I FINALLY Play the Positive Grid Spark...But Should You Buy One?

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  • čas přidán 21. 06. 2020
  • So this amp is getting a ton of hype. Today I play the Spark unedited and in real-time to show you what the actual playing experience is like!
    If you enjoyed this video be sure to like and subscribe :)
    POSITIVE GRID SPARK:
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    Enjoy!
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Komentáře • 2,7K

  • @DarrellBraunGuitar
    @DarrellBraunGuitar  Před 4 lety +430

    I know you guys have been waiting for this one! Tones start at 5:20
    Enjoy :)

    • @michaelvarney.
      @michaelvarney. Před 4 lety +34

      Yes, we've been waiting for this video. But not nearly as long as we've been waiting for the amp itself. ;-)

    • @Dravensheart
      @Dravensheart Před 4 lety +14

      I've been waiting for my amp forever what the hell!!! This sucks your getting one before aaaaaalllllll the paying customers. Love your channel nothing against you. But after sooo many videos out their promoting this you're not really needed anymore. Why would they keep sending free amps out and not getting it to the customers that already want it and paid in full. We know it's a great amp. Just get it in our hands already!!!! So you can sell more by word of mouth!!!! You sould do a give a way of this.

    • @arn999
      @arn999 Před 4 lety +19

      Were you aware this company has been taking people’s money without actually sending them their product? It’s basically stealing at this point. If you weren’t aware of this, fine. But I think some kind of disclaimer somewhere would be warranted.
      Sure, this thing might work fine, but if you never receive what you paid for it’s not really worth the money is it?

    • @ummmokay6246
      @ummmokay6246 Před 4 lety +5

      Thank you....i ordered one already and heard its about a five month wait...

    • @ryanzea7196
      @ryanzea7196 Před 4 lety +1

      @@Dravensheart The customers payed. They know they will get the money, & the customers know they'll eventually get the product. They know what they're doing. They want to reach out to more people. Also Covid 19 is causing a delay. I've waited about three months for a pop filter. Was supposed to arrive in march, it's almost July. Not gonna be mad. Just gonna get used to it.

  • @timschneider8513
    @timschneider8513 Před 3 lety +2627

    Ordered one for my son's 18th Birthday. He will be Born in feburary this year

    • @Redaxerocker1
      @Redaxerocker1 Před 3 lety +81

      LMAO 🤣

    • @markcobb6561
      @markcobb6561 Před 3 lety +20

      I really appreciate that laugh brother. Lol. Perfect 👌

    • @romendeep833
      @romendeep833 Před 3 lety +11

      @@MrMangano421 I got mine today ordered 2 weeks ago

    • @MrMangano421
      @MrMangano421 Před 3 lety +1

      @@romendeep833 Congrats! Hopefully you didn't get one of the lemons they seem to make. Good luck with it.

    • @MrMangano421
      @MrMangano421 Před 3 lety +3

      @@romendeep833 You're lucky. You should see the hoops they make you jump through when they send a lemon. They won't replace it on a swap. You have to take a video send it and then ship your amp back and they will either fix it or if all else fails they say they will replace it. So what was supposed to come for Christmas (it didn't) will probably arrive in time for the Fourth of July. :-) Nothing is worth that kind of wait.

  • @Jdsuusushdhjwhehbebd
    @Jdsuusushdhjwhehbebd Před rokem +313

    Glad you pointed out how it looks good in any room. My Marshall full stack clashes with my shower curtain.

  • @s.trottier3239
    @s.trottier3239 Před 3 lety +588

    Whether you love or hate this thing..all I can say is I wish I had this growing up in my teens.

    • @ReverendHellbilly
      @ReverendHellbilly Před 3 lety +5

      Omg. I wish

    • @Ken-yg4um
      @Ken-yg4um Před 3 lety +4

      Exactly

    • @andrewnuzzo7919
      @andrewnuzzo7919 Před 3 lety +10

      ABSOLUTELY WHEN I WAS 7Y/O WAS NO INTERNET, JUST GUITARS N AMPS WITH TUBES. OH AND EASY TO FIND TRUE TONE WITH JUST THE KNOBS NO WIRES, CABLES, COMPUTERS, PLUGINS ECT. LIFE WAS GOOD, WE JAMMED. NOW WE NEED COMPUTER CLASSES, AMP CLASSES, PLAYING CLASSES AND OF COURSE DBG CZcams, GO DARREL!!

    • @andrewnuzzo7919
      @andrewnuzzo7919 Před 3 lety +2

      @@brynion2117 GRANDPA'S KNOW BEST!!

    • @kyhl6159
      @kyhl6159 Před 3 lety

      Amen

  • @JacaboBlanco
    @JacaboBlanco Před 3 lety +350

    13:20
    Bud, the software didn't mess up. You picked the "funky drummer" and played rock and roll.

  • @jameswilbanks3044
    @jameswilbanks3044 Před 2 lety +220

    Thanks Darrell for going over the Spark. I have ordered one but it has not come in yet and this video is a great help. I am 73 and trying to learn all I can. Again Thanks for all your videos.

    • @Tarzan118
      @Tarzan118 Před rokem

      How’d it work out?

    • @migueldumalag4839
      @migueldumalag4839 Před rokem

      cap

    • @BlueJC2001
      @BlueJC2001 Před 2 měsíci

      I’m likewise an older beginner so this looks ideal. I know what sound I like but have no idea what a fazer or modulation does. So downloading a sound I like then seeing how it’s made is a time saving educator too.

  • @schaddalton
    @schaddalton Před 3 lety +146

    Bought one after seeing your video and having the confidence that it was worth every penny. Turns out...it was worth every penny. Thanks for such a thorough review, dude. And for establishing yourself as a trustworthy voice for such things.

  • @I-Libertine
    @I-Libertine Před 3 lety +275

    The best practice amp I have ever owned. Full stop. It is fun to play on for hours, the sounds are seemingly infinite, loud and solid without any compromises and loads of useful, innovative, intuitive learning tools... To be honest, if a company like Positive Grid can do this, the only real question I have is for the far more established competition: "why didn't **you** do this?"

