@@padmad3832 I use it with the spark cab and it sounds awesome. Really freaking good. Again, the eq has to be set which takes away the ability to use other effects pedals like chorus, flanger etc. (it'd be nice if the eq had it's own separate category on the chain)./
Sounds great for what it is! There is also a limited time upgrade offer for anyone who already has the original Spark 40, just need to register the original one on their site to get it. Thank you for confirming that I made the right choice in doing so. I have seen some complaints in various places about the battery being an extra cost, BUT, I think that is the best way to go. If instead they simply included it as a built in, non-optional battery, then they would have to raise the price. Then, all the people who don't have any need for battery power would still be paying extra for something they don't even want. This way if you need it you can get it, but if you don't you aren't paying extra for it.
Well, they’ve already raised the price… and talking about the upgrade offer, a lot of teasing for 20 Canadian bucks difference between 1 (full price) and 2 (limited time upgrade offer) !
I'd love to take advantage of the available deal and save a few nickels, but sadly I won't be doing so. Since their most recent updates, neither my Spark nor my Spark Mini will connect the control interface to either my Android phone or my iPad. It does connect audio, so I can jam along with practice tracks, youtube, etc. However, I am currently stuck with the four presets I have as I cannot modify or change them in the app. I've written to them about it and posted in their forum, but so far, not a peep. A bit disappointed here.
Yeah I've been trying to pre-order for several days. I bought the original spark on pre-order. But apparently somebody else registered my serial number, and their support has failed to get back to me. Literally had the unit for 4 years now random serial numbers Superior Vision require you to take a picture of the QR tag as proof that you own the unit
I have the spark 40, mini, and the Go and they are all really great. The one feature I wanted that they didn't have was the looper, so the spark 2 is pretty neat now that it comes with a looper. Thanks Elmo for the demo/review/comments on this! Great playing as always
I had the Spark 1 for less than 24 hours. The speakers were awful even for a practice amp when compared to my little Marshall DFX30. It also buzzed like hell so I had to plug in a USB cable to remove the buzz. I'm hoping the 2.0 is a better attempt at what should have been a cool concept.
Yes, I received my Spark 2 and was able to use it for a week and a half. Went to use it and couldn’t get it to power on at all. I filled out the form for customer support. It took about a week to hear from them. without doing any troubleshooting on it. It started working. I put in a formal request to send it back for a replacement or a new one. I have sent it back to PG. It’s about a week,I have not heard any word from them.
Thanks for the review, i have the original Spark (and i don't care about the looper) so in my case i don't see enough reason to upgrade (besides, the new one is a couple centimeters taller and doesn't fit in my desk), one thing i noticed is that they still have the graphic EQ in the same slot as the modulation fx so you can't run modulation and EQ at the same time, i hope they fix that in the future.
you are one of the few guys who reviewed the Hotone Pulze as well. Aside from the feature differences, How does this compare to that? Which do you prefer and why?
How does this compare to Hotone Pulze? At the moment I have a spark 1 and a Yamaha thr 10 ii. The heavy distortion in the spark is so bad compared to the thr that I don't want go for this again. Also liked some deep delay in in hotone review so can't decide where to go next.
I was concerned with the muddy low end as well with the 40. When I learned they corrected it in the 40 2 and listened to a few YT reviews, I purchased. I'm a low end intermediate player. The versatility and options available I wouldn't feel comfortable purchasing that amount of equipment. The technology is way cool!
How can one complain the $269 spark doesn't sound as good as their 2k Mark V combo in the room? Also how does not wanting a Looper sound better than playing a great lead over a rhythm in time for yourself or to anyone else listening?
I’m torn btwn the Spark 2 & the Edge. I was leaning towards the Spark 2 because basically I just wanted a kick ass practice amp for guitar…but the Edge also appeals to me in case I want to dabble in vocals sometime in the future. 🤔
I broke my spark twice as a result of the crappy delicate power connector knocking against something and then damaging the socket. Instead of fixing it a second time, I bought a boss katana and it was a revelation in terms of clarity and it highlighted how muddy and bassy the spark was. Ideal amp for me would be the spark software with the katana hardware! I wonder......
Top video Elmo, I am trying to pluck up courage to start looping with a view to doing solo gigs - so obviously the looper feature is huge as a current Spark 40 owner. Your playing is amazing and i can tell ive made a good decision to upgrade already!
This upgrade is absolutely great in every way except for one MAJOR FAIL!! Apparently plugging into the new stereo/mono line out mutes the internal speakers in the same way plugging in headphones does. This is gobsmackingly weird. I mentioned this to positive Grid who replied "this is the normal way amps with line outs operate". Um.... NO IT'S NOT!!!
Is it me or all the profiles here sound the same? I've never listen other amp other than my orange 12c, so i wouldn't even know if the simulation is good or bad
In the limited reviews I have seen, it looks like the Spark 2 has eliminated a lot of the bass boominess that the Spark 40 had (could be managed using the software EQ settings, but required giving up the mod pedal slot to do so), so that's a significant upgrade from the 40.
I’m always very conflicted how I feel about these type of amps that rely heavily on an app. On one hand you get a lot of features for your money, without a load of messy cables but also a feature that you rely on can disappear overnight because of a bad app upgrade, or because the app stops getting updates. I probably still edge towards a simpler amp with just a few pedals but it’s a close call
Same here, having a small amp and a multi (ME-80/90) is more or less all I need. Throw in a DS or so pedal (RAT). Some want all-in-ones and buy the next thing five or years from now and some want "keepers", gear you at least can consider a keeper.
