I own the Yamaha THR30II. There is no "higher more expensive model", that's the latest version. It also has an app that you can really dial in tones, moreso than knobs on unit. But, the BEST feature that you DIDN'T mention is with the Yamaha you can go COMPLETELY wireless. You can plug a small bug into your guitar that automatically syncs with amp, no additional "receiver" module needed, eliminating guitar cable. And the Yamaha itself charges and can go wireless to the beach or front porch... for hours. I love my Yamaha!!
Yes! I had meant to mention the wireless-ness. With more expensive, I think I meant more powerful - here you're hearing the 5 watt model. I love the wireless stuff. I use a BOSS WL20 and can attest to the great-ness of no wires. Thanks for watching - subscribe for 2 new videos every week! Cheers Simon
As a Yamaha owner I can tell you that you will LOVE IT! It can play any type of music and it is very forgiving. I can’t wait until the day that they make a bigger stage version of it!
I have a THR5 first gen and this is the first review I have seen when someone talked about how you can hear the guitar and it's sound. This is why I bought it almost ten years ago. I have several amps but the THR does sound like how a real amp setup would sound, except at bedroom levels. Great review by the way.
Hey CRYSTAL SHIP, thanks! I'm glad that the demo was interesting. BTW there are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Great comparison. Thank you. I’ve had a Spark for some time. After seeing your review, I think I would have leaned more toward the Yamaha. Thanks again!
I have had the Spark amp for almost 2 years and absolutely love it, but the Yamaha sounds more Relic or Tube like which I really dig. I am thinking about getting a second practice amp and use a Loop pedal to get a more realistic two Guitar stereo sound. I am definitely getting the Yamaha. Thanks again for the Demo!
Hi Toquelibre, I can definitely understand that choice as the Yamaha does have a more "Tube-like" sound to it. Thanks for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed the demo - please consider subscribing for 2 new videos every week, livestreams, and a host of other content. All the best, Simon
Hi 999slawter, thanks for watching. To get more gear videos click here - th-cam.com/play/PLyOyvYOCqform-S2N6Kpqy3etjBYcN-PW.html - to get 2 new videos every week subscribe to the channel. All the best with the guitar, cheers Simon
OMG! Hey mate - hope you are good. Has to be the THR for me, but the Spark is more tweakable. Cheers mate! Simon p.s Subscribe for 2 new videos every week.
@@robsterTN Hey Rob, I've got to say I'm surprised to hear that. I loved the thr, I thought it was great. There's lots of high end on the one I tried. The EQ in general was great.
That was my impression too... the Yamaha is so much more clear and crisp, whereas the Spark comes across as even muddy ad times. I have no doubt that the Spark is a killer of a learning/practice amp though due to the options with the app. I haven't played guitar for 24 years (!) and I wasn't even rather experienced (or good) back then. I'm going to buy a guitar soon and I have to choose a practice amp too. Until now, I thought that would be the PositiveGrid Spark, but listening to the 2 in direct comparison, I'm not so sure. Even though, I think that the Spark is the more convenient one for drum loops etc. Anyways - way better options than in 1994, when I started back then...
Hey Michael, glad you liked the video. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
@@Smart-Alex I liked the Spark, but I'm not much of an app guy. I like the physical knobs so to speak ;) - I find having to go into the app and then tweak is annoying to me and distracts me from playing the guitar. Totally appreciate the massive palette of sounds though. It's a subjective thing I guess.
@@mojobag01 i’ve owned over a dozen tube amps and understand them quite well. I said the Spark was a fun amp and a great choice for its use case to just plug in and play at low volume - not the best amp.
Excellent review Simon. I have the Spark and it serves my home practice/ jamming needs perfectly. Though it does get a lot of Bluetooth speaker use too.
I have the Spark 40 and absolutely love it. One thing to be aware of with the Spark, each time you change to a different amp preset all of the EQ values are reset to the saved values from memory. So if you prefer the Bass to be trimmed to a value of 2 for example, you'll have to retrim the Bass knob after each preset change.
Hey James, thanks for the note and watching the video. The tele is an American Vintage 64 reissue, I popped some Mick Brierley tele pickups in there too - it's my go to favourite guitar. Do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. I'll see you in the next one. Cheers Simon
Thank you for your fair review, I agree. I think neither the spark nor the thr are bad: they are in many ways the opposite of each other. The spark is in the dark side: it has a clear predominance of lower frequencies above all others, probably due to how the bass reflex technology is implemented, even at low volume. This is good for high gain and distorted sound, and generally when you need bass tones and presence at low volume; on the other hand it is very difficult to have a fair equalization. On the opposite, the THR is bright, clean, responsive, transparent but It lacks that presence and low frequencies of the spark, especially at low volume, and, frankly, the high gain sounds and distorted sounds are kind of innatural and boxy In the end, better to use the THR for clean or low gain tones, and the spark for high gain and distorted tones, or when you need presence at low volume.
Hi there, thanks for watching. Glad you liked the video. My preference is the THR, but I guess I don't really do that much high gain stuff. Both great things though. All the best, Simon
Hi Nassou, I'm glad that the demo was helpful. BTW there are heaps more easy to follow lessons and videos on my channel (600+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
I have a THR 10 and have dabbled into small amps for home use (Vox Adio Air GT, Vox Pathfinder 10, Cube 10, Peavey Rage, Champion 20). Sold them all and the THR10 remains a fixture at home. I'm not 100% in love with it, as I do love the air a 12 inch speaker pushes, but overall I'd recommend it for versatility and nice an quiet playing on the back verandah-batteries are a winner-make sure that you use Eneloops.
With the latest spark downloadable upgrade there is an equaliser that will brighten the spark up, it can get rid of all the bass or just some of it. I was looking to swap the spark out but the new equaliser is a massive game changer. As well as the sonic AIRSTEP lite multi which gives you the option to loop, I now love my Spark amp
It is is waaaay better than Spark 40. Being able to jam to tracks/download from the large community foist matter if your amp tone is boomy to start off and bricks out after moderate use slightly over a year. Btw, Positive Grid’s customer service is in India . . . horrible!!!!
There is no comparison between the 2 imho. The Yamaha is a hi-if audio unit with unmatched amp simulations. I have owned both amps and a katana and the difference between them and tha thr is night and day. THR might not have the balls and whistles of the spark app but in return it is a no nonsense plug and play oriented unit. With the spark and katana I found myself constantly fiddling with the apps to try to get the tone i wanted and never being quite satisfied. The Yamaha gave amazing tones almost immediately. I sold the katana but kept the spark as a spare amp just in case.
Hi mate, thanks for watching. I haven't plugged an acoustic in, but can I ask why you need to plug the acoustic in? If you're doing gigs, you can plug straight into the pa at the venue. If you want to amplify the acoustic guitar, I would suggest considering a specialist acoustic amp. If you want the acoustic to sound "like an electric", you're better off buying an electric guitar. Hope that helps! Cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar thank you Simon, I’m not a public player, just play for myself, I have a cheap electric and amp which I like playing, but prefer the sound of my acoustic and looking to move to another Maton with a pick up for a different experience and opportunity to experiment a bit more, been watching plenty of reviews and leaning towards the Positive Grid Spark 40 as it has the app and could use it for both my electric and acoustic.
Thanks for uploading this video. I am going to buy Spark Go, Yamaha THR 30 ii Wireless Amp and Boss Waza Air Headphone Amp. Though buying three AMPs cost more but I think if budget allows then buying above mentioned 3 Amps fulfill all types of different requirements for any Guitarist.
The Spark is absolutly amazing, the USB Port is "Class Compliant" with a USB to Lightning (Or USB C) you can Record and Playback in you iPad! With the Headphone out and the AUX IN you have many Great Setup possibilities! And that the Bass Sound is Dark at Point 5 Half Middle ...is Great is Full Range...the Bass Knop react on any twist you do and is no Prob to reduce the Bass Sound! You have 4 Presets ...and in the Souftware you can save more Presets... With the Spark you got "Bass" and can twist'em out ...with the THR you seek the Bass and thair is an end for Bass! That full Range Sound of the Spark, is very Great when you wanna Jam with Bluetooth Sound, to hear that Track you listen clearly, is an Amazing Amp and the Sound full fill the whole Room...and that with "Less Volume" ...unbelivable Powerfull i Love that Spark Amp! You can do alot with it!
Hi there, it is certainly a great bit of kit. Amazing value and as you mention it has so many possibilities. Thanks for your input, it's great info! All the best, Simon
I paid £270 for a new THR10II recently but managed to get a used Spark for £160 today so I'm likely going to return the THR10II unless it's really worth the £100 difference.
Hi there, thanks for watching. Glad to hear you managed to pick up both amps! I think they're different things like I mentioned in the review. One is a very app heavy amp and the other is focused more on the amp top dials. Both great it is subjective I guess. All the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar After trying both I'd definitely say the THR10 is better. The tones are much better out of the box and it has better, clearer sounding speakers.
@@ohiep_ I'm leaning toward the Yamaha. I think it sounds better coming out of the speaker, whereas the other digital modelers are more of a recording interface. They are different tools.
I just ordered the Spark 40 after taking back my Yamaha thr 30. I couldn’t justify paying 500$ for such a small wireless desktop amp. Because it sounds good but for the price it doesn’t sound that good. With metal I can hear a ton of clipping. To really use the these desktop amp you would need a footswitch to switch between amps hands free. So after the buying a footswitch and The Yamaha thr30 amp the set up would cost $600-$650. When I realized I paid 650$ for my Boss Katana Artist 12in 100w with gafc Footswitch… I quickly returned the Yamaha. I bought my Spark 40 for only $230 the footswitch cost $100 and the 3rd party battery cost $40. $370 vs $650 it’s a no brainer for me. The spark just added an eq pedal so I’m excited to use it.
