When it comes to guitar amplifiers, Orange is a brand that stands out for its unique design, distinctive sound, and rich history. Known for its high-gain and gritty tones, some may wonder if Orange amps are suitable for clean tones. In this article, we will delve into the world of Orange amps and explore their capability to deliver exceptional clean tones that are both pristine and characterful.
Orange Amps: A Legacy of Tone:
Founded in 1968 by Clifford Cooper, Orange Amplifiers quickly became synonymous with the British rock sound. With iconic users like Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin and Stevie Wonder, Orange has a reputation for producing amplifiers with a raw and powerful overdrive, which has often been the focus of their advertising and marketing.
Clean Tones on Orange Amps:
While Orange amps have gained popularity for their overdriven and distorted tones, they are not limited to only high-gain applications. Many Orange amplifiers offer clean channels that can produce stunning, transparent, and vibrant clean tones.
- AD30 Combo:
The Orange AD30 twin-channel combo is a classic example of an Orange amp that delivers beautiful clean tones. With two channels that can be combined for more tonal possibilities, the AD30 features a simple yet effective design. The clean channel offers a crystal-clear sound that retains the guitar’s natural character.
- Rockerverb Series:
The Orange Rockerverb series, known for its versatility, features clean channels that are highly regarded by many guitarists. These amps deliver sparkling cleans with enough headroom to handle pedals and various tonal options.
- OR Series:
The OR series, like the OR15 and OR50, are known for their vintage-inspired tones. These amps offer warm and rich clean sounds that are well-suited for blues, jazz, and classic rock.
- Tiny Terror:
The Orange Tiny Terror, though renowned for its crunchy overdrive, also boasts a clean channel that is a pleasant surprise to many users. It delivers a pristine clean tone that showcases the amp’s dynamic response.
- Custom Shop 50:
The Orange Custom Shop 50 is a hand-wired amp that offers a remarkable clean channel with exceptional clarity and warmth. It showcases Orange’s attention to detail and commitment to tonal excellence.
Character in Clean Tones:
What sets Orange amps apart in the realm of clean tones is the unique character they impart. Even on the clean channel, Orange amps often have a touch of their signature grit and harmonics, which can add depth and personality to the clean sound. This distinctiveness is embraced by many musicians who seek an amp that stands out from the crowd.
Orange amps are not just reserved for high-gain aficionados. They are capable of producing excellent clean tones that can rival more traditional clean-focused amplifiers. From shimmering cleans to characterful, slightly overdriven tones, Orange amps offer a diverse range of clean options that appeal to a wide spectrum of guitarists. Whether you are a classic rock player, blues enthusiast, or jazz aficionado, Orange amps can be an excellent choice for those seeking both versatility and a unique sonic identity.