As far as I see it the Spark 2 only has presets. But the Spark 40 has a selection of amps on the amp (clean, glassy etc.). Seems more versatile to me and future proof when eventually in 10-15 years or so the apps might not work anymore. A Spark 2 which is all presets could be setup to the point of no return. Maybe not if there’s a factory reset possibility on the amp. But maybe the default presets on the Spark 2 are much the same like the Spark 40 so it doesn’t matter 😅.
Happy with my Spark Mini for the moment (budget conscious bedroom-beginner), but these look great fun. The smart jam sounds just as bad, but these amps do what they actually need to so well. Many thanks for the review.
Hey Elmo nice Test. It would be very interesting now to compare to Nux mighty Space that comes with Pedal and BT transmitter and the hotone pulze. I think that all this have the same format, but which is the best in tone or App cost or App usability or best all in One solution. I hate monthly app costs... what you mean??🙂
i have pre ordered mine from your link but with the problem of recovering my account, the choose of a pearl White, and to have make that purchase on 2 days...(family life with kids lol) i hope it has been registered for you too ! thank you !!
I know you don't like Blackstar ID Core but you tested it. Can You compare it to this spark? I am intrested only in quality of sound of those two. I am wondering if there is sense to change id core to spark. But I mean only te quality of sound not the features :)
I guess my question would be why should I choose the spark over a set of studio monitors and amp sim. I primarily play at my desk. So I need to check my options. I've been playing with IEMs and I'm looking to upgrade to a set of monitors maybe I can check the spark out. Elmo I have a question, perhaps you can do a video on it. I live in a country where we don't have a lot of guitar stores. I know people recommend you try out gear before buying but what if I don't have access to the shops. What is the next best thing. Can I trust reviews, how honest are reviews maybe you can provide insight on this. Cause in my case I have to buy my stuff online.
Since Spark came out, we’ve all been inching closer to replacing our current practice gear with one of Spark’s products! It’s just a matter of time. Your demo has really sold me on that future thanks! I have purchased other app-based products only to be disappointed by lack of tech support and latency with the floor pedal. I need a zero latency floor switching multi-pedal to meet my needs. I’ve invested hours in programming my Marshall Code but of course its strength is dirty. It would be nice to have a platform with good dirt and cleans with good foot switching. I’ll be waiting and watching for that demo!
Hi does it sound good at low volumes …say 60-70 db and what is the headphone volume like ? Some people complained on the spark 1 it was extremely low and poor ? Tnx
What can I say? That is a stunning price for an amazingly capable little amp. The battery option now puts it in the esteemed group of amps which may...that's may, not certainty...move me away from the mini-cube that I REALLY appreciate! Decisions, decisions...
I like looking to your videos because you indeed do honest reviews ... but we agree to disagree on that brand (and on others, i.e Yamaha THRs 😉as you truly mentioned it, every one has its own tastes), I own the Mini and the Go and never bought the spark 1 because I found it muddy in every demos I have seen ... But I bought this one during the early sale they've made (best price was 295 euros) based on videos of TH-camrs (like you and who received it also in advance) who made reviews of it. Seemed from their recordings that the muddy issue was almost gone and because that Spark do integrate a looper (which is not so often on practice amps and I really need one) I did not hesitate. But all recordings I have seen were made not on an open mic like you did but through an audio card and a DAW ... your recording suddenly is showing that muddy aspect that stopped me buying the spark 1 ... I hope this is not the case and that it will be great when I'll receive it mid September otherwise I am afraid I will need to sale it immediately ... Maybe, for approx. 50 euros more (regular price at the end of the early sale offer), I should have waited for your review but I was quite convinced you would not do it as usually you buy your own gears so you would not have had it before mid September (early delivery date for EU) ... but not for this one, for once you received it from the brand ... bad luck for me 😉
Hi, I was wondering if this amp (Spark v1/v2) could allow me to play in the street (not for a crowd of thousand people - well maybe later 😁 -, but with more power than to play in my flat :) ) ? I'm looking at it because the price is really not that expensive, I could use it with the electric guitar as well, there is a bag which would allow me to carry it on a bike (as I do with my AER compact 60 but it doesn't have any battery system... and the AER Compact mobile is by far more expensive and too heavy to be carried by bike) Thanks
I gave my spark mini to my son and am waiting for this thing to arrive. I think with with the slightly larger box and speaker arrangement, this thing sounds huge!!
Let’s hope so. Especially having to wait until mid October for it to arrive. My only thing is if it’s supposed to have all these AI features, etc. but they’re not even on there yet. How do we know they are going to be any good and why would they even release these to the public, without having these things already installed into the app. On my original Spark before I returned it I couldn’t even get Spotify to open up so I could play along. It was extremely frustrating and since I played Barrtown guitars and usually in drop. A# It really didn’t sound so great. I was considering getting this since it’s supposedly supposed to be better. You know pre-ordering it and what not. I’ve got the little mini right now, but my main reason for buying the 40 other than practicing for it is to use a splitter cable and run the amp into my interface so I’m able to record the sounds from the app into GarageBand or logic. Since I’m an iPad user/iOS. I’m pretty close to pre-ordering it but at the same time when are they actually supposed to hit stores because I would prefer to buy it from guitar Center so I can get a longer warranty on it
Did they solve the problem of not being able to use chorus and Eq at the same time? Solve the noise problems? (Saying it's a class D amp is a poor excuse). Did they add a DI out? Stop the weird sounds after it warms up for a couple hours.
Just to chime in regarding Elmo's final verdict , I know Positive Grid will be watching, the perfect thing would be. Spark mini with a power cord , so you could choose your power supply (battery , outlet) and celestion IRs built in , but that would be the double cross now
Damn, Why did they remove the physical knob for the amp model selection ??? I'd rather have that instead of the preset selector knob. So now you MUST use the app to select amp type... OR can the footswitch (more $$) do it?
