Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (10)
$3,999.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$3,999.99
Reverb
4.0 (8)
$3,600.00 2 available Used
Thomann
5.0 (5)
$4,090.00 $3,999.00 $91.00 · All time low

Average Price: $3,900

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the world of iconic sound with the Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier, a celebrated titan in the realm of high-gain amplifiers. Debuting in 1987, the SLO 100 redefined the landscape of guitar amplification and continues to be revered by artists across all genres. Crafted with four cascading stages of 12AX7-driven preamp gain, this amplifier head delivers a breathtakingly thick and harmonically rich sound that has found a place in the setups of legends like Eddie Van Halen and Eric Clapton.

Designed for both versatility and power, the Soldano SLO 100 features two footswitchable channels. The Normal channel offers pristine, crystalline cleans with the flexibility of a Bright switch and a Crunch switch for added grit. The Overdrive channel, on the other hand, releases an earth-shattering roar with a searing, high-octane edge. Shared EQ controls—Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, and Depth—provide comprehensive tone customization to suit any musical style, from blues to metal.

Built to withstand the rigors of touring, this amplifier is constructed from premium, military-grade components, ensuring durability and reliability. Its tube-buffered effects loop and variable slave output allow for seamless integration with effects pedals and direct interfacing with PA systems or recording rigs. A rotary impedance selector offers compatibility with various speaker cabinets, making the SLO 100 a versatile choice for any guitarist's arsenal.

Key Features:

  • 100W, 2-channel all-tube guitar amplifier head
  • Four cascading stages of 12AX7-driven preamp gain
  • Independent preamp gain and master volume controls
  • Tube-buffered effects loop with return level
  • Rotary impedance selector for 4, 8, or 16-ohm speaker cabinets
  • Includes a 2-way footswitch for channel and mode switching
  • Made in the USA, featuring Black Tolex finish and Classic Metal Grille

Product specs

Available since July 2020
Powerrate in W 100 W
Power Amplifier Tubes 6L6
Channels 2
Reverb No
Footswitch No

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Soldano SLO 100?

The Soldano SLO 100 is renowned for its high-gain, smooth overdrive, and powerful sustain, making it ideal for rock and metal genres. Its clean channel offers clarity and depth, providing versatility for blues and classic rock sounds.

Is the Soldano SLO 100 suitable for gigging with a band?

Yes, the Soldano SLO 100's 100-watt power output is more than sufficient for live performances, providing ample headroom and volume to cut through a full band mix, including drums.

Does the Soldano SLO 100 work well with effects pedals?

The Soldano SLO 100 is known for taking pedals well, especially overdrive and modulation effects, thanks to its robust clean channel and transparent signal path.

What type of tubes does the Soldano SLO 100 use?

The Soldano SLO 100 uses five 12AX7 tubes for the preamp section and four 6L6 tubes for the power section, contributing to its distinctive tone and high-gain capabilities.

Can the Soldano SLO 100 be used for home practice?

While the Soldano SLO 100 can be used at home, its 100-watt output is designed for larger venues. For home practice, consider using a power attenuator or a smaller amp model for more manageable volume levels.

Rabea Massaad

Rabea Massaad

Soldano SLO-100 | One HELL Of An Amplifier

Video thumbnail for Soldano SLO-100 | One HELL Of An Amplifier by Rabea Massaad

Soldano SLO-100 | One HELL Of An Amplifier

Rabea Massaad

Rabea Massaad

Video thumbnail for He Stumbled Into The ULTIMATE Amp Sound…Soldano SLO 100 by Rhett Shull

He Stumbled Into The ULTIMATE Amp Sound…Soldano SLO 100

Rhett Shull

Rhett Shull

Video thumbnail for Soldano SLO100 & SLO30 Amp Demos | NAMM 2020 by Premier Guitar

Soldano SLO100 & SLO30 Amp Demos | NAMM 2020

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Real Amp Vs. Plugin: Neural DSP Soldano SLO-100 by Riffs, Beards & Gear

Real Amp Vs. Plugin: Neural DSP Soldano SLO-100

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for THE KING! Soldano SLO-100 (2020 Model) by Riffs, Beards & Gear

THE KING! Soldano SLO-100 (2020 Model)

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for Soldano SLO100 Plugin & Real Amp Comparison | Just How Close Can it Really Get? by Rabea Massaad

Soldano SLO100 Plugin & Real Amp Comparison | Just How Close Can it Really Get?