    • @Brian-qg8dg
      @Brian-qg8dg Před 2 lety +9

      It works better for me as bluetooth speaker. I cant get a beautiful classic rock sound. U find that small tube Amps blow all this kinda stuff away. Night Train Lil and Ampeg 5watt. Also the HOTONE British Invasion (not tube) completely rocks.

    • @kyle8575
      @kyle8575 Před 2 lety +6

      Fender Mustang? Sounds significantly better than the positive grid.

    • @I-Libertine
      @I-Libertine Před 2 lety +9

      @@kyle8575 i had the Fender mustang, and there were some features I liked, but once I got the Spark, it was so ready and intuitive (with more features that were more accessible), i sold the mustang and kept the spark.

    • @kyle8575
      @kyle8575 Před 2 lety +2

      @@I-Libertine specifically the mustang lt25 I’m talking about. Definitely has more features than this amp.

    • @I-Libertine
      @I-Libertine Před 2 lety +8

      @@kyle8575 that's the mustang I had. Too clunky imho, not nearly as intuitive or fun to use, practice with, write songs on, etc. But i guess everyone has a favorite.

  • @alexsosa266
    @alexsosa266 Před 3 lety +39

    For sure gonna get this as my first proper practice amp...the fact it does everything including being a recording interface is just perfect....

  • @ryanzea7196
    @ryanzea7196 Před 4 lety +549

    Darrell walking into his studio: *Looks at wall of guitars & the shelf of pedals* Y'know... I don't feel like practicing today... *See's practice amp* you son of a gun, I'm in.

    • @Silkaz7
      @Silkaz7 Před 4 lety +24

      having too many stuff can give you option paralysis. You tweak and try so many different things that the practice part goes out the window. That's why I own a THR30, my hands on time with the guitar has increased dramatically.

    • @autobotsNdecepticons
      @autobotsNdecepticons Před 4 lety +4

      @@Silkaz7 Absolutely. I've had a Micro Cube since 2005 and simply sold it and got a new one when the model switch stopped working. If this Spark were battery powered, I'd consider it for a little more variety in sound, but otherwise Yamaha has the best approach, just for more money than Roland.

    • @astika81
      @astika81 Před 4 lety +1

      Silkaz7 I have to agree. My practice amp is just a Fender Rumble (bass) when I practice I really don’t want to touch my amp or my phone or iPad (except to read my music) I had the Boss Katana Air which is similar to this and the BS ID Core BEAM

    • @yerblues10
      @yerblues10 Před 4 lety +5

      Me walking into my guitar room...nope, still no Spark.

    • @trevorbellis8838
      @trevorbellis8838 Před 4 lety

      autobotsNdecepticons a

  • @Rashai07
    @Rashai07 Před 4 lety +17

    Finally got my preorder a few weeks ago and haven't been able to put it down since. Being stuck inside has made this amp my go to and keeps the neighbors on friendly terms.

  • @MarshallAmpMan
    @MarshallAmpMan Před 3 lety +7

    Thank you Darrell, for a great review, this convinced me about getting the amp. Love your honest opinions, very helpful!

  • @jimobrien84
    @jimobrien84 Před 3 lety +4

    I know this is an older video but I just recently discovered your channel and I’m binge watching the back catalog and I gotta say you do the best gear reviews. Really appreciate now in depth you go on every aspect of things

  • @jim.mcintosh
    @jim.mcintosh Před 4 lety +63

    Good review, Darell. I'd mention that tools like this are also great for learning how tones are created vs just finding the right tone to play or practice with. It could take years for a beginner to learn the signal chain and the possibilities of combining different effects and styles of Amp/Cabs. You called this out in passing while demonstrating some of the tones - like when adding the Tube Screamer (16:25) in front of the high gain amp. It's a nuance but it can really help to learn tone and circuits.

    • @kenfee8170
      @kenfee8170 Před rokem +1

      When playing with a backing track, is the sound good? I have played practice amps and stream music via Bluetooth to play along with and it sounds like crap! How does it sound as a simply Bluetooth speaker?

    • @kenfee8170
      @kenfee8170 Před rokem +1

      I bought the spark and am impressed. Quality in sounds is pretty decent for what it is.

  • @cliftongardner4367
    @cliftongardner4367 Před 4 lety +24

    I’m always impressed with just how musical your improvs are, Darrell. So many youtubers shred endlessly and while that can be cool in its own right, I like how you play much more slowly but with much more melody and soul. Very cool demo of a very cool amp.
    Side note: almost every cheap amp’s dual rectifier model is absolutely terrible. They nailed it in this.

  • @bubbasouth69
    @bubbasouth69 Před rokem +1

    I finally picked up one of these today at my local GC. I am totally blown away by all the things you can do with this little amp. Never have I heard such a rich tone from something this small! Have been jamming for hours and I’m just barely scratching the surface with what I’ve done with it so far! If you haven’t gotten one of these and you just aren’t sure whether or not you should, I say don’t hesitate for one second! You will absolutely love it!!!!!

  • @Robby24ish
    @Robby24ish Před 2 lety +1

    Darrell! Hi, You are SO Articulate!! explaining how All parts work. Just ordered it and literally received it yesterday, I've watched many videos on this Amp, But! You are one if the Best! Explaining and Showing ,ETC. ✌🏻💚

  • @prophetsbourne1136
    @prophetsbourne1136 Před 3 lety +3

    Thank you so much for doing this review and knocking me off the fence to buy one! I JUST found Positive Grid and the quality of the software they GIVE away is better than a lot of what you can pay for!

  • @colebuckmaster966
    @colebuckmaster966 Před 4 lety +71

    i’ve been watching this channel since i was a beginner guitarist, Darrell’s warm and helpful presence keeps me coming back again and again.

    • @NG.4769
      @NG.4769 Před 3 lety +1

      SIMP /s

    • @markcobb6561
      @markcobb6561 Před 3 lety

      Me too, both weeks.

    • @thomasstengel7356
      @thomasstengel7356 Před 3 lety +2

      Agree. It also has caused me to buy two Schecter guitars of which he gave excellent reviews. He undersold them both. The Solo II Custom and the C-1 E/A are both even better than hoped and his reviews were fairly glowing. Schecter is making some beautiful guitars right now that compete in every facet from tone to construction to components with guitars twice their price. I had an issue justifying purchasing those two but I just flat-out wanted them. Not an ounce of buyer's remorse. Mr. Braun not only didn't steer me wrong. He did me a huge favor.

