Pricing and availability

Average Price: $3,495

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Orange OR-120 is a legendary guitar amplifier head that has been revered by musicians for its powerful 120-watt output and distinctive British tone. Perfect for both studio sessions and live performances, this amp head delivers a robust sonic experience that is unmatched in its class. Originating in the 1970s, the OR-120 has become a favorite among rock and metal guitarists seeking a warm, full-bodied sound with plenty of headroom.

Its all-valve design ensures a pure analog signal path, allowing for organic distortion and harmonically rich tones. The OR-120 is equipped with a straightforward control panel, featuring master volume, presence, and three-band EQ controls, enabling precise tonal shaping. The amp's unique construction includes a high-quality transformer and rugged build, guaranteeing reliability and durability for road use.

This amp head is designed to pair seamlessly with a variety of speaker cabinets, making it a versatile choice for any guitarist looking to expand their rig. Whether you're aiming for classic rock grit or smooth, clean tones, the Orange OR-120 is a testament to superior engineering and timeless design.

Key Features:

  • 120-watt all-valve design for powerful output
  • Classic British tone with exceptional clarity
  • Straightforward control layout with master volume, presence, and three-band EQ
  • High-quality transformer for consistent performance
  • Rugged construction for durability and reliability
  • Versatile compatibility with various speaker cabinets

Product specs

Brand Orange
Model OR-120
Finish Orange
Year 1973
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Guitar Heads
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Impedance 16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 120
Power Tube Type EL34
Reverb None

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Orange OR-120 amplifier suitable for?

The Orange OR-120 is renowned for its powerful, classic rock tones, making it ideal for genres like rock, hard rock, and metal. Its robust tube-driven sound can also suit blues and alternative rock, providing a versatile option for guitarists seeking a vintage tone.

Is the Orange OR-120 amplifier head suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 120-watt output, the Orange OR-120 is powerful enough for live performances, even in larger venues. Its single-channel design delivers a consistent, high-quality sound that can cut through a band mix effectively.

What type of power tubes does the Orange OR-120 use?

The Orange OR-120 amplifier head uses EL34 power tubes, which are known for delivering a strong midrange punch and smooth high-end, contributing to the amp's signature sound.

How many inputs does the Orange OR-120 have?

The Orange OR-120 features two inputs, allowing for flexibility in connecting different instruments or configurations.

Does the Orange OR-120 amplifier include built-in reverb?

No, the Orange OR-120 does not have built-in reverb, focusing instead on delivering pure, unadulterated tube tone. Reverb can be added externally through effects pedals if desired.

What are the impedance options available on the Orange OR-120?

The Orange OR-120 offers multiple impedance options, including 16 ohms, 8 ohms, and 4 ohms, allowing it to match with a variety of speaker cabinets for optimal performance.

Does It Doom?

Does It Doom?

Matamp GT120 vs Orange OR120 Doom Metal Amp Shootout

Video thumbnail for Matamp GT120 vs Orange OR120 Doom Metal Amp Shootout by Does It Doom?

Matamp GT120 vs Orange OR120 Doom Metal Amp Shootout

Does It Doom?

Does It Doom?

Video thumbnail for Orange Overdrive OR120 Master volume (OD120) by 2 Guys 1 Amp

Orange Overdrive OR120 Master volume (OD120)

2 Guys 1 Amp

2 Guys 1 Amp

Video thumbnail for Here's Why the Orange OR-120 is an All Time Classic by Obsessed With Guitars

Here's Why the Orange OR-120 is an All Time Classic

Obsessed With Guitars

Obsessed With Guitars

Video thumbnail for Doom Metal Amps: GT120 VS OR120 Explained by Fuzzlord Effects

Doom Metal Amps: GT120 VS OR120 Explained

Fuzzlord Effects

Fuzzlord Effects

Video thumbnail for Orange OR120 1972 Vintage Amplifier Demo Subscribe for more vintage demos by The Amateur Guitar Guy……with an IPhone

Orange OR120 1972 Vintage Amplifier Demo Subscribe for more vintage demos

The Amateur Guitar Guy……with an IPhone

The Amateur Guitar Guy……with an IPhone

Video thumbnail for Orange 'Pics Only' OR120 -vs- Marshall Super Lead by Johan Segeborn

Orange 'Pics Only' OR120 -vs- Marshall Super Lead

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

Video thumbnail for Sounds Sick Episode 32: Orange OR 120 F.A.C. ( Vintage 70s ) by I Like Old Stuff

Sounds Sick Episode 32: Orange OR 120 F.A.C. ( Vintage 70s )

I Like Old Stuff

I Like Old Stuff

Video thumbnail for Orange OR-120 Vs Marshall Super Lead by Johan Segeborn

Orange OR-120 Vs Marshall Super Lead

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

Reviews

PROS

  • Legendary rock sound associated with iconic bands

  • Exceptionally loud with superior tone definition

  • Versatile FAC control for customizable crunch tone

  • Ideal for recording with its distinct sound profile

CONS

  • May be too loud for small venues or home use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Orange OR-120.

