Rock musician David Knudson of the band Minus the Bear showcases his skills on the PRS Sonzera 20 combo amplifier in a demo session.
In the world of professional guitar amplifiers, the PRS Sonzera line has made a significant impact since its introduction at the 2017 NAMM Show. Among the line's offerings, the Sonzera 20-watt combo amp has been particularly praised by Minus the Bear guitarist David Knudson for its suitability for his unique tapping technique and its ability to produce shimmering, "chimey" tones.
The Sonzera 20-watt combo amp is a tube combo amplifier featuring a moderately powered 20-watt output and a single 1x12-inch Celestion speaker. This compact design delivers a rich tube amp sound with classic tonal characteristics, making it ideal for small to medium venues and studio use.
The amp boasts two independently controlled, footswitchable channels—typically Clean and Overdrive—allowing for versatile tone options. Each channel has independent volume and tone controls for maximum tonal versatility. An effects loop is available for integrating external effects pedals or processors seamlessly, and a 3-band EQ and presence control allow for fine-tuning your tone to perfection.
The Sonzera 20-watt combo amp's key specifications and features make it a versatile and practical choice for professional guitarists like David Knudson, who need a responsive and nuanced amp for both live performance and recording. Its big, full, 3D clean channel provides a robust foundation for your sound, while the shimmering, "chimey" overdrive channel offers a unique tonal palette for those seeking a distinct sonic identity.
In addition to the 20-watt combo, the Sonzera line includes a 50-watt combo and 50-watt head, providing options for guitarists seeking more power or a different form factor. Further information about the Sonzera line can be found on the PRS Guitars website, and a video demonstration of the Sonzera 20-watt combo amp can be found online.
With its versatile features, classic tube sound, and endorsement from a respected professional guitarist, the PRS Sonzera 20-watt combo amp is a compelling choice for modern guitarists seeking a high-quality, portable tube amplifier for their performances and recordings.
[1] PRS Guitars (2017). PRS Sonzera 20-watt Combo Amp. [Online]. Available: https://www.prsguitars.com/products/amplifiers/sonzera/sonzera-20/
[2] Minus the Bear (2017). Minus the Bear's David Knudson Endorses PRS Sonzera Amps. [Online]. Available: https://www.prsguitars.com/blog/news/minusthebeard-david-knudson-endorses-prs-sonzera-amps/
[3] Guitar World (2017). PRS Sonzera 20-watt Combo Amp: First Look. [Online]. Available: https://www.guitarworld.com/gear/prs-sonzera-20-watt-combo-amp-first-look
- The Sonzera 20-watt combo amp, a tube combo amplifier, offers a rich tube amp sound with classic tonal characteristics, making it ideal for small to medium venues and studio use.
- The amp boasts two independently controlled, footswitchable channels and an effects loop for integrating external effects pedals or processors seamlessly, providing versatile tone options.
- The PRS Sonzera 20-watt combo amp is a compact design that delivers a big, full, 3D clean channel for a robust foundation, along with a shimmering, "chimey" overdrive channel for a unique tonal palette.
- Among the line's offerings, the Sonzera 20-watt combo amp has been particularly praised by Minus the Bear guitarist David Knudson for its suitability for his unique tapping technique and its ability to produce shimmering, "chimey" tones.
- In addition to the 20-watt combo, the Sonzera line includes a 50-watt combo and 50-watt head, providing options for guitarists seeking more power or a different form factor.