  • @markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497

    As always, another GREAT video. Thanks for all the info. I greatly appreciate you and the channel.

  • @innervshun23
    @innervshun23 Před 2 lety +13

    I finally got the Spark based on this review, supported by other good reports. All I will say is that I finally for the first time found the exact tones I wanted for my guitar on specific songs through the app that I haven't been able to emulate through my other amps, pedals, and software in real time! Thanks, Darrell, for giving the nod to Positive Grid.

    • @Mad_Mike_414
      @Mad_Mike_414 Před 4 měsíci

      I have a line 6 spider jam that I've had for years and I just started playing again recently in this amp just doesn't seem to have what I need. I started looking around and seeing this video and I think I'm hooked! Going to order one now.

  • @ron.v
    @ron.v Před rokem +2

    "Doing this in real time." Isn't that what we'd be doing? Man, I love it that you did that. So many reviews seem practiced and/or polished and take into consideration what we'd go through trying the gear for ourselves for the first time. Big Thanks for doing that!

  • @JesusGonzalez-sd3ql
    @JesusGonzalez-sd3ql Před 3 lety +3

    I bought mine 3 weeks ago, arrived yesterday. More than happy !

  • @aderiley6592
    @aderiley6592 Před 2 lety

    Thank you for this review Darrell. Looks great!!

  • @littmus32ify
    @littmus32ify Před 3 lety +37

    Just got it for Christmas! So far, I’m extremely impressed by the sound quality! And that’s just using the amp (without) the app! The crunch and hi-gain settings roar, and they are extremely sensitive to your guitar’s volume knob, which is very cool. Using a 90s USA Strat with Dimarzio Chopper in the bridge and heavy blues in the neck.

    • @riverlandrez6300
      @riverlandrez6300 Před 3 lety

      feedback Rocks...if a Dud heads Up to fellow/ette better few unhappy then many unhappy AKA Pissed... wanna know does it do keyboards. Got Bass 4S ...Yamaha with Midi...soon a Squire Fender... probably will anyways. MAcBook M1 tool on standby

    • @riverlandrez6300
      @riverlandrez6300 Před 3 lety

      just like anything ...toy with it..don't take apart..tell that to Elon..No=Go. Slot Cars Come Very Far....Sad to see Ford do a electric 4 door mustang..only Porsche getting away with..4 door Carrera....can't make them quick enough

    • @Madchris8828
      @Madchris8828 Před 3 lety +1

      I'm trying to figure out where to put the output. It gets VERY LOUD VERY QUICKLY.

    • @riverlandrez6300
      @riverlandrez6300 Před 3 lety

      @@Madchris8828 bluetooth or USB out hit up website ..or CZcams search ...probably order mine this week. maybe

    • @riverlandrez6300
      @riverlandrez6300 Před 3 lety +1

      I have to add. Azon got $259 and V good feedback...and JB has best return policy..Almost ready to pull trigger and get one..I want it to do everything...bass guitar keyboard..maybe even freaky vocals..Gotta Laugh or a Loud PA at a protest...

  • @colinwilson5635
    @colinwilson5635 Před 2 lety +3

    Just got one and this is perfect video to help me get the best out of it. Have to say that this thing has truly great sounds at room volume and that's coming from someone with various amps and Line 6 gear!

  • @MicahRocksOfficial
    @MicahRocksOfficial Před 4 lety +32

    Ordered one for my office as a practice amp several months ago. I'm happy to see so many positive reviews on it. (Still waiting on mine) - Micah's dad

    • @DKLabs99
      @DKLabs99 Před 3 lety +3

      Several months ago??????

    • @klashy47
      @klashy47 Před 3 lety +2

      @@DKLabs99 prob pre order

  • @le_th_
    @le_th_ Před 3 lety +29

    There is no better time in HISTORY to be starting to learn to play guitar. WOW!

    • @timrobinson9192
      @timrobinson9192 Před 2 lety +2

      In fact, no better time to be into anything. Tech is awesome 👍👍👍☮☮☮

    • @johnston.scott64
      @johnston.scott64 Před 2 lety +1

      Yeah, there was. When I was as a kid you get a Marshall 1959 50 watt head for 300 bucks. A Fender Strat for 400, and the Gibson LP for 900.

    • @le_th_
      @le_th_ Před 2 lety +4

      @@johnston.scott64 The inflation calculator says that back in 1959 $400 was the equivalent to $3, 360.67 today.
      Back in 1959, $900 was the equivalent to $8,460.84.
      So, unless you were being facetious, I'm confused by your statement? lol I can't imagine that you don't have at least a basic grasp on inflation?

    • @johnston.scott64
      @johnston.scott64 Před 2 lety

      There's an off-handed remark about this stupid video. But if you want to take it seriously, a good old-fashioned bike bump will handle a 2-ton car, $12
      95. But maybe your mommy didn't put your big pants clothes on you yet.

    • @le_th_
      @le_th_ Před 2 lety +3

      @@johnston.scott64 Do you often PROJECT your mommy-issues nto total strangers who you believe have delivered a narcissistic injury to your uber fragile ego?
      You so blatantly tell on yourself...and your own issues....by what you so desperately, and openly, project onto others. smh

  • @Brownalebelly
    @Brownalebelly Před 2 lety

    This is so helpful! Thank you so much for this. Great job.

  • @claudiajay8291
    @claudiajay8291 Před 3 lety +56

    This makes learning all the pedals and the amps much faster.

    • @ArneWidding
      @ArneWidding Před 3 lety

      It most definitely does not! As a beginner all the tones and options will overwhelm and discourage! You’ll spend more time trying to figure it out and selecting a tone than you will actually practicing...

    • @jeremiahgarcia4228
      @jeremiahgarcia4228 Před 3 lety +5

      @@ArneWidding I strongly disagree. As a beginner myself :)
      And with friends who were just starting out I recommended this to them and they all loved it.

    • @glo2ube786
      @glo2ube786 Před 3 lety +2

      Claudia Baby I totally agree with you! I have been waiting for my spark sooooo long I have obtained an online electronics degree and have completed the assembly of my first four amps and built dozens of pedal kits. And have yet to receive my spark. The good thing is I can repair it myself.

