Satellite Custom

[Sam Evans]

a



I recently sent a non working, single-ended amp chassis to Adam Grimm to "fix." The original amp had failed so many times, that attempting to have it repaired to its original condition again bordered on insanity (i.e. repeating the same mistake over an over again, yet expecting different results each time). So off the amp went to Adam. I gave him free reign, and told him that I had zero expectations of its final iteration. After a few weeks, Adam emailed of the amp's shipment. That's a quick turnaround, IMO. Adam re-worked the chassis, the cabinet is my doing.

There's a single 5881, a 12AX7 and a SS rectifier. Tone and volume on the front are accompanied by a "radioactive" jewel light and input jack. Back included the output jack and the power switch. The cord in hardwired back there too. Vintage iron was used throughout, and very few of the amp's original parts are used.

Sonically, this is where things get tough to explain. Adam's work is his own, and putting my previous conceptualizations of how an amp works via its controls seems woefully inadequate. Suffice it to say that the amp has a midrange content that I find perfect. There's no particular peak that forces you into one particular voice. The amp has a dry, immediate feel that when pushed overdrives into a complex, direct and shotgun-blast-like tonality. It's not a Champ.

Clean tones have a note separation that is pleasant, but lacking sterility. Again, the transients are fast and picking an overtone series is easily done. There seems a bit of a mid-scoop in neutral EQ settings, but mids can be added as needed via said EQ. I'll spare you the tired adjectives born here throughout the years, but I will say that this amp's uniqueness will certainly be appreciated by most.

I've only had a few hours of play time with the amp, and after the holidays, I'll certainly have more insight. For now, I'm thrilled. And I get the sense that what I have is truly unique, special and irreplaceable. Thanks again, Adam.

S

[big mike]

Dig it! That's badass.

I have yet to plug into one of Adam's amps, other that Doug Kauer's 5e3 he Adam built, but everything i've heard is outstanding.

[Sam Evans]

Originally Posted by Sirloin

Too many knobs!!!

Totally.

[Sam Evans]

Originally Posted by big mike

Dig it! That's badass.

I have yet to plug into one of Adam's amps, other that Doug Kauer's 5e3 he Adam built, but everything i've heard is outstanding.

So that's who finished it. Glad Doug got it wired up.

[kwaping]

It pains me, to live in the same city as Satellite Amps and not be able to afford one.

[SatelliteAmps]

I really should have written that schematic down.

Those are phenomenal pictures Sam, and a wonderful explanation. I am humbled by the praise. Thank you.

kwaping - you can come play them anytime you want for free. We have a demo room that you can come to 7 days a week if you want to.

[kwaping]

Thanks Adam! But I'm afraid that would just intensify my pain, and I wouldn't want to inflict my playing on you or anyone nearby.

[Sam Evans]

Originally Posted by SatelliteAmps

I really should have written that schematic down.

At least I have your "notes" on its original paperwork.

[SatelliteAmps]

Originally Posted by kwaping

Thanks Adam! But I'm afraid that would just intensify my pain, and I wouldn't want to inflict my playing on you or anyone nearby.

Underground Concrete bunker. Neighbors can't hear.

Originally Posted by Sam Evans

At least I have your "notes" on its original paperwork.

True.

[brianr0131]

Originally Posted by SatelliteAmps

kwaping - you can come play them anytime you want for free. We have a demo room that you can come to 7 days a week if you want to.

Classy!

I also remember you tried to help me with an old silvertone I worked on (smokes now) You're a good man!

[kwaping]

Hey Adam, I might just take you up on that offer then!

[Sam Evans]

Originally Posted by kwaping

Hey Adam, I might just take you up on that offer then!

Highly recommended.

[localmotion411]

Not complikated enuff. Needz moar nahbs!

[jetattblue]

That's awesome all the way around. Sam, the cabinet is beautiful. I love the frame around the control panel. And the jewel light looks amazing.

[kwaping]