Hamstead Soundworks launch new models within their Artist Series heads

Hamstead Soundworks launch new models within their Artist Series heads and combos.

Hamstead Soundworks, one of the UK’s finest builders of guitar amplifiers and effects pedals, have launched two new models within their highly successful Artist Series of guitar amplifiers, an upgraded 20 watt Artist 20+ RT and the brand-new 60 watt Artist 60+RT, both available as separate heads or in a 1x12” combo format.

Artist 20+RT MK3

The MK3 Artist 20+RT is a single channel, class A/B guitar amplifier, based on the company’s original 20 watt model launched in 2014 and has earned Hamstead huge respect from guitarists around the world.

The MK3 features a number of refinements, whilst maintaining the core character of the original amp. Central to this is Hamstead’s brand-new Output Power selection, offering selectable 20, 7, or 2 watt outputs, without compromising tone.

Powered by a duet of EL84 valves, and a trio of tone generating ECC83 preamp valves, the MK3 Artist 20+RT delivers shimmering cleans and warm, natural, harmonically rich overdriven tones.

Artist 60+ RT

The Artist 60+RT is a single channel, class A/B guitar amplifier that blends the original, unique Hamstead Artist preamp stage with a new fixed bias, twin EL34 output stage. This new design takes the sonic concept of the Artist 20+RT MK3 to the next level within power, dynamic range, versatility and clean headroom, whilst retaining all the essential characteristics that the Artist Series amplifiers are renowned for.

The Artist 60+RT also features Hamstead’s Output Power selection, offering selectable 60, 20, or 7 watt outputs. From the sheer volume and presence of 60 watts, with huge amounts of clean headroom on tap, to the more easily driven 20 watt mode (similar to the Artist 20+RT MK3), to the truly rocking 7 watt mode that delivers real low-power output valve sag.

The Artist 20+RT MK3 and the Artist 60+RT both share the same brushed stainless steel control panels with black ‘easy read’ chicken head control knobs. Available in the classic Hamstead cream covering, or optional black.

Essential controls are kept to a minimum with highly responsive Gain, Bass, Treble and Master Volume, with Depth/Tone and Depth/Speed rotaries for Hamstead’s own Signature Reverb & Tremolo circuits. Both switchable via the front panel, or via the included 4-way Quad footswitch - now fitted with OptoKick footswitches by The GigRig for silent and reliable switching.

The Artist 20+RT and Artist 60+ RT look stunning with their updated visually attractive cabinet styling, perfect examples of Hamstead’s ability to design and build compact portable amplifiers that are perfect for all styles of guitar playing, from the warmest of mellow jazz, through sparkling country cleans, to mean, gritty blues and classic rock drive

RRP:  Artist 20+RT.  Head:  £1,799     Combo: £1,999   1x12” Celestion G12H Anniversary 

RRP:  Artist 60+RT.  Head:  £1,999     Combo: £2,199   1x12” Celestion G12M-65 Creamback

4-Way Quad Footswitch Included operates reverb and tremolo and ‘Voice’ adding presence and mid-range solo boost.