Controls

• Gain - The main gain control for the preamp.
• Bass, Mid, Treble - Active 3-band equalizer.
• Volume - Controls the output signal amplitude.
• Presence - The original amplifier was rather muffled, due to an aggressive roll-off of high frequencies in the tone control circuitry. We've added two more options to reduce or eliminate this roll-off, resulting in a much more open and bright sound. Keep it in the Up position to retain the original sound.
• Shift - Shifts the centre frequency of the Mid band for a more "traditional" sounding tone circuit.
• Active Switch - Engages or bypasses the pedal with a relay (true bypass).

The original

The Ampeg VH-140C emerged in the late '80s, around 1987, to be precise. Ampeg, primarily known for their bass amps, decided to step into the guitar world with this amplifier, and what a statement it made. One of the standout features of the VH-140C is its extreme gain capability. The gain on this amp can be dialed up to levels that border on insanity, delivering a wall of distortion that's perfect for churning out those crushing, heavy riffs that define death metal. It's the kind of distortion that can peel paint off walls and make your neighbors question their life choices.

The amp's tonal signature is often described as thick, saturated, and aggressive. It's not just about the gain, though; the VH-140C has a unique midrange character that cuts through the mix.

While it found fame in death metal circles, its versatile nature made it suitable for a range of genres. From thrash metal to hard rock, the VH-140C proved itself as a versatile workhorse that could handle a variety of playing styles.

As with many iconic pieces of gear, the Ampeg VH-140C developed a cult following over the years. Despite being discontinued, it remains sought after in the second-hand market by guitarists eager to capture that classic death metal tone. The scarcity of these amps only adds to their allure, turning them into prized possessions for those lucky enough to own one.

Features

• True Bypass with Relay switching.
• Soft-touch footswitches.
• Internal voltage-boost mechanism ensures circuit runs at same voltage as the original amp.
• Rugged 16 gauge (1.6mm) steel enclosure with textured powder coat finish.
• Solid aluminium knobs.

Technical Specs

• Power Requirement: 9V DC, 170mA
• Power connector: 2.1mm center-negative barrel jack
• Dimensions: 145mm (W) 108mm (D) 61mm (H)
• Dimensions (with packaging): 185mm (W) 130mm (D) 70mm (H)