Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (236)
$129.00
Amazon
4.4 (382)
$129.00 New
$118.54 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
4.0 (34)
$129.00 New
$80.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$129.00

Average Price: $122

Budget/Beginner

$299

$600+

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Bugera PS1 Passive 100-watt Power Attenuator". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Harness the full potential of your tube amplifier with the Bugera PS1 Passive 100-watt Power Attenuator. Designed to deliver the cranked-amp tone you love at volumes that won't shake the walls or disturb the peace, the PS1 is a must-have for guitarists who crave authentic sound without the ear-splitting decibels. Simply connect it between your amp's speaker output and your speaker to experience rich, overdriven tones at any volume you desire.

The PS1's Emulated Mic Output is a game-changer, simulating the sound of a perfectly miked speaker cabinet and sending it directly to your console. Whether you're recording in the studio or performing live, this feature ensures your audience hears every nuance of your sound without the need for cumbersome mics. For those who prefer to use impulse responses, the 1/4" line output provides a direct signal for further tone shaping in your DAW.

Compatible with any 4, 8, or 16-ohm tube amp, the Bugera PS1 handles up to 100 watts of power, making it versatile enough for any rig. The convenient soak control allows you to adjust the speaker volume, while the line control tailors the output for studio use, giving you full control over your sound dynamics and ensuring pristine tonal quality at every performance level.

Key Features:

  • Achieves cranked amp tones without high volume
  • Emulated XLR output for direct console connection
  • 1/4" line output for impulse response use
  • Handles up to 100 watts of tube power
  • Inputs for 4, 8, and 16 ohms for versatile amp compatibility
  • Soak control for speaker volume adjustment
  • Line control for 1/4" output volume adjustment

Product specs

Type Attenuator
Power Handling 100W
Impedance 4/8/16 ohms
Inputs 3 x 1/4" (powered signal in)
Outputs 1 x 1/4" (line), 1 x 1/4" (speaker), 1 x XLR (emulated mic)
Power Source Passive

FAQs

What amplifiers are compatible with the Bugera PS1 Power Attenuator?

The Bugera PS1 is compatible with virtually any tube amp up to 100 watts, supporting 4, 8, or 16-ohm impedance levels.

Does the Bugera PS1 Power Attenuator affect my guitar tone?

The Bugera PS1 is designed to reduce volume while maintaining your amp's overdriven tone, ensuring that your sound quality remains intact.

Can the Bugera PS1 be used for silent recording?

Yes, the Bugera PS1 features an emulated mic output via XLR, allowing you to send your amp's tone directly to a mixing console for silent recording.

What are the output options on the Bugera PS1?

The Bugera PS1 offers a 1/4" line output, a 1/4" speaker output, and an XLR emulated mic output, providing versatile connectivity for various setups.

Is the Bugera PS1 Power Attenuator powered?

No, the Bugera PS1 is a passive device, meaning it does not require any external power source to operate.

Robert Cassard

Robert Cassard

BUGERA POWER SOAK PS1 - Demo / Review - Crank your tubes, save your ears - Guitar Discoveries #26

Video thumbnail for BUGERA POWER SOAK PS1 - Demo / Review - Crank your tubes, save your ears - Guitar Discoveries #26 by Robert Cassard

BUGERA POWER SOAK PS1 - Demo / Review - Crank your tubes, save your ears - Guitar Discoveries #26

Robert Cassard

Robert Cassard

Video thumbnail for BUGERA PS1 POWER SOAK - Crank your tube amp and play at bedroom levels. by Euge Valovirta

BUGERA PS1 POWER SOAK - Crank your tube amp and play at bedroom levels.

Euge Valovirta

Euge Valovirta

Video thumbnail for Bugera PS1 Powersoak - The Loud Guitarist's BEST FRIEND! by Andrew Chapman Music

Bugera PS1 Powersoak - The Loud Guitarist's BEST FRIEND!

Andrew Chapman Music

Andrew Chapman Music

Video thumbnail for Bugera PS1 Power soak test by rubenaple

Bugera PS1 Power soak test

rubenaple

rubenaple

Video thumbnail for Bugera PS1 - Unboxing, demo and review (& HEAT WARNING!) by Larry the Music Guy

Bugera PS1 - Unboxing, demo and review (& HEAT WARNING!)

