Positive Grid’s latest release sees the company introduce two new combo amplifiers that promise to offer an all-new approach to tone creation. Available in 50W and 100W models, the Reactor series introduces a new Amplifier Intelligence engine that makes it possible for users to create new sounds based on a voice, text or image prompt.
Amp Intelligence
Both new combos are built around Positive Grid’s new Amp Intelligence engine. During its development, the company say that the engine decoded over 200 amp designs at the circuit level, examining their gain stages, transformers, bias points and harmonic responses. As such, every tone created by the engine is based on the behaviour of real amp designs, helping the new arrivals to deliver dynamic, ‘alive’ sounds that are responsive to playing dynamics.
The system also introduces a new way for users to arrive at their desired tone. Rather than relying solely on manual parameter adjustments or fixed presets, the Reactor range allows users to describe the sound they’re after and have the amp create it for them! This can be achieved in three ways:
- Text to Tone: Describe an artist, sound or idea; literal or abstract.
- Image to Tone: Snap or upload a photo of gear, an object, a selfie or anything that inspires sound.
- Audio to Tone: Upload an audio file or screen recording of anything.
Each input method results in a complete signal chain, built in real time. Users can refine the generated tones through further instructions, by traditional hands-on control using the amp’s top panel, or by dragging any of the onboard effects within the app’s visual signal chain. It’s also possible to start with one of 24 included amp models, or ask the Reactor to build a custom amp — whether to recreate a favourite or to design something entirely new. User-created amps and tones can be saved using an accompanying app, and it’s possible to share content with other users via the company’s ToneCloud platform.
Volume Levels & Controls
Where many amps fall down — especially the likes of valve-based models — is their ability to play quietly without sacrificing their overall tone. The new Reactor range has been designed to sound at its best at any volume, with selectable (1W, 25W or full power) power levels helping to maintain full, present-sounding tones at a wide range of output levels. Both combos features a 12-inch speaker mounted in a wooden cabinet.
Dedicated top-panel controls are provided for gain, EQ, reverb and volume, and an Amp knob makes it possible to quickly audition different models, and an FX section offers quick access to the system’s built-in effects. It’s also possible to store and recall up to eight presets on the amp itself. A pair of mod switches then extend the tonal range further:
- Heat: Adjusts ‘feel’ and harmonics without significantly affecting volume;
- Push/Smooth: Move between cutting lead presence for soloing and a warmer, rounder response for playing rhythm guitar.
As for connectivity, the Reactor range include a USB-C audio interface for direct recording, a line-level output with cabinet simulation, an effects loop/power-amp input, Bluetooth audio and app control, a MIDI input and a headphone output. An optional Reactor Control footswitch adds some hands-free control (either wired or wireless), sporting six switches and offering support for an expression pedal.
Pricing & Availability
The new amps and footswitch are available now, with pricing as follows:
- Reactor 50W: $349
- Reactor 100W: $449
- Reactor Control: $149
