Hiwatt

Overview

Hiwatt is a British manufacturer of electric guitar and bass amplifiers, founded in the 1960s. The brand is recognized for its high headroom, punchy tone, and durable construction, contributing to the rock sound alongside Marshall and Vox. It gained prominence through use by artists such as Pink Floyd, The Who, and The Rolling Stones.¹²

History

Hiwatt was founded by British audio engineer Dave Reeves in 1966, initially as Hylight Electronics, after he worked repairing amplifiers and conceived the Hiwatt name around 1964. The company produced its first amplifiers in the mid-1960s using Partridge transformers and Mullard valves. Hiwatt amplifiers became staples in rock music during the era due to their reliability and sound characteristics.¹²³

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Hiwatt amplifiers are manufactured in the United Kingdom. Production emphasizes hand-built construction with components like Partridge transformers for reliability. Details on in-house versus outsourced elements are not specified in available sources.¹³

Notable Products

• DR103 Custom 100 - 100-watt head that defined early Hiwatt sound, used by Pink Floyd and others.
• DR504 - Higher gain model combined in later Hi-Gain designs for 70s rock tones.
• Hi-Gain 100 - Modern recreation blending DR103 and DR504 circuits for David Gilmour-style tones.
• 200-watt Head - Reliable high-power model known for clean response and detail.

Reputation

Hiwatt is held in high regard by guitarists and bassists for its clean headroom, quick response, and durability under touring conditions. Enthusiasts praise the punchy tone and clarity, especially with original Fane speakers. Some note it as cleaner than Marshall amps, appealing for dynamic playing.¹⁵