    • @jamessteele3093
      @jamessteele3093 Před 2 lety +1

      @@ArneWidding that's happens when you can't get the tone you want on a regular amp

  • @Mistymountainventuresllc
    @Mistymountainventuresllc Před 4 lety +6

    I just received my Spark today and so far ABSOLUTELY love it! Its a must buy for practicing.

    • @oldrrocr
      @oldrrocr Před 4 lety

      glad that someone is getting them...when did you order it?

    • @shaununger8092
      @shaununger8092 Před 3 lety

      @@oldrrocr I just got mine in and it took about 6 months to get to me, however I had another amp to plate with in the meantime so the wait wasnt that big a deal to me

  • @mrlongtree
    @mrlongtree Před 3 lety

    Great review, way more detailed and informative than any other review of this amp.

  • @dennisneo1608
    @dennisneo1608 Před 3 lety +1

    I like how it actually shows which chords you're playing over; something my Boss JS10 cannot do.

  • @maxt4803
    @maxt4803 Před 4 lety +8

    The intro gets me every time on this channel!

  • @MrSchism
    @MrSchism Před 3 lety +8

    Had one come in for a minor repair. Got to hear it first hand.
    Damn impressive.

  • @michaelanzalone4305
    @michaelanzalone4305 Před 3 lety +1

    I just got my Spark last week. Was waiting since March 18, but we’ll worth the wait. It is everything Darrell exhibited in this video. Really nice amp and features. Great job Darrell.

    • @benallmark9671
      @benallmark9671 Před 3 lety

      I agree, the only complaint I have as of yet is there is way too base tone coming from the cabinet itself

  • @pnass1
    @pnass1 Před 3 lety

    I ordered mine on March 15, 2020 and received it July 30, 2020. It was well worth the wait. The amp exceeded my expectations. I am using it for my electroacoustic and my electric guitar. Thank you for the review!

  • @Zingo1988
    @Zingo1988 Před 4 lety +3

    Thanks for this! Makes me really want one of these. Hopefully they’ll be more plentiful in the next few months

  • @luigizanellato2959
    @luigizanellato2959 Před 2 lety +8

    Compared to the older practice amps, the Spark is just badass! I love it for practicing at home. The options and tones are very solid, it has a lot of smart features, and the guitars still sing out with ease. I highly recommend the Spark! Smaller venues w/mike/PA, I think you could get away with it live. Cool review. 🎸

    • @Zelleram55
      @Zelleram55 Před rokem

      I heard a guy play one live at a small club miked into PA. I wanted to like it but Tone was uninspiring. As soon as he started playing, I thought that’s not a tube amp, then I started paying attention to his rig…. If I am seeing someone live I think part of the magic is hearing a real tube amp, just me though…

  • @jque35ify
    @jque35ify Před 3 lety

    I bought the spark after I watched this review last week. It was delivered to me one week later. This little thing is awesome, not one regret. Thank you!

  • @jeremybeals5134
    @jeremybeals5134 Před 3 lety +1

    Great review! I’ve been very curious about these but I can’t find too many reviews that are unbiased.

  • @autocrow
    @autocrow Před 3 lety +3

    Best review I've seen. Playing one would be the only way to get a better understanding of the amp. I thought you HAD to use a phone to use the amp, but that's not the case. Thanks for sharing!

  • @drdoomecj
    @drdoomecj Před 4 lety +42

    This is perfect, I've literally been looking at this like everyday for the last few months

    • @thcpostv
      @thcpostv Před 4 lety +16

      Order now for Christmas delivery

    • @xeicv
      @xeicv Před 4 lety +7

      @@thcpostv Delivery times from now expected to be April 2021.

    • @knowledgeking6730
      @knowledgeking6730 Před 4 lety +3

      Lol listen to the first guy

    • @carlbradley4872
      @carlbradley4872 Před 4 lety +1

      @@thcpostv Right? We ALL should have gotten the deal with the 'phones and bag for $250 in March!

    • @mikegogel78
      @mikegogel78 Před 4 lety +3

      It'll be worth the wait if you don't mind it

  • @scottblair8625
    @scottblair8625 Před 3 lety +2

    What a great piece of kit! I'm not ready yet for this much options. But I will be looking forward to the day.
    Was funny CZcams cut your show for a Spark add! LOL

  • @reviewforthetube6485
    @reviewforthetube6485 Před rokem +1

    They really have something special here the amps sound so good even the tiny one!

  • @mynews
    @mynews Před 4 lety +4

    Ordered it before it was released. I think November 2019. I believe it was supposed to ship in February. Then Covid etc. It showed up May 15th, on my birthday. I think this is really great value, I expected it might be a little tinny, but as you can see it has a lot of Bass. The Bluetooth speaker sound is not as good as the amp sound but usable. It can be just enjoyed as a stand alone amp even without all the other great features. I really love it. I feel this company is totally trying to offer something great here. Any other company would try to lock you into some monthly subscription fee.
    The price is also quite a bit less than $300.

  • @mrcyde
    @mrcyde Před 3 lety +12

    I have to say, I love the Rush riffs. Especially since he's Canadian 😁

  • @d880f3
    @d880f3 Před 3 lety

    Your video pushed me over the edge! Ordered last Friday, got it Tuesday, took me about an hour to learn to love it!

  • @franckee55trucmuche92
    @franckee55trucmuche92 Před 3 lety

    thank you so much darell.i receveid mine yesterday and your tuto is a really good help...i always like your channel...take care..

  • @airgliderz
    @airgliderz Před 4 lety +13

    Excellent honest trusted review, makes my buyers remorse go away for the spark I ordered last month. My wife, un-benounced to me, sold my POS Champion practice amp. My wife used to work for Fenders world headquarters in Scottsdale AZ, she got me a drop dead gorgeous custom shop strat in 1990...We have Xmass cards from Hendrix family and other cool things from her Fender days.. Played it terribly every 6 months or so since 1990. During covid19 working from home I picked it back up again, watched a ton of you tube videos and started practicing every day with it plugged into my audiophile 200 watts per channel high end stereo as my amp... Sounds great clean but no high gain or much distortion... Plus generates a lot of heat and not at all portable with 200 pounds of huge.. With adapter cables cobbled together to connect my guitar. So I bought spark a month ago, waiting for delivery late this month, early next month? well worth the wait. Like a fine wine.