@@Bronco2Cj Hi there, here you go "A specific type of distortion. If a signal is passed through an electronic device which cannot accommodate its maximum voltage or current requirements, the waveform of the signal is sometimes said to be clipped, because it looks on a scope like its peaks have been clipped off by a pair of scissors. A clipped waveform contains a great deal of harmonic distortion (see WFTD archive harmonic distortion) and often sounds very rough and harsh. Clipping is what typically happens when an audio amplifier output is overloaded or its input over driven. Interestingly, light to moderate clipping does not usually reduce the intelligibility of some signals, especially speech. In fact, it has been shown that clipped speech is easier to understand than normal speech in noisy environments. A probable reason for this is the increased high frequency content that accompanies this type of distortion, which can make a signal stand out more among other sounds and noises. Aphex and some other companies have been using this principle for years in their “exciter” type products. By adding the right amount of distortion at the right frequencies a signal will sound almost clearer and more distinct amidst other sounds, thus standing out more in a mix." from www.sweetwater.com/insync/clipping/
Cool video, for the use that I give to it I'm glad that I got the Spark. I'm more digital-oriented and I need super heavy chugging metal tones more than anything.
Hey Leandro, thanks! I'm glad that you liked the video - great that you're loving the Spark. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to get charts, extra lessons and even more guitar content you can get that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Thanks, Simon. I found this to be the most helpful comparison I came across online when I was pondering which practice and to buy. Given that the spark it's almost half the price of the THR, 30 I was more inclined to get the spark. But after watching your video I actually went out and got myself a THR 30 wireless, and I love it to bits. Later, I got the chance to try out the spark. Like you, I found it to be rather bass heavy. It was fun to play around with the app for a while, but then that gets 'a bit old and you just want to play guitar. My feeling when playing around with the spark was that it's probably voiced with a different Target group in mind. It's probably more aim to the player who is starting out and hasn't really been down that road of owning old school amplifiers and having to cut through the mix and all of that. I think that kind of player might actually prefer this darker sound. I find that the Yamaha is more intuitive and much easier to use when you just want to noodle round for a bit. The thing is I really just need to sounds, Nice clean sound with reverb and a bit of crunch. I have been trying to use combo amps at low volumes for a long time and I haven't turned on a tube amp for months now, but I play way more guitar than I used to. I'm amazed at how much the THR sounds and feels like a proper guitar amplifier at reasonable levels. So thanks again Simon, I don't regret spending the extra money to get the Yamaha even though it might seem a bit limited in comparison to all the features of the Spark. Nevertheless, I'm thinking about also adding the Spark Go to my gear collection, just because it's so cute and ridiculously small that I have to have one.
Hi @svarfinnbogason3645 Thanks for watching. It's great to hear that the THR has made you play more guitar, I hear that a lot! I totally agree with you on the Spark v THR too. I don't actually own either of these, but if I was trying to buy a small footprint amp, I'd definitely go for the THR. On the tube amp front I think the smallest and most versatile option is still the Fender Blues Junior. It still easily is loud enough, but the master volume is a life saver. That's the amp I take to gigs when the Deluxe is just too big. On the tiny amp front, I bought my son Boss Katana Mini and that thing is great. I hear the Spark Go is good too though. All the best, Simon
I'm a newer player but can already tell I do not like the sound through the Spark. I was going to get the Yamaha but Sweetwater talked me out of it. Wish I went with my first pick, the Yamaha. You're absolutely right, the Spark is mostly effects and drowns out the cool guitar sound.
@@kirkwilliams4942 I have not yet found an amp in this format that sounds quite as good as the Yamaha. But a friend just bought a NUx Mighty something or other , the biggest of the NUx bedroom amps and to mee it sounds almost as good as the THR and has a lot more features than the THR, even a looper. I am tempted to try it
Hi Manuel, thanks for watching, I'm glad the video helped. For 2 new videos every week, please sub and hit the bell to be notified when they're up. All the best, Simon p.s. for even more guitar stuff, charts and lessons check out www.patreon.com/simonmorel
It's a tricky one. I've had both and prefer the thr for tone and clarity. . That said the spark has an amazing app. Both are great though and make you want to play which is the main thing.
Hi Steve, thanks for watching. You are absolutely right. They both make you want to play. That's really the thing. Both great bits of kit! Cheers Simon - PS subscribe for 2 new videos every week...
I had a THR10C and went for a Headrush Gigboard and a KRK monitor. After more than year it is clear, that though the modeler has way more options, I rarely use any of them. In fact it holds me back a bit. On the THR changing a setting, maybe even from my Mac while connected via USB (or via Bluetooth app on the current models), storing it to one of the buttons, was so damn easy and "amp-like". I don't want to get into the menus of the Headrush and fiddle around with presets and cab IRs and stuff. So I'll sell the gigboard and get me a shiny news THR30 and a wireless transmitter. This should clean up my living room setup even further..
HI Alexander, I totally agree with "In fact it holds me back a bit." That's why I liked the Yamaha more, set and forget (and get great sounds). Thanks for watching - please do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. All the best Simon
They both sound good. Odd choice of guitars for the high gain demos. The Spark now has a foot switch and I’m sure it can be eq’d for the bassey tone. I’d be happy with either little practice amp.
Hey Carlo, thanks for watching. I totally agree - both of those amps were great! They have different advantages for sure - if you're an app person the Spark's great - (and yes there is an EQ pedal in the app to tame the bass). Re the high gain stuff, I just don't have any of those kind of guitars, so I used what I have. btw There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a 2 new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
After having both the Spark and the Yamaha THR30-II, I by far prefer the tones from the Spark and sold the Yamaha. The Spark sounds way more like an amp in the room that is going through a proper cab and filling the room with sound. Something about the Yamaha always sounded off; sort of hollow, and it sounded more like a mic'd and processed signal than a live cab. And on the higher gain stuff, which is my main interest, the Yamaha would never saturate in the way I wanted, and palm muted chugs never sounded good. And this is from someone who is spoiled by a ridiculous collection of high end tube amps, along with several great cabs. Does the Spark come really close to those amps+cabs though? No, but, after trying those, Katana mini, and Nux Might Lite BT, the Spark comes closest, and even when at a really low volume. It was also by far the best sounding one for music playback as well.
@@leandromaroniurbanek6042 It was the series 2, THR30-II, which includes the amp models from all three of the original amps. But I did actually get to try the older green one at my local music store, after I had sold mine, and it sounded basically the same from what I could recall. And I again could not fathom how people think it sounds great.
The PG reminds me of my old Crate solid state amp from the early 90’s. Good but… The Yamaha sounds much more like a tube amp. Both good but hands down easy decision for the Yamaha.
Hey S Mc, thanks for watching. I totally agree with you, the Yamaha is my favourite too. And blimey that's a flashback to the Crate! Haven't thought of those for years. Btw there are heaps more videos on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Hey Jack, I couldn't agree with you more. The more time spent in the app, the less time spent playing... Thanks for watching - subscribe for 2 new guitar videos every week. All the best, Simon
Always the best way to acquire equipment you want or need ‘borrow’ it haha only joking interesting review btw. I own both The Spark and a THR the original model both excellent in my opinion although I think the versatility of the The Spark especially when used with app is the one I use a lot more. As for the bassy sound of The Spark I did notice it at first, I’m not sure if the latest firmware helped solve it or the fact that I’m better at dialling in tones but it’s not really an issue now. As for a big plus for the THR is the portability with the use of a battery.
Hi there, how are you? Thanks for watching. Borrowing is the best! I 100% agree with your take. I reckon that is a fair summary of what they both have to offer. I'm sure there's an EQ pedal somewhere in the spark that will certainly help. Both amazing amps for the beginner. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Thanks for watching Pierre and enjoy your new amp. The Spark app offers a lot of functionality. Very eagle-eyed of you to spot the microphone. It's a 58 with the grill removed. 57/58 are really the same mic. For more videos subscribe and hit the bell to be notified of 2 new lessons every week. Cheers Simon
Hey Travis, thanks for watching - great to hear you are loving the amp! All the best Simon ps for demos and lessons subscribe for 2 new lessons every week.
I bought a Thr10x a few years ago, and was really excited to get it, but extremely disappointed when I played around on it. Not what I expected at all. Have a Spark coming today actually, and pretty excited. Hoping it sounds killer.
Hey Brad, sorry to hear it didn't work out for you with the Yamaha. I thought the size, portability and sounds were great in both. Good luck with the spark. Hope you enjoy it. All the best Simon.
Thank you for comparing the two using two different guitars. I really think the type of guitar you have is an important part of selecting the right amp, and I just don't see any other reviewers do this. I think I like the humbuckers with the Yamaha. The Spark sounds very muddy to me and I like the brighter sounds of the Yamaha.
It is is waaaay better than Spark 40. Being able to jam to tracks/download from the large community foist matter if your amp tone is boomy to start off and bricks out after moderate use slightly over a year. Btw, Positive Grid’s customer service is in India . . . horrible!!!! Afterwards, I bought the THR30ii-what a difference in sound quality!!!
How does my name change from Robert Bate to Martin Luther. ? the only Martin Luther I know is the Christian reformist from the 17th Century ! do we have some plagiarizing hackers in our mist's ?
Hey Richard, thanks for watching - really appreciated. You're not the first person that's mentioned this to me, I didn't use the app at all really. I probably should have investigated it a bit more as I understand adding the virtual EQ in the pedal (and the latest update) makes a bit difference. Having said that, the Yamaha is still the one I presonally would go for. I did really enjoy playing both though. Great amps. All the best, Simon ps please consider subscribing for 2 new videos every week! Don't forget to hit the bell.
@@SimonMorelguitar I would agree that as a stand-alone the Yamaha sounds more refined. For those reading, the Spark really shines with its IOS app and amp modeling capabilities and user network.