Comparisons

  • Matamp GT120 is considered a close match to the early '70s OR120 circuits, especially in achieving the classic "prickly breakup" sound.

    Source
  • Rockerverb 50 and an EQ pedal can approximate the OR120 sound, offering versatility in tone shaping.

    Source
  • The OR120's tone stack uses a classic James EQ, contrasting with the Terror Bass's darker, scooped Fender-style tonestack, leading to distinct sound profiles.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The OR120's FAC circuit is distinctive, with its placement affecting the tone significantly compared to other amps.

    Source
  • The OR120 is versatile for both guitar and bass, but optimal bass performance is achieved using a cab like the OBC410 rather than a guitar cab.

    Source

User experience

  • The OR120 offers clean tones unless cranked, aligning closer to a vintage Marshall with less gain.

    Source
  • The amp was reportedly used as an acoustic guitar amp, maintaining its excellent condition despite its age, which surprised the new owner.

    Source
  • Owners note the OR120's warm, slightly overdriven vintage tone aligns well with flatwound strings, especially on a '78 Mustang Bass.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Fuzzlord FET120 pedal is recommended to replicate the OR120 tone effectively.

    Source
  • A master volume mod is recommended to manage gain levels and engage preamp stages effectively, reducing the classic Orange "fizz" at lower volumes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The OR120 requires external gain boosts like fuzz or treble boosters to achieve heavy distortion, as it inherently has low gain.

    Source
  • The OR120's presence and distinct "fizz" tone are noted as an acquired taste, appreciated by those who favor a high-presence sound.

    Source
  • The OR120 is not recommended for bass when paired with a vintage 4x12 guitar cab due to insufficient low-end handling at band volume.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners note the OR120's hefty weight, attributed to its 120w power and '70s transformers, making it surprisingly heavier than some full-size Marshall amps.

    Source

Critic Reviews

This Brit-Rock Classic Will Give You a Trouser-Leg-Flapping Experience You Won’t Forget | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

The Orange OR120 amp is a powerhouse of Brit-rock nostalgia, offering a distinctive sound with its unique frequency controls and robust build. It delivers a legendary "Orange haze" and is perfect for those who crave raw, vintage tones. However, its sheer volume and lack of a master-volume control may be overwhelming for some players seeking more refined sound control. Overall, the Orange OR120 is revered for its iconic, trouser-flapping sound, making it a treasured piece of rock history for enthusiasts.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
rifflordofir

Great Amp

I used an original OR120 from 1972 to record my band's debut album

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billie Joe Armstrong uses Orange OR-120

Billie Joe Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via Photo

The Orange OR-120 amplifier can be clearly seen in the background behind Billie Joe Armstrong in the provided image.

See how Noel Gallagher uses Orange OR-120

Noel Gallagher

Singer, Guitarist

Oasis

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video for D'You Know What I Mean? You can see Noel's rig throughout. It consists of 2 Orange OR-120s each with 2 Orange 4x12 cabs. Orange includes photos from the video on its History, Maintenance and Legacy of the OR-120 article https://orangeamps.com/articles/the-or120-from-1974-history-legacy-and-maintenance-part-1/

See how Billy Corgan uses Orange OR-120

Billy Corgan

Singer, Guitarist

The Smashing Pumpkins

...
Verified via reverb.com

"This Orange OR120 is from the private collection of Billy Corgan.

This was purchased around the time of Siamese Dream, and was used on the Siamese Dream tour and Mellon Collie tours as a boost. Billy would run a fuzz pedal through this head so he could get an extra boost for volume. It was, by all accounts, hellaciously loud. That said, it wasn't used particularly for solos, but rather as an upper overtone. With the gain dimed on his Marshalls, this would be an extra harmonic overtone over the top. Again, that sounds deafeningly loud, and the stuff of most guitar players dreams.

