Carol-Ann Triptik

This 3 Channel Amplifier is Carol-Ann's idea for a true rock amp that is capable of reproducing both timeless classic rock tones and modern high gain tones with a super-tight and crushing low end. The design of this amplifier is a true ground up design and has not been inspired by any other amplifier out there. It is an original back to the drawing board design.

The unique gain structure doesn't use high numbers of cascading gain stages compressing the life out of your tone, nor does it use any type of solid state clipping. The OD from this amp is generated by running each gain to their absolute extreme, just keeping them this side of instability. Like a fine tuned racing engine. This helps preserve the dynamic range, keeps noise to a minimum and emphasizes the harmonic overtones of each note without ever sounding bright or harsh.

The Clean Channel on this amp has been designed to redefine what is capable with EL34 power tubes. It has a shimmer that is never heard with this tube type and has incredible headroom. By pushing the pre-gain control a little, it is possible to get some slightly broken clean tones too from this channel. It also takes Overdrive pedals extremely well.

The amp features two identical overdrive channels that both have a switch that sets the particular channel to either 'Classic' or 'Modern' voicings. The 'classic' voicing has a little less gain and low end and will produce 70's and 80's British rock tones with a very wide and complex sound stage with no buzz or brittle high frequencies. The 'Modern' setting has more gain and low end for those more modern heavy rhythm, dropped tunings. This channel also makes for a superb liquid lead channel with incredible sustain and harmonic bloom.

The tone controls on all channels are very effective and the center points of each one perfect for the exact frequency bands that will push the amp through any mix.

Basically, the concept was to produce an amp that would reproduce favorite modded rock amp tones as well as up to date modern higher gain tones without mush and noise.

As with all Carol-Ann amplifiers, the Triptik is built entirely by hand and features a non-PCB main audio board, and hard wired chassis mounted controls and tube sockets.