Krank Amps is a brand of guitar amplifiers that has made a significant impact on the modern rock music scene. Founded in 2003 by brothers Tony and Kent Krank, the company has since become known for its high-quality, high-gain amplifiers that produce a powerful and distinct sound.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Krank Amps and explore what makes them unique in the world of guitar amplification.
The History of Krank Amps
Tony Krank began working in the music industry in the 1980s as a guitar tech for bands like Slayer and Metallica. He later founded his own amp repair and modification business, which eventually led him to create his own line of amplifiers.
In 2003, Tony partnered with his brother Kent to form Krank Amps. They set out to create an amplifier that would be able to handle the high-gain sounds that were becoming increasingly popular in modern rock music.
Their first amp, the Krankenstein, was released in 2004 and quickly gained a following among heavy metal and hard rock guitarists. The Krankenstein was followed by the Revolution and the Chadwick, which helped establish Krank Amps as a major player in the guitar amp market.
What Sets Krank Apart?
One of the key features that sets Krank apart from other guitar amplifiers is their high gain. Krank are known for producing a thick, aggressive distortion that is ideal for heavy metal and hard rock guitar tones.
Another unique feature of Krank is their use of modulated power. This technology allows the amplifier to produce a more consistent, even tone at all volume levels, which is especially important for live performances.
Krank also utilize a unique speaker design. The company’s speakers are made from Kevlar, which is known for its strength and durability. This allows the speakers to handle the high-volume output of Krank without distorting or breaking.
Krank also offer a wide range of customization options. Guitarists can choose from a variety of different preamp and power amp configurations, as well as different speaker cabinets and effects loops.
The Krank Product Line
Krank offers a range of different amplifier models to suit different styles of music and playing preferences. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular Krank models.
Krankenstein
The Krankenstein is the flagship model of Krank. It is a high-gain amplifier that is designed to produce a thick, aggressive distortion. The Krankenstein features a four-channel preamp, which allows guitarists to switch between different gain and EQ settings with ease.
Revolution
The Revolution is a more versatile amplifier than the Krankenstein, with a wider range of tone-shaping options. It features a three-channel preamp with separate gain and EQ controls for each channel.
Chadwick
The Chadwick is a lower-gain amplifier that is designed to produce a warm, vintage tone. It features a two-channel preamp with a single tone control and a switchable mid-boost function.
The Benefits of Using Krank
So why should guitarists choose Krank over other amplifier brands? Here are a few key benefits of using Krank:
High gain: If you play heavy metal or hard rock music, Krank are designed to give you the thick, aggressive distortion you need to make your playing stand out.
Consistent tone: Krank use modulated power technology to produce a consistent tone at all volume levels, which is especially important for live performances.
Durability: Krank are built to last, with Kevlar speakers and high-quality components that can withstand the rigors of touring and live performances
Customization options: Krank offer a wide range of customization options, allowing guitarists to create a sound that is uniquely their own.
Unique speaker design: The Kevlar speakers used in Krank are designed to handle high-volume output without distorting or breaking, ensuring that your tone remains clear and consistent.
Made in the USA: Krank are proudly made in the USA, using high-quality components and expert craftsmanship.
The Future of Krank
Krank have already made a significant impact on the guitar amp market, and the future looks bright for the company. They continue to innovate and improve their amplifier designs, incorporating new technologies and features to meet the needs of modern guitarists.
In addition to their existing product line, Krank has also introduced a line of custom shop amps, which allow guitarists to create a completely custom amplifier that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Krank has also expanded into the world of bass amplification, with the introduction of their bass amplifier line in 2018. The bass amps utilize the same high-quality components and innovative design features as the guitar amps, and are designed to deliver a powerful, dynamic bass tone.
Krank have earned a reputation as one of the top guitar amplifier brands in the world, thanks to their high-gain, high-quality sound and innovative design features. Whether you’re a heavy metal guitarist looking for a thick, aggressive tone, or a blues player looking for warm, vintage sound, Krank have a model that can meet your needs.
With a commitment to quality, customization, and innovation, Krank is poised to continue making a significant impact on the world of guitar amplification for years to come.
