Aiken Appreciation Thread

[Jarrett]

I don't see a lot of people talking about Aiken amps these days, so I thought I would throw this out there.

After finally pulling the trigger on an Aiken 18 watt Invader combo, I am just amazed at this little amp. I've had it for about a month and a half now and it continues to impress. Just like Dave Leslie says, it has a sweetness to it that I haven't heard in other amps. I literally can't find a bad sound on this thing. I ran it through a new cab yesterday and found all new cool tones. I was surprised how it tightened up running though an Avatar 2x12 loaded with Tonkers. People say it's the best of Marshall in a portable package. I dunno enough Marshall to say that, but I do know I really dig the amp.

I also recently owned an Aiken Sabre. Also a very cool amp in it's own right. If I hadn't just discovered the Invader, this amp would have probably been a keeper for me as well. While I prefer the Invader cleans, the boosted Lead channel on the Sabre sounds great and has sent me on a high gain hunt. This makes me interested in the Corsair, but I can't find it on the website anymore.

I had a Tomcat on the way to check out, but FedEx lost it for me. The seller is doing a great job working with FedEx to recover the insurance on it and I appreciate it a lot.

Top off all these cool amps with one of the coolest builders/customer service in the biz and you have a pretty freaking good amp company.

So if you have or have had an Aiken amp that you dig, let's hear about it.

[riffmeister]

Agreed.......Randall & Company are great people to deal with and deliver Top Notch products.

Jarret, you are the one who started me on them with your 30 Invader....... :D

[Tag]

I have never played one, but have really liked the clips of them I have heard. If I were ever in the position to need a Marshall style of amp with some additional features, Aitken would be one of the first I would check out. :)

[Leonc]

Agreed. Randall is a great guy to deal with. Such a straight shooter. Man, in an industry with perhaps more than its share of BS artists and fakers, makes you wonder if he's in the wrong business, hehehe. But his amp really epitomize some of the best things that Marshall's done, and do it at a very reasonable price point.

[Kenster]

I've had my MkI 18 for 3 years now and it still puts a smile on my face. :D Randall and his crew deserve many accolades putting out a product like this as well as being fanatastic to deal with.

Cheers
K

[clarkram]

ditto...Randall & company are great guys to deal with. I stopped by the shop one day to demo some stuff and they were VERY generous with their time..I've had an Intruder 30w w/2x12 cab for 8 months now and it hasn't dissapointed me yet.

Clark

[Dave Orban]

Yep... my Aiken 18-watt 2x12 Invader combo is an awesome gigging amp.

And Randall is a top-notch guy, to boot! :dude

[JES1680]

Love my 18watt Invader. There is that sweet something that is hard to define. Never had the pleasure of dealing with Randall, but hear nothing but good things.

[dbeeman]

Randall knows his stuff too. He understands the engineering and the music. He is the "automotive engineer/designer" among more than a few "shade tree mechanics" in the amp business.

And, he was smart enough to get Minton to handle a lot of the business end for him.

[fullerplast]

Aiken amps are some of the best engineered, best built, and best sounding amps being made today. :dude

[Frankenstrat2]

Still dig the hell out of my Intruder30w

[carlygtr56]

Originally posted by Frankenstrat2
Still dig the hell out of my Intruder30w


Great amp. I enjoyed playing thru it and would love to own one one day. Quite the looker as well in white tolex:)

[Killcrop]

My only real complaint against Aiken Amps is they don't have a Michigan dealer.

I think that Randy makes soulfull amps that always have utility in mind. He doesn't just make a great sounding amp he makes one that can be used in many different situations. His amps are at home on the stage or in the basement.
All his amps are bomb proof and look great as well.
What more could you ask for? Aiken amps back their products 100%.

[Jarrett]

Yeah, we need an Aiken dealer in Dallas too... ::cough::charley's::cough::

[Badger71]

I was in Tone Merchants last weekend and had the opportunity to play a few Aiken amps....Tomcat and Invader?...maybe it was the Intruder....both awesome and versatile....the Tomcat would suit my needs more as a home/small club amp without PA...but the other sounded great also....it's definitely on my Santa list....For what it's worth, the Cornfords were also awesome.

[psyandy]

I can't even begin to say how appreciative I am of Randall's products. I've owned most of them and am still waiting on the Europa to save me ;)....

Randall is a phenomenally nice man...and one of the most brilliant builders of our time....

Andy

[cr8z4life]

Originally posted by Frankenstrat2
Still dig the hell out of my Intruder30w


I'll second that! Stopped at Indoor Storm this weekend while visiting family and plugged into the Tomcat, and a new Sabre.....along with the 30W Intruder.....All great but I am glad I followed Barrys lead on the Intruder......my favorite! They all do something different.....If you like the Tomcat but also want cleans you gotta check out the Sabre......awesome channel switcher. The cleans are outstanding and the bright switch on the cleans gives that chimey twangy tone......and the gain channel gives you the Tomcat and then some!!

[Jarrett]

While awaiting the long anticipated Splawn (Pro Mod 100) delivery, I have been jamming my Aiken 18 watt Invader combo some more this morning. Trying new settings and stuff. I have come to the conclusion that it is impossible to dial a bad sound on this amp. You can close your eyes and roll the knobs and It just sounds good everywhere.

Also, I think I like the amp dimed/no attenuator/guitar volume rolled back cleans better than the amp set clean/dimed guitar cleans. Big/Fat/Chimey/Bright/Chewy/Dark/Crushed Glassy/Edge of EL84 breakup... All the normal tonal adjectives apply here on the cleans. Between the Ali & Plexi switch I can get everything I want. This amp has kind of soured Blackface cleans for me now, which is a big statement for me if you know my history with amps.

Then when you crank it... Man that's a nice tone. Whether attentuated or not, it just friggin' rocks. I don't know old Marshall well enough to say its definitely old Marshall, but it sounds like the best of old Marshall to me :) Medium spanky SRV gain or kinda chimey EL84 gain all the way to what seems like just beyond cranked Ali/Plexi is there. It doesn't scratch my high gain itch, but it scratches the hell out of everything else.

Basically this amp impresses me more everytime I plug into it. So before the Splawn gets here and I start possibly gushing over it for a week or so, I wanted to get one more shout out to my Invader. It's one cool little amp, no doubt. I can't imagine finding an amp that would make me want to sell it at this point. It's just a great amp and I would recommend everyone to give it a throrough try if you get a chance.

[Jarrett]

A question. Someone in another thread equated the Tomcat's level of gain to the Sabre's level of gain. Can anyone confirm/deny this? I really liked the sound/gain of Sabre's boosted OD channel and would love to have that in a smaller package. Is that what the Tomcat is? I was under the impression it wasn't that gainy.

[Killcrop]

I think it was the voicing of the overdrive. The Tomcat doesn't have the gain level of the Sabre.

[cr8z4life]

Exactly....the voicing of the OD is very close to the Tomcat.....

[carlygtr56]

Originally posted by cr8z4life
I'll second that! Stopped at Indoor Storm this weekend while visiting family and plugged into the Tomcat, and a new Sabre.....along with the 30W Intruder.....All great but I am glad I followed Barrys lead on the Intruder......my favorite! They all do something different.....If you like the Tomcat but also want cleans you gotta check out the Sabre......awesome channel switcher. The cleans are outstanding and the bright switch on the cleans gives that chimey twangy tone......and the gain channel gives you the Tomcat and then some!!


I believe I heard your Intruder at the Tonefest? Sounded great. From where I was standing I thought it had nice bottom end for a 30 watter.
Played Barry's Intruder as well. Easy to dial, fun to play.....sounds really good dialed clean or dirty.

[cr8z4life]

Yup....that was mine. Intruder is my favorite Aiken!

[John Hurtt]

Spent a few minutes at the Aiken booth at last year's NAMM. Great sounding amps, and Randall came off as a really knowledgeable (and nice) guy. I hope when they start unpacking gear Randall's display and amps show up that were "misplaced" last year.

[reaiken]

Aiken appreciates this Aiken Appreciation Thread. :)
Thanks, guys, for all the nice comments!

