[Harp-L] Sonny Jr. Avenger Accolades

["Jon Clark" <jdclark@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I have just received my Avenger by Sonny Jr.  and am blown away by the quality and capacity of this amazing amp.  The selection of music that I play is eclectic and includes the Chicago "Walter" style but also songs that require multiple pedal application.  Originally I had some concern that this amp might not be compatible with or would otherwise be "pedal friendly."  I can tell you that this is not the case. This amp is so versatile with the endless combinations of settings and configurations, it will accommodate and promote all styles of amplified harp.  Further, I have used crystal, ceramic (reluctance and magnetic), the  545 and the 57, all with excellent results.  This is truly a multi dimensional piece of gear. Another concern that I had was the necessity to crank the volume to get tone.  I can confirm that this amp will deliver tone at almost every level of output making it suitable for home practice.  Cranked up though, the Avenger will surely deliver in most any sized venue I can imagine without the necessity of miking.  This is my first custom-made harp amp so I can't compare with any others  out there though I have owned a variety of vintage tube amps. The Avenger is absolutely everything I have ever wanted in an amp over my 30 years of playing and listening to amplified harp.

The other point I would like to mention is the incredibly generous level of assistance and service that comes with the Avenger.  Sonny spent a lot of time with me during my decision making at all times of the day and night.  Multiple, multiple e-mails answering questions. Other's did not even respond to my inquiries. At his invitation I called Sonny and we discussed my needs and concerns.  He played through the Avenger and the Cruncher to enable me to compare.  (I will agree with Sonny's recent post that the website sampling does not adequately demonstrate the tone and variety the Avenger offers).  Even still, Sonny has been very helpful to me in my post purchase exploration of the reach and variety of applications of this wonderful amp.

If you can, be sure to check him out in Raleigh on the 23rd and try this wonderful new addition to the worlds of custom harp amps.