Merci d'avoir regardé. Je ne le savais pas pour la batterie. Je pense que le Yamaha est un ampli qui sonne mieux. Cela dit, j'ai fini par acheter un Boss Katana pour mon studio d'enseignement, il est excellent. Regardez la vidéo ici (th-cam.com/video/lAKMBsmHbBM/w-d-xo.html) merci encore d'avoir regardé, Simon
Hi Bluesraven, Thanks for watching. Really appreciate it. Yeah the spark is pretty cool, The fact that it has so many different sounds is really excellent. Thanks for watching. All the best with the guitar. Cheers, Simon PS to get two new videos every single week, subscribe and hit the notifications bell
Yes that is right. I think you need to add the EQ pedal to your setup in the app. Check out this video on the Boss Katana - th-cam.com/video/lAKMBsmHbBM/w-d-xo.html
I will have to check it out! I hear on this one they updated the software to add an EQ pedal so you can better shape the sound. Still pretty fiddly though. I like the Yamaha, but I like the Boss Katana series the best. Thanks for watching, cheers Simon
Another reviewer added a EQ pedal infront of the Spark and was able to negate the overly bassy sound, but you would think Positive Grid would fix the issue with a patch or fix new amps at the factory before they ship to stores. I have both and I use the Yamaha thr30 11 much more. I don't gig anymore so the low volume keeps the rest of the family happy and I can still get the sounds I want. The THR30 is more expensive but they can be found used for about 100 dollars cheaper.
That might be @8minuteaxe ? I know Mark and he mentioned that to me the other day, but like you say you'd think they would sort it out! Thanks for watching. Do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. Cheers Simon
Tried THR II both 10 and 30 for extended periods of time: - Can't get a sound I like just by using the top panel, actually have to mess with software and save presets - FX knobs are a joke - Rattle and roll at anything over 40% volume - Weak quality recording via USB and big latency just like 1st gen - Stereo projection underwhelming - Theres some hard clipping and compression going on with all channels; no real clean transparent sounds to be had - Input lag is noticeable even with cable - Amp models generally react poorly to playing dynamics and volume rolloff - Lack of harnonic content and sustain even on high gain models - Very poor music playback, no bass at all, high end sizzle - THR II 10 defaults on Modern tier of models when using the dial; those are by far the worst so you always have to go to the app if you don't like them. - Headphone out is trash and clippy regardless of the headphones used; Aux In is poor as well. My 2 cents: if I'm going to have to use the app and rely on stored presets, Spark wins by a mile. Also has better phones output, also can be used as soundbar and is much better for music and movies, you can literally dance at the barbecue outside to it. No crapping out or rattles. For students? Just get a micro cube, cheaper than either more natural sounding and response, no stupid app distraction and endless tweaking. When I really want to improve and learn, I just practice unplugged. If you sound good and clean unplugged, you'll sound good through anything.
So sound is paramount agreed. But small features make a difference. You played them straight up and un biased. Well done I have the yamaha. And an orange 60c pro. I use my yamaha the most
The Spark Mini might have a more balanced sound than the Spark 40, as there is less bass. It also has an onboard battery. Incidentally, I have a THR 10c which sounds great clean and has good reverb and delay, but I prefer it with drive pedals than using the onboard gainy channels. Also, whilst the THR is more expensive, my THR10c is still going strong after about 8 years, whereas I read mixed reports about the Spark reliability.
I had the Spark, great for beginners but afte ra wh ile the sound gets a bit serile and I found it too boomy sounding, the Yamaha sounds far more refined and mature.
really stuck on what to buy just because its not possible to hear the spark in real life, ilive in sweden so mail costs will be high i assume, how can i get to hear spark in real life ? i guess my question to everyone is what would you buy and why if money wasnt an object, my choices are spark , yamaha thr30ii or katana 50 ?????
Hi mate, thanks for watching the video. Great to hear you're thinking about grabbing a new amp, exciting stuff. Any of those choices are great to be honest. I think the thing that divides the amps is if you're an app person or not. The Spark has amazing flexibility and the ability to pick sound presets is really amazing. If you are less of a tweaker, the Yamaha is great. I think The Katana is a step above to be honest, that's more of an amp you could use at a band practice or similar. If I had your choice, I'd pick either the Yamaha or the Katana, but like I mention in the video I'm not an app person. I hope that helps you out - comparing any of these amps to what used to pass for a practice amp is night and day! A great choice to have. All the best, Simon - ps subscribe for new videos every week!
If space is limited and you want something that won't look ugly in a typical living room, get the Yamaha. Otherwise, the Katana is more bang for your buck. It's a full-sized amp, which sounds better and is more versatile than the Yamaha or Spark, but can also work at "bedroom" levels. Both the others are practice.amps which really can't be used for band rehearsal or gigging if you ever want to do that.
The thing that gets left out which is a huge factor with the Spark is that you can tweak it endlessly with the amp models and the pedals to get any tone that you want. With the traditional amps like the Yamaha you’re limited to the EQ settings of the amp itself so you were trying to limit both amps to just that functionality.
Absolutely true, the app does really seem to have endless possibilities. I mentioned that in the video and also said that if you wanted more detail to check out my friend Mark's ( @8minuteaxe ) video for info on the spark app. Have a look here th-cam.com/video/HBaWpUHMN5k/w-d-xo.html. Having said all that, for me I prefer the immediacy of the Yamaha. However, it is great that there is something for everyone! Thanks for watching - all the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar The Yamaha has great natural tones. With the Spark, you need to tweak it with the app to get the tones you really want and I do understand that's not for everybody. That's how I would decide one or the other between the 2 amps. And yes I did notice your references in the video to the app possibilities To me, that's what makes the Spark cooler IF you are willing to tweak and try.
I don't understand... Line 6 did a great job of replicating tube amps back in 98 onwards... I still have a flextone 11 and a year 2000 duoverb combo.. They sound pretty close, especially the duoverb.. Positive grid have made a great tool amp 20 years later but seem to be very synthetic sounding with a not so brilliant sounding cab on the spark 40...
Hey Paul, great to hear you're loving what you have already. After having played a bit more with the Spark, I'm not really that into it - I prefer the Yamaha. Thanks for watching, all the best, Simon
Hi Tomaz, thanks for watching - as you'll see here in the comments, that's a new feature since this was recorded... I would done that for sure - pretty boomy! Cheers Simon
I have a Thr10 and Thr10x that I play together via an aby pedal and they sound awesome! The newer Thr30 didn't give me the tube amp vibe I get from the older ones. The spark didn't sound as much like a cranked tube amp to me when I tried it either. Just wish the Yamaha's went louder. But any speaker setup I've tried don't sound as good as the small stock speakers.
@@Bronco2Cj Yamaha. Though I just bought a Boss Katana 50 for studnets in my teaching room - I will be doing a demo on that over the next month or so. Thanks for watching.
I think you were on point. You should try out Boss Katana 50. I had spark and I sold it because I wasn't getting the amp sound that I desired. It felt too digital. Boss Katana sounded way better to me. Sold that too and ended up with Helix which is amazing. However, I'm now rethinking of buying Spark just because I want something portable that I can take with me to play. I do like that it has the acoustic feature because of acoustic unplugged is not very loud.
Hi Aziz, thanks for watching. I loved the sounds from these 2 amps. Especially at the price point of around aud300. I've played a katana 50 before, but never a helix. But they both are priced a lot higher, so you would want them to be even better. Like I mentioned in the video, if there were practice amps like these 2 when I was starting out it would have been amazing! Thanks for watching. For 2 new videos weekly please subscribe and hit the bell to be notified. Cheers Simon
Just get a proper tube amp. You can find used combos for less than what katana go for. "got a digital amp because another aml was feeling too digital then got a digital multifx but now on second thought I'll have that digital amp for portability". You nailed it. Digital for convenience, analog for proper enjoyment if you have the money and space to use it in.
@@andreil1234 Hey mate, thanks for watching. I'm all for a tube amp - that what I have. I borrowed these two amps for this demo. However, like I mentioned to Aziz, comparing the helix, katana or tube amps to these things is comparing apples to oranges. These practice amps retail here at around AUD$250-300. Boss Katana retails at AUD$450 and I'd say a second hand tube amp will be at least AUD$450? Though it depends what you mean by 'proper' - a second hand Fender Deluxe is around 1000. Secondly, the ease of use and variety of the sounds offered by these amps is really amazing. For beginners who just want a good approximation of a wide range of tones they are perfect. I guess that is why they are succesful. Again, thanks for watching, appreciate your time. All the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar Hello from across the globe. You don't have to really go for Deluxe Reverb to get a decent start. Even a monoprice/hb tube15/ac15/ laney cub will feel much nicer and sound nicer on its own voice. I've got the tube15 for the equivalent of 250AUD and sure enough, it proved better for home use than amps four times its price. I've seen the likes of Egnater Rebel 112 combo as low as ~450 EUR and they're also briliant if you can afford turning a bit up hehe. I also had all variations of THR and two 1st gen Katana, still have an hx stomp and they're all great but except maybe the katana and thr10c to some extent they feel fakeish (input response) and don't have much character to me. I don't get a chance to plug often due to schedule so when I can, I really prefer a tube experience. YMMV. Cheers mate!
@@andreil1234 Oh hey there, good point on the size of amp. I didn't know you were in Europe. All those smaller tube amps over here in Aus are sadly a bit more than AUD250. The "Australia Tax" is alive and well and as such retail and 2nd hand prices of a lot of gear in Aus are disproportionate to anywhere else. As such even a 2nd hand fender champ XD is around 450-600! Generally what happens here is that you are better off going for an upscale amp as while it might cost a bit more, you're getting better value - that's why I mentioned the Deluxe. The wonder of the US and Europe is the choice you guys have! Brands like Laney, Harley Benton, Egnator etc just aren't really available/hard to find here. I mean you could buy from overseas online, but then there is the shipping - and on smaller amps is can be as much as the amp itself. I totally agree on the digital vs analogue - I think you just don't get the feel. I am spoilt with what I use for sure - but I loved these amps for what they offered. Especially the THR. All the best Simon
HI Joseph, I actually don't have one! I mainly use a Marshall Origin 20 or Fender Deluxe Reverb for videos and in lessons. At gigs I always use the Fender. Thanks for watching, all the best, Simon
I have the Spark and got it for a 160 euro (180 dollar) as a b-stock but it was still fully wrapped and nothing wrong with it. I think it's perfect for what it's made for; practicing at home. And the more Bassy tone?, i like warm and full tones so it doesn't bother me. I think it's great with all the backing tracks, the Tone cloud options etcetera. So to me the spark is more versatile. Besides that if you don't dig into the app you are missing out on a lot of functionalities. So for a student I think the Spark would be the one.