By the way, I just got back from a wedding reception gig at a country club. They had about 250 (very rich) people there, and they rocked! I was expecting a small boring gig where nobody noticed us, but it turned out to be a lot of fun. I also did a club gig last night that was pretty decent, but not as rocking as last weekend's club. For both shows I used my trusty modded Strat (s/s/h) and a Sabre prototype head into a 2x12 ext cab with Greenbacks, with an old ART Multiverb Alpha in the effects loop for reverb on both channels. I'm normally a single-channel amp kind of guy, but the Sabre is really growing on me - I'm getting spoiled with the easy "step on the button" for clean/dirty tones.

Randall Aiken

[Frankenstrat2]

Randy-
Will you have a booth at NAMM in January?
Barry

[reaiken]

Nope. I've had enough stolen booth equipment and demo gear to last me for the year. I can't afford it.

Randall Aiken

[Jarrett]

Randall, would it be possible to make a 4 - EL84 version of the Intruder head with the boost function from the Sabre? Combining the EL84 Invader/Intruder type cleans along with that 2nd channel Sabre crunch would be a winning combination I think.

[Killcrop]

I think an easier direction would be a (4) El-84 Tomcat with Reverb:) In orange:D :D

[Frankenstrat2]

Originally posted by reaiken
Nope. I've had enough stolen booth equipment and demo gear to last me for the year. I can't afford it.

Randall Aiken

I'm sorry you wont be there. I would have liked seeing some of your other builds.
I understand though. I still hope your stuff turns up somehow.
Barry

[* velcro-fly *]

Originally posted by reaiken
Aiken appreciates this Aiken Appreciation Thread. :)
Thanks, guys, for all the nice comments!

Sabre #0002 is blowing some minds in the Pacific Northwest....

I had it wound up the other day at my buddies house in the same room as a Komet 60, a Wizard Metal X, and the SLO I just sold him - and this guy (who is a confirmed high end amp slut) fell head over heels in love with the Sabre in about 10 seconds....said it was like the "most badass Marshall you could ever hope to own...." he was equally blown out by the clean channel...after extensive A/B'ing he said that hands down the Sabre was / is easily as nice as any of the others in the room - also pointed out that at that level there was really no "this amp kicks that amps ass" thing and that he would be happy to own only the Sabre if he had to choose between the 4 in the room.

I sold my Bogner XTC, A Soldano SLO and my Bogner Metropolis after getting the Sabre....thats saying something about the tone quality and build of the Sabre. It also says something about how easy Randall is to deal with regarding his amps - couldn't be a more stoked and approachable builder around.

:dude :dude :dude

Steve E

[Liquid Quarter]

Aiken Invader MkII 18-watt. Freakin' phenomenal. One those amps you just love the first time you plug in.

[cr8z4life]

I agree on the Sabres clean channel. Outstanding....I just like the overdrive tones on the Intruder better than the Tomcat and the OD channel on the Sabre is of the same palet as the Tomcat so my Intruder stays!

[Killcrop]

When you say Intruder your talking about the 30W right?

What about the Intruder's OD do you like better than the Tomcat?

[cr8z4life]

Yup.....30w. Hard to explain.....The intruder to me has more of the marshal thing.....the tomcat and the sabre seem to be more vox overtones on top of marshal....more gain but more grainy....thats the best i can describe.....Its all a matter of taste. I am learning its hard with boutique gear and we go by others opinions.....but as much as we like clips or the way an amp will sound with someone else playing it.....ya gotta plug in for yourself and let your ears dictate....

[Killcrop]

Never played the INtruder but I've owned the 30 and 18 invader. I wondering what the Master does that the attnuator doesn't. I like the OD tone of the Invader a lot but the Tomcat was faster sounding and punchier. I'm just wondering out loud if the Intruder 30 is different enough form the TC to own both.

[cr8z4life]

Yes.....they sound very different

[Leonc]

The 30w intruder I played was very reminiscent of the Invader I had about 2 years ago. Same kind of gain, same general tonal capabilities. The master was truly outstanding. Not near as much gain as the TC and not as much "top end complixity". Somewhat smoother, darker and more refined sounding. I dug it but really prefer the Tomcat and for my needs/tastes, wouldn't really own both. To each his own.

[* velcro-fly *]

Originally posted by cr8z4life
the tomcat and the sabre seem to be more vox overtones on top of marshal..

Hmmm...I guess it's all in the ears, because having never personally played the Tomcat (only heard clips...), but having played a few Vox's & Vox like amps - and owning a Sabre, I don't hear anything Vox'y in the Sabre - just balls to the wall Marshall....enough so that I'm torn between a Top Hat and an AC30 for an addition to the Sabre. I agree with your description relating to the Tomcat, but the Sabre is a different beast alltogether.

Also in that critique taking into consideration that EL84's and EL34's sound quite different. I've actually got a set of JJ E34 - L's in the Sabre right now and it's even more aggressive. I'll probably go back to the EL34's but for now it's fun.

Bottom line - all the Aiken flavors are killer, and there's something in there for everyone....I don't think one is better than the other.

Steve E

[Jarrett]

Originally posted by Jarrett
While awaiting the long anticipated Splawn (Pro Mod 100) delivery, I have been jamming my Aiken 18 watt Invader combo some more this morning...

Well the Splawn has come and gone and despite it being a killer amp in its own right, the Aiken is the one that stayed. Yesterday, I finally got a chance to hear my Invader in a band context.

We had a little blues jam with a few other guitar players. I was switching back and forth from bass to guitar, with mostly bass at the beginning. From some of the posts I had read, I was a little concerned that the Aiken would get lost in the mix, but I was glad to see it wasn't the case at all. It was quite present in the mix and sounded great with my Tyler Landau Classic running through it.

The other electric guitar player was running a '73 Strat through a Fender Deville of some sort. Looked to be a 2x12 maybe. The Aiken not only kept up, but I had to attenuate it a bit even to keep it from being too loud which surprised me.

The other thing I worried about was the whole price thing. Is there a tone difference between a '73 Strat/Fender Deville setup and a Tyler/Aiken rig and is it worth the price difference. The answer was HELL YES, imo. Not to sound too snobby, but I could not believe how much better my tone was. I figured it would be that "well I paid for the 5% better tone" rationalization thing, but that wasn't the case at all.

The first tune I played guitar on was Wind Cries Mary and I was just blown away how good the setup sounding for that. With just a little reverb dialed in, the Tyler/Aiken setup was just butter.

After that we played a lot of blues and classic rock tunes and the Aiken did great for that. I made a point to try it both in Ali and plexi settings as well as playing clean and also diming it (with attenuation) while controlling the sound with guitar volume. Every setting sounded equally as great. Oddly, it sounded even better in the band mix than it does at home and it sounds pretty good at home to start with.

My only complaint was the thing seemed a little heavy lugging it around. It's probably because its heavier than my bass amp and 202 watts less powerful. Wonder if Randall could incorporate a telescopiing handle and some built in wheels like on my bass combo now? :)

Sorry to ramble on, just wanted to pass on some good vibes for the Aiken folks. I know I've said it before about a couple of amps so my crediblity is thin on this, but I think I may have found my amp here.

[dbeeman]

Yep, I have heard the iNvader in a band context and it really cuts through. It really nails some of the Hendrix clean and edge of breakup tone with the right guitar.

[Jarrett]

Had to make a bump for the newly arrived Tomcat. Very cool friggin' little amp. I think if this thing had 4- EL84s and a some reverb, I'd dump the Invader 18 watt Invader combo and call it a day. But Randall has shrewdly designed them otherwise so that I have to own both now :)

[Sonic Reducer]

I would call it a day also for a 4 el84 Tomcat. I don't care much about reverb though. I love that amp and think it wouldn't get much better in a 30 watt version.

[Jarrett]

I took my Tomcat up to the local music store yesterday and other folks up there seem to dig it as well. But I heard the same thing, "Does he make a louder version of this amp? If he does, I'll buy it right now."

[emilio]

Randall, we plan on visiting my sister the end of May or early June this year, she lives about 20 minutes from your shop...would it be possible to stop by and say hello, look around, for a short time?

