. Granted that now means more than one thing you have to lug around, but it's pretty scalable
The reason they have said nothing could be that you don’t get many views on your videos. Start getting over 10000 and they’ll take notice. 1000 or so views are all over RUclips. I like your videos so am surprised you don’t have more views.
23k enough?
Thanks for the great review. I don't much about products in this area. What is the nearest equivalent product (portable combined PA + guitar amp) that actually would be loud enough for a rock band in a pub gig?
Agree wholeheartedly with James' conclusion here. I've been using my Spark Live for a few weeks now. It's a great bit of gear and ideal as a guitar/vocal/backing track amp for small venues or putting on an intimate show for a few friends in the house but a PA it ain't.
I sold mine and went back to my Boss cube street 2... Much better and 10 watts
Personally i dont mind the amp. I bought one myself and for the money its not THAT terrible. People think its supposed to compete with their tube amps and that's simply not going to happen. Good video though 🤘
Great honest review! Can the MIDI DIN input take a MIDI out from a keyboard and be used as a keyboard amp?
Lots of good info here. I recently purchased this product and encountered a strange problem where after a few minutes of use it makes a horrible, deafening white noise sound. Have you encountered this problem?
It’s a corrupted patch in channel 1. Change the patch using the front panel selector. And resave a new amp setting. Let me know if that fixes it.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech The time it messed up on me was at a live gig, very embarrassing. Now I’ve been using it for nearly an hour at home with no problems… 🤷🏻♂️
I think it’s one amp model in one memory slot that does it….. I haven’t been able to narrow it down yet…… but when it blows wow it’s loud!
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech I tried everything. Every amp model I have saved, backing tracks, microphone channel, tried disconnecting the internet and it worked just fine. I’ll keep playing with it and hopefully it performs well at the next open mic I host.
For what its worth. They have fixed this issue in the latest firmware update
Someone may have already pointed this out. I agree with most everything you say in this video. However, I believe it is a little short in that there is a feature you seem un-aware of. The MIDI interfaces on the back allow for 2 Spark Lives to be linked together and controlled with a single Spark App. I have not tried this myself as my studio/practice space is too small and I also have dedicated PA with a Sub for my strike pro kit, and a Spark Cab connected to a Spark 40 with the Ulooper for guitar work "I also bought the Spark 2 on preorder". A single Spark live aligns with everything you point out relative to the use cases mentioned. However, when doing rock or metal music with drums getting beaten like they owe you money, one Spark live is probably not going to keep up as you say, but what about 2 of them?
I've tried using 2 Spark Live's together and from what I can see, it is NOT the case that when you connect the MIDI out from one Live to the MIDI In on the other, the app controls both Lives. Yes, if you use MIDI commands from the master Live, it will pass them over (think 'MIDI Thru') to the slave amp, but the app doesn't behave this way. I've contacted PG and suggested a firmware update that allows one app to control both, and also an update that allows 2 Lives to be paired in stereo in the same way that Sonos Roam speakers can be (at present if you have 2 Lives, you can only stream music 2 one at a time, which is a major limitation IMHO)
@@littlespaceman With regard to your statement about streaming, that would be accurate as you can only connect to only one BT interface or the other, and the BT connection is doing the streaming. With regard to MIDI, my understanding is you have to connect two MIDI cables for this to work "out to in and in to out" as stated by Positivegrid "Connect wired MIDI controllers or link and control 2 Spark LIVE amps together, with a pair of standard 5-pin MIDI in/out sockets." Did you do that?
@@The_Darksayian Hi. That'a not necessarily true about BT streaming - you can stream via BT to multiple devices, but the devices must have Audio Sharing or whatever variation a manufacturer comes up with to allow this. iPhone can do it, and I presume Androids can do it (I don't own an Android) So I think PG have missed a trick here, one that it would be great if they addressed with a firmware update; also worth saying that as the Spark Live has wifi, it might be an option to use wifi to pair 2 Spark Lives together, as you can with the Sonos Roam speakers, to create a stereo pair. This would be a really nice feature. At the moment I don't really see any major advantage of having 2 Lives (in fact I'd say the cons outweigh the pros) so I think PG need to up their game a bit in this area to give people a reason to by a pair of these.