Hey Raffa Guitars Holland, thanks for watching. It's an amazing bit of kit for sure. And of course you can just use a the virtual EQ pedal that comes with the app. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
No doubt about it, the Yamaha sounds much better, and so does the Katana combo, Blackstar and Vox Adio. The Spark is a practice/jam tool and great for that. It doesn't compare in sound to other amps in that price range. If you want something that sounds great, get the Yamaha, if you want a jam/practice tool, get the Spark.
Hey Dan, thanks for watching. I agree with you on that. I think both are good, just depends on what you want to get out of them. I actually tried the smallest Boss mini Katana the other day which looks like a toy. I couldn't believe how good it sounded! All the best Simon
I have a THR5 and I’m considering the Spark. I just can’t get enough of a bright tone with my Yamaha. It always sounds muddy to me. I also dislike the need to plug a laptop into the Yamaha to tweak the settings. I like how the Spark as a phone app that will do all the tweaking I could ever want.
Hi again Rob, sorry just saw this comment too. I didn't plug anything into the Yamaha, I found it easy to plug n play and get a good sound (as you can hear on the video). The spark app is very clever. So I guess if you're looking to tweak more that's a better option. Thanks for watching Simon
Hey John, thanks for watching. 100% agree on the amp modelling stuff. I guess it depends if you are someone who is into the tweaking. I'm not really into that, but totally appreciate the depth of the possibilities! I think someone told me that the newer Yamahas have now got an app too? Is that true? I might investigate.... I'd be interested from people who own a THR! Anyqya, thanks again and all the best. If you're not already subbed, there are 2 new videos every week. Cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar the one i had did have an amp, but it didn’t go into it as deep as the spark amp can. Especially with the new add ons spark has added etc.
@@SimonMorelguitar the THR has always had an app for Mac/PC - here's a good introduction to the app from 2011: th-cam.com/video/avRvgELWrFE/w-d-xo.html It gives deep editing of the effects parameters, access to a compressor, and a choice of cabinet models.
Hey mate, thanks for watching. It was certainly interesting to get to try both out. My favourite was the Yamaha for sure, but the Spark has so many options/user made sounds etc. All the best, Simon - for 2 new vid per week, please sub and hit the bell.
Hey Blue Matrix, thanks for watching. The THR here is the 5. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Yes, I spoke to a mate of mine about that. Weird that they set it to be so bassy. But I understand that the virtual EQ pedal is great. Thanks for watching, cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar Yes, I just think it doesn't quite solve the problem. I mean, it has great, singing sustain with less fizz, but the clean is kind of weird. I think when you increase the treble and reduce the bass too much it sounds - in part - too processed. Hard to explain..
@@valueofnothing2487 Right, didn't know that. Still you've got to say they are amazing kit for the beginner. If you compare the Spark to my first practice amp...lol. Good talking, thanks for the info on the amp and all the best Simon
Yamaha is limited in all ways in the app with less features and sound and it bleeds out... Spark has more featurew and settings and modulation effects... Depends how you dial it.... Depends all on the cheap transistor and software how it gives back the "tube,, sound Yamahas algorithms are weak
Hi mate, thanks for watching. On the app side Spark definitely has more features, I guess it depends on how you like to control the sound. I liked the immediacy of using the panel on the amp itself. I guess it's subjective. All the best, Simon
Hi Don, looks like your message cut off. These are practice amps and great for learning what sounds you like before jumping in to other things. Thanks for watching, all the best Simon
Hey Shane, yeah it's bassy. But I understand you can now add an Eq pedal in the virtual chain? My mate @8minuteaxe has got a video on that. It does have a lot of things going for it.
I had the THR30II, a severe disappointment! The amp is outdated, sounds like SHAIT and it's years behind tone and technology. Yamaha need to pull their head out of their asses and get busy with a product that is actually good. I wish they would integrate the Helix sounds with 6 inch speakers and a wood chassy instead of that tin box.
Hi Byron, that's very disappointing. The one I borrowed for the demo here is around a year old, but I'm sorry to hear you had a bad experience. Did you follow this link to their support staff at their website? help.positivegrid.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037604112-Warranty-Return?_ga=2.26444221.168304084.1644016366-524966811.1644016366
I've had mine more than a year with no problem. And when I had a shipping problem, I called them and they fixed it right away. Sucks you had a bad experience, but it isn't fair to tell people not to buy it, because of your one experience.
Please share your experience, Byron. Apart from a problem I had with a noisy power supply, I have had no problems at all with my Spark in over a year and a half, and none of my friends who have one have mentioned any problems with theirs. I contacted Positive Grid about my power supply, and they were very responsive. I received a new power supply from them inside a week. If their service has declined since then, I’d be interested to hear about it from someone who has firsthand knowledge about it.
I own the Yamaha THR30II. There is no "higher more expensive model", that's the latest version. It also has an app that you can really dial in tones, moreso than knobs on unit.
But, the BEST feature that you DIDN'T mention is with the Yamaha you can go COMPLETELY wireless. You can plug a small bug into your guitar that automatically syncs with amp, no additional "receiver" module needed, eliminating guitar cable. And the Yamaha itself charges and can go wireless to the beach or front porch... for hours.
I love my Yamaha!!
Yes! I had meant to mention the wireless-ness. With more expensive, I think I meant more powerful - here you're hearing the 5 watt model. I love the wireless stuff. I use a BOSS WL20 and can attest to the great-ness of no wires. Thanks for watching - subscribe for 2 new videos every week! Cheers Simon
As a Yamaha owner I can tell you that you will LOVE IT!
It can play any type of music and it is very forgiving.
I can’t wait until the day that they make a bigger stage version of it!
Hi David, it's a very impressive but of kit. I saw the bigger ones had a line out? Could go straight into the pa!
Thanks for watching. For 2 new videos every week subscribe and hit the bell. Cheers Simon
I have a THR5 first gen and this is the first review I have seen when someone talked about how you can hear the guitar and it's sound. This is why I bought it almost ten years ago. I have several amps but the THR does sound like how a real amp setup would sound, except at bedroom levels. Great review by the way.
Thanks for watching. I really liked the THR. It's a cool amp. All the best Simon
I have the Spark and agree100% about the sound of the guitar you just don't get that with the spark I should have got the Yamaha THR thanks
Hey CRYSTAL SHIP, thanks! I'm glad that the demo was interesting. BTW there are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Great job on this comparison video Simon🎉🎉cheers !!
Glad you liked it!
Great comparison. Thank you. I’ve had a Spark for some time. After seeing your review, I think I would have leaned more toward the Yamaha. Thanks again!
Thanks for watching Blake, much appreciated. They really are both amazing!
I have had the Spark amp for almost 2 years and absolutely love it, but the Yamaha sounds more Relic or Tube like which I really dig. I am thinking about getting a second practice amp and use a Loop pedal to get a more realistic two Guitar stereo sound. I am definitely getting the Yamaha. Thanks again for the Demo!
Hi Toquelibre, I can definitely understand that choice as the Yamaha does have a more "Tube-like" sound to it. Thanks for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed the demo - please consider subscribing for 2 new videos every week, livestreams, and a host of other content. All the best, Simon
has it bricked out yet?
Thank you Simun, just what I needed!
Hi 999slawter, thanks for watching. To get more gear videos click here - th-cam.com/play/PLyOyvYOCqform-S2N6Kpqy3etjBYcN-PW.html - to get 2 new videos every week subscribe to the channel. All the best with the guitar, cheers Simon
HI Simon, thanks for the review. Funny seeing you like this after so long :-)
OMG! Hey mate - hope you are good. Has to be the THR for me, but the Spark is more tweakable. Cheers mate! Simon p.s Subscribe for 2 new videos every week.
I had the spark but couldn't get over the muffled sound, got a Yamaha and much prefer the clarity of the tones.
Hey Paul, thanks for watching. I agree. The THR is killer. Really fun amp. Thanks for watching - subscribe for 2 new videos every week! Cheers Simon
I was thinking my THR5 sounded muddy and muffled. Maybe I should pass on the Spark?
@@robsterTN Hey Rob, I've got to say I'm surprised to hear that. I loved the thr, I thought it was great. There's lots of high end on the one I tried. The EQ in general was great.
That was my impression too... the Yamaha is so much more clear and crisp, whereas the Spark comes across as even muddy ad times.
I have no doubt that the Spark is a killer of a learning/practice amp though due to the options with the app.
I haven't played guitar for 24 years (!) and I wasn't even rather experienced (or good) back then. I'm going to buy a guitar soon and I have to choose a practice amp too.
Until now, I thought that would be the PositiveGrid Spark, but listening to the 2 in direct comparison, I'm not so sure. Even though, I think that the Spark is the more convenient one for drum loops etc.
Anyways - way better options than in 1994, when I started back then...
I just ordered the 10th anniversary Yamaha THR30II ( in Black ) = waiting for delivery: August 2022. Nice review. oNe LovE from NYC
Hey Michael, glad you liked the video. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
I have 3 tube amps (Fender, EVH), the THR30ii and just got a Spark 40. The Spark is a lot of fun and sounds great!
Wow! The THR is really great
@@SimonMorelguitar It is, but I'm digging the Spark more - ease of use via the app is a big plus. Faster than firing up a tube amp :)
@@Smart-Alex I liked the Spark, but I'm not much of an app guy. I like the physical knobs so to speak ;) - I find having to go into the app and then tweak is annoying to me and distracts me from playing the guitar. Totally appreciate the massive palette of sounds though. It's a subjective thing I guess.
I'm pretty certain you have no idea what a tube (valve) amp is.
@@mojobag01 i’ve owned over a dozen tube amps and understand them quite well. I said the Spark was a fun amp and a great choice for its use case to just plug in and play at low volume - not the best amp.
The best comparison I ever heard thanks
Hey Harry, thanks so much for watching. Really appreciate it. Please do subscribe for two new videos every week. Cheers Simon
Really good and quality review! Thank you so much for this comparision
Hey mate, no worries at all. Thanks for watching. Cheers Simon
Excellent review Simon. I have the Spark and it serves my home practice/ jamming needs perfectly. Though it does get a lot of Bluetooth speaker use too.
Thanks Bryan. I was blown away by how good they both sounded.
I have the Spark 40 and absolutely love it. One thing to be aware of with the Spark, each time you change to a different amp preset all of the EQ values are reset to the saved values from memory. So if you prefer the Bass to be trimmed to a value of 2 for example, you'll have to retrim the Bass knob after each preset change.
Great info. It's a great practice amp for sure, I really enjoyed playing around with it. Thanks for watching.
Hi, really enjoyed the video. By the way what is that Tele? She’s a beauty! 🤘
Hey James, thanks for the note and watching the video. The tele is an American Vintage 64 reissue, I popped some Mick Brierley tele pickups in there too - it's my go to favourite guitar. Do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. I'll see you in the next one. Cheers Simon
Thank you for your fair review, I agree.
I think neither the spark nor the thr are bad: they are in many ways the opposite of each other.
The spark is in the dark side: it has a clear predominance of lower frequencies above all others, probably due to how the bass reflex technology is implemented, even at low volume. This is good for high gain and distorted sound, and generally when you need bass tones and presence at low volume; on the other hand it is very difficult to have a fair equalization.
On the opposite, the THR is bright, clean, responsive, transparent but It lacks that presence and low frequencies of the spark, especially at low volume, and, frankly, the high gain sounds and distorted sounds are kind of innatural and boxy
In the end, better to use the THR for clean or low gain tones, and the spark for high gain and distorted tones, or when you need presence at low volume.
Hi there, thanks for watching. Glad you liked the video. My preference is the THR, but I guess I don't really do that much high gain stuff. Both great things though. All the best, Simon
Thank you so much ! you deserve a medal ! you help people make ther choice
Hi Nassou, I'm glad that the demo was helpful. BTW there are heaps more easy to follow lessons and videos on my channel (600+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
I have a THR 10 and have dabbled into small amps for home use (Vox Adio Air GT, Vox Pathfinder 10, Cube 10, Peavey Rage, Champion 20). Sold them all and the THR10 remains a fixture at home. I'm not 100% in love with it, as I do love the air a 12 inch speaker pushes, but overall I'd recommend it for versatility and nice an quiet playing on the back verandah-batteries are a winner-make sure that you use Eneloops.
Hi Carter, thanks for watching and your input. All the best for the holiday season. Cheers Simon
With the latest spark downloadable upgrade there is an equaliser that will brighten the spark up, it can get rid of all the bass or just some of it. I was looking to swap the spark out but the new equaliser is a massive game changer. As well as the sonic AIRSTEP lite multi which gives you the option to loop, I now love my Spark amp
That is great news. A friend of mine told me about the EQ upgrade. It's a cool tool.
Thank yo ufor the info Kevin!
It is is waaaay better than Spark 40. Being able to jam to tracks/download from the large community foist matter if your amp tone is boomy to start off and bricks out after moderate use slightly over a year. Btw, Positive Grid’s customer service is in India . . . horrible!!!!
There is no comparison between the 2 imho. The Yamaha is a hi-if audio unit with unmatched amp simulations. I have owned both amps and a katana and the difference between them and tha thr is night and day. THR might not have the balls and whistles of the spark app but in return it is a no nonsense plug and play oriented unit. With the spark and katana I found myself constantly fiddling with the apps to try to get the tone i wanted and never being quite satisfied. The Yamaha gave amazing tones almost immediately. I sold the katana but kept the spark as a spare amp just in case.
Hi @yiannisfaitakis, thank you for watching and your insights. All the best Simon
I’m looking at a THR10II, have you tried one with acoustic electric?
Hi mate, thanks for watching. I haven't plugged an acoustic in, but can I ask why you need to plug the acoustic in? If you're doing gigs, you can plug straight into the pa at the venue. If you want to amplify the acoustic guitar, I would suggest considering a specialist acoustic amp. If you want the acoustic to sound "like an electric", you're better off buying an electric guitar. Hope that helps! Cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar thank you Simon, I’m not a public player, just play for myself, I have a cheap electric and amp which I like playing, but prefer the sound of my acoustic and looking to move to another Maton with a pick up for a different experience and opportunity to experiment a bit more, been watching plenty of reviews and leaning towards the Positive Grid Spark 40 as it has the app and could use it for both my electric and acoustic.
Thanks for uploading this video. I am going to buy Spark Go, Yamaha THR 30 ii Wireless Amp and Boss Waza Air Headphone Amp. Though buying three AMPs cost more but I think if budget allows then buying above mentioned 3 Amps fulfill all types of different requirements for any Guitarist.
Have fun!
@@SimonMorelguitar ❤️
The Spark is absolutly amazing, the USB Port is "Class Compliant" with a USB to Lightning (Or USB C) you can Record and Playback in you iPad!
With the Headphone out and the AUX IN you have many Great Setup possibilities!
And that the Bass Sound is Dark at Point 5 Half Middle ...is Great is Full Range...the Bass Knop react on any twist you do and is no Prob to reduce the Bass Sound!
You have 4 Presets ...and in the Souftware you can save more Presets...
With the Spark you got "Bass" and can twist'em out ...with the THR you seek the Bass and thair is an end for Bass!
That full Range Sound of the Spark, is very Great when you wanna Jam with Bluetooth Sound, to hear that Track you listen clearly, is an Amazing Amp
and the Sound full fill the whole Room...and that with "Less Volume" ...unbelivable Powerfull i Love that Spark Amp!
You can do alot with it!
Hi there, it is certainly a great bit of kit. Amazing value and as you mention it has so many possibilities. Thanks for your input, it's great info! All the best, Simon
I paid £270 for a new THR10II recently but managed to get a used Spark for £160 today so I'm likely going to return the THR10II unless it's really worth the £100 difference.
Hi there, thanks for watching. Glad to hear you managed to pick up both amps! I think they're different things like I mentioned in the review. One is a very app heavy amp and the other is focused more on the amp top dials. Both great it is subjective I guess. All the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar After trying both I'd definitely say the THR10 is better. The tones are much better out of the box and it has better, clearer sounding speakers.
Great review really helped me decide! Both are good products but for different players. Thanks and keep the review coming! Subscribed!
Hey Neil, you're welcome. All the best with the guitar. Cheers Simon
Which one did you go for? I am still trying to decide!
@@ohiep_ I'm leaning toward the Yamaha. I think it sounds better coming out of the speaker, whereas the other digital modelers are more of a recording interface. They are different tools.
@@GenXtra65 thanks man, I appreciate it 😎
I just ordered the Spark 40 after taking back my Yamaha thr 30. I couldn’t justify paying 500$ for such a small wireless desktop amp. Because it sounds good but for the price it doesn’t sound that good. With metal I can hear a ton of clipping. To really use the these desktop amp you would need a footswitch to switch between amps hands free. So after the buying a footswitch and The Yamaha thr30 amp the set up would cost $600-$650. When I realized I paid 650$ for my Boss Katana Artist 12in 100w with gafc Footswitch… I quickly returned the Yamaha. I bought my Spark 40 for only $230 the footswitch cost $100 and the 3rd party battery cost $40. $370 vs $650 it’s a no brainer for me. The spark just added an eq pedal so I’m excited to use it.
Hey Erik, thanks for sharing your experience. I'm sure you will enjoy the spark - all the best Simon
After Simon's video, your comment made me to buy the Spark Erik, thank you.
@@999slawter Enjoy!
pardon my ignorance but tons of clipping, what is clipping in the guitar world mean?
@@Bronco2Cj Hi there, here you go "A specific type of distortion. If a signal is passed through an electronic device which cannot accommodate its maximum voltage or current requirements, the waveform of the signal is sometimes said to be clipped, because it looks on a scope like its peaks have been clipped off by a pair of scissors. A clipped waveform contains a great deal of harmonic distortion (see WFTD archive harmonic distortion) and often sounds very rough and harsh. Clipping is what typically happens when an audio amplifier output is overloaded or its input over driven.
Interestingly, light to moderate clipping does not usually reduce the intelligibility of some signals, especially speech. In fact, it has been shown that clipped speech is easier to understand than normal speech in noisy environments. A probable reason for this is the increased high frequency content that accompanies this type of distortion, which can make a signal stand out more among other sounds and noises. Aphex and some other companies have been using this principle for years in their “exciter” type products. By adding the right amount of distortion at the right frequencies a signal will sound almost clearer and more distinct amidst other sounds, thus standing out more in a mix." from www.sweetwater.com/insync/clipping/
Cool video, for the use that I give to it I'm glad that I got the Spark. I'm more digital-oriented and I need super heavy chugging metal tones more than anything.
