New Release | Soldano Astro-20!
Here at Peach Guitars we are massive fans of all things Soldano, so when we get the opportunity to explore a brand new product ahead of its official release, well, we jump at the chance!
So you can imagine how excited we were when the new Soldano arrived at Peach HQ a few months back!
Introducing the new Soldano Astro 20, the latest creation from the legendary Mike Soldano, mastermind behind the iconic SLO series. Bridging the gap between traditional valve amps and new digital amp technology, the Astro 20 gives you user friendly digital control and IR utilisation, but with old school balls-to-the-wall Soldano tube growl.
With 3 channels, and 20 watts of power, the Astro 20 is loaded with 4 12AX7 preamp tubes and 2 6V6 power amp tubes. The defining feature of the Astro 20 though is the inclusion of the 4 tonal galaxies, which are essentially 4 different gain stages, with each benefiting from 6 planets, which are the impulse response options for each stage.
The clean channel is incredible, offering crystal clear cleans, and it benefits from an independent volume, tone and a 3-way brightness switch. Gain 1 and 2 have separate gain and volume controls while sharing bass, middle and treble.
The master output section boasts a global master volume, presence control and a 3-way depth switch that adds texture and definition to your sound.
The colour of the front display relates to the colour of the selected tonal galaxy. Green is dedicated to the clean channel while Blue, Purple and Red can be assigned to either of the gain channels and sculpted to your requirements. Orbiting the Galaxy you’ll find 6 planet lights, they correspond to the selected impulse response. The Astro 20 features a great range of pre-loaded IR’s but you can also customise and upload your own via the Soldano editor software, which can be accessed via usb. For even greater ease of use, the Galaxies, channels and IR’s can all be selected and assigned via the front panel too.
The back panel is loaded with player focused features. With multiple speaker outputs, an effects loop, headphones out, balanced IR output, USB and a midi port for the included 4 button footswitch, the Astro has covered every base and offers the perfect solution for players who require versatility but don’t want to compromise on tone.
The Soldano Astro 20 is a glimpse into the future of amp design. A no compromise blend of vintage valve attitude and modern functionality, it’s the perfect partner for players across a huge range of situations. Whether you’re on the road, in the studio, or just playing in your bedroom, the Astro 20 delivers flexible, A grade tone at a comfortable volume, direct to your computer, front of house or into your cab.
We’ve really enjoyed dialling in on the features of this amp, it’s a versatile solution to a lot of modern problems. Any new amp featuring the illustrious Soldano name has a lot to live up to, but the Astro 20 certainly delivers! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
As always, you can buy with confidence from Peach Guitars. From meticulously inspecting each piece of equipment, professionally setting up each guitar, tracking every package, and delivering the best after-sales customer service, our team will do our best to make you feel welcome and offer genuine, professional advice.
