Tech 21 Power Engine 60 Amplifier

Transparent power for your POD or SansAmp

Hardware Review by Doug Cornell, guitarist of The Dirt Surfers

Tested with:

Line 6 POD 2.0
Squier Jagmaster Electric Guitar

Manufactured by: Tech 21 NYC

For the last several months, I've been using a POD 2.0 for studio recording (read the review). My current guitar amp, a Peavey, lacks the capability to reproduce my studio guitar tones.  I tried plugging the POD into the Peavey, but felt there was just too much tonal coloration coming from the amp.  I needed an amp that would let my tones shine through clearly.

Enter the Tech 21 Power Engine 60 (PW60).  This 60-watt amp is specifically designed to provide transparent power.  The PW60 is  extremely simple to use - there are only 4 knobs on the amp (active EQ, including high, low, mid, and level).  Plug any amp simulating device or pre-amp into the Power Engine and you are ready to go.

The Power Engine 60 is a very pleasant, retro-looking amp.  The tweed front is classy looking, and the lack of electronic clutter on the front panel is a nice change from the look of other amps.  The four main controls are visible as you look down upon the amp.  The open back gives the specially designed 12" speaker room to breathe.  Any guitarist will appreciate the light weight (only 33 pounds!).

After plugging in the POD and my trusty Jagmaster, I adjusted the volume to about "four."  One power-chord was all it took, and my tiger-cat Tony, who usually ignores my guitar noises with a "who could care less" attitude, launched his overweight carcass from his perch and dashed  behind the couch.   Sorry, Tony, I was just goofing around!

Since half-volume was enough to rattle the windows of my house, I couldn't wait to use the Power Engine with my band.  I gave the Power Engine a full evaluation during our next rehearsal. Our practice space is quite large, about the size of a small club.  I set the PW60 at just over half-volume, and it had more than enough headroom for my lead solos to soar over the banging drums, bass, and rhythm guitar.  There would be no problem using the PS60 in a medium-sized club.  For larger venues, simply daisy-chain multiple PW60's together.

If you like the tones of your current amplifier, you may also use the PW60 as a powered extension.

I'm going to be performing at some outdoor events this summer, and I'm confident that the Power Engine 60 will pack more than enough punch.  This light, simple amplifier is an excellent example of a perfectly-designed niche product.

Specifications:

Order a Power Engine 60 for only $299 from Musician's Friend