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Average Price: $458

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$300

$801+

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Description

The Peavey Butcher guitar amplifier head is a powerhouse of tonal versatility and robust craftsmanship that caters to the discerning guitarist. With its 100W all-tube power, it delivers a wide array of authentic sounds, from pristine cleans to roaring crunch. This 2-channel amplifier is driven by a combination of 5 - 12AX7 preamp tubes and 4 - EL34 power amp tubes, providing a rich, dynamic response and ample headroom for any performance setting.

Each channel of the Peavey Butcher offers independent 3-band EQ, master volume, and preamp gain controls, allowing musicians to fine-tune their sound with precision. For added flexibility, both channels come with a footswitchable gain boost, while the Crunch channel features an innovative 12-way Punch selector to tailor the low-end attack, making it adaptable to different speaker cabinets.

The master section enhances versatility with dual footswitchable master volumes, perfect for setting a default and a solo boost. The patented Presence control adds an extra dimension by boosting high frequencies for exceptional clarity and cut through the mix. Additionally, the high and low gain inputs cater to a range of playing styles and instruments.

On the rear panel, Peavey's MSDI microphone-simulated XLR direct interface stands out by offering seamless recording and live performance integration without the need for miking. Other features include an effects loop with send and return level control, a line out with level control, impedance selector, a half-power switch for reduced volume settings, and a tube bias adjustment jack for easy maintenance.

Key Features:

  • 100W all-tube power with 5 - 12AX7 preamp tubes and 4 - EL34 power amp tubes
  • 2 channels with independent 3-band EQ, master volume, and preamp gain controls
  • Footswitchable gain boost on both channels
  • 12-way Punch selector on the Crunch channel
  • Dual footswitchable master volumes and patented Presence control
  • Peavey MSDI microphone-simulated XLR direct interface
  • Effects loop with send and return level control
  • Impedance selector and half-power switch
  • Tube bias adjustment jack for maintenance

Product specs

Brand Peavey
Model Butcher Series 2 100W Guitar Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Guitar Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Impedance 16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 100
Power Tube Type EL34
Reverb None

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Peavey Butcher use?

The Peavey Butcher uses 4 EL34 power tubes and 5 12AX7 preamp tubes, providing a classic tube-driven sound with robust power and tonal flexibility.

Does the Peavey Butcher amp head have a built-in reverb?

No, the Peavey Butcher amp head does not include a built-in reverb, allowing you to use external effects to shape your sound.

Can the Peavey Butcher be used at lower wattages for practice settings?

Yes, the Peavey Butcher features a half-power switch that reduces the output from 100 watts to 50 watts, making it suitable for lower volume practice sessions.

How many channels does the Peavey Butcher amplifier have?

The Peavey Butcher features two independent channels, Clean and Crunch, allowing for versatile tonal options from pristine cleans to aggressive overdrive.

Is the Peavey Butcher suitable for live performances?

Yes, with 100 watts of power and features like a global master volume boost and footswitchable controls, the Peavey Butcher is well-suited for live performances and gigging.

What kind of output options are available on the Peavey Butcher?

The Peavey Butcher includes a microphone-simulated direct XLR output and a line out with level control, providing flexible options for recording and live sound applications.

Does the Peavey Butcher come with a footswitch?

Yes, the Peavey Butcher comes with a 4-button footswitch, offering convenient control over channel switching and other features during performance.

Guitar World

Guitar World

Peavey Butcher Amp Head

Video thumbnail for Peavey Butcher Amp Head by Guitar World

Peavey Butcher Amp Head

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for Peavey Butcher NEW for NAMM 2010 TTK by The Tone King

Peavey Butcher NEW for NAMM 2010 TTK

The Tone King

The Tone King

Video thumbnail for PEAVEY - BUTCHER (1980's) demo/review by Matt Sotelo's Guitar Paraphernalia

PEAVEY - BUTCHER (1980's) demo/review

Matt Sotelo's Guitar Paraphernalia

Matt Sotelo's Guitar Paraphernalia

Video thumbnail for Musikmesse 2012: Peavey Butcher amp head demo by MusicRadar

Musikmesse 2012: Peavey Butcher amp head demo

MusicRadar

MusicRadar

Reviews

PROS

  • Mimics 80's British tone with modern features

  • Supports MIDI switching for ease

  • Includes Microphone Simulated DI's for direct recording

  • Dual Master Volumes enhance sound control

  • Punch control for dynamic sound shaping

  • Dedicated boosts on clean and crunch channels for versatile tone

  • Performs well at both high and low volumes

  • 6L6 tubes in power section offer quality sound at lower cost

  • Classic metal/Arena rock optimized

CONS

  • Not ideal for modern metal without additional pedals

  • Darker tonal quality may not suit all preferences

  • Heavy and bulky due to particle board construction

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Peavey Butcher.