I have the Spark 40 which I plan to sell. I pre-ordered the Spark 2. Getting it in late September. The problem I have is not with the Spark Amps, it's with the App. The changes/upgrades that I would like to see on the app is the addition of a Pitch Pedal. So many different songs are in Eb, D Standard, etc. Another feature I would like to see is the ability to switch pedals around the pedal chain. Some pedals sound better before the amp, and some sound better after it. Also, I would like the option of creating a set list folder, so when I gig I already have my presets made. I'm curious, I'm in the USA, New York City, how were you able to get the Amp so quickly? Oh well, I guess you guys need to demo it. Thank you for being honest, and for posting this.
I would prefer if it was a budget friendly pedalboard or amp head with all the knobs and XLR and or TRS outs plus an output for passive speaker/cambinet. No speakers included.
@@MrPolevaulter I think I'll go with the Spark 2 as it is more versatile with the footswitch and the cabinet. Could even gig with it if it comes to that in the future. Thanks for the vids, all of them!
Seems to be a good debate going on here, but it misses the point for me. Most people who’ve been playing for awhile and have enough of an ear to care are inevitably going to have a tube or other amp. I bought the Spark 1 when it first came out. What a disaster; if I have an hour I want to play my guitar, not futz around with gates, etc. I gave it away to a local music school and took a tax deduction:) But I bought the Mini recently to bring with me on a trip. What a pleasant surprise. Seems they worked out the bugs. It was so easy to set up. The AI app is amazing - just type in the name of a song or artist or describe the sound you want and…presto, it’ll give you a bunch of preconfigured presets. I tried 10 songs and got a good match each time. (On that score, way better than the Katana air or Yamaha THR).
@MrPolevaulter You mentioned taking the review with a pinch of salt. Celtic or table salt. I was thinking since they sent it you had to hold back. Celtic great.. Table not so much.
Have the spark amp myself. Great piece of practise gear. But nowmather settings the sound is a bit muffled. You dont get that in your face mids. Maybe they adressed this in the updated 2 version. Sounds good tough.
I had my katana air ex for just day, and I'm returning it. I was really confident it would be perfect for me, so I also bought the wireless ex-pedal and floorboard. I read some stuff about the app being bad, but how bad could it be? It's reeeeaaaly bad. I'm used to boss ecosystem and I'm very experienced with electronics and computers. But man this took me several hours to get to connect with each other, and if you leave your phone for a second, you have to connect again. Extremely boring sounds. Just not fun. I'm really considering the spark 2. Only thing I'm a little concerned about, is the fact that spark 2 has 4" speakers, when the katana has 5". Yeah, it has more wattage, but will it still sound good?
Thanks for reassuring me I did the right thing buying this even though I was weighing buying a used spark mini. Wanted the room for expansion and the FRFR.
@@journeytree thanks for the advice but what I want a practice amp that I can double as a Bluetooth speaker. The Spark 2 will be serving the same guitar role as my katana go but for use without headphones (I am old enough to have owned a tascam 4 track when they were still in production and I don’t like computers and plugins). I have 3 tube heads and 3 2x12 cabinets for when I want to be loud, and enough pedals to get the tones I want with them.
@@Rokken2Dokken Spark 2 probably will be fine but be weary if you do high gain. My Spark 40 collects dust compared to anything else I own because of the unusable low end that plagues most, if not all of the Spark lineup. All my Positive Grid products (Spark 40, Bias Amp, Bias Fx, Riff) collect dust. The quality reminds me of the earlier Line 6 Spider amps, and the limited signal chain options of the Spark amps are disappointing in my opinion. I know a lot of people are happy with the Spark, but also a lot of paid, biased, promotions for the Spark exist, and many people like myself have been disappointed with PG for a while.
@@journeytree thanks. Appreciate it. The only other option I have for low volume is plugging in my digital stuff to my computer speakers, which are way too subwoofery (and until I buy a home, I don’t have space for a second desk for music). The spark 2 doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be sound pretty good for 70-85 decibel volume levels. The FRFR design should address the woofy low end. The bonus is I can plug in my “direct” pedalboard into it (a different board than my 4 cable method tube amp board) and play at low volumes. If it’s still too woofy, I’ll come back and reply to this thread telling you that you were right.
I am still using flextone 2 from early 2000’s. Want to record some shorts with focusrite or other AI. Would this sound great to record with? Better than boss katana? Which I know you aren’t fan of haha.
I went for the earlybird special when the first one came out and it took eight months for them to deliver so no thanks lol when I received it it was just a noisy mess. They were shipping them without a grounded adapter. They literally sent me an adapter two months ago, so I was finally able to use my amp and now the spark two is out. They treat TH-camrs better than their actual customers. Other than that when I saw you were going to demo it I made sure to watch your reviews are the only ones I trust.😀
I am still debating to upgrade to the 2nd edition via the upgrade discount. I just checked I think I missed the window, bummer looks like i am sticking with the original I only got it in March.
Thanks for the review. Would you say it sounds darker than the spark mini? Then it would mean that the spark 2 is not so different from the 40 soundwise
I have the Spark 40; I really like it and will likely upgrade to the 2 for the added features. Question is, instead of selling the 40, what is it like to use the line out on the Spark 2 to the Spark 40? Can it "stack" (for lack of a better term) like to the Spark Cab??
I bought the Spark 2 50w and I've had it for under a week and it already has issues, I wouldn't recommend it. There is buzzing sounds whenever I play and the presets are absolutely horrible if you don't adjust them yourself and that takes a lot of time to get right, with anything overdriven it sounds horrible and I don't know why or what I'm doing wrong, If you only play clean tones then I guess it works but anything else it isn't good. There's just a constant fuzz coming out whenever I play any note.