Regarding MIDI, no, you don't need to connect 2 MIDI cables; if you think about it, how would you then get MIDI in to the master amp if you were to connect both MIDI connections between the 2 Lives? All you need to do is to have your MIDI controller connected to the MIDI In of the master amp, and the MIDI Out of the master connects to the MIDI In of the slave amp. Really it should be called 'MIDI Thru' because that is basically what is happening. And all that happens is the slave gets a replica of the MIDI commands going to the master; what you'd then need to do is copy the presets you have on the master to the slave, in order to get the same sound from both (or of course have a slightly different preset on the slave to get a slightly different sound from each amp)
@@littlespaceman Actually, Positive grid states you need to connect both. I have not tried and dont know for certain. However, it would be logical that you would use two cables as midi functions best when in a chain for clock syncing and such. I am not advocating for or against, just information I read and thank you for your reply.
@@The_Darksayian No, that is not correct, you don't need to connect both; I have tried it, and you only need to connect one. As I said, how would you get MIDI commands in to the master amp if both of its MIDI ports are already used connecting it to the slave amp?
Not sure where PG say you need to connect both, but from the Spark Live User Manual;
"O - MIDI Ports (Standard 5 Pin DIN)
Input - Connect a wired MIDI controller to control built-in effects and
other features.
Output - Connect to another Spark LIVE to sync them"
Been waiting for this review as I got mine on pre order too and you told me you had yours on the live show. I’m an at home player who does short covers and uploads to YT & TT. It’s perfect for my needs. Slight issue discovered that needs addressing but more than happy so far. Keep up the good work Jivey 👍🏻
Can you tell us more about the "slight isue" you have discovered?
It’s the volume fluctuations it has every now again. I have a ticket open with PG. think a few people have reported this now.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech UPDATE After extensive testing and investigation by our product team, they have confirmed that the issue may arise from a high sensitivity of the G-sensor, which is utilized to detect the orientation of the amplifier. Consequently, we would advise you to try placing the amplifier on a flat surface, avoiding the use of a speaker stand or placing it on an uneven surface where it might be susceptible to tilting or displacement due to sound vibrations. Rest assured, this is an issue we are currently aware of and prioritize addressing through an upcoming firmware update to enhance this aspect of the amplifier.
Are there any alternatives??? How does it compare to the JBL EON One Compact for example???
Do the spark live and the spark cab go well together?
Thx! Great overview! One question: how would it work to use loopy pro via iPad or iphone? Would this make sense? Thx
I’d really like to know as well.
thank you for sharing this, i was looking at the channels situation and the volume of this. this clear up a lot of things. thank you!
Any time.
Thanks for this review! I have a Spark 2 on order and the marketing is so cringey, it almost kept me from purchasing. They are a bit disingenuous in their claim that going from 40 to 50 more watts is 25% louder. That isn't how decibels work.
I'm not completely sold on the tones I've heard yet, but I should be able to return it if I don't gel with it.
not sure why I would even want this. If you have a Spark mini and a PA speaker it’s basically the same?
thank you so much
I was going to purchase one of these but after your review, I think I will try the new Spark 2 after it gets reviews and bugs worked out
I don't think this one for me
Spark 2 just released and it is better sounding than 40 got rid of bass sound and has a looper
what about using it with something like an HX stomp? How would it work as an FRFR?
Keep it up James, GR8 tech explainer. I opted just for the Spark Cab as a reasonably priced frfr
The cab is great so I’m told. Enjoy.
@TSR - Jivey Talks Tech Man you did a fantastic job on this video. You Sir have earned my Sub. On the spark Live I think I am going to buy it as A practice amp. I think it shines at that and it's easy to pop in the car and carry to my mates house for a jam session. That IMHO beats lugging around 2 4x12 cabs and my amp head. Plus if i want to get a lil late night practice in I am not having the law called on me for waking the entire Neighborhood lol
I think I will try one
I owned a Spark Live for about 3 weeks. I didn't find it to be enough for my solo guitar/vocals with backing tracks gigs. It didn't provide enough punch as I play a wide variety of genres.
