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Arguably one of the best combos ever made, the Atomic Space Tone returns in Head Form, now with Michael's fully bypassable Master Volume with its own dedicated tube stage • Runs 6V6 & 6L6
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, 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
The heart of the matter - AST Head II Chassis with all tube circuitry - See additional 4th 12AX7 (12AY7 for unity gain can be sub) dedicated to the Master Volume Circuit, totally bypassable for the purist. This unique Master Volume was developed to quell the potential leeching of TONE by the typical MV implementation. Swart would not marry a MV with the AST until a solution was found. We feel this is perhaps the best MV implementation out there.
We feel this amplifier hits it out of the proverbial park just like the original AST. It's just a hair bit hotter than the original combo with some more angst when switching to MV circuit. A quick swap of the 12AX7 to a 12AY7 in the MV V4 slot WILL yield unity gain, however. 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.
AST Head MkII & Cabinet Specifications:
