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SonicPulverizer « Homage »
Published on 09/24/12 at 12:40The Budda superdrive 30 is a fantastic el84 rock amp that covers a lot of sonic real estate while maintaining a sense of simplicity with it's no-nonsense front panel. The amp features two channels that share a single EQ. The amp keeps the front clean by incorporating push/pull functionality to trigger channel selection, a mid scoop, and a bright switch. The amp sports and effects loop but no onboard reverb. The black Tolex grill and purple faceplate pair well and give the amp a very distinct look that is instantly identifiable. Very enjoyable amp to looks at as well play.
UTILIZATION
The simple control layout is a breath of relief from other feature packed amplifiers. The tradeoff typically with an amp like this is the compromise of versatility in exchange for easy to dial in sounds. The retention of dynamic feel makes the trade more comfortable with the SD30, responding excellently to pick attack and your guitar's volume control. The amp is very loud and keeps it's clarity at higher volumes as well.
SOUNDS
I played through the Budda SD30 with a Gibson SG standard. Mesa 4x12. No effects.
The cleans of the SD30 are very articulate and the bright switch makes the amp have more chime with darker sounding Gibson guitars. I thoroughly enjoyed the natural breakup of the amp when pushing the master volume. Very vintage and cool. The high gain sounds on this amp are not particularly impressive but are fairly enjoyable when the amp is at higher volumes. I feel the amp could benefit from a boost. The voice of the SD30 reminds me of the Mesa Boogie Electradyne, but not nearly as dark as that amp.
OVERALL OPINION
The Budda Superdrive 30 is a great, simple amp. An amp that feels like an homage to the classic el84 designs of the past. The versatility of the amp never feels fully compromised but you may be disappointed in the amp if you play more aggressive styles of music. The Budda is priced fairly, but with the sheer amount of Soldano Avengers and Hot Rods on the used market--you might find better value elsewhere.
UTILIZATION
The simple control layout is a breath of relief from other feature packed amplifiers. The tradeoff typically with an amp like this is the compromise of versatility in exchange for easy to dial in sounds. The retention of dynamic feel makes the trade more comfortable with the SD30, responding excellently to pick attack and your guitar's volume control. The amp is very loud and keeps it's clarity at higher volumes as well.
SOUNDS
I played through the Budda SD30 with a Gibson SG standard. Mesa 4x12. No effects.
The cleans of the SD30 are very articulate and the bright switch makes the amp have more chime with darker sounding Gibson guitars. I thoroughly enjoyed the natural breakup of the amp when pushing the master volume. Very vintage and cool. The high gain sounds on this amp are not particularly impressive but are fairly enjoyable when the amp is at higher volumes. I feel the amp could benefit from a boost. The voice of the SD30 reminds me of the Mesa Boogie Electradyne, but not nearly as dark as that amp.
OVERALL OPINION
The Budda Superdrive 30 is a great, simple amp. An amp that feels like an homage to the classic el84 designs of the past. The versatility of the amp never feels fully compromised but you may be disappointed in the amp if you play more aggressive styles of music. The Budda is priced fairly, but with the sheer amount of Soldano Avengers and Hot Rods on the used market--you might find better value elsewhere.