Elmo's review with of the original Spark 40 with the unexpected backing track jam was hilarious! As always, Elmo's honesty is awesome. Audio tastes differ and the samples here show modest upgrade improvements.
I did get a spark mini, it is very good for what it is, but kinda disappointed in most of the high gain amps or "pushing" the amps with the built in tube screamer, sounds not great, reminds me of line6 pod.
@@laikainspace1 certainly, could be user error too. even my podxt can get some good sounds as long as you dont assume the amps are what they are etc, just dial it by ear
I only use the spark mini so I am not sure of how the controls work on the 40. If I choose lets say a reverb pedal from the software, the reverb knob will control how much of that effect will be applied to the sound? or the the physical reverb knob just adds on reverb if I just chose a clean amp with no effects
One thing people over look or sometime fail to mention IS - this SPARK can be used for a BASS so Serious Bass Players LOVE THEM also You have a good Guitar amp that does Bass you get and SX bass and for your own created backing tracks you do your own FUNKY BASS lines PRINCE ON BASS th-cam.com/video/LNG6Ai6jrkY/w-d-xo.html All reviews on SX base are that they are as Good as Fender or better but $300 th-cam.com/video/gKnS4EEMmdc/w-d-xo.html Laura Lee's Monster Minimal Khruangbin Bass Rig - plays one and SHE ROCKS IT One of these a $300 SX and you have a great BASS RIG and she can play BASS th-cam.com/video/b4IuHaV-N2E/w-d-xo.html
Could you do a review on the Jet-jt300 its Jets entry level tele style heard some good things about it and im looking foward to getting one, would be nice to see an unbiased review by you.
Aloha brattah Elmo.... Doesn't matter what you plug in to,. You always sound amazing.......... I'm still not very versed with apps technology so in my case I'm sticking with my Roland micro cube amp..... Very simple and turn of a knob... I do have a spark go brand new unopened in box.. I will now revisit and see if I can get a clean smooth jazz tone and a heavy metal 80s. Lynch type tones which would suit me and my simple needs.. Thank you for showing this video and igniting an interest in the spark amps.......
Î’ve had the spark for 3 years, never downloaded the app, hate that, don’t know how it works besides using it as a normal little amp directly with the knobs and it works fine. Also an awesome soundbox just for listening to my music, it is real loud and beats a marshall designed for playing music only.
You think it works well as a living room bluetooth speaker for listening to music and maybe streaming movies? I was wondering if it would do double duty like that
Check out the top 10 practice amps in the world: th-cam.com/video/giuHVTZvUgY/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Urvl4s5hZbLR7qkk
The big question is: Did they solve the "too much bass" problem so I can free up the EQ spot in the pedal line up?
I want to know too. My spark 40 is pretty muddy unless I EQ the bass and I only use it with headphones.
@@padmad3832 I use it with the spark cab and it sounds awesome. Really freaking good. Again, the eq has to be set which takes away the ability to use other effects pedals like chorus, flanger etc. (it'd be nice if the eq had it's own separate category on the chain)./
I don't believe the EQ is separate and you'll be needing to stuff something in the bass port to get rid of the excessive low end.
Sweet
Rats no looper demo
Sounds great for what it is! There is also a limited time upgrade offer for anyone who already has the original Spark 40, just need to register the original one on their site to get it. Thank you for confirming that I made the right choice in doing so.
I have seen some complaints in various places about the battery being an extra cost, BUT, I think that is the best way to go. If instead they simply included it as a built in, non-optional battery, then they would have to raise the price. Then, all the people who don't have any need for battery power would still be paying extra for something they don't even want. This way if you need it you can get it, but if you don't you aren't paying extra for it.
Well, they’ve already raised the price… and talking about the upgrade offer, a lot of teasing for 20 Canadian bucks difference between 1 (full price) and 2 (limited time upgrade offer) !
@@ll13012 The upgrade offer, which is only for existing owners of the original Spark 40, is $60 off.
I'd love to take advantage of the available deal and save a few nickels, but sadly I won't be doing so. Since their most recent updates, neither my Spark nor my Spark Mini will connect the control interface to either my Android phone or my iPad. It does connect audio, so I can jam along with practice tracks, youtube, etc. However, I am currently stuck with the four presets I have as I cannot modify or change them in the app.
I've written to them about it and posted in their forum, but so far, not a peep. A bit disappointed here.
Yeah I've been trying to pre-order for several days. I bought the original spark on pre-order. But apparently somebody else registered my serial number, and their support has failed to get back to me. Literally had the unit for 4 years now random serial numbers Superior Vision require you to take a picture of the QR tag as proof that you own the unit
Fierce chops! I have a Spark 1 and have ordered a 2. They are terrific to rehearse, experiment, loop, etc. great review Elmo.
Cool, thanks!
I have the spark 40, mini, and the Go and they are all really great. The one feature I wanted that they didn't have was the looper, so the spark 2 is pretty neat now that it comes with a looper.
Thanks Elmo for the demo/review/comments on this! Great playing as always
Thanks Elmo.
I was eagerly awaiting this review. Great as always!
I preordered. Being able to loop in my living room without needing a bunch of extra stuff will be nice
I just ordered one after watching this, this thing looks sweet, can’t wait to mess around with it
same, i have been looking for a practice amp and am sold
What I really need is to be able to play like Elmo.
Then anything sound good.