[reaiken]

Hi, Emilio (is this Emilio Pagano, by chance?),

Yes, you are welcome to stop by and see us. There's not much to see, though, just a couple of offices and a warehouse space.

Randall Aiken

[fatback]

Woohoo! I just joined the club. I've got an Invader 18 on the way, courtesy of tgp member jmcerlain.:)

[haslar]

Would you Aiken owners tell me how those amps take pedals?

I was wondering if any of you use RC Boosters, Fulldrives, Tims etc?!

[Jarrett]

I run my Tim and Barber Burn Unit into my Invader and it sounds better through that amp than any another I've tried it through. Since I bought the Tomcat, I haven't used them though. There is a poorly recorded clip of me running the Barber Burn Unit into the Tim then into my Invader on my site below. It's not representative of the versatility of the pedals, but an idea of how much gain is possible with them.

[Frankenstrat2]

My Intruder has taken these pedals very well
Klon
AC Boost
TIM
L6MM4
Clay Jones OD
It did NOT like the V-Stack Classic at all.
Sold the V-Stack- kept the Intruder.
Didn't really need the V-Stack when I had an Intruder.

[tuna]

I have been very pleased with the variety of tones that I am able to get from the Invader 18 watt head and 1-12 Aiken cabinet I recently purchased. I love the attentuator, does not kill the tone. The amp sounds great with a Strat or an LP. The only pedal I have in front of it is a Boss tuner. This amp is so quite also, no hum when I plug my Fenders in. Man, Randall hit it right on the head when he renamed the standby switch to "Glory"! I am able to get Fender tones, Marshall tones. I would really like to know how Randall got an el-84 amp to get the Fender sound that is is this amp. I have always been a 6L6 guy and just never have been able to warm up to el-84's. Randall Aiken converted me. Really cool amp and just about perfect for me and my style of playing.

Could some of you folks share your favorite settings on this cool amp? Thanks

[sws1]

Originally posted by tuna

Could some of you folks share your favorite settings on this cool amp? Thanks

I will as soon as I get my amp. I probably still 4-6 weeks away. :(

[Jarrett]

I play my Invader with a Tyler and Grosh SSH configged Strat. I generally set mine two ways these days.

For Clean:

Ali and Plexi depending on mood
Vol1: 9-10 (o'clock)
Vol2: 9-10
Treble: 1-dimed
Mids: off or barely on, like 7-8
Bass: Dimed
Dwell: Around 1
Reverb: Around 1
Presence: Dimed
Attenuator out

Strat dimed in neck/middle or neck position. Sounds great.

For Dirty:

Ali and Plexi depending on mood
Vol1: Dimed
Vol2: Noon - Dimed, opposite of Bass control
Treble: Dimed
Mids: Variable. Sometimes off, sometimes dimed. All over really.
Bass: basically in opposite setting from Vol2. Noon - Dimed
Dwell: off
Reverb: off
Presence: Dimed
Attenuator: Depends on who is in the house :)

Guitar dimed for dirt. Rolled back to 3 for clean.

But with that said, there is really no bad setting on the amp. You can close your eyes and spin the knobs and it will still sound good. Congrats.

[Killcrop]

For maximum punch...

Ali
bass 9 oclock
mids 3 oclock
treble 11 oclock
presence 2 oclock

vol 1 dimed
vol 2 2-3 oclock

Add Les Paul, Tim pedal, and 2 or 4 Greenbacks for best results.

[Jarrett]

Thanks to an idea from Dave up there, I tried running the Invader and Tomcat together and MAN does it sound good. I got a Voodoo Amp Selector from Brian at Charley's Guitar and I'm running the Invader and Tomcat in a Y config and sounds bigger, fuller, better than the sum of its parts. I'm currently trying to get info on a stereo cab to run them through.

[mattmccloskey]

after nearly 4 years of rehearsals, recording,gigs, and practice, I finally put new el84s in my invader 18 mark 1 combo! I bought a little multi-meter from radio shack and biased it. It is so darn easy with the jacks on the back. The difference is subtle, my old tubes still seem ok and usable, so I will keep them as backups. The new ones definately have a touch more punch and volume, so I was enjoying burning in these new ones. I am sticking with matched jjs. I figure if 4 years doesn't kill them why change. Lately I have been fantasizing about getting either a sabre head or a 30 watt invader w/el34s and a closed back cab, just to get that big thump going.

[haslar]

I've just subscribed to the Aiken_Tube_Amplifier_Fan_Club newsgroup on yahoo, and I've found out that the Aiken Invader amps had a speaker-emulating balanced XLR out.
But I cannot find any mention of this feature on the Aiken website? :confused:

Has Randall decided to give up this feature as standard, and offer it as an option? Do you guys have that feature on your Aiken amps?

[dbeeman]

The Mark 1 Invader had it for a while. It was deleted. Mark II Invaders don't have it

You can always get a "Red box"

[haslar]

any idea why this feature was dropped?

I think it is a very useful feature for stage work. I have it on my Rivera M60 and sometimes find it handy to be able to plug into the foh without the hassle of miking up.

[Jarrett]

Can you give instructions on how to sign up for that Yahoo deal?

[Jarrett]

I just sent this email to Aiken and figured y'all might have some answers on this as well:

I have a Mark II Invader 18watt combo and a newly purchsed Tomcat head
and I really dig both amps a lot. Recently, I stumbled on to running
them in a Y config with the Invader going into its English
Greenback'ed open back combo and the Tomcat running into a sealed
Bogner cube 1x12 cab running a Vintage 30. I dig the sound of the
Invader through its combo for sure, and the Tomcat/Bogner setup is
alright but I can see how another setup might sound better.

So based on this I am thinking about going to a head and 2x12 cab type
of setup. So there are a couple of things I need to get for that to
work. One thing is turning the Invader combo into a head format. One
option is selling the combo outright and buying a new or used 18 watt
Invader head. This is doable, but like most folks I think my personal
Invader is special and better sounding than others:), so I am worried
I'll sell mine and get a head I don't like the sound of as much. So
based on this, I wanted to check with you to see if it would be
possible to convert my combo to a head? If so, how much/how long?

My next question is about the cab. For this to work, I guess I need a
2x12 cab that is can be run in stereo, ie one head to 1x12 and the
other head run to the other 1x12. Preferably, I'd like it to be able
to run mono as well so if I wanted I could just grab one head for a
gig and the cab and still be able to use both speakers. So, is it
possible to get an Aiken 2x12 cab wired like this?

If so, then the third question is what combination of speakers should
I use for this purpose in an Aiken 2x12 cab? If you can, do the combo
to head conversion, I guess I could use the Greenback from that combo
as part of the 2x12, or maybe you recommend your speaker instead? I
guess that speaker could be used with the Invader head. As for the
Tomcat, do you recommend using the same speaker or a different one for
best sound?

Last question is, are you aware of a single foot pedal with two
buttons that could control the reverb on the Invader and the gain
boost on the Tomcat?

[mattmccloskey]

jarret, I condidered converting my 1x12 invader into a head at one point a couple years ago. Randall said it was possible but sort of discouraged it, because the chassis is different. The tubes hang down versus sitting upright, so the head cab has to be a custom order. I don't know if his current cab maker will do it or not, and what the cost would be. Also, he mentioned a possible less than ideal ventilation issue, but I don't know if it was real significant. That said, it could be done, it just wasn't as easy as swapping for a head cab. You would likely be better off just finding a head, and selling your combo. I bet the tone would be consistent. You could even set the bias identical and use your current tubes if you were really worried about a tone difference. Or just be happy with your 1x12 combo!

[tuna]

Jarrett, I had never owned a head and cab until I purchased my Invaderhead and 1-12 cab, always combos. I have to say that I am very happy with this set up and can see the versitility of a head and cab. Little more bulky than the combo, but I can see getting another cab down the road. Good luck.

[Jarrett]

Thanks, Matt. I guess I should look into the cab first to see if its feasible.

[haslar]

Originally posted by Jarrett
Can you give instructions on how to sign up for that Yahoo deal?

Sure: click here !! (http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/Aiken_Tube_Amplifier_Fan_Club/)

[Jarrett]

Thanks Haslar!

