EVH 5150

The EVH 5150 is a prominent guitar amplifier that has become synonymous with the sound of rock and metal, particularly due to its association with legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen.

History of the EVH 5150

• Introduction (1992): The EVH 5150 was originally developed as a signature model for Eddie Van Halen in collaboration with Peavey Electronics. Released in 1992, it was designed to provide high-gain saturation and a clean channel, catering to Van Halen's distinctive sound. The amplifier was built on the foundation of the Soldano SLO-100, which Van Halen had been using at the time.
• Design Features: The original Peavey 5150 featured four 6L6 power tubes and five 12AX7 preamp tubes, offering dual channels with High/Normal gain inputs. Its design emphasized a unique fixed bias configuration that contributed to its tonal characteristics. After Van Halen parted ways with Peavey in 2004, the amp was rebranded as the Peavey 6505, while retaining the same circuitry.
• EVH Brand Launch (2007): In 2007, Van Halen partnered with Fender to launch his own line of amplifiers under the EVH brand. This included the EVH 5150 III series, which offered updated features and improved tonal options while maintaining the legacy of the original 5150.
• Legacy: The EVH 5150 has become one of the most sought-after amplifiers in rock music history. Its high-gain capabilities and versatility have made it a staple for countless musicians seeking powerful tones. The amp has undergone several iterations, including the 5150 III models, which introduced additional channels and enhanced features.
• Cultural Impact: The 5150 series has significantly influenced the sound of hard rock and metal since its inception, becoming a go-to choice for guitarists looking for aggressive tones.

Popular Settings

• Clean Tones:
  • Set Gain around 4-5 on the Green channel for warm, clean sounds.
  • Adjust Treble to about 6-7 and Bass at 4-5 for balanced clarity.
  • Ideal for blues or classic rock styles.
• Crunch Tones:
  • Use the Blue channel with Gain set to around 6-7 for a classic rock crunch.
  • Set Treble around 6-8 to enhance brightness while keeping Mid at about 5.
  • Great for blues-rock or classic rock tones.
• High-Gain Tones:
  • Switch to the Red channel and increase Gain to around 8-10 for rich saturation.
  • Adjust Treble higher (around 7-9) and keep Bass lower (around 3-4) for tightness.
  • Perfect for modern rock or metal styles requiring aggressive sound.
• 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

• Eddie Van Halen: The amplifier is closely associated with Van Halen himself, who used it extensively throughout his career to achieve his signature sound.
• Joe Satriani: Satriani has incorporated the EVH 5150 into his rig, appreciating its versatility across different musical styles.
• Steve Vai: Vai is known for using various EVH amplifiers, including the 5150 series, which contribute to his distinctive tone.
• Kirk Hammett (Metallica): Hammett has utilized EVH amplifiers during live performances and recordings, valuing their high gain and clarity.
• Other Artists: Many musicians across genres have embraced the EVH 5150 for its ability to produce high-quality sound across styles, solidifying its status as a coveted amplifier among professionals.

Summary

The EVH 5150 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.