I had the Spark 1 for less than 24 hours. The speakers were awful even for a practice amp when compared to my little Marshall DFX30. It also buzzed like hell so I had to plug in a USB cable to remove the buzz. I'm hoping the 2.0 is a better attempt at what should have been a cool concept.
Yes, I received my Spark 2 and was able to use it for a week and a half. Went to use it and couldn’t get it to power on at all. I filled out the form for customer support. It took about a week to hear from them. without doing any troubleshooting on it. It started working. I put in a formal request to send it back for a replacement or a new one. I have sent it back to PG. It’s about a week,I have not heard any word from them.
Thanks for the review, i have the original Spark (and i don't care about the looper) so in my case i don't see enough reason to upgrade (besides, the new one is a couple centimeters taller and doesn't fit in my desk), one thing i noticed is that they still have the graphic EQ in the same slot as the modulation fx so you can't run modulation and EQ at the same time, i hope they fix that in the future.
It’s way more powerful than
you are one of the few guys who reviewed the Hotone Pulze as well. Aside from the feature differences, How does this compare to that? Which do you prefer and why?
How does this compare to Hotone Pulze?
At the moment I have a spark 1 and a Yamaha thr 10 ii.
The heavy distortion in the spark is so bad compared to the thr that I don't want go for this again. Also liked some deep delay in in hotone review so can't decide where to go next.
Elmo is my most trusted source. Thank you young man.
Elmo balanced and fair review, as always. The Spark mini is my goto practice amp, I love it.
I was concerned with the muddy low end as well with the 40. When I learned they corrected it in the 40 2 and listened to a few YT reviews, I purchased. I'm a low end intermediate player. The versatility and options available I wouldn't feel comfortable purchasing that amount of equipment. The technology is way cool!
How can one complain the $269 spark doesn't sound as good as their 2k Mark V combo in the room? Also how does not wanting a Looper sound better than playing a great lead over a rhythm in time for yourself or to anyone else listening?
Thank you for another great review.
I’m torn btwn the Spark 2 & the Edge. I was leaning towards the Spark 2 because basically I just wanted a kick ass practice amp for guitar…but the Edge also appeals to me in case I want to dabble in vocals sometime in the future. 🤔
I love my Spark mini. I now love my Spark 2 as well!
And I’m sure you’ll love your crappy spark 3
@@spada60douche comment…now back to your parents basement with you
I broke my spark twice as a result of the crappy delicate power connector knocking against something and then damaging the socket. Instead of fixing it a second time, I bought a boss katana and it was a revelation in terms of clarity and it highlighted how muddy and bassy the spark was. Ideal amp for me would be the spark software with the katana hardware! I wonder......
Top video Elmo, I am trying to pluck up courage to start looping with a view to doing solo gigs - so obviously the looper feature is huge as a current Spark 40 owner. Your playing is amazing and i can tell ive made a good decision to upgrade already!
Can you post the tones you used?
How does it sound compare to the hotone pulze? Many thanks!
which one do you prefer, the pulze or the spark 2? in terms of sound and ease of use
Will you record a review of Boss Cube Street II?
This upgrade is absolutely great in every way except for one MAJOR FAIL!! Apparently plugging into the new stereo/mono line out mutes the internal speakers in the same way plugging in headphones does. This is gobsmackingly weird. I mentioned this to positive Grid who replied "this is the normal way amps with line outs operate". Um.... NO IT'S NOT!!!
2 months later, but theyve released a firmware update to fix this
@@GLYNDWEEEEERRRRexcellent news! Thanks muchly!!
Is it me or all the profiles here sound the same? I've never listen other amp other than my orange 12c, so i wouldn't even know if the simulation is good or bad
In the limited reviews I have seen, it looks like the Spark 2 has eliminated a lot of the bass boominess that the Spark 40 had (could be managed using the software EQ settings, but required giving up the mod pedal slot to do so), so that's a significant upgrade from the 40.
Yes though ive never heard the boomy muddy bass people have talked about.
Long time no see friend! 🙂You're sounding good as usual. Looks like a nice little amp.
I’m always very conflicted how I feel about these type of amps that rely heavily on an app. On one hand you get a lot of features for your money, without a load of messy cables but also a feature that you rely on can disappear overnight because of a bad app upgrade, or because the app stops getting updates. I probably still edge towards a simpler amp with just a few pedals but it’s a close call
Same here, having a small amp and a multi (ME-80/90) is more or less all I need. Throw in a DS or so pedal (RAT).
Some want all-in-ones and buy the next thing five or years from now and some want "keepers", gear you at least can consider a keeper.
As far as I see it the Spark 2 only has presets. But the Spark 40 has a selection of amps on the amp (clean, glassy etc.). Seems more versatile to me and future proof when eventually in 10-15 years or so the apps might not work anymore. A Spark 2 which is all presets could be setup to the point of no return. Maybe not if there’s a factory reset possibility on the amp.
But maybe the default presets on the Spark 2 are much the same like the Spark 40 so it doesn’t matter 😅.
Yes 🙌
Awesome 👏 Vid , Elmo
Thanks for the review - like you - I love my Spark Mini. No urge to upgrade at this point. My next amp will be a Princeton.
I don't know if he mentioned it but it's also portable now. You can charge it and take it with you. Of course it's not as portable as the mini lol
Happy with my Spark Mini for the moment (budget conscious bedroom-beginner), but these look great fun. The smart jam sounds just as bad, but these amps do what they actually need to so well. Many thanks for the review.
Cheers!
Great video! At 9:48, when you turned off the overdrive on the app for the Marshall amp, did you have an external overdrive pedal engaged? Thanks!
Hi, great video - as always - what does the direct out of the Spark 2 sound like? Can you use it for FOH?
Hey Elmo nice Test.