I just thought of something. Is it possible to run a single head into two inputs on a stereo cab? Meaning, if you have a single 2x12 cab that is wired like two individual 1x12 cabs, can you run two inputs from the head into the two inputs in the cab? I don't see why this would be different from running a head into two single cabs. Does anyone see a problem? Thanks.

[haslar]

I don't see any reason why you could not do that.
That means you need to do a bit of custom wiring, i.e. installing 2 input jacks on the cab, but it's dead simple to do.

Also, a good thing would be to install a two-way switch that allows you to reconfigure the speakers wiring:
- position A --> both speakers together, as in any normal 2x12" cab. This would inactivate jack input #2.
- position B: each speaker is independent, jack input #1 leads to speaker #1 and jack input #2 leads to speaker #2.

It would be a simple circuit, and would give you a lot of flexibility.

Then, if you get an A/B/Y box between your guitars and your two heads, you can switch between amps for clean and crunch, or play both at the same time. :dude

[Jarrett]

I asked Mojo about that and they said they would have to do two individual speaker jacks for some reason. But as long as I can connect the two outputs from my Aiken heads into the two inputs, its no biggie.

[CBeeper]

It needs to have 2 seperate jacks or a plastic jack plate so there isn't a common ground between the two heads. :D

[Jarrett]

Just a quick bump to say it dawned on me today that I've had my Invader for like 4.5 months now. That's close to a record for me lately :) Still running the Tomcat and Invader in a Y config and still loving the amps. I guess I'm an Aiken junkie now.

[haslar]

Jarrett,

has Randall replied to your email yet?
I wrote him a message a few days before yours, and still have had no news from him?! :confused:

I needed some Aiken buying advice from him, and am suprised he has not got back in touch with me yet.

[Jarrett]

Yeah, it took a bit, but I got a response.

[reaiken]

Originally posted by haslar

I needed some Aiken buying advice from him, and am suprised he has not got back in touch with me yet.

Don't be too surprised, I've been traveling back and forth between Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina every week for a while now, and am completely swamped with a huge backlog of email.

Then again, I am *always* swamped with a huge backlog of email (mostly people wanting detailed technical advice or help with their homebrew amps), and I usually fall into the trap of answering the top few messages and the others keep getting pushed down the stack.

Anyway, I apologize for the delay in responding, I've sent you a reply today.

Thanks,

Randall Aiken

[trisonic]

I was talking to a mate of mine in the UK yesterday who actually read all this thread (he's a "lurker), I haven't, so bear with me.

His question is this.

What is the tonal and gain difference between the:

Tomcat
18watt Invader
18watt Intruder?

If someone has actually played all three, he would be grateful.

Thanks, Pete.

[Leonc]

I've played all 3 but not back to back. The Tomcat has the most gain on tap, due to its boost. While none are high gain amps, the other two are definitely less mid-gain than the Tomcat. The Intruder and Invader seemed quite similar to me in the gain dept.

[trisonic]

Thanks, Leon. I might have guessed that you had played all three.......

Are the Invader/Intruder somewhat like the Marshall 18 watter but with more pre-amp gain? I told him that tonally they all stem from the Marshall "camp" but really I'm talking out of my arse not having played one (so what's new, you ask)?

Thanks, mate.

Best, Pete.

[Leonc]

I much prefer the sound of Randall's to the 18w Marshall. But that's just me. Now the new 20w Marshall reissue? Different story.

[dbeeman]

Trisonic -The Invader and Intruder are like an old Plexi and aluminum Marshall. The TC is more 18watt marshall - but with more gain,better distortion,better clean,attenuator and boost. Well, just better in every way by me, and I have played original 18 watters.

[trisonic]

Thanks, guys.

Best, Pete.

[Jarrett]

Man, Randall went WAY out his way yesterday in helping me convert my Invader combo to a head. Had to post and give him more props. His products AND customer service rock like this :dude :D Thanks Randall!

[mattmccloskey]

so what happened Jarrett? Do you have a head cab on the way?

[Jarrett]

Yes I do :)

[Killcrop]

How do you do that? Wouldn't all the knobs be upside down?

[Jarrett]

Apparently I am going to have the first upside down Mark II Invader head :) It will end up looking like the picture of the Invader head on top of the 1x12 cab on Speaker section of the Aiken site.

http://www.aikenamps.com/SpeakerCabs.html

[Den]

Originally posted by Jarrett
Man, Randall went WAY out his way yesterday in helping me convert my Invader combo to a head. Had to post and give him more props. His products AND customer service rock like this :dude :D Thanks Randall! I'm glad to hear he helped you out ... how did you connect with him? I've emailed him twice over the last few weeks trying to find out how to get a Tomcat combo and haven't gotten a response. :(

[Kenster]

Originally posted by Jarrett
Apparently I am going to have the first upside down Mark II Invader head :) It will end up looking like the picture of the Invader head on top of the 1x12 cab on Speaker section of the Aiken site.

http://www.aikenamps.com/SpeakerCabs.html

Hehe.. I believe that would be my Mark I that I had put into a head cab. Randall wouldnt have someone playing an upside down amp so he did the special order head cab. He always goes the extra mile to make his customers happy.

Now I just have to get over this Sabre GAS burnin inside.:D

Now you're not only going to have a great sounding rig but cool
looking as well.:dude

[Jarrett]

Originally posted by Den
I'm glad to hear he helped you out ... how did you connect with him?

I called and he answered on the first ring. Twice.

[Den]

Thanks Jarrett ... I'll try to get him on the phone tomorrow.

[daveS]

Den,
I think I know where you can get a Tomcat combo if you want to email me.
-Dave

[tuna]

Man, I am just so pleased with my 18 watt Invader head and 1-12 cab. Anywhere I put the knobs, the thing just spits out the tone. I A/B ed it next to my Carr Rambler (which is another awesome amp) and the Invader just kicked its butt. Most toneful amp I have owned to date. Thank you Randall !

[Jarrett]

Tuna, I've thought about buying a Rambler from time to time to possibly compliment the Invader but then thought the Invader may not need it :) Could you compare those two amps a little more for us? Especially, clean versus clean. Thanks.

[mattmccloskey]

jarrett- I had a rambler and it is a sweet little amp. However, I don't think it really is needed if you have an invader. The invader in plexi mode, treble at noon, mid down at 9 oclock, bass at noon,presence off, no attenuation, verb dwell and mix up a bit, volume at 8 oclock or 9, and you have a clean that competes great with the rambler.

[Jarrett]

Matt, thanks. That's kinda what I was thinking. When I first got the Invader, I had a Tone King Meteor which I consider to be one of the better sounding Blackface type amps out there. And A/Bing them, the cleans on the Meteor were only *slightly* better sounding to me than the Invader and I am positive it was the awesome Tone King cab that made the difference. With that said, that's the only thing that sounded better on the Meteor to me. The Invader sounded better in every other way.

[mattmccloskey]

exactly Jarrett. in fact, If you set up the invader for your fave clean sound, and run it through a more 'fendery' speaker it sounds as good as any old fender. It essentially becomes an old bassman with lush reverb. The difference is that the invader through a greenback or blue will then get the biggest british rock sound, and no fender can do that!

[tuna]

jarrett- I had a rambler and it is a sweet little amp. However, I don't think it really is needed if you have an invader. The invader in plexi mode, treble at noon, mid down at 9 oclock, bass at noon,presence off, no attenuation, verb dwell and mix up a bit, volume at 8 oclock or 9, and you have a clean that competes great with the rambler.

Jarrett, The man is dead on regarding the tone. The biggest reason for me owning the Rambler is it is a lightweight pine cabinet small combo (to tote around) that is the sweetest sounding Deluxe type amp IMHO.

I wonder if Randall would make say, a 4-10 cabinet with "Fender" toned speakers for that "Fender Bassman" sound into the Invader?

[Den]

Hey Jarrett,

I don't know if I missed it, but what speaker did you decide to use for your Tomcat head? Thanks

[Jarrett]

Since Aiken is shutting down temporarily, I decided to order a stereo wired 2x12 from Mojo. The speakers will be one Mojo Greenback copy and one Mono Vintage 30 copy.

