Customer Reviews

THD Electronics HP8 Hot Plate Power Attenuator, 4 Ohm

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This product does wonders for a tube guitar amplifier. It permits great amp sound at reduced sound amplitude.

The Hot Plate is my most favorite "effect pedal". I've got several tube amps, and I simply will not use them *without* the Hot Plate. Think of it as a true master volume control. I set the amp's controls for the best tone, then adjust the volume with the Hot Plate. Priceless.

My friends and I have wasted hundreds (thousands) of dollars on pedals and amp simulators trying to get that killer sound, and I *finally* found it with the Hot Plate.

My only complaint is with the sound of the line-out. It's nothing like a tube amp, and you'll need to run it through an EQ or something to make it moderately usable in a PA.

The low-boost and bright switches are nice, and get used a lot to compensate for lower volume settings or different cabs. The "bulbs" switch is interesting, but I'm not sure I'd miss it if it wasn't there.

The differences in tone at lower volumes (greater attenuation) aren't as dramatic as how bad an amp simulator sounds compared to the attenuated tube amp.

Regarding reliability, I use a simple metric: If it can withstand being thrown (repeatedly) at the drummer, it's build ruggedly enough. The Hot Plate rates at least 10+ drummer-impacts, and gets bonus points for keeping my tea warm.

The THD Hot Plate Power Attenuator is a valuable addition to any recording studio. This unit does exactly what it is intended to do: attenuate the output of a tube amplifier without changing the tone guitarists crave. Moreover, it is exceptionally well-made; consider this a lifetime purchase. There is no substitute; purchase the THD - your ears will thank you.

The Hot Plate does a great job of reducing sound levels while maintaining good tone.The deep and bright switches help alot with the tone as you lower volume further. I use this with 2 5150 heads, a Laney GH100S, and
a Marshall JVM 410H. Of course one at a time. The only drawback I can find is the price. You know what they say though, you get what you pay for. For keeping Mama and the neighbors off my back it's priceless!

Perfect match for anyone wanting to really get their amps over-driven tone without the high volume. Just don't buy it for the direct out feature as it is useless -thin, distorted. That's the only criticism. Highly recommend this attenuator.