Swart Amps

If only words could actually convey sound fully; they always fall short to some extent. And that's where I stand with the Space Tone Atomic Jr, the latest amazing, soulful little amp from the hands of Michael Swart. The new ST-Atomic Jr starts off with the heart of our ever-popular ST-6V6se with the addition of a year in the making, triode reverb stage utilizing a dedicated 12DW7 fed into a nifty spring tank for surprisingly BIG REVERB, especially for a cabinet this size. Actually, for ANY size cabinet. The tonal variations and REVERB in this little monster must be be heard to be believed. Most amps this size attempting reverb and big tone tend to be underwhelming. Not so with the 14lb Class A ST-Atomic Jr.

Well, sound-wise, you're looking at the move to the UK "Heritage" version of the Celestion G12H-30 or the G12H30 Anniversary. The UK version brings a slightly more refined top end then the Mojo with subjectively more extended bottom. The Anniversary version seems not quite as stiff with perhaps a more pronounced top end. It's a matter of preference. The AST PRO sounds a tad "bigger" than the AST. The cab is 3/4 an inch deeper to allow the recessed chassis for additional knob/switch protection. This might add just a bit more heft to the bottom as well. The enlarged port in the PRO panel, now standard on all AST, gives a slightly more open sound. And the new switchable external output makes it easier to drive another cab, bypassing the internal speaker (8ohm output). I still would give the stock AST with BV-25 a thought unless you really want the difference in cabs. Looking for the famous Alnico sound? Then consider the AST PRO ALNICO which is the creamy breakup ultimate. We had been using the Celestion Blue, but at 15w, the Blue is a more fragile speaker. We have found the Celestion Gold to have most of the low level tonal quality of the fabled Blue, while surpassing it at higher levels where the Blue can sometimes lose some control. If you are looking for the signature Alnico sound that many love, the Gold is a great option within the AST Pro. If looking for the ultimate headroom with something like the 6L6 family, you might prefer the G12H-30s. But if you love that Alnico sound that really cant be duplicated, the Celestion Gold might just be your ultimate tone solution. And truth be told, many have loved other options as well, such as various Tone Tubbys, Scumnico/Scumback, and Webers. We do stock the options and have cabs with each but can often source your speaker of choice.

he introduction of the Swart Atomic Space Tone (AST) was a smashing success, earning raves across the board, whether in studios, clubs, or living rooms. Everyone loved this 12" all-tube combo, with its multi-dimensional tone, excellent break-up, and soulful tube reverb and tremolo. Many were claimng the AST achieved a rare benchmark in category without peer, some saying it might be the best amplifier they've ever played. Those are strong words considering the myriad of boutique and vintage offerings. Soon after introduction, Michael took the AST and literally placed the combo circuit/chassis inside a head cab with nary a mod, this to appease musicians needing this format. The acclaimed "Limited Run" head sold out within 45 days and we've been getting emails and calls ever since. The all new AST Head MkII is Michael's assault on perfecting the AST circuit for a head with 4/8/16ohm impedance selection, the ability to run the 6V6, 6L6, and EL-34, along with the addition of our completely bypassable dedicated tube stage master volume, designed from the ground up to bring MV convenience without leeching the tone/soul from the amazing AST circuit. The all aluminum, star ground chassis is housed in a hand-made, finger-jointed, solid wood cab, covered in lacquered tweed.