    • @bobbyb6053
      @bobbyb6053 Před 4 lety +1

      Propably gonna be more like 3-4 months.

    • @TheChicagoTodd
      @TheChicagoTodd Před 4 lety

      You're going to enjoy it when you get it!

    • @MrYatesj1
      @MrYatesj1 Před 4 lety

      Get a blues Jr man, portable tube amp with versatility for days

    • @tamsinmccormick
      @tamsinmccormick Před 4 lety

      Never mind pick a month .... Pick a year !!

    • @airgliderz
      @airgliderz Před 4 lety

      @@MrYatesj1 does far less for far more money and less watts. Nope, not wasting my money, yes it's a good amp and sounds good but very limited tones and very limited cool features, its place but not for me at $400, not comparable, in different class.

  • @listen2articles962
    @listen2articles962 Před 3 lety +11

    The smart jam is for when you play a riff or a song and it will build a backing track for you

  • @zdream720
    @zdream720 Před 3 lety

    Thanks for showing the software! Everyone always twiddles on the phone without showing the app or screen. Great review!

  • @ChristopherGrech123
    @ChristopherGrech123 Před 3 lety +2

    A great review, I bought one immediately after watching this review. This amp is amazing, the best thing for me is the tone cloud, It can find the guitar sound for any song and play the backing track too.

  • @icenic_wolf
    @icenic_wolf Před 3 lety +13

    I ordered one the day I saw this video (usually I'm immune to this, but... not this time, lol). It just showed up, and I'm STOKED.

  • @suttersgoldntouch
    @suttersgoldntouch Před 3 lety +7

    Wow, ordered in January and received it July 15th. The amp is like Darrell states, a fantastic learning tool. Have to admit it is worth the wait. I know I will put much more time in my music creations. I now have a jam buddy and a guitar instructor for a one time investment of under $300.00. Highly recommend to anyone at any level. Thank you Mr Braun for the quick and tickling demo. You are are an inspiration to every guitar lover. wls

  • @azjd6158
    @azjd6158 Před 3 lety

    Darrell, thanks for another great video. I wish I'd have watched this 3 weeks ago when you put it up and I bookmarked it. I just watched it and purchased a Spark today. They promise shipping in 5-7 days . . . . what they don't tell you is it takes over 2 weeks to ship, LOL. No worries, I can practice relearning the guitar for the next 3 weeks without getting distracted by such a shiny new toy! It'll also give me time to set up my first playlist of songs I want to (re) learn. Really enjoy your channel!

  • @cherylforbes2794
    @cherylforbes2794 Před 3 lety

    Thanks for the review. I was just going to ask about this amp😁👍

  • @rickleefs
    @rickleefs Před 3 lety +6

    I had to wait 6 months for it and I was royally pissed about that... but now that I have it I'm in love. I'm practicing twice as much because it's such a joy to play through. BTW... it sounds much better through headphones.

  • @onesappleone
    @onesappleone Před 3 lety +44

    I finally got my Spark amp after ordering it in mid April. After playing with it for two days these are my initial impressions. I wasn't really bothered by the three month wait since I knew up front that was what to expect.
    I first tried it as a blue tooth speaker for songs on CZcams on my phone. It connected and worked as expected. Then I plugged in my Strat and PRS Custom 22 and tried the preset tones, and EQ and effects adjustments. I was actually surprised at how good it sounded. Maybe I wasn't expecting much based on my past experience with digital amps but I was really impressed. It almost sounded as good as some of my Fender tube amps.
    I tried the create-a-jam with a simple chord progression and it worked as expected based on CZcams videos. I was not expecting a lot from the smart jam function. But I was really surprised at how many song backings in different genres were available and how good they sounded. Playing along with them required some tweaking of volumes, EQs, etc. to balance the guitar with the overall mix.
    Up to now, my experience with digital amp tones created by users have been mostly not so good. I tried about a dozen different tones and liked every one of them, although, for different styles of music. Some of them were tones I would not have tried myself. But they actually inspired me to explore different things with my guitar that I would have not normally thought of.
    Now for the negatives: The blue tooth connections seem to be very finicky. I had to repeatedly delete and re-install my I-pad to get it to connect. One time, the backing track played through the amp but the tones and adjustments didn't. It seemed like the blue tooth music playing and tone access and adjustments are on two different circuits making it tricky to get them to both work at the same time. When all the blue tooth connections worked, in my opinion, the amp was amazing and a joy to play with. Adjusting the guitar volume was odd since there were three different controls, "gain", "master", and "output". Volume control was not necessarily linear with the amount of adjustment inputs. Also, sometimes an adjustment in volume had an unexpectedly large impact that some effects, such as modulation, had on the tone of the guitar in the mix. The extent of this phenomenon depended on which tone was being used at the time.
    Saving tones to my I-pad and to the four presets in the amp worked as expected. It would be much better if the amp had more than just four presets. It would also be nice if the volume control for the music from external devices was not so small.
    Overall, considering this amp costs only $225.00, is digital and has 4 inch speakers, it sounds great. And, when combined with the I-pad app, the overall experience is amazing. Another plus is the app graphics making it easy and fun to use. I would have loved to have this amp when I was a young teenager learning how to play guitar. But back then, there wasn't even the internet or digital amps.

    • @nickm.9474
      @nickm.9474 Před 3 lety +4

      All the same experiences here. I really do have a lot of fun with this amp.

    • @seanmarsh9458
      @seanmarsh9458 Před 3 lety

      Spot on, exact same pros and cons on mine. The whole works for 10 minutes then loses connection and then fails to reconnect can get a bit annoying. Can’t really beat the price though.

    • @Ricovette
      @Ricovette Před 3 lety

      Thanks Base! Your comment convinced me to go ahead and sell my DigiTech iPB-10 and purchase the SPARK. I've been undecided for the past six months, but I think it's time now. Thanks again... Stay safe... Rico

    • @PeterSellers22
      @PeterSellers22 Před 3 lety

      Thanks for taking the time to post this, really helped. Best wishes

  • @clarkbabin9799
    @clarkbabin9799 Před 3 lety

    I used the link when I saw you do this review got mine on july 31,2020. About two months after I watched. So far so good.

