I can scarcely remember a time when guitar wasn't a part of my life. I've played hundreds of shows including the   occasional opening act. I am not a virtuoso guitarist. I play what is needed with good timing and expression. I never had access to the best equipment but tinkered with what I had to find the sounds I wanted to hear.

I was fortunate enough to play when you could bring volume to any size venue. My bands were always respectful and never played louder than the room required. Managers used to ask us how we could sound so full without overpowering the room. "It isn't the volume, it's the music. Quality shines at any volume" is what I would say. 

I used to set my rig up facing across the stage to give me direct access to the speakers without turning around. You can change the feedback frequency simply by changing your position in respect to the speaker cabinet. 

I play the amplifier as much as I play guitar. 

I studied electronics when I was younger but put it on the back burner so I could make a living while chasing stardom so to speak. To me it was never about being a musical icon, it was more about the satisfaction of performing and watching people enjoying what we brought to the stage. 

I still get goose bumps remembering those shows.

Over the last several years I have returned to electronics and dedicated myself to understanding the art and science of building vacuum tube guitar amplifiers. It's amazing what can be achieved with dedicated study and a 'trial and error' approach. I remember Bruce Egnater saying he's been doing this so long he knows what a circuit will sound like before he builds it. He is the Godfather of Gain in my humble opinion. I greatly value his opinion and thank him for his insights.

Now I have come full circle. I'm still learning and hope to continue for a long time to come. The amps I'm building are designed for Clean to Mean, Low to Loud, and pure playing enjoyment. Who knows, maybe one can help you find your tone.

Thank you very much for your time.

Douglas