Rabea Massaad

Rabea Massaad

Video thumbnail for The Return of a Legend! A Closer Look at... Soldano SLO-100 by Peach Guitars

The Return of a Legend! A Closer Look at... Soldano SLO-100

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for New Soldano SLO Pedal vs SLO-100 Amplifier: How Close Does It Get? by Reverb

New Soldano SLO Pedal vs SLO-100 Amplifier: How Close Does It Get?

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Soldano SLO 100 | Eddie Van Halen - Mick Mars - Warren DeMartini by Hollywood Rare Guitars

Soldano SLO 100 | Eddie Van Halen - Mick Mars - Warren DeMartini

Hollywood Rare Guitars

Hollywood Rare Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Legendary overdrive and gain settings offer a wide tonal range

  • Minimal EQ adjustments result in significant tone changes

  • Quiet operation even at high gain settings

  • Depth control enhances sound quality distinctively

  • Compatible with a variety of stompboxes and effects

  • Transparent effects loop improves sound customization

  • Versatile enough for many styles of music

  • Unique aesthetic options like gray snakeskin tolex

  • Improved versions maintain the brand's quality standards

  • Maintains clarity and depth at high volumes

CONS

  • Clean sound quality considered unusable by some

  • High price point may deter potential buyers

  • Limited versatility compared to other amps on the market

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier.

Features and functionality

  • The SLO 100's overdrive channel starts to achieve high gain past 6 on the gain knob but becomes fuzzy and undefined when pushed further.

    Source
  • The SLO 100 achieves a fuller and more compressed sound when the channel volume is set to 7, eliminating harsh high-end frequencies and adding lushness.

    Source
  • The SLO 100 can transition to pristine clean tones using the guitar volume, much like a non-master volume amp.

    Source
  • The SLO 100 is noted for its simplicity with a focus on delivering one great channel, rather than multiple footswitchable channels.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Many users suggest using a power attenuator like Fryette Power Station or Rivera Rock Crusher to manage the SLO 100's volume for home use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The SLO 100 is best suited for stage volume, with its tone coming alive when the power stage is cranked to around 7 on the master volume.

    Source
  • Despite claims of its suitability for bedroom playing, the SLO 100 truly shines when played at higher channel volumes, as this enhances its unique tonal qualities.

    Source
  • Some musicians prefer the SLO 100 for its musical sweetness in high-gain settings, distinguishing it from other high-gain amps like the early Peavey 5150.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users frequently compare the SLO 100's overdrive to the Friedman BE-100 Deluxe, noting the Friedman feels more fluid and smooth under the fingers.

    Source
  • The SLO 100's Crunch setting offers a familiar feel to Marshall fans, providing more gain than a JCM800 but with less harsh highs.

    Source
  • Users note that the Peavey 5150, while inspired by the SLO circuit, sounds thinner and more mechanical compared to the SLO 100's smoother gain.

    Source

Other

  • The SLO 100 has a round, fuzzy character in high gain settings, which some users find difficult to dial out.

    Source
  • The amplifier is considered well-suited for those who value maintainability, as boutique amps like the SLO are designed to be serviced over time.