  • @virgomonkey68
    @virgomonkey68 Před 3 lety

    Thanks for a to the point short demo...ordered for Christmas 🎄 ...

  • @SteveParkes-Sparko
    @SteveParkes-Sparko Před 2 lety +8

    I ordered mine yesterday from Amazon - and it arrived today!!
    It’s a wonderful piece of kit! If you’re going to get a practice amp, get one that’s fit for purpose… this has far more features than I shall ever use!

  • @anotherheadlessdemo
    @anotherheadlessdemo Před 3 lety +14

    Hi Darrell - One thing I haven't seen anyone talk about is using headphones with this amp. Are there stereo effects while using headphones (delay, chorus, reverb)? Thanks for all the great demos!

  • @actionpotato
    @actionpotato Před 3 lety

    Well, you've never lead me astray so far and after some thinking and waiting, I finally followed your link and pulled the trigger on it. Can't wait to get my hands on it.

    • @actionpotato
      @actionpotato Před 3 lety

      @Logan Bodine I did. And its now the only amp I use at home (I have a NUX that I just throw in the car because its easy). I'm selling my Blackstar ID core 40 and Mustang to various people. I really like how you can keep 4 presets saved so you don't have to mess with the app every time. Its now $249 so I might pick up a second one so I can ditch the NUX. I don't really play live gigs anymore so I can't tell you if it's good for that but I'm blown away by this little thing.

  • @matthewmorrison1431
    @matthewmorrison1431 Před 2 lety

    Looks like so much fun, thanks for the video

  • @KUM0
    @KUM0 Před 4 lety +495

    Ordered mine in 1964, still "in transit"

    • @Tiago_007
      @Tiago_007 Před 4 lety +11

      KUM0 Exactly...not a very good first impression so far.

    • @bobwarner8515
      @bobwarner8515 Před 4 lety +2

      HAHA!

    • @dale287807
      @dale287807 Před 4 lety +7

      Just got the lucky in transit message got me hyped for a day or two...stallllllliiiinnngggggg

    • @spencerloades3114
      @spencerloades3114 Před 4 lety +3

      Me too....let’s see🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

    • @houston90125
      @houston90125 Před 4 lety +6

      That is funny! 😎👽 (The 1964 part, not the in transit part!) Mines in transit but I think that just means it is ready to get on the ship from China. Still has to clear customs!

  • @Bartisoft
    @Bartisoft Před 4 lety +7

    Nice review. So many things in just one piece of equipment !!. Maybe in a near future...you won't need a guitar anymore :O
    BTW...that intro...omg I love it !!...super badass !!. You should totally do a tutorial/lesson to play that intro. It rocks !!

  • @820hurleyj
    @820hurleyj Před 2 lety

    Thanks for the demo. Looks pretty legit!

  • @oneswolleboi7323
    @oneswolleboi7323 Před 7 měsíci +2

    I started guitar six months ago with the Spark Mini by my side. It kicks ass and doesn’t bother to take names. So so so SO many tone and the tone cloud opens up so many possibilities. The portability is amazing helps so much and it’s loud.
    If you’re starting out/ don’t have hundreds of dollars for pedals, getting any Spark is the right move.

  • @AlexVonCrank
    @AlexVonCrank Před 3 lety +86

    Darrell picks Funky drummer vs rock drummer to jam with, proceeds to play rock riff and then says the software didn’t quite get it right😂😂 Good review though👍🏽😂😂

    • @krf3064
      @krf3064 Před 3 lety +14

      It’s always the drummer’s fault.

    • @AlexVonCrank
      @AlexVonCrank Před 3 lety +1

      @@krf3064 ain’t that the truth!!

  • @SirVicc
    @SirVicc Před 4 lety +49

    When it was analyzing your chords, you picked the funky girl and not the rock guy. That's why she adapted it to the funky rhythm.

    • @nehemiahzo_
      @nehemiahzo_ Před 3 lety

      He was testing what it would do if he did that, he did it on purpose

    • @bliffblam
      @bliffblam Před 3 lety +4

      @@nehemiahzo_ no he didn't...he specifically said" I dont know why it gave me this funky rythm"
      it's because he was on the funky rhythm girl!

  • @olly7248
    @olly7248 Před 2 lety

    Amazing review, thanks for doing this 👍🏻

  • @1200rexer
    @1200rexer Před 2 lety

    I have looked at buying a spark amp since they first came out well i ordered one today from positive grid and now i have seen your vid i cant wait to try it out thanks for taking the time to review the amp Darrell

  • @Ilitan004
    @Ilitan004 Před 3 lety +162

    Got a Spark ad before the vid haha

  • @chrislamaster3816
    @chrislamaster3816 Před 3 lety +5

    Elevated jam tracks FTW 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

  • @gertjanboot5535
    @gertjanboot5535 Před rokem +2

    Got this Amp now for two years and it is fantastic , it delivers!! I recommend it to be honest because it is great FUN!

    • @yungpxee6975
      @yungpxee6975 Před rokem

      man I’m really thinking about purchasing it as a practice amp! just one question, is the tonecloud free or does it come with like an additional payment?

  • @paulalld
    @paulalld Před rokem +1

    I liked these practice amps so much I bought one for myself and my grandson. They really are loaded with all manner of goodies. I am hoping my grandson takes off with this and learns quickly all the features and functions.

  • @williamphillips3036
    @williamphillips3036 Před 3 lety +5

    Ordered early January and received in the mail today. So far I'm impressed. Now has a two year warranty.

    • @rlarsen4562
      @rlarsen4562 Před 3 lety

      I found the apology from the PG CEO to be sincere. He backed up his words by doubling the warranty. Two years is a long warranty. I have no idea where the company is though.

  • @popollo22
    @popollo22 Před 3 lety +10

    I got mine in 2 weeks, thankfully I didn’t decide to learn guitar until after they sorted out all that.