It would be very interesting now to compare to Nux mighty Space that comes with Pedal and BT transmitter and the hotone pulze. I think that all this have the same format, but which is the best in tone or App cost or App usability or best all in One solution. I hate monthly app costs...
what you mean??🙂
i have pre ordered mine from your link but with the problem of recovering my account, the choose of a pearl White, and to have make that purchase on 2 days...(family life with kids lol) i hope it has been registered for you too ! thank you !!
Cheers!
I know you don't like Blackstar ID Core but you tested it. Can You compare it to this spark? I am intrested only in quality of sound of those two. I am wondering if there is sense to change id core to spark. But I mean only te quality of sound not the features :)
Not for sale in Canada yet
It is now.
The spark 2 still doesn't have stereo effects. Ping pong delay would be nice.
I guess my question would be why should I choose the spark over a set of studio monitors and amp sim. I primarily play at my desk. So I need to check my options. I've been playing with IEMs and I'm looking to upgrade to a set of monitors maybe I can check the spark out. Elmo I have a question, perhaps you can do a video on it. I live in a country where we don't have a lot of guitar stores. I know people recommend you try out gear before buying but what if I don't have access to the shops. What is the next best thing. Can I trust reviews, how honest are reviews maybe you can provide insight on this. Cause in my case I have to buy my stuff online.
Since Spark came out, we’ve all been inching closer to replacing our current practice gear with one of Spark’s products! It’s just a matter of time. Your demo has really sold me on that future thanks! I have purchased other app-based products only to be disappointed by lack of tech support and latency with the floor pedal. I need a zero latency floor switching multi-pedal to meet my needs. I’ve invested hours in programming my Marshall Code but of course its strength is dirty. It would be nice to have a platform with good dirt and cleans with good foot switching. I’ll be waiting and watching for that demo!
Good luck with the noise if they haven't up graded the spark 1.....so many reasons to not buy it. It needs a DI out!
Ssshhh how can i choose between this beauty and the katana gen 3 ? Kind of a difficult choice
Hi does it sound good at low volumes …say 60-70 db and what is the headphone volume like ? Some people complained on the spark 1 it was extremely low and poor ? Tnx
It does imo.
What can I say? That is a stunning price for an amazingly capable little amp. The battery option now puts it in the esteemed group of amps which may...that's may, not certainty...move me away from the mini-cube that I REALLY appreciate! Decisions, decisions...
Positive Grid has such sick products. The Spark Go is mind blowing for how small it is.
Does anyone know if you can wire this up to a bigger amp?
Just as i received my Spark they release a upgrade lol. Great review as always.
I like looking to your videos because you indeed do honest reviews ... but we agree to disagree on that brand (and on others, i.e Yamaha THRs 😉as you truly mentioned it, every one has its own tastes), I own the Mini and the Go and never bought the spark 1 because I found it muddy in every demos I have seen ... But I bought this one during the early sale they've made (best price was 295 euros) based on videos of TH-camrs (like you and who received it also in advance) who made reviews of it. Seemed from their recordings that the muddy issue was almost gone and because that Spark do integrate a looper (which is not so often on practice amps and I really need one) I did not hesitate. But all recordings I have seen were made not on an open mic like you did but through an audio card and a DAW ... your recording suddenly is showing that muddy aspect that stopped me buying the spark 1 ... I hope this is not the case and that it will be great when I'll receive it mid September otherwise I am afraid I will need to sale it immediately ... Maybe, for approx. 50 euros more (regular price at the end of the early sale offer), I should have waited for your review but I was quite convinced you would not do it as usually you buy your own gears so you would not have had it before mid September (early delivery date for EU) ... but not for this one, for once you received it from the brand ... bad luck for me 😉
You should be fine with the eq.
Superb video! Your style of music is awesome. Love it!
What about a spark 2 versus Hotone pulse comparison 🤪🙏
Hi,
I was wondering if this amp (Spark v1/v2) could allow me to play in the street (not for a crowd of thousand people - well maybe later 😁 -, but with more power than to play in my flat :) ) ?
I'm looking at it because the price is really not that expensive, I could use it with the electric guitar as well, there is a bag which would allow me to carry it on a bike (as I do with my AER compact 60 but it doesn't have any battery system... and the AER Compact mobile is by far more expensive and too heavy to be carried by bike)
Thanks
I got a NUx and a Mustang Micro. I' m set.
Micro is fun for sure, but try the Katana GO, you might prefer it.
I gave my spark mini to my son and am waiting for this thing to arrive. I think with with the slightly larger box and speaker arrangement, this thing sounds huge!!
Let’s hope so. Especially having to wait until mid October for it to arrive. My only thing is if it’s supposed to have all these AI features, etc. but they’re not even on there yet. How do we know they are going to be any good and why would they even release these to the public, without having these things already installed into the app. On my original Spark before I returned it I couldn’t even get Spotify to open up so I could play along. It was extremely frustrating and since I played Barrtown guitars and usually in drop. A#
It really didn’t sound so great. I was considering getting this since it’s supposedly supposed to be better. You know pre-ordering it and what not.
I’ve got the little mini right now, but my main reason for buying the 40 other than practicing for it is to use a splitter cable and run the amp into my interface so I’m able to record the sounds from the app into GarageBand or logic. Since I’m an iPad user/iOS.
I’m pretty close to pre-ordering it but at the same time when are they actually supposed to hit stores because I would prefer to buy it from guitar Center so I can get a longer warranty on it
Did they solve the problem of not being able to use chorus and Eq at the same time? Solve the noise problems? (Saying it's a class D amp is a poor excuse). Did they add a DI out? Stop the weird sounds after it warms up for a couple hours.