[tuna]

Hi there Jarrett, what will the cab look like? I have thought about another cab, but wanted the Aiken matched cabinet. I guess I could wait until he gets up running again.

Sorry to keep gushing about the Invader 18 watt, but I just keep getting amazed at the wide pallet of tones available in this amp. Teles, Strats or Les Pauls, it doesn't matter loves 'em all. Killer amp. I sure hope Randall gets back up & running soon, so other folks will have the opportunity to get one of his amps.

[Jarrett]

Tuna, its going to be smaller and lighter than the normal Aiken cab and have a single recessed handle on top.

[Jarrett]

Since I am in the neighborhood and its been 20 months since the last post in this thread, I thought I would give it bump.

Are there still Aiken fans out there? Does he still make amps today? What's the story?

[AaeCee]

Since I am in the neighborhood and its been 20 months since the last post in this thread, I thought I would give it bump.

Are there still Aiken fans out there? Does he still make amps today? What's the story?Still a big fan here! I have an 18w Intruder combo #8 (an early 'plexi' one!) and it still amazes. It has that rare ability to adjust to nearly any guitar via its unique mixing controls and MV. Built to withstand all the abuse anyone could throw at it. A permanent part of my collection. AC

[trucks]

Still lovin' my Tomcat head! Wonderful tones! Randall does amazing work. He also has been amazing helpful with all my questions. I'm definitely an Aiken fan.

[* velcro-fly *]

Still agree that my Intruder is one of the best amps I've ever owned or heard. Amp is freaking phenominal and Randall is a genius and consumate gentleman. Period.

Aikens get a :dude :dude :dude :dude :dude rating. :AOK

Steve E

[* velcro-fly *]

PSA - somebody should jump on this.....not mine, but if the $ was here it would be.

http://thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=190825&highlight=aiken

Steve E

[bluessyndicate]

Still agree that my Intruder is one of the best amps I've ever owned or heard. Amp is freaking phenominal and Randall is a genius and consumate gentleman. Period.

Aikens get a :dude :dude :dude :dude :dude rating. :AOK

Steve E

+1 :BEER

[lgehrig4]

Sabre owner. One of my favorite amps!

[DigitalTube]

Sabre owner. One of my favorite amps!

Same here.

[RC2]

Dose anyone know why Aiken discontinued the Invader or if there is any chance he'll make one special order. It seems like the perfect lower wattage Marshall type amp to me.

[trisonic]

I don't own but I wish I did. Randall is a really nice guy and generous with his time.

Best, Pete.

[dbeeman]

Jarret;

Good to see you back. I know you have also found out the latest news - Tag loves Brunos. .... but I digress.

I still have my Invader 30 watt. A very versatile amp indeed.

Randall is a genius and one of the most geniune, nicest guys in the biz ( or is that bidness, here is Tejas?). He is still making amps as of a couple of weeks back when I spoke to him about my Invader.

[MightyGuru]

My Sabre is the do all amp for me. I've played it next to some great amps and walked away smiling.

It's one of the best things in my life to be able to look forward, with salivating anticipation, to playing my rig....everytime.

I'd love to check out an Intruder to see where the amps cross paths.

[bluessyndicate]

Dose anyone know why Aiken discontinued the Invader or if there is any chance he'll make one special order. It seems like the perfect lower wattage Marshall type amp to me.

He told me that the Invader required alot of hours to build, largely due to the attenuator board. That's why he went forward with the Intruder since it does not have one. Perhaps the reverb was also a factor. He also wanted to move forward with some new amps. I for one think the Invader is an incredible amp. The Intruder no doubt is as well...I actually have an Intruder master volume on my 50 watt Invader..so I get the best of both worlds...attenuation and master volume on demand. That and some mullard EL-34's and I have not heard a better marshall styled amp. Seeing how good Randall's work is makes me really want to try a Sabre as well someday.

[bmenary]

I have one of Randalls Sabres- I will NEVER (I hope) sell this amp. That says it all from me because I am a compulsive gearhead- Wonderful amps- Can't say enough good things about the amps and Randall- He will call you back and write back- Try and get that level of service from the 42 people that built your new Marshall amp

[Jarrett]

Is Randall still in biz?

[* velcro-fly *]

Is Randall still in biz?

Yep...busy being a Rocket Scientist at the moment ;)

[Drowned Rabbit]

Aiken Sabre, Invader 1x12 combo, & Tomcat
owner here (yes, I still have all 3). My favorite
amp builder bar none.

[skeeterbuck]

I've got a Tomcat combo coming today. Hopefully it's a keeper. I give a review after the honeymoon. :AOK

[samtheman]

Yeah !!! I really try to keep this one....:hide

http://www.vilo.net/Aiken_Invader_30w/slides/i4.jpg

More -> HERE (http://www.vilo.net/Aiken_Invader_30w/index.html)

[Dexter.Sinister]

Yeah !!! I really try to keep this one....:hide

http://www.vilo.net/Aiken_Invader_30w/slides/i4.jpg

More -> HERE (http://www.vilo.net/Aiken_Invader_30w/index.html)


From your picture, it appears that you have worn plating off switches. That is GOOD sign! Must be some amp.

DS

[Killcrop]

From your picture, it appears that you have worn plating off switches. That is GOOD sign! Must be some amp.

DS


I was just thinking the dude has a serious coke habit.

[* velcro-fly *]

Once a month bump...trying to bring Randall out of hiding ;)

[Nolatone Ampworks]

Is there someone here on the forum that's in a blues trio that played a couple of weeks ago at the Dayton Beach Regency out by the pool?

He had a purple Aiken head playing through a 2x12 cab. Didn't get to see what model though. I was going to go over and say hello between tunes but my wife shanghai'd me before there was a break (we were late to meet some friends).

Anyhow, he had great tone and chops alike!

Paul

[Dexter.Sinister]

I was just thinking the dude has a serious coke habit.


Ha!

But really...that's is a lot of plating wear...and white powder....hmm...

ON! off. ON!! off. ON!!! off. ON!!!! off. ON!!!!! off. ON!!!!!! off. ON!!!!!!! off. ON!!!!!!!!

DS

[WeTheLiving]

I have an invader 18w MkI head. I play through an oversized 1x12 cab with a
celestion heritage 20w greenback reissue. I also have a celestion alnico blue just laying around. Would i really be gaining anything by throwing both of these speakers into a 2x12 cab? I know the amp was designed around the greenback so i havent bothered with the blue, any opinions? I play a les paul with antiquities.

[dbeeman]

2 * 12 will give you more.


The blue sounds great with the invader - esp open back cab

[* velcro-fly *]

I have an invader 18w MkI head. I play through an oversized 1x12 cab with a
celestion heritage 20w greenback reissue. I also have a celestion alnico blue just laying around. Would i really be gaining anything by throwing both of these speakers into a 2x12 cab? I know the amp was designed around the greenback so i havent bothered with the blue, any opinions? I play a les paul with antiquities.

Bar none the best tone I have going right now is my Aiken Intruder into a Marshall 2061cx cab loaded with a Heritage Greenback and a Blue. Best sounding cab setup I've ever owned ;)

So yeah, run , don't walk and get that combo loaded into a 2x12.

[daveS]

I might have posted on this thread already but I'll post props again for Aiken amps :AOK

I had and Invader for a while...great amp, wonderful built in attenuator and loved the 2 knob reverb. Mine was a combo and sound fantastic with the spec'd 1X12 speaker.

I had a Tomcat combo for a while, traded it away and missed it so much that I picked up another one in a head configuration. Awesome high gain crunch :D

Now, the Aiken amp that really takes the cake for me is the Sabre. This is by far one of the coolest and greatest sounding amps I have owned. One channel is worthy of the best hot rodded Marshall...even approaching SLO tones. The other channel is a wonderfully warm sounding Fender BF-ish sounding channel. Seperate Volumes, tone stack, and FX loops for each channel make this amp one of the most versatile and usable workhorses around for just about any type of musical style.

Props to Randall and all the best to him...would love to see some new stuff from him.