Hey Leandro, thanks! I'm glad that you liked the video - great that you're loving the Spark. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to get charts, extra lessons and even more guitar content you can get that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Thanks, Simon. I found this to be the most helpful comparison I came across online when I was pondering which practice and to buy. Given that the spark it's almost half the price of the THR, 30 I was more inclined to get the spark. But after watching your video I actually went out and got myself a THR 30 wireless, and I love it to bits. Later, I got the chance to try out the spark. Like you, I found it to be rather bass heavy. It was fun to play around with the app for a while, but then that gets 'a bit old and you just want to play guitar. My feeling when playing around with the spark was that it's probably voiced with a different Target group in mind. It's probably more aim to the player who is starting out and hasn't really been down that road of owning old school amplifiers and having to cut through the mix and all of that. I think that kind of player might actually prefer this darker sound.
I find that the Yamaha is more intuitive and much easier to use when you just want to noodle round for a bit. The thing is I really just need to sounds, Nice clean sound with reverb and a bit of crunch. I have been trying to use combo amps at low volumes for a long time and I haven't turned on a tube amp for months now, but I play way more guitar than I used to.
I'm amazed at how much the THR sounds and feels like a proper guitar amplifier at reasonable levels.
So thanks again Simon, I don't regret spending the extra money to get the Yamaha even though it might seem a bit limited in comparison to all the features of the Spark.
Nevertheless, I'm thinking about also adding the Spark Go to my gear collection, just because it's so cute and ridiculously small that I have to have one.
Hi @svarfinnbogason3645 Thanks for watching. It's great to hear that the THR has made you play more guitar, I hear that a lot! I totally agree with you on the Spark v THR too. I don't actually own either of these, but if I was trying to buy a small footprint amp, I'd definitely go for the THR. On the tube amp front I think the smallest and most versatile option is still the Fender Blues Junior. It still easily is loud enough, but the master volume is a life saver. That's the amp I take to gigs when the Deluxe is just too big.
On the tiny amp front, I bought my son Boss Katana Mini and that thing is great. I hear the Spark Go is good too though. All the best, Simon
I'm a newer player but can already tell I do not like the sound through the Spark. I was going to get the Yamaha but Sweetwater talked me out of it. Wish I went with my first pick, the Yamaha. You're absolutely right, the Spark is mostly effects and drowns out the cool guitar sound.
@@kirkwilliams4942 I have not yet found an amp in this format that sounds quite as good as the Yamaha. But a friend just bought a NUx Mighty something or other , the biggest of the NUx bedroom amps and to mee it sounds almost as good as the THR and has a lot more features than the THR, even a looper.
I am tempted to try it
Thank you so much. Great and very honest comparison.
Hi Manuel, thanks for watching, I'm glad the video helped. For 2 new videos every week, please sub and hit the bell to be notified when they're up. All the best, Simon p.s. for even more guitar stuff, charts and lessons check out www.patreon.com/simonmorel
It's a tricky one. I've had both and prefer the thr for tone and clarity. . That said the spark has an amazing app. Both are great though and make you want to play which is the main thing.
Hi Steve, thanks for watching. You are absolutely right. They both make you want to play. That's really the thing. Both great bits of kit! Cheers Simon - PS subscribe for 2 new videos every week...
I subscribed immediately when I saw Ogdens' Nut Gone Flake T-shirt
Smart man! Thanks for watching - see you in another video soon.
I had a THR10C and went for a Headrush Gigboard and a KRK monitor. After more than year it is clear, that though the modeler has way more options, I rarely use any of them. In fact it holds me back a bit. On the THR changing a setting, maybe even from my Mac while connected via USB (or via Bluetooth app on the current models), storing it to one of the buttons, was so damn easy and "amp-like". I don't want to get into the menus of the Headrush and fiddle around with presets and cab IRs and stuff. So I'll sell the gigboard and get me a shiny news THR30 and a wireless transmitter. This should clean up my living room setup even further..
HI Alexander, I totally agree with "In fact it holds me back a bit." That's why I liked the Yamaha more, set and forget (and get great sounds). Thanks for watching - please do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. All the best Simon
Get the THR30ii
More expensive but More Goodness!
Would love to try one. This little one was great. Please do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. All the best Simon
They both sound good. Odd choice of guitars for the high gain demos. The Spark now has a foot switch and I’m sure it can be eq’d for the bassey tone. I’d be happy with either little practice amp.
Hey Carlo, thanks for watching. I totally agree - both of those amps were great! They have different advantages for sure - if you're an app person the Spark's great - (and yes there is an EQ pedal in the app to tame the bass). Re the high gain stuff, I just don't have any of those kind of guitars, so I used what I have. btw There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a 2 new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
After having both the Spark and the Yamaha THR30-II, I by far prefer the tones from the Spark and sold the Yamaha. The Spark sounds way more like an amp in the room that is going through a proper cab and filling the room with sound. Something about the Yamaha always sounded off; sort of hollow, and it sounded more like a mic'd and processed signal than a live cab. And on the higher gain stuff, which is my main interest, the Yamaha would never saturate in the way I wanted, and palm muted chugs never sounded good.
And this is from someone who is spoiled by a ridiculous collection of high end tube amps, along with several great cabs. Does the Spark come really close to those amps+cabs though? No, but, after trying those, Katana mini, and Nux Might Lite BT, the Spark comes closest, and even when at a really low volume. It was also by far the best sounding one for music playback as well.
Love your insight Dave! Thanks for watching - really appreciate it. All the best. Cheers Simon ps sub for 2 videos every week
Did you try the green yamaha that was designed for rock and metal?
@@leandromaroniurbanek6042 It was the series 2, THR30-II, which includes the amp models from all three of the original amps. But I did actually get to try the older green one at my local music store, after I had sold mine, and it sounded basically the same from what I could recall. And I again could not fathom how people think it sounds great.
I agree totally Dave!!
The PG reminds me of my old Crate solid state amp from the early 90’s. Good but…
The Yamaha sounds much more like a tube amp. Both good but hands down easy decision for the Yamaha.
Hey S Mc, thanks for watching. I totally agree with you, the Yamaha is my favourite too. And blimey that's a flashback to the Crate! Haven't thought of those for years. Btw there are heaps more videos on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Thanks Simon..l needed up getting the spark in pearl..
Hey Gerard, thanks for watching. The Spark is great, the variety of sounds is amazing.
I had both, kept my yamaha thr30ii, has an app that is nice but really not a fan of messing with an app
Hey Jack, I couldn't agree with you more. The more time spent in the app, the less time spent playing... Thanks for watching - subscribe for 2 new guitar videos every week. All the best, Simon
Can you hook up
Wireless Bose or Beats headphones to these amps?
Hey mate, thanks for watching. Sorry I don't know the answer to that. I'm sure the manufacturer's websites will help you out. All the best Simon
Always the best way to acquire equipment you want or need ‘borrow’ it haha only joking interesting review btw.
I own both The Spark and a THR the original model both excellent in my opinion although I think the versatility of the The Spark especially when used with app is the one I use a lot more. As for the bassy sound of The Spark I did notice it at first, I’m not sure if the latest firmware helped solve it or the fact that I’m better at dialling in tones but it’s not really an issue now. As for a big plus for the THR is the portability with the use of a battery.
Hi there, how are you? Thanks for watching. Borrowing is the best! I 100% agree with your take. I reckon that is a fair summary of what they both have to offer. I'm sure there's an EQ pedal somewhere in the spark that will certainly help. Both amazing amps for the beginner. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Good review. I think I''l buy a Positive Grid Spark, but both are good. Thank you.
(I think that the microphone is a SM 57)
Thanks for watching Pierre and enjoy your new amp. The Spark app offers a lot of functionality. Very eagle-eyed of you to spot the microphone. It's a 58 with the grill removed. 57/58 are really the same mic. For more videos subscribe and hit the bell to be notified of 2 new lessons every week. Cheers Simon
Positive grid ALL DAY 4 me. Have it love it. Tried Tamaha has GREAT stuff but spark won imo
Hey Travis, thanks for watching - great to hear you are loving the amp! All the best Simon ps for demos and lessons subscribe for 2 new lessons every week.
I bought a Thr10x a few years ago, and was really excited to get it, but extremely disappointed when I played around on it. Not what I expected at all. Have a Spark coming today actually, and pretty excited. Hoping it sounds killer.
Hey Brad, sorry to hear it didn't work out for you with the Yamaha. I thought the size, portability and sounds were great in both. Good luck with the spark. Hope you enjoy it. All the best Simon.
Hey Brad! How was the spark?
Thank you for comparing the two using two different guitars.
I really think the type of guitar you have is an important part of selecting the right amp, and I just don't see any other reviewers do this.
I think I like the humbuckers with the Yamaha.
The Spark sounds very muddy to me and I like the brighter sounds of the Yamaha.
Hi Muskiet, thanks for watching the video. Glad you enjoyed it. All the best, Simon PS do subscribe for 2 new videos every week.
It is is waaaay better than Spark 40. Being able to jam to tracks/download from the large community foist matter if your amp tone is boomy to start off and bricks out after moderate use slightly over a year. Btw, Positive Grid’s customer service is in India . . . horrible!!!! Afterwards, I bought the THR30ii-what a difference in sound quality!!!
I liked the Yamaha better too. Sorry to hear you had trouble with your Spark.
I believe the latest Spark has an E-Q app; would this not resolve any problem regarding Bass Treble and all Tone requirements ?
Yes it would help. And I hear it does! My friend @8minuteaxe had a great video on this. Thanks for watching. All the best Simon
How does my name change from Robert Bate to Martin Luther. ? the only Martin Luther I know is the Christian reformist from the 17th Century ! do we have some plagiarizing hackers in our mist's ?
Great demo. I’m curious if you used the virtual EQ pedal that is available with the Spark Amp? This allows you to shape the amp tone to your liking.
Hey Richard, thanks for watching - really appreciated. You're not the first person that's mentioned this to me, I didn't use the app at all really. I probably should have investigated it a bit more as I understand adding the virtual EQ in the pedal (and the latest update) makes a bit difference. Having said that, the Yamaha is still the one I presonally would go for. I did really enjoy playing both though. Great amps. All the best, Simon ps please consider subscribing for 2 new videos every week! Don't forget to hit the bell.