Features and functionality

  • The Peavey Butcher's sound is often compared to the Marshall JCM800, but it requires a boost pedal like a TS9 for extreme metal tones.

    Source
  • To achieve thrash tones, set the Tube Screamer with level maxed, tone high, and gain low; amp settings may include bass at noon, scooped mids, and treble past noon.

    Source
  • Precision Drive, known for higher output than a Tube Screamer, is suggested for boosting the Butcher; DemonFX offers an affordable clone with a built-in noise gate.

    Source
  • The Peavey Butcher is noted for having a "booster output," though its function remains unclear to some long-term owners.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Peavey provides excellent support for older models; missing parts like handles can be easily obtained directly from them.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • There are various modification options available for older Butcher models to enhance performance and versatility.

    Source
  • Airis Effects Savage Drive is recommended for boosting the Peavey Butcher's gain, providing extra dirt for thrash metal tones.

    Source
  • The Mr. Scary mod from Legendary Tones is suggested for advanced gain enhancement on the Peavey Butcher.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An older Butcher in good condition can be flipped for around $500, potentially making it a low-risk purchase.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Pairing the Butcher with an HM-2 pedal is recommended for achieving a heavy, blackened doom metal sound.

    Source
  • Owners suggest placing overdrive/distortion pedals first in the effects loop for preamps like the Butcher, with options like Boss MD-2 and Electro Harmonix Hot Wax noted.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Butcher is described as having a beefier tone than the VTM60, with a noticeable treble bite that can be dialed out for a meaner sound.

    Source
  • Compared to the JCM800 2204, the Butcher is considered louder with more natural gain, making it a favorite for those seeking a meaner tone.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner has cycled through five Butcher heads and highlights its loudness and heavy sound as key reasons for retaining it.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Peavey Butcher 100w Head

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Peavey Butcher 100W head is a robust addition to Peavey's lineage of rock and metal amps, offering dynamic clean and crunch channels with responsive EQ and tonal shaping options. The build quality is top-notch, with a straightforward design that simplifies tone dialing. While the optical channel switching may introduce a slight lag, its impact is minor. The amp excels in delivering hard rock tones, though it may not satisfy die-hard metal enthusiasts. Overall, its versatility and sound quality make it a strong contender for rock guitarists seeking a reliable and powerful amp.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
mrrstrat

Brutal and loud. Built to last FOREVER.

This was the 1985 copy of the super lead 100 that got Peavey sued. I had the only one in the region in 1985 as they were $1,800.00 back in those days for the full stack. I had it on and off for nearly 20 years before a bandmate ended up buying it from me. 6L6 powered, professional all the way. Buy one if you ever can!

tuckerofthorraxe

Starter JCM800.

Exactly what you think it is. One of the best 2203 clones out there, by a wide margin. Run two at once like I used to if you want to rip a hole in the sky.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Joel O'Keeffe uses Peavey Butcher

Joel O'Keeffe

Singer, Guitarist

Airbourne

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "The Guitar Zombie Walkthrough," Joel O'Keeffe of Airbourne is shown using a Peavey Butcher guitar amplifier head.

See how Wendy Melvoin uses Peavey Butcher

Wendy Melvoin

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Revolution

...
Verified via YouTube

Spotted at 1:54s in Prince's "Anotherloverholenyohead" music video. Prince had Wendy and Miko's Peavey Butcher head and cabinets retolexed with a white paisley print tolex in his "Parade" album music videos. These amps can be seen at Paisley Park in the "Grafitti Bridge"/"Parade" room.

See how Mike Sanchez uses Peavey Butcher

Mike Sanchez

Guitarist

Acid Bath

...
Verified via Photo

In this user-uploaded photo, Sammy mentions that Mike Sanchez used a Peavey Butcher amplifier alongside a Rocktron Maxe preamp.

See how Miko Weaver uses Peavey Butcher

Miko Weaver

Guitarist, Composer

The Revolution

...
Verified via YouTube

Spotted at 1:54s in Prince's "Anotherloverholenyohead" music video. Prince had Wendy and Miko's Peavey Butcher head and cabinets retolexed with a white paisley print tolex in his "Parade" album music videos. These amps can be seen at Paisley Park in the "Grafitti Bridge"/"Parade" room.

See how Andy Wood uses Peavey Butcher

Andy Wood

Guitarist

Rascal Flatts

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Andy Wood on June 6, 2013, he is seen using a Peavey Butcher amplifier, as he captions, "Tracking drunk with guns rough demos with this slime green machine. It sounds huge!"

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 Peavey Butcher, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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