  • @HORSETHIEFKID
    @HORSETHIEFKID Před 3 lety +1

    I love Positive Grid and utilize their products in my studio more often than most others...i recently had a great experience with live and text customer service snd the problems were solve and even though primarily my own fault, the rep was responsive ,polite, and got me situated promptly, unlike watching smoke pour out of one of my vintage Marshall amps and having to explain to a client that it might be a while for the repairs. I was back to recording in no time at all

  • @kylemcdearmont
    @kylemcdearmont Před 3 lety

    ordered mine in April, arrived today. I love it

  • @braddietzmusic2429
    @braddietzmusic2429 Před rokem +6

    A friend took this to (drummerless) practice last night. It did well enough. I asked him a simple yet critical question, and only one question: “Does it inspire you to play?”
    The answer was: “Yes”.
    I’ll put it on my to-buy list, and possibly sooner rather than later.

  • @ricksundstrom4232
    @ricksundstrom4232 Před 4 lety +21

    A friend of mine has really been wanting one of these. I'll have to show him this video!

    • @melvynobrien6193
      @melvynobrien6193 Před 4 lety +1

      Show him in four or five months. LOL. This company is doing serious damage to itself with all the delays.

    • @44scoots
      @44scoots Před 3 lety +5

      mel obrien don’t agree at all!!! “They’re backordered? Dam they must be good! I want one!” Not a bad review of them out there. 🤷🏽‍♂️

    • @nealdewar9959
      @nealdewar9959 Před 3 lety

      @@44scoots Back ordered?? I haven't heard that one before??? Mmm. Meanwhile there's someone sitting without an amp they paid for & could have bought a Katana or Mustang. Back ordered 🤔🤔🤔🤔

    • @44scoots
      @44scoots Před 3 lety

      @@nealdewar9959 you haven't heard they're back ordered? Wow, its all over the internet/youtube. Oh well, save your money and buy a Roland Blues Cube Hot 30.

    • @nealdewar9959
      @nealdewar9959 Před 3 lety +1

      @@44scoots Thanks I already got a Fender gt40 I got in a swap. It serves my purposes.

  • @onilbanerjee
    @onilbanerjee Před 2 měsíci

    Excellent review, thank you. Very helpful.

  • @gregorybarilla9004
    @gregorybarilla9004 Před 3 lety +1

    I'm currently using the Spark as a laptop speaker and practice amp. I have a Blackstar ID:Core next to it that sees almost as much use. In my opinion, both deliver. Just know that the purchase price does not get you all the effects. Additional downloads are required for a fee. But, for less than buying numerous pedals. Thumbs up for both.

  • @willyck948
    @willyck948 Před 4 lety +24

    15:22 into the video
    Awsome options
    British 30 instantly reminded me of the song Working Man by Rush🤘

  • @Im-a-Fool
    @Im-a-Fool Před 4 lety +8

    Being a devoted BIAS FX customer, I was given am early bird opportunity when it was first announced, upon placing the order It prompted that the early bird opportunity expired and price jumped to an additional 50 dollars. I thought that was kind of BS move. Long story short I ended up buying the Yamaha THR10ii very happy I did, as by the looks of things I would have still been waiting for it.

    • @garettoverstreet
      @garettoverstreet Před 4 lety +3

      You made the right call on the amp choice too, as I'm sure you've realized by now.

  • @harry8097
    @harry8097 Před 3 lety

    I want one! Saw an add for this, but not familiar. So of course I look for reviews, and happy to see Darrell has done one. Really trust your opinion!

  • @thomasstengel7356
    @thomasstengel7356 Před 3 lety +2

    The Spark amp is FANTASTIC for practicing. Especially when you get about halfway to nailing a song. Queue up the track in the app and play along. The 1/2 speed is, IMO, not worth it unless it's an exceedingly difficult segment that you're trying to nail as the sound gets a bit muddled. But the 80% speed is really damn good. Plus, getting a song under your fingers, in tune, along with the original track, for me anyway, makes me feel like I'm actually getting close to achieving something. I had an old Tasco CD player years ago that allowed me to adjust the tempo of the tracks and the Spark does it far better. Plus, you can hear it all through the one source either through headphones or the speaker. For me, that alone is worth the price of the amp. The fact that it has thousands of tones is a huge, double layer of icing on the cake. For the price, I'd be really hard pressed to think of a better tool for helping you take that next step if it's with a particular song or with having a really versatile gadget to get you excited about sitting down and putting in the time to practice. The functionality is insane for the price. As Mr. Braun said, there are better sounding options for the price but, IMO, not better tools for improving your play. You can pry my Spark from my cold, dead hands.

  • @halftag15
    @halftag15 Před 3 lety +3

    I got mine! I also got the bag with it. This thing is so awesome I'm not even going to go into it. But I will tell you it was very well packaged, and worth the wait!

    • @fiendswithbenefits6784
      @fiendswithbenefits6784 Před 3 lety

      Is it pretty loud? And can you plug it into a bigger amp or cab?

    • @halftag15
      @halftag15 Před 3 lety +1

      @@fiendswithbenefits6784 it's practice amp loud. And I don't know, I haven't tried.

    • @rezn8er464
      @rezn8er464 Před 3 lety

      @@fiendswithbenefits6784 no you can't plug in a cab.....sounds good though. Loud enough for practice and driving the wife insane.

  • @bajatheeaddict4535
    @bajatheeaddict4535 Před 3 lety +4

    it's really impressive how much more this offers compared to the jamstack amp for only 70 dollars more. this is a rightcheous purchase to make

  • @robcourtnall5332
    @robcourtnall5332 Před 3 lety

    Darrell! Love you channel so much! Such a great review!
    You did too good of a job reviewing this Darrell. I bought a GT100 and Boss Katana, because at the time, they were great for what they do, even loving tubes and a pedal board. I not only want a Positive Grid Spark, but I think I will beg them, when I order, to make a Katana like amp next and/or a floor processor like a GT100/PodHD500X. They almost steam rolled, what was great, in many, all in one. Part what is great in the Fender Mustang, Line 6, Vox Valvetronix etc and take the backing tracks and kill them in Digitech and Zoom. Software is there already. They hit this out of the park in my humble opinion. The front manual knobs/layout is so similar to my Katana and kind of Roland Cube “ish”, also kind of Vox Modelling amp “ish”.
    They pretty much nailed it and so did you Darrell! Wow! Not making the others irrelevant, but they killed it! Your review fast was just awesome! I usually restrain posts, try to, but you are just too damn good Darrell!
    In the Peg, you know what I mean, lucky to have Brian here, as a teacher/tech to teach both (replaced Bachman in Guess Who, when left to create BTO and other friends, so talented, BUT, I suck).
    Just when everything is good, I check in to watch some of your videos and they are great and a review of something I wish I had before.
    Sorry for many posts! Your fault Darrell! You are too damn good!
    All the best!
    Being a Canuck, Amazon is my route , but have to talk to these people!

