EVH Gear has officially ushered in a brave new era of amplification with the launch of its first-ever fully digital combo: the 5150III Hypersonic 6L6 1×12. This groundbreaking amp is not just a product; it’s a major evolution for the company, promising players the iconic, coveted Eddie Van Halen tube-amp sound in a remarkably lightweight, versatile digital package.
The bold claim? The Hypersonic 6L6 delivers “EVH tone, volume and dynamics virtually indistinguishable from the all-tube original.”
Digital Innovation Meets Legendary Tone: The Hypersonic Difference
This new 1×12 combo leverages advanced digital modeling technology to faithfully recreate the sound and feel of the legendary Eddie Van Halen 5150III tube amplifier. By utilizing “massive digital processing power,” EVH is delivering the high-gain, crystal-clear cleans, and dynamic response that defined Van Halen’s signature sound—all without relying on physical vacuum tubes.
“This digital innovation honors Eddie Van Halen’s spirit of experimentation and boundary pushing creativity,” says an EVH statement, signaling a commitment to embracing technology while preserving heritage.
The Hypersonic 6L6 marks EVH’s first dedicated digital amplifier, following the earlier introduction of their Hypersonic FRFR cabs, making their strategic move into the digital amp and modeler market crystal clear.
Key Features for the Modern Guitarist
Built to mirror the player-friendly convenience of digital amplifiers like the successful Fender Tone Master series, the EVH Hypersonic is packed with features designed for both the stage and the studio:
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Three Channels: Offering the full sonic range of the 5150III.
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Lightweight Design: At just 39lbs, it is approximately 40% lighter than the 5150III 50W tube combo (62lbs), a massive win for gigging musicians.
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Power Scaling: Five attenuated settings from one watt up to 50 watts, allowing for full-throttle tone at manageable volumes.
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Studio-Ready Connectivity:
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Balanced XLR Line Out with Cabinet IRs (Impulse Responses).
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Silent Switch for recording without a speaker.
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Headphones Jack for silent practice.
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USB-C for firmware updates and a MIDI In.
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Onboard Effects: Includes high-quality Reverb and an Effects Loop.
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Speaker: Loaded with a premium Celestion speaker.
A Breakthrough for Accessibility and Portability
According to Jon Romanowski, VP of Product of EVH Guitars, the Hypersonic 6L6 breaks down barriers for players seeking the authentic EVH sound.
“The Hypersonic 6L6 1×12 breaks down the barriers that have kept players from accessing authentic EVH sound, making it more portable and versatile than ever before,” Romanowski explains. “Whether players are recording at home or performing on stage, this amp delivers that unmistakable EVH tone…”
The move into digital amplification follows rigorous R&D, echoing the process Fender undertook last year to create an EVH-approved model for their Tone Master Pro floor unit—experience that clearly paved the way for this dedicated digital combo.
Price and Availability
The EVH 5150III Hypersonic 6L6 is available now in classic Black and Ivory finishes.
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Price: $1,699.99
Available at Andertons on Black and Ivory, priced £1549
Available at Sweetwater in Black and Ivory, priced $1699
Available at Thomann in Black and Ivory, priced €1549
More Information
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