Hilbish Design

Active

Overview

Hilbish Design is a small U.S.-based manufacturer of guitar amplifiers, preamps, and pedals, founded by electrical engineer and former Windhand bassist Nate Hilbish. The brand specializes in solid-state designs, including preamp pedals like the PB-10 and rackmount amplifiers such as the Beta, which pairs a PB-10 preamp with a 700-watt class-D power amp. It targets working musicians and touring bands, offering artist support programs and custom graphic enclosures on products like the Sol Invictus, a multi-function two-channel preamp/DI/drive pedal.

History

Hilbish Design was founded by Nate Hilbish, an electrical engineer and former bassist for the band Windhand, who initially gained recognition with the PB-10 solid-state preamp pedal. The company expanded to full amplifiers with the Beta, combining the PB-10 preamp with a 700-watt class-D power section in a rackmount format. It continues to release new products like the Sol Invictus, focusing on versatile, compact gear for live and studio use.

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
PB-10 Preamp Pedal	Solid-state guitar preamp	$300 - $500
Beta Amplifier	Rackmount power amp with PB-10 preamp	$1,100 - $1,400
Sol Invictus	Two-channel preamp/DI/drive pedal	$400 - $600

Manufacturing

Products are designed in Virginia, United States, by Nate Hilbish. Manufacturing details are not publicly specified, but the brand's small scale and custom enclosures suggest in-house or U.S.-based boutique production.

Notable Products

PB-10 - Solid-state preamp pedal that established the brand's reputation in amp design.
Beta - Rackmount amplifier with PB-10 preamp and 700-watt class-D power amp, priced at $1,100.
Sol Invictus - Compact two-channel preamp, Bi-Amp rig, drive pedal, and DI in a custom enclosure.

Reputation

Hilbish Design is regarded by guitar enthusiasts and professionals for its innovative solid-state amp designs, particularly the PB-10 preamp, praised for tone and reliability in live settings. The brand appeals to touring musicians through artist support and durable rackmount options like the Beta. Limited production scale means less widespread recognition compared to larger brands, with feedback centered on niche high-end performance rather than mass-market appeal.

Sources (5)