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Average Price: $450
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$300
$801+
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Description
The Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head is a versatile guitar amplifier head that brings a modern twist to classic tube amp sound. Designed for the gigging musician, this amp head offers a robust 100-watt power output, delivering four distinct channels—Clean, Crunch, Lead, and Ultra—all crafted to suit a wide range of playing styles. Each channel can be tailored with the onboard EQ, allowing you to fine-tune your tone to perfection.
One of the standout features of the Switchblade 100 is its integrated effects processor, which provides a variety of high-quality digital effects including reverb, delay, and modulation. This means you can sculpt your sound without needing additional pedals, keeping your rig streamlined and efficient.
Additionally, the amp includes 128 user-programmable presets, allowing you to recall your favorite settings instantly—a perfect feature for live performance or dynamic recording sessions. The MIDI compatibility further extends its usability, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-equipped gear.
Key Features:
- 100-watt power output for powerful sound projection
- Four distinct channels: Clean, Crunch, Lead, Ultra
- Onboard EQ for each channel
- Integrated digital effects processor with reverb, delay, and modulation
- 128 user-programmable presets
- MIDI compatibility for enhanced control
- Tube-powered for authentic analog warmth and response
Product specs
| Brand | Hughes & Kettner |
| Model | Switchblade 4-Channel 100-Watt Programmable Guitar Amp Head |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2006 - 2012 |
| Made In | Germany |
| Categories | Guitar Heads |
| Built-In Effects | Built-In Effects |
| Color Family | Black |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Impedance | 16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms |
| Number of Channels | 4 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 1 Input |
| Output Power (Watts) | 100 |
| Power Tube Type | EL34 |
| Reverb | Digital Reverb |
FAQs
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What type of power tubes does the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head use?
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The Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head uses EL34 power tubes, which are known for their dynamic response and classic rock tone.
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How many channels does the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head have?
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The Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head features four channels, allowing for a versatile range of clean and overdriven sounds.
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Does the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head include built-in effects?
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Yes, the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head includes built-in effects, adding versatility and convenience for live performances and studio recording.
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What is the impedance range of the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head?
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The Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head supports 16 ohms, 8 ohms, and 4 ohms impedance, making it compatible with a wide variety of speaker cabinets.
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Is the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head suitable for gigging?
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With 100 watts of power, the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head is more than capable of handling live performances, providing ample volume and headroom.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head.
Comparisons
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Users have compared the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head to a Mesa Tripple Rec, noting a challenge in competing when using a Behringer 4x12 cab.
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The Hughes & Kettner Switchblade was used by Killswitch Engage, highlighting its capability in professional settings.
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The amp's performance rivals that of a Framus Cobra, another well-regarded amp in the metal community.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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A long-term owner regretted selling the Switchblade after a decade, highlighting its lasting appeal and reliability.
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Described as an underrated "sleeper amp," suggesting it has more capability and quality than commonly perceived.
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Owners note that if an amp is functioning without notable issues, immediate tube replacement might not be necessary; professional inspection can be more cost-effective.
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Features and functionality
Build quality
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The amp is fully tube-driven, utilizing a hybrid tube preamp circuit with a single 12AX7 and a quartet of EL34s for 100 watts of output.
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Other
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Current uncertainty surrounds Hughes & Kettner's future, raising concerns about potential changes in product availability and quality.
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Setup and maintenance
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Technical check recommended for amps with older tubes; users suggest swapping preamp tubes individually to diagnose gain issues.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
"I use two Alex Lifeson Model Hughes & Kettner TriAmps as my main stereo sound," says Lifeson. "In two of my monitors, there's a 15ms delay between the two TriAmps so I can get a left and right sound, leaving the middle monitor open for vocals, drums, and bass. I use two Hughes & Kettner Switchblades for peripheral sounds. They'll have various effects on them, and they'll be panned hard left and right, and I kick in those two amps to create the presence of another instrument." -- Alex
In a YouTube video posted by smrodopach, Ihsahn of Emperor is seen using the Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head during a guitar session with Samoth.
Seen in Michael's tour rig schematic, found in Guitar World magazine.
Amp listed in an interview with www.metalstorm.net
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Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hughes & Kettner Switchblade 100 Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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