Larry the Music Guy

Larry the Music Guy

Video thumbnail for Bugera PS1 Power Soak Attenuator - How to Hook it up to your Amp by OnlineHustleDad

Bugera PS1 Power Soak Attenuator - How to Hook it up to your Amp

OnlineHustleDad

OnlineHustleDad

Video thumbnail for CAN THE BUGERA PS1 POWER SOAK SAVE THE DAY? | Honest review of the budget attenuator | #shorts! by DIY Guitarists

CAN THE BUGERA PS1 POWER SOAK SAVE THE DAY? | Honest review of the budget attenuator | #shorts!

DIY Guitarists

DIY Guitarists

Video thumbnail for Bugera ps1 power attenuator - How to plug It Into An Amp by OnlineHustleDad

Bugera ps1 power attenuator - How to plug It Into An Amp

OnlineHustleDad

OnlineHustleDad

Video thumbnail for Bugera PS1 Power Soak Attenuator by Downstairs Gear n Guitars

Bugera PS1 Power Soak Attenuator

Downstairs Gear n Guitars

Downstairs Gear n Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Enables cranked amp tones at low volumes

  • Works well with a variety of amps, including high-gain tube amps

  • Affordable compared to other options on the market

  • Easy to use and set up with different rigs

  • Well-built enclosure ensures durability

CONS

  • Generates noticeable heat during use

  • It's a resistive attenuator, which may not suit all preferences

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Bugera PS1 Passive 100-watt Power Attenuator.

Features and functionality

  • It's confirmed that the Bugera PS1 is a resistive attenuator, which affects tone by not replicating the impedance curve of a real speaker.

    Source
  • The Bugera PS1 requires a speaker to be plugged in for parallel recording, as it's not a load box, limiting its DI recording functionality.

    Source

Other

  • Despite being rated for 100 watts, it's advised not to exceed 50 watts for safety, similar to speaker safety practices.

    Source

User experience

  • After several months, one user reported the PS1 stopped fully attenuating, with volume suddenly dropping between clicks, indicating potential durability issues.

    Source
  • Owners using the Bugera PS1 with lower-powered amps (5-15 watts) find it effective for reducing volume to manageable levels for home use.

    Source
  • Owners report the Bugera PS1 works effectively for bedroom recording and controlling volume in small spaces, though some notice a reduction in treble.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Palmer Power Soak is mentioned as a more reputable alternative, suggesting better reliability than the Bugera PS1.

    Source
  • The Bugera PS1 lacks a bypass switch unlike the Weber Mass 100, which offers treble compensation and can function as a load box for silent recording.

    Source
  • The Bugera PS1 is likened to the Marshall Powerbrake and Harley Benton attenuators in design, but users report the DI is subpar.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Proper impedance matching is crucial; using incorrect ohms can lead to equipment damage, as seen with the Carvin TS100 at 8 ohms.

    Source
  • Tubes should be replaced annually when using the PS1 to push tube amps, as running them hot can halve their lifespan and prevent tube blowouts.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite its limitations, the Bugera PS1 is considered a viable option within its price range for those unwilling to invest in more expensive reactive load boxes.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • For amps like the 5150IIIS, users suggest using the JHS Little Black Amp Box in the FX loop for better volume control without altering the tone significantly.

    Source
  • An Elevenator treble bypass mod can enhance the Bugera PS1 by fixing the dullness at low volumes through a simple speaker crossover cap and switch.

    Source

Build quality

  • Multiple users note that the unit becomes excessively hot when used with 100-watt amps, raising concerns about its long-term durability under such conditions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Bugera PS1 struggles with attenuating 100-watt amps to bedroom volumes; it performs better with amps in the 50-watt range or lower.

    Source
  • The Bugera PS1 is suitable for taming volume on amps up to 50-60 watts, making it ideal for dorms or late-night practice without significantly altering tone.

    Source

1.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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samhouse

I hate it. sounds terrible

So turns out it's a resistive attenuator which I should have guessed from the price point Going to save for a reactive load box and try to sell this awful thing At least the enclosure is well built I guess

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    samhouse
    samhouse

    Gear IQ 99