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Average Price: $1,799
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Description
Head
Power: 15 Watts
Channels: 1
Controls: Volume, Tone Switch, Master Volume
Power Tubes: 2 x EL84
Preamp Tubes: 3 x 12AX7
Rectifier Tube: 1 x 5AR4
Features: Dual inputs - high low gain
Speaker Output: Switchable Impedance of 4, 8 Ohms
Weight: 35 lbs.
Dimensions: 7.5 x 18 x 9.25
Driven by one 12AX7, simplistic in design but with a wide range of function and tone. The creamy tone of the Spitfire perfectly galvanizes the bridge pickup sound for both classic and modern rock sounds. The easy to dial controls and minimalist foundation makes it perfect for Jazz, Blues, Chord Melody, Country picking, and Rock.
The Spitfire comes in a lightweight, compact cabinet, but still packs the same punch you’ve come to expect from Matchless.
Like all Matchless amplifiers, the Spitfire is hand made, point to point wired and tough as nails. User controls are Volume, Tone, and Master Volume
Driven by one 12AX7, simplistic in design but with a wide range of function and tone. The creamy tone of the Spitfire perfectly galvanizes the bridge pickup sound for both classic and modern rock sounds. The easy to dial controls and minimalist foundation makes it perfect for Jazz, Blues, Chord Melody, Country picking, and Rock.
Notes and tips from Phil Jamison:
“Starting with the Volume control slightly up towards the 11-12 o’clock position and the Tone control completely off you will hear the amp as fat and rolled off, lots of bass and no highs. Slightly turning up the Tone Control you will hear the preamp become slightly brighter near the 9 o’clock position. This is ideal for an ultra warm jazz sound or for strumming chords to add a rich layer to the rhythm section.
Turning up the Tone Control again will now not only add even more brights but will also add slightly more drive to the attack. Setting it further up to the 3 and 4 o’clock position will give the amp considerable more punch and clarity. This is where most of the amps abilities will leap out with that classic Matchless Touch Response sound will come from. This will add more hair on the front end attack and give that “crash and burn” feel. As you dig in and play your guitar harder the amp will have more breakup on the attack, as you back down it will clean up to your hands lighter touch.”
Product specs
| Brand | Matchless |
| Model | Spitfire 15-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo |
| Finish | Various |
| Year | 2005 - 2025 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Guitar Combo Amps |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Output Power (Watts) | 15 |
| Speaker Configuration | 1x12" |
FAQs
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What type of tubes does the Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier use?
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The Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier uses EL84 tubes, which are known for their bright and chimey tone, making it ideal for classic rock and blues genres.
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Is the Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier suitable for gigging?
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With 15 watts of tube power, the Matchless Spitfire 15 is well-suited for small to medium-sized gigs, providing enough volume and clarity to cut through in live settings.
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How does the Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier handle pedals?
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The Matchless Spitfire 15 is known for its excellent pedal compatibility, allowing effects like overdrive and modulation to integrate smoothly without losing tonal clarity.
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What is the core tonal characteristic of the Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier?
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The Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier is renowned for its rich, warm midrange and sparkling high-end, offering a versatile sound palette that is particularly favored for clean and slightly overdriven tones.
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Does the Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier have a master volume control?
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No, the Matchless Spitfire 15 does not feature a master volume control, which means users rely on the natural tube breakup for overdrive tones.
Videos
AtlantaDiscountMusic
Matchless 15 Watt Amp Shootout Spitfire, Lightning & Nighthawk Comparison Demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Matchless Spitfire 15 Amplifier.
Use cases and applications
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Ideal for dedicated spaces like a garage due to the volume needed to reach its optimal tone.
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User experience
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Owners report that the amp's volume can jump from too quiet to excessively loud quickly, potentially complicating volume control in certain venues.
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Owners of Bad Cat amps appreciate the effectiveness of the master volume, making them more suitable for varied volume settings than Matchless.
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Vintage tubes can reduce the brightness of the Matchless Spitfire, providing a more balanced tone for users preferring a tamer sound.
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Comparisons
Build quality
Features and functionality
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The Bad Cat amps offer a switchable EF86/12AX7 preamp with a five-way tone selector, providing extensive tone sculpting options not available on the Matchless.
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Other
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Mark Sampson, initially involved with Matchless, is now back with Bad Cat, potentially influencing future product designs and features.
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Mods and upgrades
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Converting the Hammond AO-35 into a Matchless Spitfire involves using its large transformers, which are robust and contribute to excellent sound quality.
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Critic Reviews
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Artist usage
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A close up of the amp can be seen at 10:46 into the video.
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