Cheers
-Dave

[Dave Orban]

You guys do realize that the last time Randall actually posted on this thread was in March of 2005...?

:jo

[jcat]

Mr Aiken posted back on 7/13 that he was havin' trouble with some kidney stones. Hope all is well Randall.
Your amps are wonderful.
joe

[Dave Orban]

Mr Aiken posted back on 7/13 that he was havin' trouble with some kidney stones. Hope all is well Randall.
Your amps are wonderful.
joeIndeed! And a wonderful human being, too. Always willing to share his (considerable) knowledge with us great unwashed masses!

[reaiken]

Thanks for all the nice comments, guys! I appreciate it.

I am indeed currently fighting kidney stones (ARRGGGHH!!!), but hopefully they will pass soon. If not, I hope you guys all show up at my funeral! :p

As for new stuff, I'm still in the process of redesigning everything. I know, it's been taking forever, but I'm a procrastinating perfectionist!. I have also been rather busy doing some consulting engineering work to an avionics company down in FL, so I've been spending a lot of time down there over the past six months, which is not at all conducive to my amp design progress!

All I can say is, please bear with me, the new stuff is going to be killer!

Randall Aiken

[Dave Orban]

Yay!

Feel better!

[daveS]

Thanks for all the nice comments, guys! I appreciate it.

I am indeed currently fighting kidney stones (ARRGGGHH!!!), but hopefully they will pass soon. If not, I hope you guys all show up at my funeral! :p

As for new stuff, I'm still in the process of redesigning everything. I know, it's been taking forever, but I'm a procrastinating perfectionist!. I have also been rather busy doing some consulting engineering work to an avionics company down in FL, so I've been spending a lot of time down there over the past six months, which is not at all conducive to my amp design progress!

All I can say is, please bear with me, the new stuff is going to be killer!

Randall Aiken

Hey Randall, We all miss you man ! Thanks for chiming in, great to see your presence here.

Get well soon ...kidney stones are painful so take good care.

And when you are ready to unleash more amps, we'll all be waiting !

Rock on ! :dude

-Dave

[ed84246]

If I was looking for an amp that got very nice Fendery Cleans (not bright spanky Fender, but warmer with some punch for funk) and modded Marshall tones (think eighties hair-metal style gain), which Aiken would be my best option (if one exists)? Thanks.

[daveS]

If I was looking for an amp that got very nice Fendery Cleans (not bright spanky Fender, but warmer with some punch for funk) and modded Marshall tones (think eighties hair-metal style gain), which Aiken would be my best option (if one exists)? Thanks.

Sabre

[* velcro-fly *]

I've been down to one amp here (oh the horrors :worried) and thankfully its my trusty Aiken Intruder..

man, I love this amp more and more every time I plug it in...just out of this World. Very little it won't do. Anybody that ever has a chance to get one owes it to themselves to try it.

BTW - my latest greatest discovery is the Auralex Gramma. Little mofo works as advertised ;)

[cubado]

I've been down to one amp here (oh the horrors :worried) and thankfully its my trusty Aiken Intruder..

man, I love this amp more and more every time I plug it in...just out of this World. Very little it won't do)

Same here... Starting to wonder why bother!

Except I am not down 2 one amp yet... My Aiken still King of the Hill .... 4 me!

[irish blues]

A buddy of mine borrowed my Aiken Invader purple headed 18W monster. Played through a tone tubby cab with 2 hemptone 12's. Guitar was a Collings 290 with the lollars changed out with Thorn P90's.

Everyone was slain by the tone of this combination.

[bluessyndicate]

I have really been enjoying playing my Invader 50 in a new blues band lately...we do gigs at a local wine bistro which requires low volume...and the invader is perfect...the attenuator takes me to where I need to be for lead volume, the amp works beautifully using the guitars volume to roll back for nice punchy or spanky fendery sounding cleans, and rolls on for perfect bluesy edge tones or leads..and then there is the reverb...perfect!

The other guitarist using a vintage fender super with various pedals (Hotcake, Barber Burn, OCD) is completely jealous, and mutters under his breath "I wish I could sound like that" which I think is a great testament for the Invader.

Then of course we go play an outside harvest wine festival and I get to un cork the Invader and it just keeps getting better....

Had the opportunity to speak to Randall on the phone recently, and tell him so. :)

[hathisisfunnyha]

I am so pumped to pickup my Aiken Tomcat on friday

:banana :banana :banana

[musichead1956]

I have a 50 watt Intruder and 50 watt Sabre head and love them! I got the Intruder off TGP in 2006 and the Sabre from Randall also in 2006. Randall is a cool guy to speak with and his new line of amps promises to be killer as well! Last time I spoke with him he was still on the fence about the features he is going to incorporate into his revamped amp line.

Anyway....here's to you Randall...:bow...great amps in the past and hopefully soon great amps in the future! :dude

[TomStrat]

I just returned from a trip to California where i picked up an Aiken Invader 2x12 combo. Incredible amp.. just amazing. I found it at a pawnshop via a Craigslist ad (from my desk in Seattle) I called the guy minutes after he listed it, paid for half of it over the phone after he sent me pictures and confirmed that it worked. Flew down to California last Thursday to pay for the other half and pick it up. I was totally blown away when i heard it in person. I have played a ton of old Marshalls and never heard anything this good. The built in attenuator and Reverb in this amp are to die for. I can now scratch off "Aiken Invader" from the top of my most wanted amps list. Plus the trip gave me an excuse to go visit some friends in SoCal. My Greatest gear score yet.

[MightyGuru]

I just returned from a trip to California where i picked up an Aiken Invader 2x12 combo. Incredible amp.. just amazing. I found it at a pawnshop via a Craigslist ad (from my desk in Seattle) I called the guy minutes after he listed it, paid for half of it over the phone after he sent me pictures and confirmed that it worked. Flew down to California last Thursday to pay for the other half and pick it up. I was totally blown away when i heard it in person. I have played a ton of old Marshalls and never heard anything this good. The built in attenuator and Reverb in this amp are to die for. I can now scratch off "Aiken Invader" from the top of my most wanted amps list. Plus the trip gave me an excuse to go visit some friends in SoCal. My Greatest gear score yet.


That's probably the rarest of Randall's amps. I owned a Tomcat and the attenuator was just great.

I have a 1st generation Sabre...it kills.

[bilbal]

Sabre Prototype #2 (Red) here. Absolutely killer amp in every way.

[Pa'ani]

Aiken Invader MkK II serial #2 here... This amp is just totally amazing!
Thanks to my friend Bob who was the original owner and a really cool guy, I've been really digging the Aiken Invader MK II. What a killer and great amp...

[daveS]

At one time I had an Invader combo, Tomcat combo and a Sabre. All great amps. I have a Tomcat head now that ended up being the "keeper" Aiken for me. Man I wish Randall would build more amps, his stuff is amazing !

[dbeeman]

Aiken Invader MkK II serial #2 here... This amp is just totally amazing!
Thanks to my friend Bob who was the original owner and a really cool guy, I've been really digging the Aiken Invader MK II. What a killer and great amp...I have serial number 003, and I had a Tomcat I foolishly sold to guy here

[strangec]

I have Intruder 4 and had Sabre 5. Great amps.

[mattmccloskey]

I sent my invader mk1 to Randall today for a check-up. I love this amp, it is like an old pair of comfy jeans-it just plain feels good.

My amp is now 10 years old!

[Jarrett]

Aiken amps are one of the few amp lines out of the hundred plus amps I've owned that I look back fondly on. Great stuff, great guy.

[Phil M]

I saw bilbal's posts over the months about getting an Aiken Sabre. Sorry if this is posted elsewhere but I didn't see it: Randall Aiken's site has had the Sabre Mk. II listed for awhile now. Has anyone heard if/when these might be released?

[reaiken]

I am looking at office/warehouse spaces right now to find a place to open a new manufacturing facility.

I am trying to decide if I want to locate it here in Greenwood, SC, or on the outskirts of Atlanta, GA in the Suwannee/Buford area on the I-85N corridor. I will go back into production when I get the new facility and hire some employees.

If you know anyone in those areas who would like a job building amps, let me know!

