Bogner Ecstasy 101B

The Bogner Ecstasy 101B is a renowned guitar amplifier that has made a significant impact on the music industry, particularly among rock and metal musicians.

History of the Bogner Ecstasy 101B

• Introduction (1992): The Bogner Ecstasy series was first introduced in 1992 by Reinhold Bogner, a German-born amp designer who established Bogner Amplification in Los Angeles in 1989. The Ecstasy was designed as a versatile amp that combined the tonal qualities of classic American and British amplifiers, offering players a wide range of sounds.
• Design Features: The Ecstasy 101B is a 100-watt all-tube amplifier powered by four EL34 tubes and features three channels: Clean, Crunch, and Lead. Each channel has its own set of controls, including Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, and a Gain Boost option. The amp also includes a unique "Structure" control that allows players to switch between low and high gain settings for each channel. This flexibility makes it suitable for various musical styles.
• Tonal Characteristics: The Ecstasy 101B is known for its rich harmonics and dynamic response. It can produce everything from pristine clean tones to thick, saturated overdrive. The amp's design allows for extensive tonal shaping, making it popular among guitarists looking for both classic rock tones and modern high-gain sounds.
• Legacy: Since its release, the Ecstasy 101B has become one of the most sought-after boutique amplifiers on the market. Its combination of high-quality construction and versatile tonal options has made it a staple in both studio recordings and live performances.
• Continued Popularity: Over the years, the Ecstasy series has been expanded with various models, including the Ecstasy 101A (which uses 6L6 tubes) and other variations that cater to different player preferences. The Ecstasy's reputation for quality and versatility continues to attract musicians across genres.

Popular Settings

• Clean Tones:
  • Set the Clean channel with Gain around 4-5 for warm, clear sounds.
  • Adjust Treble to about 6-7 and Bass at 4-5 for balanced clarity.
  • Ideal for jazz or classic rock styles.
• Crunch Tones:
  • Use the Crunch channel with Gain set to 6-7 for a classic rock crunch.
  • Set Treble around 6-8 to enhance brightness while keeping Mid at 5.
  • Great for blues-rock or classic rock tones.
• Lead Tones:
  • Switch to the Lead channel and increase Gain to around 8-9 for rich saturation.
  • Adjust Structure control to High for more aggressive tones.
  • Excellent for modern rock or metal styles requiring heavy overdrive.
• Dynamic Playability:
  • The amp responds well to guitar volume adjustments; rolling back on the guitar can yield cleaner tones while pushing it forward brings out overdrive.
  • Players often find that subtle changes in picking dynamics result in significant tonal shifts.

Notable Players

• Steve Lukather (Toto): Lukather is known for using the Ecstasy 101B in his rig, appreciating its versatility across various musical styles.
• Matt Pike (High on Fire): Pike has utilized the Ecstasy 101B during live performances, favoring its powerful sound suitable for heavy music.
• Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains): Cantrell was introduced to Bogner amps early in his career and has used them extensively, contributing to his signature tone.
• Michael Landau: A session guitarist known for his work with various artists, Landau has been associated with Bogner amplifiers, including the Ecstasy series.
• Other Artists: Many musicians across genres have embraced the Ecstasy 101B for its ability to produce high-quality sound across styles, solidifying its status as a coveted amplifier among professionals.

Summary

The Bogner Ecstasy 101B remains an iconic amplifier celebrated for its unique design and exceptional tonal capabilities. Its legacy continues to inspire guitarists seeking rich sounds from a reliable platform that blends classic influences with modern performance standards.