Hughes and Kettner Duotone...Can anyone compare it to a XTC?

[bikerdude2]

I know, apples to oranges, but both pricey new, and both cover that vintage vibe. Anyone play both? Mostly interested in the gain comparisons...more low mid, mids, high mids, smoother, etc. Thanks in advance

 

[gtr31]

More upper mids for sure .the HK duo sounds like a cross between a Jacm800 with some Soldano gain structure IMO .It is not dark at all .
it is very mid focused it also has nowhere near the low end of a Bogner.
Tighter and brighter ..
The Statesman head is dark creamier and more Bogneresque but has less gain than a duo

 

[bikerdude2]

Thanks...that's very helpful. I'm torn between picking up a Mark III or trying a Duotone. It seems like a lot of amp for the $$$ used, considering the features.

 

[gtr31]

A duotone is a nice amp .great clean .and a bright OD .I would say it is more modern sounding gain than vintage though.
The Trilogy may get closer IMO.The ultra channel has a lot more bottom end and a darker voicing.
An Egnater Tourmaster is probably closer to a Bogner type OD as well.

 

[bikerdude2]

So would you say it is closer to a Splawn Quickrod type gain?

 

[gtr31]

Yes ,closer to a Splawn than a Bogner for sure

 

[bikerdude2]

I found the Splawn to bright for my taste so looks like it may not be the amp for me. Appreciate the info.

 

[gtr31]

If you are looking at dark ,smooth hi gain tones .seriously look at the Egnater Renegade ,Tourmaster .I think you will dig them. They are not exactly a Bogner voicing but in the same family and exhibit some of the characteristics IMO.Although still have there own thing going on at the same time

 

[bikerdude2]

funny you mention the Renegade...I heard a few clips and am considering one instead of a Mark III