Randall Aiken

[daveS]

I am looking at office/warehouse spaces right now to find a place to open a new manufacturing facility.

I am trying to decide if I want to locate it here in Greenwood, SC, or on the outskirts of Atlanta, GA in the Suwannee/Buford area on the I-85N corridor. I will go back into production when I get the new facility and hire some employees.

If you know anyone in those areas who would like a job building amps, let me know!

Randall Aiken

Great News Randall !

[robertkoa]

Is the Invader the one he has with the built in attenuator ?

I spoke to him on the phone and he was real nice but had stopped building amps for a while he said.

Most rate him as one of the top Builders/Designers.

[Roe]

great news indeed

[Pa'ani]

There will be some great and incredible new Aiken amps in the near future. Looking forward in getting me another Aiken!
Welcome back Randall... Welcome back...

[mattmccloskey]

Is the Invader the one he has with the built in attenuator ?

I spoke to him on the phone and he was real nice but had stopped building amps for a while he said.

Most rate him as one of the top Builders/Designers.

Yes the invader has a built in attenuator- and it is a brilliant design. Really transparent and effective.

The invader has been out of production for a long time because I believe it is a very expensive and labor-intensive amp to make.

Mine is built like a tank and has a load of great features. Sounds fantastic.

[Phil M]

I am looking at office/warehouse spaces right now to find a place to open a new manufacturing facility.

I am trying to decide if I want to locate it here in Greenwood, SC, or on the outskirts of Atlanta, GA in the Suwannee/Buford area on the I-85N corridor. I will go back into production when I get the new facility and hire some employees.

If you know anyone in those areas who would like a job building amps, let me know!

Randall Aiken

That's cool, thanks for the reply. Didn't expect to hear from the builder.

[strangec]

Good news!

[MBoDean]

That's great news! My Tomcat needs an Aiken badged 1x12 cab w/Celestion Blue!!

[auburn-grad]

I am looking at office/warehouse spaces right now to find a place to open a new manufacturing facility.
I will go back into production when I get the new facility and hire some employees.

Randall Aiken


FINALLY !......we need some more Aikens out there......start building them so we can start buying them......

: )

[mattmccloskey]

FINALLY !......we need some more Aikens out there......start building them so we can start buying them......

: )

the only problem is Randall's amps are built so well, and the warranty lifetime; so the amps last forever! Plus any updates are free, so you only need to buy one:D

Of course you still need one of each model.:dude

[auburn-grad]

the only problem is Randall's amps are built so well, and the warranty lifetime; so the amps last forever! Plus any updates are free, so you only need to buy one:D

Of course you still need one of each model.:dude

I had one of the original 30w Intruders (#15).....it was built like a tank.....alas....I had to sell if for financial reasons.....but, it was awesome while I had it

[Sirloin]

Ah...how about some love for the Intruder.... Great amps, but everytime I hear the name "Intruder", this is what comes to mind: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbpPIYy_YQk

[Sirloin]

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x164/don_cipriani/24057_1344713852538_1072013581_1054311_3608997_n.j pg

[diagrammatiks]

ooh on top of a bruno cab. the irony is thick.

[lgehrig4]

I had a Sabre and the 2nd to last 50W Intruder made. Like an idiot I sold both in a fit of gas. That said, if I ever get my head on an Invader it won't go anywhere.

I'd love to have that 4 holer Sirlion. I assume that's an early Invader prior to the internal channel jumpering? If you ever decide to let it go shoot me a PM.

[wedewer]

ooh on top of a bruno cab. the irony is thick.

Can someone fill me in? Why is this ironic?

[lgehrig4]

The Aiken on top of the Bruno is ironic because Tony caught his wife cheating on him with Randall....lol

[wedewer]

The Aiken on top of the Bruno is ironic because Tony caught his wife cheating on him with Randall....lol


Joking right?

[lgehrig4]

Joking right?

of course

[mmolteratx]

Can someone fill me in? Why is this ironic?

Randall has one of the (if not the) best reputations for a quality handmade and well thought out product. Bruno, not so much. I think that's what he means.

[Sirloin]

The amp in the photo belongs to a friend of mine. I believe that it is some type of prototype if I recall. I had a Sabre and the 2nd to last 50W Intruder made. Like an idiot I sold both in a fit of gas. That said, if I ever get my head on an Invader it won't go anywhere.

I'd love to have that 4 holer Sirlion. I assume that's an early Invader prior to the internal channel jumpering? If you ever decide to let it go shoot me a PM.

[lgehrig4]

The amp in the photo belongs to a friend of mine. I believe that it is some type of prototype if I recall.

It may be, but I'm pretty sure it's an Invader by the amount of knobs. Looks to have a built in attenuator. My buddy had an 18W Invader and it sounded great. I tend to go prefer the bigger tubes so I'd want a 30W version. Pretty sure they have EL34s/

[JoeBob]

I am looking at office/warehouse spaces right now to find a place to open a new manufacturing facility.

I am trying to decide if I want to locate it here in Greenwood, SC, or on the outskirts of Atlanta, GA in the Suwannee/Buford area on the I-85N corridor. I will go back into production when I get the new facility and hire some employees.

If you know anyone in those areas who would like a job building amps, let me know!

Randall Aiken

Good news !!

[j.s.tonehound]

The Aiken site is a goldmine of information!

I really do hope Aiken gets up and running soon.

[robertkoa]

Well - cool and welcome back Randall Aiken- the good news for us is we will have another top notch world class builder/designer making amps again.

The good news for you is that there may be a larger, or more accessible group of people who appreciate and understand the Tones and quality of your Amps.

........Now once you get situated, about those ( possible) Invader Reissues or Invader 2s, even though they are a complex build......years ago I was asking if the Attenuator could be used in conjunction with a line out , to Mic a speaker AND send a direct signal to a Cab Emulator or ( now) a Cab IR.

[reaiken]

........Now once you get situated, about those ( possible) Invader Reissues or Invader 2s, even though they are a complex build......years ago I was asking if the Attenuator could be used in conjunction with a line out , to Mic a speaker AND send a direct signal to a Cab Emulator or ( now) a Cab IR.

The MKI Invader has a built-in XLR output with speaker simulator...

RA

[reaiken]

One thing I am finding out...there are no decent office/warehouse spaces for lease in this little town I live in here in SC. I found two, but they are for sale only.

RA

[harryjmic]

One thing I am finding out...there are no decent office/warehouse spaces for lease in this little town I live in here in SC. I found two, but they are for sale only.

RA

Considering the country is DOA that news is stunning to me. I love my Tomcat, just awesome in every way.

[Sirloin]

One thing I am finding out...there are no decent office/warehouse spaces for lease in this little town I live in here in SC. I found two, but they are for sale only.

RA

Do you live in Aiken SC? Now that would be funny...

[louis]

One thing I am finding out...there are no decent office/warehouse spaces for lease in this little town I live in here in SC. I found two, but they are for sale only.

RA

Well , considering all the love for your amps here
on this thread ,if you take all the pre-order deposits, you'll
certainly be able to buy the whole block!!

Louis Hi ! Hi !

[reaiken]

...f you take all the pre-order deposits, you'll
certainly be able to buy the whole block!!

Louis Hi ! Hi !

One thing I've never done is take any money before an amp is ready to ship. That's a good way to ruin your company and your reputation. If you don't have the money to fund your production, you shouldn't be in business in the first place.

All it takes is one unplanned emergency, a major chassis or parts mistake, and you're stuck with no way to complete the amps you have already taken money for, and no way to refund the irate customer's money.

RA

[louis]

One thing I've never done is take any money before an amp is ready to ship. That's a good way to ruin your company and your reputation. If you don't have the money to fund your production, you shouldn't be in business in the first place.

All it takes is one unplanned emergency, a major chassis or parts mistake, and you're stuck with no way to complete the amps you have already taken money for, and no way to refund the irate customer's money.

RA

Love your answer !!

All the best !!..............Louis

[reaiken]

Do you live in Aiken SC? Now that would be funny...

No, but maybe I should move there! They might have some decent office/warehouse space.

I have considered finding a space in Clemson, SC. I love the area and there are probably quite a few EE students who play guitar and would like a part-time job building amps...