    Source

Build quality

  • The SLO 100 is praised for its modern circuit design changes, contributing to its reputation for reliable construction.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The SLO 100's price is partly justified by its historically fully transferable lifetime warranty, a rare offering in high-end amplifiers.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Soldano SLO 100 Amplifier Review | Guitar Jar

guitarjar.co.uk

The Soldano SLO 100, with its legendary "metal machine" reputation, exceeds expectations even for non-metal players. Its Warren Haynes mod unlocks impressive versatility, delighting with rich sound when paired with a 4x12 cabinet. Built like a tank, it boasts a transferable lifetime warranty, underlining reliability. While its clarity demands precision from the player, it promises to refine your technique. Overall, a must-have for those seeking powerful, nuanced tones.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 15 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
gtrslmmr

Slammin' Soldano Sound!

The SLO-100 amp features (2) channels; clean (w/ or w/out crunch) + Lead channel. This amp rocks! It easily cuts through during band performances and also has an effects loop. It came in different tolex coverings including a nice gray snakeskin, which is what I had... pretty cool amp and great sound!

omegaman_jonny

A Must have for 90's van halen fans.

I have always liked EVH's tone during the For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge and Balance albums and so I I've wanted to get the same sound but use it in my band. I love it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via John Frusciante unofficial - Invisible Movement

This is the amp that John used during the ‘Mother’s Milk’ studio sessions, however, during the album tour, he used either a Mesa/Boogie (unknown model), or a Marshall JCM800.

(For the album, I played through a Soldano head, which goes to “11.” [Guitar Player (USA), April 1990])

See how John Mayer uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

John Mayer

Guitarist

John Mayer Trio

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, at 2:12, the Soldano SLO that John Mayer is using in this performance with Ed Sheeran can be seen.

See how Eric Clapton uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via YouTube

Eric Clapton consistently recorded and performed with the Soldano SLO-100 amplifier throughout the 80s and early 90s. He can be seen playing the amp in its full stack version for Cream’s Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Induction performance in 1993.

See how Eddie Van Halen uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Eddie Van Halen

Guitarist

Van Halen

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Eddie Van Halen can be seen in front of two Soldano SLO 100s.

See how Mark Knopfler uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Mark Knopfler

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via YouTube

Mark Knopfler is well-known for using the Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier, especially in live performances. In a performance featured on Max Jansson's YouTube video, "Mark Knopfler - What it is - Parkinson - BBC," he is seen using this amplifier. Notably, his use of the SLO 100 reportedly influenced Eric Clapton to adopt it as well.

See how Prince uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Prince

Singer, Guitarist

The New Power Generation

...
Verified via prince.org

when prince was auto-named "the artist"

Used on the following albums from www.guitarcloud.org:

o(+> (Prince) Soldano Caswell X99, Soldano SLO-100, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, Marshall 1960 and Peavey 5150 (EV speakers) cabs, Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts, and Bag End D12-M cab. (Levi) Roland GP-8 and Zoom 9010 rackmounts. (Sonny T.) Roland GP-8 rackmount, Trace Elliot AH350, and Trace Elliot 1048 cab.

Come (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, and Marshall 1960 4x12 cab. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Peavey 5150 (EV speakers)cab. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts. (Sonny T.) Roland GP-8 rackmount, Trace Elliot AH350, and Trace Elliot 1048 cab.

The Gold Experience (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, and Marshall 1960 4x12 cab. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Peavey 5150 (EV speakers)cab. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts. (Sonny T.) Roland GP-8 rackmount, Trace Elliot AH350, and Trace Elliot 1048 cab.

Chaos & Disorder (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, and Marshall 1960 4x12 cab. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Peavey 5150 (EV speakers)cab. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmount (Sonny T.) Roland GP-8 rackmount, Trace Elliot AH350, and Trace Elliot 1048 cab.

Chaos & Disorder Tour - Peavey 5150 and Ultra 120+ heads with 5150 (EV speaker) cabs.

Emancipation (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, and Marshall 1960 4x12 cab. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Peavey 5150 (EV speakers) cab. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts (Kat) Rocktron Chamelon rackmount. (Rhonda) SWR unknown head and SWR 4x10 Goliath cab.

