Komet Amplification
ActiveOverview
Komet Amplification Group is a manufacturer of boutique guitar amplifiers based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The company produces hand-wired tube amps in small numbers, specializing in high-quality, custom designs for musicians seeking superior tonal response. It is recognized as a successor to Ken Fischer's Trainwreck Circuits designs, particularly through models like the Komet K60.
History
Komet Amplification was founded by Holger Notzel and Michael Kennedy, drawing from the designs of the late Ken Fischer of Trainwreck Circuits. The company gained recognition for producing the Fischer-designed Komet K60 model. In early 2017, it introduced the AmbiKab, an active wet/dry/wet speaker system that separates effects from the amplifier's dry signal.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Komet K60 (Trainwreck-inspired head) | High-gain boutique amp | $4,000 - $5,500 |
| Komet 29 (Versatile combo) | Low-to-mid gain platform | $3,500 - $4,500 |
| AmbiKab (Speaker cabinet) | Wet/dry/wet effects system | $2,000 - $3,000 |
Manufacturing
All Komet amplifiers are hand-built in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA. Transformers feature custom proprietary designs made 100% in the USA. Production emphasizes meticulous attention to detail in small batches.
Notable Products
- Komet K60 - Fischer-designed amplifier head continuing Trainwreck Circuits legacy with expressive gain structures.
- Komet 29 - Hand-wired combo amp offering clean to overdriven tones across multiple channels.
- AmbiKab - Active speaker cabinet enabling independent wet signal effects while preserving pure dry amp tone.
Reputation
Komet Amplification is held in high regard among guitar enthusiasts for its hand-built quality and tonal authenticity, often praised as a torchbearer for vintage-inspired boutique amps. Professionals value the amps' responsiveness and custom USA-made components. Limited production contributes to exclusivity but can result in long wait times.