RA

[j.s.tonehound]

Please forgive me if this is a little pushy but do you have a timescale in mind from moving in to first shipment?

On a separate note, it's great to read the new amps will be available for shipping to Europe.

[MightyGuru]

Can't wait 'til you start building again Randall. I still have to send my Sabre #16 to you for the MKII mods.

[robertkoa]

The MKI Invader has a built-in XLR output with speaker simulator...

RA
Thanks - can an attenuated speaker be run simultaneously with the direct out?

And will this be "re issued " or become available again ?

Once you find an Aiken -friendly city ...

[reaiken]

Can't wait 'til you start building again Randall. I still have to send my Sabre #16 to you for the MKII mods.

I have two on my bench right now for the mods, you can send yours in a week or two if you like...

[reaiken]

Thanks - can an attenuated speaker be run simultaneously with the direct out?

And will this be "re issued " or become available again ?

Once you find an Aiken -friendly city ...

Yes, the attenuated (or unattenuated) speaker can be run simultaneously with the direct out.

I won't reissue that amp in the same version, but maybe something similar.

[reaiken]

Please forgive me if this is a little pushy but do you have a timescale in mind from moving in to first shipment?



I have no idea. I have to find a location, get it leased, hire some people, train them, get all the parts and packing materials, etc. Hopefully I'll be shipping within a month or two of finding a place and hiring a few people.

[bmenary]

Randall, The people have spoken- Build it and we will buy....

[reaiken]

Randall, The people have spoken- Build it and we will buy....

Yeah, I figure I'll sell at least 5. :)

[Phil M]

Six ...

[Pa'ani]

Lucky 7...

[dbeeman]

Since this is an AIken Appreciation thread....

I'll appreciate it when Randall gets the new shop up and running.

I have Invader MkII #3.


Looking forward to another Aiken amp ... Aurora? TomCat MkII?
Raptor? Lightning?


I will appreciate the next Aiken amp I buy for sure.

[j.s.tonehound]

I have no idea. I have to find a location, get it leased, hire some people, train them, get all the parts and packing materials, etc. Hopefully I'll be shipping within a month or two of finding a place and hiring a few people.

Many thanks. That's actually quicker than I had anticipated!

[JoeBob]

I have no idea. I have to find a location, get it leased, hire some people, train them, get all the parts and packing materials, etc. Hopefully I'll be shipping within a month or two of finding a place and hiring a few people.

Please let this thread know when you'll be ready to take orders !
Are you gonna sell direct ?
Thx

[reaiken]

Please let this thread know when you'll be ready to take orders !
Are you gonna sell direct ?
Thx

Direct to start, then dealers...

[reaiken]

I may have found a building today! It's really nice, and I'm hoping the bad economy will convince them to take my lowball offer... :)

[robertkoa]

I may have found a building today! It's really nice, and I'm hoping the bad economy will convince them to take my lowball offer... :)

They will- cause if it takes two or three more months to rent it at the higher price- they'll lose $ anyway.

Plus the building will have better TONE with you in it.....what do you mean they don't care ? - OK but they care about sentence 1 above.

[Killcrop]

Randy, glad to hear you are getting back up and running. I hope things are going well for you!

So can we talk about future plans for the Tomcat design? Maybe a 4 6v6/2 EL34 version of it?

[rastaman]

#8 here. I want a MKII Sabre. I live in Buford Georgia. Although I don't need a full time job, I'd love to help build my amp! Maybe I could work nights and/or weekends?

[reaiken]

Woo-hoo! i got the building I wanted at my offering price! I sign the lease on Monday!

Now to find some good employees...

RA

[mattmccloskey]

Woo-hoo! i got the building I wanted at my offering price! I sign the lease on Monday!

Now to find some good employees...

RA

This is great news Randall!

Just curious, I know you were busy with lots of engineering jobs, your band, etc. Are you going back to just full-time amp building or are you going to be a workaholic and ramp up amp production at the same time you design space ships?:D

[TomStrat]

Congrats Randall, cant wait to check out some of the new amps. I still have the Red Invader MKII combo and its still cranking out amazing tones.

-Tom

[Pa'ani]

Congratulations Randall on your new building/location that's great news indeed!

[SReynolds]

Woo-hoo! i got the building I wanted at my offering price! I sign the lease on Monday!

Now to find some good employees...

RA

Great news Randall. I'm all over a Sabre Mark II. Man I feel a happy dance comin on.

[MightyGuru]

Woo-hoo! i got the building I wanted at my offering price! I sign the lease on Monday!

Now to find some good employees...

RA

Fantastic news! I'll be sending my Sabre #16 to you for the MKII updates when you get settled in the new digs and all...Grats!

[SouthernShred]

Great news buddy! Are you back in GA?

Shannon

[mmolteratx]

Woo-hoo! i got the building I wanted at my offering price! I sign the lease on Monday!

Now to find some good employees...

RA

:banana

Very excited to get a Sabre MKII when you start production again.

[DEMENTED]

That's great news Randall, Sabre #13 is still awaiting the updates....;-)

[wyldefan]

Randall's new shop will be in Greenwood, SC. Let's put the word out and get him some great employees. So happy for you my friend.

[DigitalTube]

Fantastic news! I'll be sending my Sabre #16 to you for the MKII updates when you get settled in the new digs and all...Grats!

Just wondering, what are the updates available for the Sabre?
Thanks

[wyldefan]

I think we would need to give Randall some time to hire a team then finish the design. For now this is great news. I think it is way to soon to wonder when items will be ready. I am just glad that Randall is back in business.

[hathisisfunnyha]

Randall's amps are top notch and he is always available to answer any questions. I truly miss my Tomcat, best amp I have played with a built in attenuator, and it really had some balls for 12 watts

[harryjmic]

Randall's amps are top notch and he is always available to answer any questions. I truly miss my Tomcat, best amp I have played with a built in attenuator, and it really had some balls for 12 watts

I've already gigged with mine. After the gig the bass player looked at his amp and said, "Man I was playing loud today." I then noticed mine was on the -3db setting. :D Granted I also used a booster all night, it still was wailing.

[rastaman]

So hey Randall, do you have an idea on when your amps will be available again?

[Bushkey]

My man cave of destruction......sick amp right?
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee512/bushkey1/photo1-1.jpg

[harryjmic]

My man cave of destruction......sick amp right?
http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee512/bushkey1/photo1-1.jpg


Those amps are awesome, I have Prototype #2. I wonder if that's the one on his website? Through a 4x12 just has to be like sitting next to God. Right now I'm using a 1x12, I might get a 2x12 later.

[spence]

I thought I'd give this thread a shot in the arm. Here's my Invader on a Swanson 2x12. A little bird flew in when I snapped the pic. Anyone hear any news from Randall?


http://i381.photobucket.com/albums/oo255/DaveSpencer_photos/GEAR1.jpg

[harryjmic]

He replies right away whenever I have a question. From what I can tell he's getting stuff organized. I have two now, a Sabre and a Tomcat. I run the Sabre with a Pete Cage ob 2x12 with Weber alnico BD and SB speakers. With the Tomcat I run a Celestion Gold. I am totally happy with these amps.

[mattmccloskey]

I heard from Randall around thanksgiving and he has the shop all equipped and inspected, so it sounds like he is moving right along since he got the building. Looks like he is working on the website as well.

I would suspect he is in position to start building out of the shop now, although I am sure he has to deal with vendors for all the custom parts like chassis. That stuff takes awhile. I know he was looking for employees too. I think this is all good news because if he has a nice shop and some good assemblers the amps will likely be built in a timely fashion, vs. if he has to do everything himself.

Can't wait to see the new designs!

[spence]

That's good news guys. He makes such a good amp that it would be difficult for him not to succeed with anything he makes. I can't wait to see the new designs too. It'll be nice having him back. He's a great guy!

[Colvert]

Resurrecting this thread, Aikens are the cream of Rock:

http://i1357.photobucket.com/albums/q753/Colvert73/Aikens/2013-02-08_12-46-26_646_zps56d9eabe.jpg

[JoeBob]

His he back in business ?