Newpower Soul (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500, and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts. (Rhonda) SWR unknown head and SWR 4x10 Goliath cab.

Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts. (Combo amps) Peavey Delta Blues 1x15 and Tech 21 Trademark 60. (Larry) Zoom 9030, slap-wah setting.

The Rainbow Children (Prince clean) Soldano Caswell X99, Mesa Boogie Strategy 500 and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince dirty) Soldano SLO-100 and Marshall 1960 4x12 (offstage) and Peavey 5150 (onstage) cabs. (Prince racks) Roland GP-16 and Zoom 9030 rackmounts. (Combo amps) Peavey Delta Blues 1x15 and Tech 21 Trademark 60. (Live) Fender Bassman. (Rhonda) Mesa Boogie M-Pulse 600 and Mesa Boogie Powerhouse 2x15 cab.

Art Official Age Plectrumelectrium (Prince) Soldano SLO-100 and Mesa Boogie Rectifier 4x12 cab. (Donna) Traynor YBA-1 and Traynor YBX 212 cab. (Ida) TC Electronic Blacksmith and TC Electronic RS410 and RS212 cabs.

See how Gary Moore uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Gary Moore

Singer, Guitarist

Thin Lizzy

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen at 2:25 used mainly in the early 90's.

See how Daron Malakian uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Daron Malakian

Singer, Guitarist

System of a Down

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, a Soldano SLO100 can be clearly seen behind Daron Malakian.

See how Mick Mars uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Mick Mars

Guitarist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

As told in his interview to Vintage Guitar.

See how Steve Lukather uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Steve Lukather

Guitarist, Singer

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

On the Soldano order form, Steve bought #5.

See how Matt Pike uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Matt Pike

Guitarist

Sleep

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:26 it can be seen in the corner

See how Rabea Massaad uses Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier

Rabea Massaad

Guitarist

Vower

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Rebea updates what is going on in his life. In the video he states that he bought an slo 100. He states that he loved the amp so much when demoing it that he had to buy one

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Marshall JCM800 2203
Marshall JCM800 2203 Guitar Amplifier Heads
4
Analog Man King of Tone Overdrive
Analog Man King of Tone Overdrive Overdrive Effects Pedals
3
Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead
Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead Guitar Amplifier Heads
2
Soldano 4x12'' Classic Straight Cab
Soldano 4x12'' Classic Straight Cab Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
2
Roland RE-201 Space Echo
Roland RE-201 Space Echo Effects Processors
2
Marshall 4x12 Cab with V30 speakers
Marshall 4x12 Cab with V30 speakers Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
2
Gibson Les Paul Standard
Gibson Les Paul Standard Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
Danelectro DE-1 Dan-Echo Delay
1

Community setups

Show yours
tonnim

tonnim

Gear IQ 85

joey_zendejas

joey_zendejas

Gear IQ 156

9 alternative and related items for Soldano SLO 100 100-Watt Tube Guitar Amplifier, curated by the Equipboard community.

Soldano Custom Amplification SLO-30

$2,879.00 - $2,899.99

similar sound cheaper alternative

A smaller, 30 watt version of the SLO, with the same independent channel controls as the 100.

Soldano Custom Amplification SLO Mini

$249.00 - $249.99

similar sound cheaper alternative

An ultra compact, solid state amp based off the original SLO topology.

Soldano Super Lead Overdrive Pedal

$119.99 - $238.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

An amp in a box that replicates the original SLO's cascading gain stages, by using JFETs in the place of tubes.

Wampler SLOSTORTION

$195.95

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

A now discontinued distortion designed to emulate Warren Haynes' Soldano tones, rather than a clone of a Soldano preamp.

Soldano Custom Amplification Soldano Super Lead Overdrive Plus Pedal

$269.99 - $3,075.00

similar sound cheaper alternative mod

A two channel evolution of the previous SLO pedal, with both a normal and high gain channel in a single housing.

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