  • @petervad
    @petervad Před 3 lety

    great review Darrell, thanks!

  • @jimferry4751
    @jimferry4751 Před 3 lety +7

    Got mine on sale and was delivered in less than a week. This is a fun little amp and can't stop messing with it. Kinda like band in a box meets small amp. Sounds great as Bluetooth speaker.

    • @benallmark9671
      @benallmark9671 Před 3 lety

      You don’t find it really deep though , like all most muffled ?

    • @jimferry4751
      @jimferry4751 Před 3 lety +1

      @@benallmark9671 Yes after I played it a bit. Sold it and picked up the Yamaha THR30

    • @benallmark9671
      @benallmark9671 Před 3 lety

      @@jimferry4751 so how do you like that , do you recommend it ?

    • @jimferry4751
      @jimferry4751 Před 3 lety +1

      @@benallmark9671 Yes 100%. I got the line 6 wireless with it. The tone is fantastic. Nice chimney cleans and extreme overdrive. Has an app to change up the cab simulator and it has a all the effects. I would swear it was a tube amp.

  • @smokingtarheel3003
    @smokingtarheel3003 Před 4 lety +68

    I've been enjoying my Spark for several months now after waiting for months. Timing is everything. I got in early and feel badly for those who have been waiting. I knew going in that it was like a "crowdfunding" thing. Covid-19 hit hard for those who bought after I did. Positive Grid's supply chain and logistics were affected by the virus. It's not a scam in my opinion. The product is everything and then some for the price. Darrell, your review couldn't have been any better. This is a great practice option.

    • @ummmokay6246
      @ummmokay6246 Před 4 lety +1

      I knew it was a wait because of covid...and im okay with it...this thing has too many functions to pass up...

    • @ianmitchell-gill7393
      @ianmitchell-gill7393 Před 4 lety +5

      You articulate it well. I bought it in March. That is NOT good timing. As of June 22, nothing has arrived. Not a scam, just a symptom of a global pandemic. What are you gonna do?

    • @notedmastrmind
      @notedmastrmind Před 4 lety

      I ordered mine the first week of April. Almost three months now, and still no update as to when it will ship. While waiting for this I have bought a Fender M80, a couple pedals, and another guitar. I check Positive Grid's website for updates weekly, but they don't post updates very frequently. Not giving up on my order, but I hope this lives up to all the hype. Haven't seen a bad review.

    • @jonnorris4204
      @jonnorris4204 Před 4 lety

      @@notedmastrmind I ordered mine in March and Positive Grid sends me email updates. The ETA for me is now early July.

    • @brianmullaghan5895
      @brianmullaghan5895 Před 4 lety

      Ordered mid November still nothing!
      \

  • @MatthewCascio
    @MatthewCascio Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks Darrell. Mine arrived a couple days ago and I learned a few things from your video still. FWIW I got no complaints except I find the smart jam feature disappointing - as it seemed you did too. Dave and Sharon don’t cut it for me 😃 I’m hoping that’s an area software updates can expand in the future with some improved/additional virtual band mates . Enjoy all!

  • @mobilestew9294
    @mobilestew9294 Před 3 lety +2

    I got mine today! Despite some people having shipping problems with this company, I got mine in a week from ordering it. I live in Canada so I'm very impressed!

  • @seandwyerauthor
    @seandwyerauthor Před 4 lety +5

    Yes, I waited 5 months. I did get email updates irregularly. I realized there was no point in trying to get my "Late Adopter" (not what it was called) order bumped up when many others had jumped in ahead of me. For perspective, I tried in April to order a left-handed acoustic for a friend, and Guitar Center is backordered on the cheap one I want until July 25. So, in these times, I don't get freaked out. Even a guitar strap I ordered is backordered. Back to the amp: I paid $200, plus $120 for the Elite upgrade to the BIAS FX 2 app. Same price as three pedals, and since I am no genius about how to create specific tones, having a palette to listen to so I can choose the amp, pedals, and such that sound good to me, I would never be able to reproduce these sounds without dishing out thousands of dollars. I learned quickly that the headphone jack serves well as an output from the amp to my mixing board. The four hardware presets are satisfying for starters, and the Tone Cloud--it's insane. So many big-name sounds are available there. I haven't found Jimi or Brian yet, but I've had the amp two days. I may never leave my room again. If this type of gear had been available when I was 16, I would have had the motivation to learn this instrument and make amazing music with it. Now I am realizing it's never too late. Bottom line: How long does it take to get a Tesla after you order it? How about a stupid cheap lefty acoustic for a beginner? I do agree that they are messing up by not putting time into telling people how to know when they can expect their amp. But knowing what I know now, I would wait another year for it. It's a wondrous item, absolutely the next step for any but the most hard-core, established guitarists with lots of hardware already in place and tweaked to perfection. Don't let delays in China and in shipping from the virus get you down. After all, when it shows up, you'll have something to do in lockdown, now that the numbers are surging again. Sending you all good vibes in hopes that you're part of the next batch of deliveries. You deserve a reward for your patience.

    • @EnergyPimps
      @EnergyPimps Před 4 lety

      Indeed. Hey lefty, lefty here. I’m waiting on mine, I’m gonna hang in. I’ve been building my pedalboard in the meantime.

  • @russellnewton6660
    @russellnewton6660 Před 3 lety +321

    They’re so popular, Jimmy Hendrix is still waiting for his.

  • @tubescreamer01
    @tubescreamer01 Před 3 lety

    I have the Spark for two weeks now. You are totally right. Awesome learnig tool. Fun to play. And noboby stumbles over my pedal board in the living room any longer.