Tips for Selecting a Guitar Amplifier
When it comes to playing guitar, having the right amplifier is just as important as having the right guitar. A good guitar amplifier can make a big difference in the quality and clarity of your sound, as well as your ability to express your musical ideas.
However, with so many different types of guitar amplifiers on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to selecting the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll offer some tips to help you navigate the world of guitar amplification and find the perfect amp for your playing style.
Consider Your Playing Style
One of the first things to consider when selecting a guitar amplifier is your playing style. Different styles of music require different types of amplifiers, so it’s important to choose an amp that is appropriate for the genre you play.
For example, if you play heavy metal or hard rock, you’ll likely want an amp with high gain and plenty of distortion. On the other hand, if you play blues or jazz, you may prefer an amp with a warmer, more vintage tone.
Think About Your Playing Environment
Another important factor to consider is where you’ll be playing your guitar. If you primarily play at home or in a small practice space, you may not need an amplifier with a high wattage output. However, if you plan to perform live or play in larger venues, you’ll need an amp that can deliver enough volume to be heard over the other instruments.
It’s also important to consider the acoustics of the room where you’ll be playing. If you’ll be playing in a small, acoustically dead room, you may want an amp with a brighter tone to help cut through the mix. On the other hand, if you’ll be playing in a larger, more reverberant space, you may want an amp with a darker tone to help tame any unwanted reflections.
Choose the Right Wattage
The wattage of an amplifier refers to the amount of power it can deliver. Generally speaking, the higher the wattage, the louder the amp can get. However, higher wattage amps also tend to be heavier and more expensive.
When selecting a guitar amplifier, it’s important to choose an amp with the appropriate wattage for your needs. If you primarily play at home or in a small practice space, a low-wattage amp (between 1-10 watts) may be sufficient. However, if you plan to perform live or play in larger venues, you may need an amp with a higher wattage (50 watts or more).
Consider Tube vs. Solid-State Amplifiers
There are two main types of guitar amplifiers: tube and solid-state. Tube amplifiers use vacuum tubes to amplify the signal, while solid-state amplifiers use transistors.
Tube amplifiers are generally considered to have a warmer, more natural tone, while solid-state amps are known for their reliability and consistency. However, solid-state amps can also be more affordable than tube amps, making them a good choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Ultimately, the decision between a tube or solid-state amp will come down to personal preference and playing style. If you’re looking for a warm, natural tone, a tube amp may be the way to go. However, if you value reliability and consistency, a solid-state amp may be a better choice.
Try Before You Buy
Perhaps the most important tip when it comes to selecting a guitar amplifier is to try before you buy. Every amp sounds different, and what may sound great to one player may not work as well for another.
Before making a purchase, take the time to test out different amps and see which one sounds best to you. If possible, try out the amp with the same guitar and pedals that you typically use to get a sense of how it will sound in your playing setup.
When testing out an amplifier, pay attention to the following factors:
Tone: Does the amp have the tone you’re looking for? Is it warm and rich, or bright and cutting? Is the distortion smooth or harsh?
Volume: Can the amp get loud enough for your needs? Does it sound good at both low and high volumes?
Dynamics: How responsive is the amp to your playing? Does it pick up every nuance of your playing style, or does it sound compressed and artificial?
Features: Does the amp have the features you need, such as multiple channels, effects loops, or built-in effects?
When testing out an amp, it’s important to spend enough time with it to get a good sense of its capabilities. Don’t be afraid to spend an hour or more playing through different amps to find the one that’s right for you.
Consider Your Budget
Finally, it’s important to consider your budget when selecting a guitar amplifier. Amps can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to choose an amp that fits within your budget.
While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive amplifier you can afford, it’s important to remember that price isn’t always an indicator of quality. Some of the best amps on the market are relatively affordable, while some high-end amps may not be worth the investment for your particular needs.
When setting your budget, consider not just the cost of the amplifier, but also any additional expenses you may incur, such as cables, pedals, or speaker cabinets.
Conclusion
Selecting the right guitar amplifier can be a daunting task, but by considering your playing style, playing environment, wattage, tube vs. solid-state, and budget, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect amp for your needs.
Remember to take the time to test out different amps before making a purchase, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice from more experienced guitarists. With the right amplifier, you’ll be able to express your musical ideas with clarity and power, and take your playing to the next level.