Tone Hammer 350 : Excellent microamp

To be honest I'm more of a vintage tube amp guy but I wanted to see what these new micro amps are capable of. The Tone Hammer seemed like a perfect choice as reports from various web forums are great and describe it as having a "tubey" sound. I not so sure I agree with that last bit. Perhaps the SOUND is kinda tubey but the RESPONSE certainly isn't. Still, it is one of the nicest solid state amps I've tried. Not as sterile sounding as some other solid state designs, definitely on the warm side. Very versatile with lots of controls to shape the tone. Personally I prefer a simpler layout but I guess it's nice to have options. The eq is very powerful. The relationship between the gain and drive settings can also be used to shape the tone/response of the amp. Unlike many other solid state amps it actually seems to have a "sweetspot" (which I'm sure will differ with personal preferences).

The output volume is impressive for such a small amp. I would compare it to 100-150w tube amps. I've been using it for rehearsals with a progrock band (loud drummer, Marshall 50w Plexi, Hammond/Leslie) and it worked great. Gigs in small/medium clubs would be no problem.

This amp will probably not be the first choice for tube enthusiasts but it's excellent as a backup amp or for situations where portability is an issue. It will easily fit into the front pocket of a gigbag. Fans of solid state amps will probably love it, unless they are into a very clinical "hifi" sound.

Great amp for the price!