@@SimonMorelguitar I would agree that as a stand-alone the Yamaha sounds more refined. For those reading, the Spark really shines with its IOS app and amp modeling capabilities and user network.
100% agree
Le gros défaut du THR30II est que la batterie n'est pas amovible comme sur le Spark.
Merci d'avoir regardé. Je ne le savais pas pour la batterie. Je pense que le Yamaha est un ampli qui sonne mieux. Cela dit, j'ai fini par acheter un Boss Katana pour mon studio d'enseignement, il est excellent. Regardez la vidéo ici (th-cam.com/video/lAKMBsmHbBM/w-d-xo.html) merci encore d'avoir regardé, Simon
I love my spark because I can save all my tones. I play the telecaster and less paul. I hav my spark pushing 1000w Cabinet it has grate sound
Hi Bluesraven, Thanks for watching. Really appreciate it. Yeah the spark is pretty cool, The fact that it has so many different sounds is really excellent. Thanks for watching. All the best with the guitar. Cheers, Simon PS to get two new videos every single week, subscribe and hit the notifications bell
I believe there's an eq now with the Spark in the software to lower the bass?
Yes that is right. I think you need to add the EQ pedal to your setup in the app. Check out this video on the Boss Katana - th-cam.com/video/lAKMBsmHbBM/w-d-xo.html
theres a new spark 2 they sorted out the bass sound
I will have to check it out! I hear on this one they updated the software to add an EQ pedal so you can better shape the sound. Still pretty fiddly though. I like the Yamaha, but I like the Boss Katana series the best. Thanks for watching, cheers Simon
Another reviewer added a EQ pedal infront of the Spark and was able to negate the overly bassy sound, but you would think Positive Grid would fix the issue with a patch or fix new amps at the factory before they ship to stores. I have both and I use the Yamaha thr30 11 much more. I don't gig anymore so the low volume keeps the rest of the family happy and I can still get the sounds I want. The THR30 is more expensive but they can be found used for about 100 dollars cheaper.
That might be @8minuteaxe ? I know Mark and he mentioned that to me the other day, but like you say you'd think they would sort it out! Thanks for watching. Do subscribe for 2 new videos every week. Cheers Simon
Tried THR II both 10 and 30 for extended periods of time:
- Can't get a sound I like just by using the top panel, actually have to mess with software and save presets
- FX knobs are a joke
- Rattle and roll at anything over 40% volume
- Weak quality recording via USB and big latency just like 1st gen
- Stereo projection underwhelming
- Theres some hard clipping and compression going on with all channels; no real clean transparent sounds to be had
- Input lag is noticeable even with cable
- Amp models generally react poorly to playing dynamics and volume rolloff
- Lack of harnonic content and sustain even on high gain models
- Very poor music playback, no bass at all, high end sizzle
- THR II 10 defaults on Modern tier of models when using the dial; those are by far the worst so you always have to go to the app if you don't like them.
- Headphone out is trash and clippy regardless of the headphones used; Aux In is poor as well.
My 2 cents: if I'm going to have to use the app and rely on stored presets, Spark wins by a mile. Also has better phones output, also can be used as soundbar and is much better for music and movies, you can literally dance at the barbecue outside to it. No crapping out or rattles.
For students? Just get a micro cube, cheaper than either more natural sounding and response, no stupid app distraction and endless tweaking.
When I really want to improve and learn, I just practice unplugged. If you sound good and clean unplugged, you'll sound good through anything.
Great info. Thanks
I am not a guitarist but a music lover and a big fan of Joe Satriani, and I could easily notice that YAMAHA sounds sweeter and cleaner to my ears!
Sound is one thing features are another. Value is in the total package
Sure, I'd still go for the one that sounds best to me though. Thanks for watching, all the best Simon
So sound is paramount agreed. But small features make a difference. You played them straight up and un biased. Well done I have the yamaha. And an orange 60c pro. I use my yamaha the most
@@Jajroofing24 I would but the Yamaha too. Having said that, I just bought a Boss Katana as an amp for students to use in lessons...
@SimonMorelguitar they are supposed to be excellent and with all the download able patches there are no limits
@@Jajroofing24 I'm not really into downloading and patches etc. The stock settings are great as far as I can tell so far though. Pretty good value too
The Spark Mini might have a more balanced sound than the Spark 40, as there is less bass. It also has an onboard battery. Incidentally, I have a THR 10c which sounds great clean and has good reverb and delay, but I prefer it with drive pedals than using the onboard gainy channels. Also, whilst the THR is more expensive, my THR10c is still going strong after about 8 years, whereas I read mixed reports about the Spark reliability.
Thanks for sharing - good info, especially about the reliability aspect of the THR.
I like the Yamaha best
Me too. Thanks for watching. Subscribe for regular demos and lessons. All the best Simon
I had the Spark, great for beginners but afte ra wh ile the sound gets a bit serile and I found it too boomy sounding, the Yamaha sounds far more refined and mature.
Bingo Jack! Thanks for watching the video. For two new videos every single week, please subscribe.
really stuck on what to buy just because its not possible to hear the spark in real life, ilive in sweden so mail costs will be high i assume, how can i get to hear spark in real life ? i guess my question to everyone is what would you buy and why if money wasnt an object,
my choices are spark , yamaha thr30ii or katana 50 ?????
Hi mate, thanks for watching the video. Great to hear you're thinking about grabbing a new amp, exciting stuff. Any of those choices are great to be honest. I think the thing that divides the amps is if you're an app person or not. The Spark has amazing flexibility and the ability to pick sound presets is really amazing. If you are less of a tweaker, the Yamaha is great. I think The Katana is a step above to be honest, that's more of an amp you could use at a band practice or similar. If I had your choice, I'd pick either the Yamaha or the Katana, but like I mention in the video I'm not an app person. I hope that helps you out - comparing any of these amps to what used to pass for a practice amp is night and day! A great choice to have. All the best, Simon - ps subscribe for new videos every week!
If space is limited and you want something that won't look ugly in a typical living room, get the Yamaha.
Otherwise, the Katana is more bang for your buck. It's a full-sized amp, which sounds better and is more versatile than the Yamaha or Spark, but can also work at "bedroom" levels.
Both the others are practice.amps which really can't be used for band rehearsal or gigging if you ever want to do that.
@@KeithMilner Hi Keith - only just seeing your comment and would agree 100%
The thing that gets left out which is a huge factor with the Spark is that you can tweak it endlessly with the amp models and the pedals to get any tone that you want. With the traditional amps like the Yamaha you’re limited to the EQ settings of the amp itself so you were trying to limit both amps to just that functionality.
Absolutely true, the app does really seem to have endless possibilities. I mentioned that in the video and also said that if you wanted more detail to check out my friend Mark's ( @8minuteaxe ) video for info on the spark app. Have a look here th-cam.com/video/HBaWpUHMN5k/w-d-xo.html. Having said all that, for me I prefer the immediacy of the Yamaha. However, it is great that there is something for everyone! Thanks for watching - all the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar The Yamaha has great natural tones. With the Spark, you need to tweak it with the app to get the tones you really want and I do understand that's not for everybody. That's how I would decide one or the other between the 2 amps. And yes I did notice your references in the video to the app possibilities To me, that's what makes the Spark cooler IF you are willing to tweak and try.
@@nazmoking3171 It's great that there is something for everybody! The app really is clever. Thanks for checking out the video
I don't understand... Line 6 did a great job of replicating tube amps back in 98 onwards... I still have a flextone 11 and a year 2000 duoverb combo.. They sound pretty close, especially the duoverb.. Positive grid have made a great tool amp 20 years later but seem to be very synthetic sounding with a not so brilliant sounding cab on the spark 40...
Hey Paul, great to hear you're loving what you have already. After having played a bit more with the Spark, I'm not really that into it - I prefer the Yamaha. Thanks for watching, all the best, Simon
Yup Spark price is much better here in Cdn...hard one for sure..
Hey Sheldon, thanks for watching. They are both great in different ways. All the best, Simon PS for 2 new video lessons every week subscribe
you should use the EQ on the app, to cut down the bass.
Hi Tomaz, thanks for watching - as you'll see here in the comments, that's a new feature since this was recorded... I would done that for sure - pretty boomy! Cheers Simon
I have a Thr10 and Thr10x that I play together via an aby pedal and they sound awesome! The newer Thr30 didn't give me the tube amp vibe I get from the older ones. The spark didn't sound as much like a cranked tube amp to me when I tried it either. Just wish the Yamaha's went louder. But any speaker setup I've tried don't sound as good as the small stock speakers.
Hi Phil, interesting! Great to hear you're loving the Yamaha. Cheers for watching, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar Cool, thank you for making a nice video showing the amps I enjoyed it!
@@philgraves4998 It's a pleasure!
@@SimonMorelguitar But if you were forced to choose, which would you roll with?
@@Bronco2Cj Yamaha. Though I just bought a Boss Katana 50 for studnets in my teaching room - I will be doing a demo on that over the next month or so. Thanks for watching.
Te hice caso. Compré el Yamaha
Es un gran amplificador, ¡te encantará!
The Yamaha was much more sparkly/chimey. Overall, I liked the Yamaha more.
@@williamclarke2020 Me too. Thanks for watching William.
is that THR the 10 or the 30?
Hi Ciaran, its the Yamaha THR 10IIW. Hope the video helped - all the best, Simon
I think you were on point. You should try out Boss Katana 50. I had spark and I sold it because I wasn't getting the amp sound that I desired. It felt too digital. Boss Katana sounded way better to me. Sold that too and ended up with Helix which is amazing. However, I'm now rethinking of buying Spark just because I want something portable that I can take with me to play. I do like that it has the acoustic feature because of acoustic unplugged is not very loud.