Just to chime in regarding Elmo's final verdict , I know Positive Grid will be watching, the perfect thing would be. Spark mini with a power cord , so you could choose your power supply (battery , outlet) and celestion IRs built in , but that would be the double cross now
Did you see the new PRS SE CE 24 standard satin.? TH-cam channels are all calling it the best guitar for $500. Your opinion on it would be great.
I dig mine! Plays and sounds great.
Great review, the big question for me is how are the sounds compared to the hotone? Which one you prefer?
Damn, Why did they remove the physical knob for the amp model selection ??? I'd rather have that instead of the preset selector knob. So now you MUST use the app to select amp type... OR can the footswitch (more $$) do it?
I have the Spark 40 which I plan to sell. I pre-ordered the Spark 2. Getting it in late September. The problem I have is not with the Spark Amps, it's with the App. The changes/upgrades that I would like to see on the app is the addition of a Pitch Pedal. So many different songs are in Eb, D Standard, etc. Another feature I would like to see is the ability to switch pedals around the pedal chain. Some pedals sound better before the amp, and some sound better after it. Also, I would like the option of creating a set list folder, so when I gig I already have my presets made. I'm curious, I'm in the USA, New York City, how were you able to get the Amp so quickly? Oh well, I guess you guys need to demo it. Thank you for being honest, and for posting this.
What was the price? Did you get a discount for being a previous owner of the Spark?
@@Gunfart01 $259. I have the Spark 1
New subscriber here - what mic are you using to record the amp? Thx in advance
AKG C-414
Who does your scalloping on the Non-Yngwie Strat used in the video?
My luthier friend.
@@MrPolevaulter does he hire out? I have one last unscalloped Strat neck that needs attention.
I would prefer if it was a budget friendly pedalboard or amp head with all the knobs and XLR and or TRS outs plus an output for passive speaker/cambinet. No speakers included.
How do you turn off the blinking Red "Tap - Tuner Hold" button?
Which one you'd prefer; the Spark 2 or the Hotone Pulze? They seem kinda similar to what they offer as a practice amp with all the bells and whistles.
Probably the Mini. Spark 2 because it's cheaper than the Pulze.
@@MrPolevaulter I think I'll go with the Spark 2 as it is more versatile with the footswitch and the cabinet. Could even gig with it if it comes to that in the future. Thanks for the vids, all of them!
Seems to be a good debate going on here, but it misses the point for me. Most people who’ve been playing for awhile and have enough of an ear to care are inevitably going to have a tube or other amp.
I bought the Spark 1 when it first came out. What a disaster; if I have an hour I want to play my guitar, not futz around with gates, etc.
I gave it away to a local music school and took a tax deduction:)
But I bought the Mini recently to bring with me on a trip. What a pleasant surprise. Seems they worked out the bugs. It was so easy to set up. The AI app is amazing - just type in the name of a song or artist or describe the sound you want and…presto, it’ll give you a bunch of preconfigured presets. I tried 10 songs and got a good match each time.
(On that score, way better than the Katana air or Yamaha THR).
Spark mini vs hot one pulze ??? Thanks
I got the mini one, love it.
so is this awesome sound how it sounds when you plug the amp into an interface? or how are you recording it?
Can you run the S2 into a regular cab with the line outs? And is that Celtic salt?
Don't know tbh. Celtic salt?
@MrPolevaulter You mentioned taking the review with a pinch of salt. Celtic or table salt. I was thinking since they sent it you had to hold back. Celtic great.. Table not so much.
If you run straight to front of house and in ears this is loud enough right?
Hi Elmo, are the Sounds similar good as from the HX Stomp?
Have the spark amp myself. Great piece of practise gear. But nowmather settings the sound is a bit muffled. You dont get that in your face mids. Maybe they adressed this in the updated 2 version. Sounds good tough.
Very nice, Between this or the new Boss Katana X which one?
I had my katana air ex for just day, and I'm returning it. I was really confident it would be perfect for me, so I also bought the wireless ex-pedal and floorboard. I read some stuff about the app being bad, but how bad could it be? It's reeeeaaaly bad. I'm used to boss ecosystem and I'm very experienced with electronics and computers. But man this took me several hours to get to connect with each other, and if you leave your phone for a second, you have to connect again. Extremely boring sounds. Just not fun. I'm really considering the spark 2. Only thing I'm a little concerned about, is the fact that spark 2 has 4" speakers, when the katana has 5". Yeah, it has more wattage, but will it still sound good?
Thanks for reassuring me I did the right thing buying this even though I was weighing buying a used spark mini. Wanted the room for expansion and the FRFR.
Get the Spark mini and save up for a Line 6 Pod and Powercab.
@@journeytree thanks for the advice but what I want a practice amp that I can double as a Bluetooth speaker. The Spark 2 will be serving the same guitar role as my katana go but for use without headphones (I am old enough to have owned a tascam 4 track when they were still in production and I don’t like computers and plugins). I have 3 tube heads and 3 2x12 cabinets for when I want to be loud, and enough pedals to get the tones I want with them.
@@journeytree also I have a line 6 pod 2.0; I bought it when that was “new”
@@Rokken2Dokken Spark 2 probably will be fine but be weary if you do high gain. My Spark 40 collects dust compared to anything else I own because of the unusable low end that plagues most, if not all of the Spark lineup. All my Positive Grid products (Spark 40, Bias Amp, Bias Fx, Riff) collect dust. The quality reminds me of the earlier Line 6 Spider amps, and the limited signal chain options of the Spark amps are disappointing in my opinion. I know a lot of people are happy with the Spark, but also a lot of paid, biased, promotions for the Spark exist, and many people like myself have been disappointed with PG for a while.