Cosmetically, this cab is in pretty good shape. It has the tape residue (on the left side) and handful of small scuffs you'd expect from a touring amp. The input jacks have a bit of tape stuck above them, and the control plate has a few tiny nicks. There is dirt worn into the tolex, but nothing grotesque. Structurally, it is solid, with no cracks and perfect corners still. The tube complement seems to be all-original still.

Both inputs and all controls work as they should, with clean pots. This amp can be decliciously clean and articulate at low volumes - it doesn't have to be a face-melter. But slowly turning up the volume and hearing the saturation build will make you smile every time. This is a historic, road-tested, insane rock amp for the serious collector or large venue player. This is 120W with adjustable 4, 8, and 16 ohm settings.

The power cable is attached on this amp head."

See how Frank Iero uses Orange OR-120

Frank Iero

Singer, Guitarist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post, Frank Iero has a photo of a custom built OR-120 pre amp.

hey frendz, just want to send a long overdue shout out and thank you’s to @jessupamps for sending me this OR-120 pre amp and @black35guitars & @solodallas for helping me out with their shaffer tower replica. I love using these two in combination on home recording/demoing especially. They’ve really helped with my recovery by bringing life to my guitar tones and they tend to get along really well with my digital recording setup. I’ve even included the @solodallas pedal onto my pedal board for these upcoming live shows.

From the website of Jessup Amps, the creator of the custom amp:

This is the exact circuit found in the Orange or-120 and retains the same tonal characteristics as the original Orange pre amp

See how Daron Malakian uses Orange OR-120

Daron Malakian

Singer, Guitarist

System of a Down

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided image, an Orange OR-120 amplifier can be clearly seen positioned behind Daron Malakian.

See how Omar Rodríguez-López uses Orange OR-120

Omar Rodríguez-López

Guitarist, Bassist

At the Drive-In

...
Verified via YouTube

the orange OR120 was omars main amp during ATDI eras.

See how Wata uses Orange OR-120

Wata

Singer, Guitarist

Boris

...
Verified via MusicRadar

Wata, from the band Boris, uses a vintage Orange OR-120 guitar amplifier head, as detailed in MusicRadar's rig tour feature.

See how Matt Talbott uses Orange OR-120

Matt Talbott

Singer, Guitarist

HUM

...
Verified via Flickr

In a photo taken by davidjcubberly during Hum's performance at the Double Door in Chicago on December 31, 2008, Matt Talbott's Orange OR-120 guitar amplifier head is visible in the background.

See how Mike Scheidt uses Orange OR-120

Mike Scheidt

Guitarist

YOB

...
Verified via YOB │ Exclaim!

Mike Scheidt is confirmed to use a vintage Orange OR-120 amplifier, as seen in the article on YOB by Exclaim!.

See how Tim Sult uses Orange OR-120

Tim Sult

Guitarist

Clutch

...
Verified via YouTube

Tim Sult used this head throughout Clutch's 1995 self titled album and 1998's The Elephant Riders and was used for live performances from the mid to late 90s (maybe early 2000s?) and two of these amp heads are found in this youtube music video for The Soapmakers from The Elephant Riders album at around the 1:13 mark. it is also listed as one of the amps he uses in the CD insert of Clutch's 1995 self titled album (the CD version of course)

See how Tim Lash uses Orange OR-120

Tim Lash

Guitarist

HUM

...
Verified via Photo

According to this instagram post Tim has an Orange OR-120 that is customized.

See how Marc Okubo uses Orange OR-120

Marc Okubo

Guitarist

Veil of Maya

...
Verified via YouTube

YouTube video of 2016 tour displays a pretty clear picture of Orange amp + cab.

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 Orange OR-120, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Fender Blues Deluxe
Fender Blues Deluxe Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
Marshall MG Cab
Marshall MG Cab Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
1
LTD Viper 200b Baritone
LTD Viper 200b Baritone Extended Range Guitars
1
Matamp GT120
Matamp GT120 Guitar Amplifier Heads
1
Fender Strat Plus (1987-1998)
Fender Strat Plus (1987-1998) Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
A.S.W Analog Delay
A.S.W Analog Delay Delay Effects Pedals
1

3 alternative and related items for Orange OR-120, curated by the Equipboard community.

Matamp GT120

 

similar sound mod

An amplifier built around the same tonestack as the Orange OR-120, with different component values giving it a different character.

Tech 21 Character Series Oxford
Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

An analog amp sim pedal, based off vintage Orange circuits such as the OR-120.

Crazy Tube Circuits Orama

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

The Crazy Tube Circuits Orama pairs an emulation of the Orange OR120 preamp with a clone of the Frantone Peachfuzz.

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