Introduction
VHT Amplification was established by the renowned American designer Steve Fryette in the late 1980s, quickly becoming a staple on stages across the United States with its striking stereo power amplifiers.
In 2009, Fryette transferred the VHT brand to AXL, which began producing a range of budget-kind amplifiers from its Chinese factory. Simultaneously occurring, Fryette continued to craft amplifiers under the Fryette Amplification name, which remains active today.
The D series from VHT, including the model we are reviewing, seeks to capture the enchanting sound of the legendary Dumble amplifiers, known for their exclusivity and high demand. These custom-built amps, like Stevie ray Vaughan’s ‘Steel String Singer’, were produced on a one-by-one basis, making them incredibly rare.
Customers faced long wait times and strict contractual agreements, including prohibitions on photographing the internal components or seeking assistance from other technicians. Fortunately, VHT dose not impose such restrictions, and their amps are more readily available at local music stores rather than being delivered at an uncertain future date.
Despite their cost and scarcity, Dumble amplifiers are highly coveted for their exceptional sonic characteristics, including expansive headroom, a clean tone that surpasses traditional Fender sounds, and a smooth overdrive that maintains note clarity.
The overdrive section of this amplifier functions as a boost within the clean channel, sharing tone controls and input gain, creating an interdependent relationship between the gain stages that must be considered when adjusting settings.
This amplifier features a traditional effects loop, which is significantly more user-friendly than the complex Dumble setup that required an additional device known as ‘The Dumblelator’ for effects integration.
The control panel design incorporates a Dumble-inspired aesthetic while maintaining a build quality reminiscent of the original VHT amplifiers, albeit with materials and construction methods adjusted to fit a more accessible price range.
In today’s global manufacturing landscape,valve amplifiers are being produced at increasingly lower prices,as demonstrated by VHT. However, even with this trend towards affordability, it is crucial to ensure that all components are securely fastened.
Upon connecting the IEC mains cable, we noticed some unsettling movement in the chassis, indicating potential assembly issues. A closer inspection revealed that several nuts securing the chassis, along with some pots and jacks, were not fully tightened.
This particular review model may have experienced significant wear from transit, but securely fastened bolts and screws are essential for withstanding the demands of live performances. We’ve all had the frustrating experience of losing a knob or bolt on a poorly lit stage.
Specifications
- PRICE: $999 | £779
- ORIGIN: China
- TYPE: All valve
- VALVES: 3x 12AX7, 2x 6V6GT
- OUTPUT: 20W
- DIMENSIONS: 418 (w) x 235 (d) x 233mm (h)
- WEIGHT (kg/lb): 8.25/18
- CABINET: VT-112 cabinets available soon (starting at £349)
- LOUDSPEAKER: (N/A)
- CHANNELS: 1 with switchable overdrive
- CONTROLS: Volume, Bright, Mid Boost Deep switches, Treble, Middle, Bass, Overdrive, Level, Master, Presence
- FOOTSWITCH: 1-button (overdrive)
- ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Effects loop
- CONTACT: VHT Amplification
Performance, Build Quality, and Sound
Starting with the clean channel, we are welcomed by a bright top-end and a rich low-end, precisely the tonal characteristics we anticipated from this D-style amplifier. The treble switch can enhance the sparkle, offering presence or high-boost options.
In this clean setting,the mid switch brings a touch of Vox-like thickness and edge-of-break-up. The gain ranges from pristine clean to moderate break-up levels.
The 20 watts output from the dual 6V6 valves may not match the higher output of original dumble amps, resulting in slightly less clean headroom, but the charm of 6V6 valves is undeniable. Additionally, pedal enthusiasts will be pleased to know that this amp handles pedals exceptionally well.
The D-20’s responsive nature offers a wide dynamic range that jazz and blues musicians will especially appreciate. For those who play with a heavier touch, a lighter approach tends to yield the best results, and using a compressor pedal can help smooth out the response.
With either the included footswitch or the front-panel control, the overdrive circuit can be engaged for a harmonic saturation reminiscent of Dumble tones.
designed to cater to the deeper tones favored in jazz, fusion, blues, and country, the three tone switches are effective in shaping the amp’s response. Notably, the mid switch significantly impacts the overdrive, enhancing the focused gain.
The treble switch, particularly in its high-boost position, has a significant impact on the driven sound, allowing for more aggressive tones.
A hallmark of Dumble amplifiers was the FET input channel boost, which added brightness and clarity before the signal reached the valves. Unlike the larger D-50 model, the D-20 does not feature this FET input stage.
For those seeking rock tones, the robust low-end can become a bit overwhelming at higher gain settings, but the amp still maintains fullness even with the bass control set to its lowest. The Bright switch, with its two active positions-up for sparkle and down for a broader treble boost-adds a well-measured top end that is not excessive.
Integrating a delay pedal into the effects loop is significantly simpler than the original Dumblelator setup, resulting in a clean signal free from hum or interference.
Conclusion
Final Verdict: ★★★★½
While the build quality could be improved, it is indeed commendable that VHT offers a Dumble-like sonic experience at a fraction of the cost.
For those considering the larger D-50 with its enhanced headroom and FET input circuit,it may be worth exploring based on your volume requirements. However, VHT’s D series of dumble-inspired, all-valve amplifiers is a noteworthy option that deserves your attention.
Guitar World verdict: If you’ve been yearning for Dumble tones without the hefty price tag (assuming you can even find one), this amplifier provides the essence without the exorbitant expense.
