The legendary roar of Sunn amplification is back, but this time, it won’t break your back. Leading the charge for the new Sunn Modern line, the company has announced the Beta Mini, a 200-watt powerhouse that shrinks the iconic Beta sound into a 4-pound chassis.
Often described as the first great-sounding solid-state amplifier, the original Beta series revolutionized heavy music. Its unique analog MOSFET design delivered a wide range of tones, from crystal clear to the distinctive, thick, fuzz-like distortion that defined the sound of grunge and stoner rock. Now, that same circuit—celebrated for its use by Kurt Cobain, The Melvins, Red Fang, and Tool—has been re-engineered for the modern era.
Four Amplifiers in One
The Beta Mini is not merely a practice amp; it is a professional multi-use instrument amplifier designed for versatility. The unit features two independent channels, each capable of being set to either Guitar (Lead) or Bass voicings via rear-panel switches. This unique architecture effectively makes the Beta Mini “four amplifiers in one.”
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Lead Mode: Delivers the classic Beta Lead response—shimmering cleans, rock grind, and the signature fuzzy drive that cleans up with your volume knob.
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Bass Mode: Transforms the circuit to optimize low-end response and midrange punch, perfect for modern bass techniques including slap and pop.
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Hybrid Rigs: Users can run Channel A as a guitar amp and Channel B as a bass amp (or vice versa), then blend them for massive, full-frequency walls of sound.
Massive Power, Micro Footprint
Despite measuring just 10 inches wide and weighing less than 4 lbs, the Beta Mini punches well above its weight class. It delivers a crushing 200 Watts into 4 Ohms, providing ample headroom for rehearsals and live performances.
It is designed to be the ultimate portable solution. Beyond driving speaker cabinets, it functions as a standalone preamp for recording systems or mixing desks, and can even serve as a power amp for external preamps like the Sunn PL-20.
Pricing and Availability
The Beta Mini is priced at $599. Due to high demand, early production runs have already been claimed:
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March: SOLD OUT
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April: SOLD OUT
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May: OPEN
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June: OPEN
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Beta Mini a tube amplifier?
A: No. Like the legendary original Beta series, the Beta Mini utilizes a unique CMOS analog MOSFET design. This technology provides the harmonic richness and touch sensitivity often associated with tubes, but with the reliability and distinct “fuzz-like” character of the original solid-state Sunn amps.
Q: Can I use this amp for a bass guitar?
A: Absolutely. The Beta Mini is designed for both guitar and bass. You can switch each of the two channels independently to “Bass” mode, which adjusts the center frequencies of the tone stack (Bass, Mid, Treble) to be optimized for low-end instruments.
Q: Does it have an effects loop?
A: Yes. The Beta Mini features extensive connectivity. It acts as an effects loop by allowing you to use the Preamp Out and Power Amp In jacks simultaneously to insert time-based effects like reverb or delay into your signal chain.
Q: How portable is it really?
A: Extremely. It weighs 3.9 lbs and measures 10” x 9” x 3”. It is built with a rugged aluminum chassis, making it easy to carry in a backpack or gig bag for subway rides or flights.
Q: Can I blend the two channels?
A: Yes. You can run Channel A and Channel B simultaneously. This allows you to blend a clean tone with a distorted tone, or a “Lead”- voiced channel with a “Bass”- voiced channel, for complex, layered textures.
Verdict
The Sunn Beta Mini represents a rare successful balance between heritage and innovation. By capturing the authentic, sought-after “Sunn O)))” growl and packaging it in a unit that fits in a backpack, Sunn has democratized their legendary tone.
Perfect if you are chasing the ghosts of the grunge era or crafting new sludge metal landscapes, the Beta Mini offers a professional, portable, and powerful solution that ensures the Sunn legacy will continue to be heard—loud and clear.
More Information
#Sunn Amplification #Beta Mini
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