Our Dark Gene amplifier is the absolute best value in a completely hand wired, true point to point tube amplifier available today and comes in two tonal shades, RED or GREEN. We challenge you to find comparable quality like ours at this price point anywhere else in the USA. As a one man shop, each unit is meticulously hand wired one at a time to ensure our superior quality is met. Dark Gene amps are listed as 'In Stock' with a lead time as all units are built to order!

Here is a link to Dave Hunter's great review of both DARK GENE models, from the November '21 issue of Guitar Player magazine. We would like to thank him and Art Thompson for the spot!

REVIEW

About the RED model

This is the version that started it all. With switchable low/high gain operation via a push/pull GAIN 2 pot, there is more versatility with this model, achieving exceptionally warm jazz tones, jangly cleans or smoking lead tones with singing sustain. This model features a unique blackface style preamp and a completely original overdrive section. The SENSITIVITY control serves to adjust the midrange when used, accommodating the TREBLE and BASS controls’ effectiveness as turned down. GAIN 1 acts as the drive control and defeats the TOP/MID 3 position boost switch when turned to maximum rotation. In high gain mode, GAIN 2 is active as the master volume and defeated in low gain mode, when pulled out. This model comes with a red LED indicator.

About the GREEN model

This version of our Dark Gene amplifier utilizes classic JCM800 topology to deliver searing lead tones with the characteristically smooth texture of those legendary amps and its predecessors from decades prior. Our version is not just a copy and paste of the original preamp however, as some tasteful tweaks have been implemented to keep our customers more than satisfied with the versatility we offer. This option keeps the same controls but is centered more appropriately in the midrange. The SENSITIVITY control offers the user incredible dynamic response by bringing the mids forward or scooping them back drastically, as well as accommodating the effectiveness of the TREBLE and BASS controls. GAIN 1 is stronger than your typical gain control in its ability to control two stages simultaneously. Cleaner tones can by achieved by dialing this control back. The 3 position TOP/MID boost switch is defeated with GAIN 1 at maximum rotation. GAIN 2 serves as a master volume. NOTE: This model does not offer switchable clean/dirty operation via GAIN 2 control and comes with a green LED indicator.

About our Dark Gene amp

Running in true class A operation, the Dark Gene circuit is two 12AX7s for the preamp and a 12AU7 for output power. High gain, hand wired point to point circuitry and as cheap as a lot of pedals. For a high gain design, these amps are impressively quiet. Dimensions are remarkably 7" W 5" D and 4" H. Powder coated in semi glossy jet black for maximum durability. ‘Preamp’ output jack can be used to drive other devices and is ideal for driving effects pedals such as reverbs, delays and cab sims. Internally protected while unplugging ‘Speaker’ output jack at the amplifier during operation.

Dark Gene features

• 0.5 watts
• High Gain
• TREBLE, BASS and SENSITIVITY tone controls
• TOP/MID 3 position boost switch
• Preamp out
• Tube Complement 2x 12AX7 (preamp) - 1x 12AU7 (power amp)
• 4 - 8 - 16 ohm output
• Includes IEC plug 8' power cord
• 120v or 240v 50/60Hz
• Hand made in McAllen, Texas, USA

Product specs