The introduction of the Swart Atomic Space Tone (AST) was a
smashing success, earning raves across the board, whether in studios, clubs, or
living rooms. Everyone loved
this 12" all-tube combo, with its multi-dimensional tone, excellent
break-up, and soulful tube reverb and tremolo. Many were claimng the AST achieved a rare benchmark in
category without peer, some saying it might be the best amplifier they've ever
played. Those are strong words considering the myriad of boutique and vintage
offerings.
Soon after introduction, Michael took the AST and literally
placed the combo circuit/chassis inside a head cab with nary a mod, this to
appease musicians needing this format. The acclaimed "Limited Run"
head sold out within 45 days and we've been getting emails and calls ever
since.
The all new AST Head MkII is Michael's assault on perfecting
the AST circuit for a head with 4/8/16ohm impedance selection, the ability to
run the 6V6, 6L6, and EL-34, along with the addition of our completely
bypassable dedicated tube stage master volume, designed from the ground up to
bring MV convenience without leeching the tone/soul from the amazing AST
circuit. The all aluminum, star ground chassis is housed in a hand-made ,
finger-jointed, solid wood cab, covered in lacquered tweed (Now availabe in
DARK lacquer for $100)
We feel this amplifier hits it out of the proverbial park
just like the original AST. And although it was a long wait, it's well worth
the patience because you're going to be blown away all over again. And although
there is already a line that's been forming for this beast, musicians can take
solace that this is NOT going to be a limited run. We only make that mistake
once. And one last point... this is a LIGHT beast at only 19lbs with the 1x12
cab weighing LESS than the AST!
Some more highlights of the AST Head circuit...
Designed to be powered by Twin Tung-Sol 6V6's putting out
18-20 cathode biased Watts; the twin 6V6s seem to really put out an amazing
mixture of soul~tone. We love this
combo! You can also sub the 6L6
family along with the EL-34 for more headroom due to the extra beefy
Transformers. And unlike the original AST Head, the MkII has TWO outputs and
can run 4/8/16 ohm cabinets/speakers.
The JJ 12AX7 does duty as the driver and bias regulated
Tremolo. Ever heard tube tremolo?
You will now. Simply put, if
you're a tremolo fan, you won't go back.
Reverb is all tube.
Tube Reverb is the only way to go and our implementation leaves the competition
sounding rather two-dimensional.
Simply put, it’s one of the most tonally expressive,
organic, soulful, rich, and dimensional amplifiers in production, now in Head
form with a Master Volume that's a step above the rest!