@@journeytree thanks. Appreciate it. The only other option I have for low volume is plugging in my digital stuff to my computer speakers, which are way too subwoofery (and until I buy a home, I don’t have space for a second desk for music).
The spark 2 doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be sound pretty good for 70-85 decibel volume levels. The FRFR design should address the woofy low end. The bonus is I can plug in my “direct” pedalboard into it (a different board than my 4 cable method tube amp board) and play at low volumes.
If it’s still too woofy, I’ll come back and reply to this thread telling you that you were right.
Spark 2 sounds ok. It's about time Positive Grid provided a looper function, now apparently with two options "Simple" and "Creative Groove".
I am still using flextone 2 from early 2000’s. Want to record some shorts with focusrite or other AI. Would this sound great to record with? Better than boss katana? Which I know you aren’t fan of haha.
I went for the earlybird special when the first one came out and it took eight months for them to deliver so no thanks lol when I received it it was just a noisy mess. They were shipping them without a grounded adapter. They literally sent me an adapter two months ago, so I was finally able to use my amp and now the spark two is out. They treat TH-camrs better than their actual customers. Other than that when I saw you were going to demo it I made sure to watch your reviews are the only ones I trust.😀
I am still debating to upgrade to the 2nd edition via the upgrade discount. I just checked I think I missed the window, bummer looks like i am sticking with the original I only got it in March.
Disappointed. Can't still hear the sound from spark 2 when connected to spark cab using that left mono
output in the back (not the headphone jack).
Thanks for the review. Would you say it sounds darker than the spark mini? Then it would mean that the spark 2 is not so different from the 40 soundwise
They did change the speakers, so it does sound different. But I own a Spark Mini, and this sounds darker.
Thanks Elmo
I have the Spark 40; I really like it and will likely upgrade to the 2 for the added features. Question is, instead of selling the 40, what is it like to use the line out on the Spark 2 to the Spark 40? Can it "stack" (for lack of a better term) like to the Spark Cab??
And thanks Elmo for the review!
I bought the Spark 2 50w and I've had it for under a week and it already has issues, I wouldn't recommend it. There is buzzing sounds whenever I play and the presets are absolutely horrible if you don't adjust them yourself and that takes a lot of time to get right, with anything overdriven it sounds horrible and I don't know why or what I'm doing wrong, If you only play clean tones then I guess it works but anything else it isn't good. There's just a constant fuzz coming out whenever I play any note.
Thanks Elmo - I like the idea of them doing a pedal as you suggested.. A pedal should cost them less to produce as well.
Elmo's review with of the original Spark 40 with the unexpected backing track jam was hilarious! As always, Elmo's honesty is awesome. Audio tastes differ and the samples here show modest upgrade improvements.
Cheers 😊
If this thing sucks, this is the guy that will tell you. My biggest question is does it emulate the warmth and response of a real tube amp?
Well he’s telling you wrong
I did get a spark mini, it is very good for what it is, but kinda disappointed in most of the high gain amps or "pushing" the amps with the built in tube screamer, sounds not great, reminds me of line6 pod.
It’s a unit with a 2 inch speaker and a free app with all that that offers that costs about the same as a decent delay pedal. I think it does OK.
@@laikainspace1 certainly, could be user error too. even my podxt can get some good sounds as long as you dont assume the amps are what they are etc, just dial it by ear
Sounds better than Hotone Pulze?
I only use the spark mini so I am not sure of how the controls work on the 40. If I choose lets say a reverb pedal from the software, the reverb knob will control how much of that effect will be applied to the sound? or the the physical reverb knob just adds on reverb if I just chose a clean amp with no effects
Have you tried BIAS FX 2?
Do you thing it sounds better than the Hotone Pulze?
Especially on these crunch chords, the Spark 2 murders the Spark mini in terms of tone…
Does anyone know the upgrade price for existing spark owners?
One thing people over look or sometime fail to mention IS - this SPARK can be used for a BASS so Serious Bass Players LOVE THEM also
You have a good Guitar amp that does Bass you get and SX bass and for your own created backing tracks you do your own FUNKY BASS lines
PRINCE ON BASS th-cam.com/video/LNG6Ai6jrkY/w-d-xo.html
All reviews on SX base are that they are as Good as Fender or better but $300
th-cam.com/video/gKnS4EEMmdc/w-d-xo.html
Laura Lee's Monster Minimal Khruangbin Bass Rig - plays one and SHE ROCKS IT
One of these a $300 SX and you have a great BASS RIG and she can play BASS
th-cam.com/video/b4IuHaV-N2E/w-d-xo.html
Could you do a review on the Jet-jt300 its Jets entry level tele style heard some good things about it and im looking foward to getting one, would be nice to see an unbiased review by you.
I want folders
Aloha brattah Elmo.... Doesn't matter what you plug in to,. You always sound amazing.......... I'm still not very versed with apps technology so in my case I'm sticking with my Roland micro cube amp..... Very simple and turn of a knob... I do have a spark go brand new unopened in box.. I will now revisit and see if I can get a clean smooth jazz tone and a heavy metal 80s. Lynch type tones which would suit me and my simple needs.. Thank you for showing this video and igniting an interest in the spark amps.......
LOVE my Spark GO!!
Î’ve had the spark for 3 years, never downloaded the app, hate that, don’t know how it works besides using it as a normal little amp directly with the knobs and it works fine. Also an awesome soundbox just for listening to my music, it is real loud and beats a marshall designed for playing music only.
You think it works well as a living room bluetooth speaker for listening to music and maybe streaming movies? I was wondering if it would do double duty like that
@Falconryder yes it is superload with heavy bass. All my streaming goes through it.