Great Video, and thanks for calling out Positive Grid on their OVER INFLATED Marketing. I too like PG products owning 40, Go, Live, and X, but I have been saying they need to chill on their marketing technique it makes them look bad at this point. Don’t even try to leave a comment like this on a PG group members as all the blind followers will put you on the chopping block
The battery doesn't come with it?
My app keeps crashing or somebody remote controls it from the app in their phone.. I have to revert back to the Boss cube street 2 as it is more reliable for solo gigs
How is it at low volumes for apartment use?
Really good. Because there are no valves/tubes the tone is the same at full tilt or quiet as a church mouse.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech Hopefully better than the Katana 100, which I find disappointing at low volumes.
Why isn't my signal coming out in stereo?
I am running my stereo device into the left and right into the left and right inputs properly into the back but my signals are being summed to mono (yes my spark is being placed in landscape/stereo position)
If this is normal it's a huge deal breaker and very misleading
I've already returned my Spark cab because of its limited mono only capability but truly believed that this was a true stereo system that I could use for running my other guitar modelers through in stereo
I sell tons of spark gear at the music store that I work at because of my fondness of it but if this isn't capable of stereo through external inputs I will be encouraging my customers to follow my lead with returning theirs within their return window timeframe
Major oversight on positive grids part
I seriously hope I'm wrong about this but if I'm not
This thing's going back to the store I work at & where I bought it
Positive Grid, Negative Grid 😂 I enjoyed that.
That was brilliant. Nail on the head mate
go on i will sub you, good video, are you getting the X controler and do a review?
it's good to see that PG is consistent with human relations. they have crappy customer service and crappy relations with content creators trying to help them
go figure
That opening segment was ear cringe I can't hear anymore
Why don't you just take the Spark 40 and run it to a pair of powered FR FR speakers? Head Rush, Yamaha, Mackie, JBL, EV, QSC ... they all make them. Yamaha's are the best IMO. And trust me, they're A LOT LOUDER than 150 watts, depending on what model you get. But I know, they're also expensive, especially for the high end ones. Did I mention they're LOUD? I have a pair of 2000 watt Head Rush FR FR powered speakers and the Spark 40 suddenly becomes the FACE RIPPER ASS SHREEDER GUT PUNCHER BALL BUSTER.
It's almost perfect for what it is. Small and easy to move. No ground lift or DI
Spark 2 has looper just came out
Just watched someone run base and guitar simultaneously -You seem to suggest otherwise...
Spark is an awesome speaker but a terrible sounding amp. Too much bass and muddy as hell. Mine sits in the kitchen as a speaker
Oddly enough changing the drivers made my Spark 40 a much better unit. Tighter bass and no flubbyness.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTech how does one do that? Seen lots of people changing speakers and all sorts but it shouldn’t be that hard.
@@stevewilliams1122 You just need to pop the front off the Spark 40 and find some better, higher power speakers that will fit in the box. Google is your friend here. Undo the screws, pop of the spade connectors and hook up the new speakers. Any (I think they are 6 inch) speaker that is 40W or more *and they all are) will be fine. Just make sure it's a good brand of speaker.
Have you tried the Spark Mini? Many report that it sounds more balanced than the 40.
@@chrishyde1216 bought a Valeton GP200. Miles better. Use headphones at home and PA for gigging
Great review and analysis, James. As one of those original purchasers of the Spark who waited interminably long periods of time to get the amp which then sounded terrible with glitchy software, I sold it and got a Yamaha THR (couldn’t be happier). Pos Grid has terrible customer service and support. Gotta hand it to them, they certainly can get a load of RUclipsrs to sing praises of these even though the reviews are full of caveats about issues with the amp. Better off with a good modest priced digital unit and run thru a PA, FRFR or Katana power amp in.
I bought a spark 40 because of all the RUclips praises. Found out I can't update the firmware because you need a pc or mac computer. I only have a phone and android tabs. Can't for the life of me figure out how to update the app. It sounds like a steaming pile of freshly dumped shit. They talk about all the Jimi Hendrix pedals and amps but conveniently forget to say you have to pay extra to unlock them. All the overdrive pedals and fuzz boxes sound exactly the same, and it's impossible to dial it down for a cleaner OD or fuzz. The high low cut and damp knobs on the reverbs don't change anything in the slightest bit. The mod section has a chorus, flanger, and phaser, then 5 million tremolo pedals in which the only difference is the pedals skin.
