IN-DEPTH SPECIFICATIONS

Like so many boutique, high-end amplifiers, Victory Amps’ RK50 professes simplicity but the devil is in the details. This is a single-channel tube amp, with an incredibly simple control layout of Master, Gain, and Tone. Three 12AX7s and two 6L6s in the preamp, and 6L6s in the power stage. Both sets of 6L6s can be bias switched to EL34s if one prefers. There’s a switchable output, cranking out 50 watts on high power and 9 watts on low. A speaker dampening switch will help you get some increased low end if your speaker cabinet requires it.

In addition to a series effects loop, there’s also built in tremolo and reverb effects which are controllable from the front panel or footswitchable. They sound really great, and although the reverb is digital I found its blend of hall and plate sound really pleasing and usable. You can also stomp another switch for a gain boost, which is very useful given the amp’s lone channel. It adds extra gain and a bit of a volume lift while staying faithful to the amp sound. Other nice bonuses included a great padded carry bag and test points for bias adjustment.

It’s a striking amp to look at, and its unique and attention-grabbing appearance will no doubt be a feature for many.