Where the VHT (Fryette) love?

[RJF]

The name change couldn't have helped. It was confusing to folks not obsessed with gear.

Also a bit strange that one of their most beloved products (2100 power amp), they don't make.

And they just never had the good fortune of placing their amps in real high profile hands, it seems.

Agreed. IIRC there was some story that Steve forgot to renew his trademark or something on the "VHT" name and someone swooped in and took it... I don't know, that sounded weird.

Not trying to start roomers, but I bet he sold that name for a chunk of change to that lame outfit that builds Chinese garbage with the same exact VHT name plates.

And yeah, there aren't really any "big names" that use Fryette gear, or that are at least vocal about it.

Don't get me wrong, I like Fryette's products, his stuff is as good as anyone's in the boutique world, especially the cabs.

 

[RJF]

Wish I could share in the love. I've always wanted to try an Ultralead, but I've never been able to find one in person.

I know you are in the Bay, if you are really interested and are coming east on 580/205 anytime soon you are welcome to try mine out.

 

[mooncobra]

The UL, Deliverance and Sig X are all great.

 

[dooredge]

I have a 2010 Fryette UL w/ KT88's, smokin' amp. Also have a 100/CL (purchased it from one of the guitarists in The Dillinger Escape Plan). Great seriously pissed off amps!

 

[Wizard of Ozz]

I've owned several Ultra-Leads. Steve F builds a quality product.

 

[Fuego]

The name change couldn't have helped. It was confusing to folks not obsessed with gear.

Also a bit strange that one of their most beloved products (2100 power amp), they don't make.

And they just never had the good fortune of placing their amps in real high profile hands, it seems.

Agreed. IIRC there was some story that Steve forgot to renew his trademark or something on the "VHT" name and someone swooped in and took it... I don't know, that sounded weird.

Not trying to start roomers, but I bet he sold that name for a chunk of change to that lame outfit that builds Chinese garbage with the same exact VHT name plates.

And yeah, there aren't really any "big names" that use Fryette gear, or that are at least vocal about it.

Don't get me wrong, I like Fryette's products, his stuff is as good as anyone's in the boutique world, especially the cabs.

Steve Fryette himself told me he borrowed $150K from axe to expand his business and couldn't pay them back. He used the name as collateral.

 

[tubortski]

Been using a D120 lately for live and recording. Couldn't be happier.

Sig X and Pitbull 45 were badass as well.

 

[the rossness]

I had a Sig:X and loved the tone, but it gave me headaches (I have no idea why). I bought my VHT CL100 W/EQ years ago and wouldn't think of selling it- unless it got me a CLX. Its extremly versitile. I don't play super- aggressive metal, but I like the tight sound and feel that borders on hi-fi, but isn't quite hi-fi. It hits the sweet spot. I love mine!

 

[jkdsteve]

Always wanted a Sig-X....grout sounding amp, all channels.

 

[webrthomson]

I've got a D60 - great amp - mine's one of the first model so I've had a loop added! Sonically great, very hard to come by in the UK though - I'd love an UL as well!

 

[rokket2005]

I've got a '93 PB classic and it's one of my favorite amps for recording. As far as Fryette dropping off, I think the same thing has happened with a lot of similar tier hi gain manufacturers, ei Rivera, Engl, Framus, etc. I think the digital market has come in and taken players from these amp companies, whereas ten years ago maybe someone would look at getting an ultralead, but now they can get an axe or kemper or helix for the same or less that purposes to do more.

 

[AmpliFIRE]

No love from me...sorry brother. I've owned 3 over the years (UL, CLX and CL). Dry, lifeless, bland tone overall. Just not a fan

 

[JerEvil]

Huge Fryette fan. Have a D60 but going to sell it to fund another Sig: X

 

[garey77]

No shortage of Fryette love here!! I can't wait to see if SF has anything new w/his hi-gain head stuff this year @ NAMM.

 

[icurrent]

I got a Pittbull 45 a couple months ago from craigslist, really love that amp. The clean channel is incredible, I haven't really played much with the drive channel at band volume yet but it seems quite good as well.