IMO it sounds better when I don't use the app at all. At least it has a clean/crunch tone that just barely doesn't make me puke.
The only good news is I bought it used at a pawn shop, so I only got ripped for $125. 🤷
How bad does the spark 40 suck? Well, if this gives you an idea, right now I fantasize about owning a Line 6 Spider II Combo. If that gives you an idea.😂
A week ago I would say I agree with you; I’ve had a Spark Mini and a Go and sold them both. Then I got a Spark Live (it was the only solution for my needs - multiple inputs including a mic input and also fx. And battery powered too)
I wasn’t expecting much… but I’ve got to say I think it sounds - and more importantly ’feels’ - absolutely great using the guitar input and onboard processing / fx.
No-one is more surprised by this than I am! And there are catches - you still have to pay extra for the Hendrix package and the battery. But really, it sounds great. And it even manages a really good ‘edge of break-up’ sound too…
@@iluvdaguitarlol. This all sounds like a “you” problem! I can get great tones out of it. It sounds like you’re expecting it to be some kind of live performance amp. It’s just a little practice amp! The Yamaha may sound better (subjective) but it’s also more than twice the price!
@@officialWWM Yes, I fully expected to be able to play live stadium shows with it.....unmiked. It's definitely a "me" problem. Me thinks it sucks. Of course, I do play high end guitars. Maybe it's designed to be played with shitbox guitars.
@@iluvdaguitar did you ever own a tiny practice amp with a 6 inch speaker? This thing costs less than a lot of those and sounds a hundred times better. However, if you do t like it, it’s not actually mandatory for you to buy one…you can just move along 🙄
I assume you could run guitar, bass, vocals and drums all the same time based of marketing
Hey James! How about you and Paul put this thing through its paces!…..Paul did a brilliant review previously that was by far the best review on the internet. I can understand your/his disappointment and being overlooked at NAMM but how about overlooking that and give us Spark Live owners a proper review!…….Something Positive Grid has been unable to do.
I bought one of these because I had a Spark40 which sounded a bit muddy and wasn’t really up to a pub gig. Please, please, please! You and Paul give us a real, in depth review of this! Thanks mate! 👍
Sorry to ask, but what have you just been watching?
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTechSorry if I got up your nose mate!…..But I meant an in depth review of the inputs, amp models, pedals, mic preamp, mic effects etc. In comparison to the Spark40. No offence intended at your review! 🤔 And why not use the mixers eq?
@@mitchelljarvis2010 we might get around to a more full review but it’s not our job to do something Positive Grid should have already done….. or paid someone to do. I just wanted to raise awareness about how good Spark Live is, but how the info on the website should be taken with a large pinch of salt.
@@TSR-JiveyTalksTechFair enough, understood. I bought a Spark40 originally and Paul’s review really helped me understand noisegate, compression, and all the pedals that amp has to offer! His review was brilliant. I’m just really a novice guitar player but recently joined a guitar class that after term has a live gig. I bought The Spark live because I felt the Spark40 was lost in a gig scenario and sounded muddy. I wanted to see if the acoustics of the Spark live was any better and if it could cope with a small gig. I’m using it more as an amp rather than a PA. I just needed more clarity and more volume!
@@mitchelljarvis2010 The Spark 40 is a home practice amp, not really anything more. It's going to get lost in a band environment. Dunno about the Spark Live, which may be better for this, but if you want a gigging amp, you would have been better off with a Boss Katana 50 than the Spark 40. The Katana 50 around the same price as a Spark 40 (less if you go on the used market and get an older model, which are still great) and are suitable for both bedroom use and gigging.
They are, I will add, more versatile in general with better, more tweak-able effects, and I (and many others) think they sound better. The older models lack Bluetooth (I suspect the mk3 will have) but that can be added easily with a £20 dongle.
Great post James BUT. take that tuner off the headstock 😂😂🤬it drives me crazy 👍👍👍
SAF, that’s hilarious.
Sounds awful. Not a fan of this spark stuff.
Why do ALL young people want to play only distortion
That solo at the first was ...bad....just play chords