Hi Aziz, thanks for watching. I loved the sounds from these 2 amps. Especially at the price point of around aud300. I've played a katana 50 before, but never a helix. But they both are priced a lot higher, so you would want them to be even better. Like I mentioned in the video, if there were practice amps like these 2 when I was starting out it would have been amazing! Thanks for watching. For 2 new videos weekly please subscribe and hit the bell to be notified. Cheers Simon
Just get a proper tube amp. You can find used combos for less than what katana go for.
"got a digital amp because another aml was feeling too digital then got a digital multifx but now on second thought I'll have that digital amp for portability". You nailed it. Digital for convenience, analog for proper enjoyment if you have the money and space to use it in.
@@andreil1234 Hey mate, thanks for watching. I'm all for a tube amp - that what I have. I borrowed these two amps for this demo. However, like I mentioned to Aziz, comparing the helix, katana or tube amps to these things is comparing apples to oranges. These practice amps retail here at around AUD$250-300. Boss Katana retails at AUD$450 and I'd say a second hand tube amp will be at least AUD$450? Though it depends what you mean by 'proper' - a second hand Fender Deluxe is around 1000. Secondly, the ease of use and variety of the sounds offered by these amps is really amazing. For beginners who just want a good approximation of a wide range of tones they are perfect. I guess that is why they are succesful. Again, thanks for watching, appreciate your time. All the best, Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar Hello from across the globe.
You don't have to really go for Deluxe Reverb to get a decent start. Even a monoprice/hb tube15/ac15/ laney cub will feel much nicer and sound nicer on its own voice.
I've got the tube15 for the equivalent of 250AUD and sure enough, it proved better for home use than amps four times its price. I've seen the likes of Egnater Rebel 112 combo as low as ~450 EUR and they're also briliant if you can afford turning a bit up hehe.
I also had all variations of THR and two 1st gen Katana, still have an hx stomp and they're all great but except maybe the katana and thr10c to some extent they feel fakeish (input response) and don't have much character to me. I don't get a chance to plug often due to schedule so when I can, I really prefer a tube experience. YMMV. Cheers mate!
@@andreil1234 Oh hey there, good point on the size of amp. I didn't know you were in Europe. All those smaller tube amps over here in Aus are sadly a bit more than AUD250. The "Australia Tax" is alive and well and as such retail and 2nd hand prices of a lot of gear in Aus are disproportionate to anywhere else. As such even a 2nd hand fender champ XD is around 450-600! Generally what happens here is that you are better off going for an upscale amp as while it might cost a bit more, you're getting better value - that's why I mentioned the Deluxe. The wonder of the US and Europe is the choice you guys have! Brands like Laney, Harley Benton, Egnator etc just aren't really available/hard to find here. I mean you could buy from overseas online, but then there is the shipping - and on smaller amps is can be as much as the amp itself. I totally agree on the digital vs analogue - I think you just don't get the feel. I am spoilt with what I use for sure - but I loved these amps for what they offered. Especially the THR. All the best Simon
What model of practice amp do you normally use?
HI Joseph, I actually don't have one! I mainly use a Marshall Origin 20 or Fender Deluxe Reverb for videos and in lessons. At gigs I always use the Fender. Thanks for watching, all the best, Simon
I have the Spark and got it for a 160 euro (180 dollar) as a b-stock but it was still fully wrapped and nothing wrong with it. I think it's perfect for what it's made for; practicing at home.
And the more Bassy tone?, i like warm and full tones so it doesn't bother me. I think it's great with all the backing tracks, the Tone cloud options etcetera. So to me the spark is more versatile. Besides that if you don't dig into the app you are missing out on a lot of functionalities. So for a student I think the Spark would be the one.
Hey Raffa Guitars Holland, thanks for watching. It's an amazing bit of kit for sure. And of course you can just use a the virtual EQ pedal that comes with the app. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons on my channel (500+) and a new one every Saturday, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
No doubt about it, the Yamaha sounds much better, and so does the Katana combo, Blackstar and Vox Adio. The Spark is a practice/jam tool and great for that. It doesn't compare in sound to other amps in that price range. If you want something that sounds great, get the Yamaha, if you want a jam/practice tool, get the Spark.
Hey Dan, thanks for watching. I agree with you on that. I think both are good, just depends on what you want to get out of them. I actually tried the smallest Boss mini Katana the other day which looks like a toy. I couldn't believe how good it sounded! All the best Simon
Here's a video I put together with a friend of mine and the Boss Katana mini th-cam.com/video/gmuBJ6BJCuI/w-d-xo.html
I have a THR5 and I’m considering the Spark. I just can’t get enough of a bright tone with my Yamaha. It always sounds muddy to me. I also dislike the need to plug a laptop into the Yamaha to tweak the settings. I like how the Spark as a phone app that will do all the tweaking I could ever want.
Hi again Rob, sorry just saw this comment too. I didn't plug anything into the Yamaha, I found it easy to plug n play and get a good sound (as you can hear on the video). The spark app is very clever. So I guess if you're looking to tweak more that's a better option. Thanks for watching Simon
You sound like you just started playing last month
@@dustinarnold79 thanks Dustin. Hopefully I'll get the hang of it soon! All the best. Simon
Both sound mint, but the Yamaha got no where near enough features compared to the spark.
Hey John, thanks for watching. 100% agree on the amp modelling stuff. I guess it depends if you are someone who is into the tweaking. I'm not really into that, but totally appreciate the depth of the possibilities! I think someone told me that the newer Yamahas have now got an app too? Is that true? I might investigate.... I'd be interested from people who own a THR! Anyqya, thanks again and all the best. If you're not already subbed, there are 2 new videos every week. Cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar the one i had did have an amp, but it didn’t go into it as deep as the spark amp can. Especially with the new add ons spark has added etc.
@@johnsmith5022 Yes the new updates are pretty cool. Enjoy
@@SimonMorelguitar the THR has always had an app for Mac/PC - here's a good introduction to the app from 2011: th-cam.com/video/avRvgELWrFE/w-d-xo.html
It gives deep editing of the effects parameters, access to a compressor, and a choice of cabinet models.
@@justinforder2835 bingo! Thanks Justin. Great info
I got Yamaha and spark I lean to thr10
Thanks for watching! Is there any reason in particular you lean towards the THR10?
The THR sounds 100 times better, the Spark doesn't sound good at all.
Hey mate, thanks for watching. It was certainly interesting to get to try both out. My favourite was the Yamaha for sure, but the Spark has so many options/user made sounds etc. All the best, Simon - for 2 new vid per week, please sub and hit the bell.
I feel the same
Thr30 is monster!
Thanks for watching the video - I will have to check one out. Loved this one.
WHICH THR IS THIS ONE?
Hey Blue Matrix, thanks for watching. The THR here is the 5. There are heaps more easy to follow lessons and gear videos on my channel (600+) and two new ones every week, so subscribe and click the bell for a notification when they are published. All the best, Simon ps if you'd like to support the channel you can do that at patreon.com/simonmorel
Thank you 🙏
@@bluematrix5001 Welcome
The Spark has an EQ now, but still...
Yes, I spoke to a mate of mine about that. Weird that they set it to be so bassy. But I understand that the virtual EQ pedal is great. Thanks for watching, cheers Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar
Yes, I just think it doesn't quite solve the problem. I mean, it has great, singing sustain with less fizz, but the clean is kind of weird. I think when you increase the treble and reduce the bass too much it sounds - in part - too processed. Hard to explain..
@@valueofnothing2487 Right, didn't know that. Still you've got to say they are amazing kit for the beginner. If you compare the Spark to my first practice amp...lol. Good talking, thanks for the info on the amp and all the best Simon
@@SimonMorelguitar
Absolutely.
Yamaha is limited in all ways in the app with less features and sound and it bleeds out... Spark has more featurew and settings and modulation effects... Depends how you dial it.... Depends all on the cheap transistor and software how it gives back the "tube,, sound
Yamahas algorithms are weak
Hi mate, thanks for watching. On the app side Spark definitely has more features, I guess it depends on how you like to control the sound. I liked the immediacy of using the panel on the amp itself. I guess it's subjective. All the best, Simon
I would place Spark as strictly a beginner’s grade. Whe
Hi Don, looks like your message cut off. These are practice amps and great for learning what sounds you like before jumping in to other things. Thanks for watching, all the best Simon
Spark is way too bass-heavy.
Hey Shane, yeah it's bassy. But I understand you can now add an Eq pedal in the virtual chain? My mate @8minuteaxe has got a video on that. It does have a lot of things going for it.
I had the THR30II, a severe disappointment! The amp is outdated, sounds like SHAIT and it's years behind tone and technology. Yamaha need to pull their head out of their asses and get busy with a product that is actually good. I wish they would integrate the Helix sounds with 6 inch speakers and a wood chassy instead of that tin box.
Sorry to hear that was your experience. I quite liked the THR I tried here.
Don’t buy a Spark, they only last a few months and Positive Grid doesn’t have a customer service department.
Hi Byron, that's very disappointing. The one I borrowed for the demo here is around a year old, but I'm sorry to hear you had a bad experience. Did you follow this link to their support staff at their website? help.positivegrid.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037604112-Warranty-Return?_ga=2.26444221.168304084.1644016366-524966811.1644016366
I've had mine more than a year with no problem. And when I had a shipping problem, I called them and they fixed it right away. Sucks you had a bad experience, but it isn't fair to tell people not to buy it, because of your one experience.
Please share your experience, Byron. Apart from a problem I had with a noisy power supply, I have had no problems at all with my Spark in over a year and a half, and none of my friends who have one have mentioned any problems with theirs. I contacted Positive Grid about my power supply, and they were very responsive. I received a new power supply from them inside a week. If their service has declined since then, I’d be interested to hear about it from someone who has firsthand knowledge about it.
@@itsalwayssomething7490 That sounds like a quick fix. Thanks for sharing
@@vocalion9519 I agree Vocalion. It would be great to hear if Byron got a resolution.
Spark. Got it. Love it. Always play it.
It's a great tool! Amazing amount of sounds