Welcome to Zystrix...

What’s new at Zystrix? Read on… November 10, 2025 Best Bang for the Buck Guitar Amp Attenuators (Load-Boxes) In the last issue we went over part two of the series on two basic pedals needed for an original metal guitar sound (click here for a refresher). This time we’re going examine some guitar amp attenuators. Play your amp at the settings you love at the volume you need. So sit back and relax. Welcome to Zystrix, the heartbeat of the universe. Where creativity and free-thinking have more value than conformity. Background Artwork The colorful artwork that surrounds the edges of this website is invisible to many cell phone users. It’s included here (with others) for your enjoyment. Multiple copies are tiled together for a cohesive and seamless background seen all around this page. Enjoy. Introduction to Tube Amp Attenuators What’s a Guitar Amp Power Attenuator? A guitar amp power attenuator is a device that connects between a tube (valve) amplifier and the speaker cabinet and it reduces the volume of a guitar amplifier while (in a perfect world) preserving the dynamics and tone of the amp. The amplifier tubes (valves) can be driven at a preferred level at almost any lower volume using an attenuator, and the excess power is usually converted to heat and dissipated. Guitar amplifier attenuators have improved a lot since the early days of the Tom Scholz Power Soak (shown above). I used a Twin Reverb at the time and the Scholz Power Soak helped me get the 6L6 power tubes working. This was back in the days of passive attenuation with the associated loss of tone and high end. But now we have active attenuators (ones requiring an external AC power supply) that use a variable speaker load and the associated improved tone dynamic differences. However, where the big differences lie in bigger money attenuators is in extreme attenuation situations. There are also attenuators that go into the effects loop so the preamp can be run harder. One version is the Donner Emo-Amp Controller and another one is the JHS Little Black Amp Box. To me the attenuator should work for all tubes and not just the preamp section. Besides, if the effects loop is where the attenuation is happening then the output tubes (valves) are not being pushed and utilized for their big fat beautiful warm power amp sound. So if you are looking for that sound then using the Donner or the JHS pedal won’t get you there and necessitates another pedal like the Joyo Cab Box for an emulation of the power tube warmth. Or simply use the Joyo Cab Box in place of the Donner or the JHS. But instead of all that, it’s far better to get the correct attenuator in the first place and forget about the Emo-Amp Controller, Little Black Amp Box, and the Joyo Cab Box. And great sounding attenuators cost more, so be prepared to be separated from your wallet. This issue is only going to concern itself with the active and the passive whole-amp types. What I’ve also done with this list is separate the active from the passive attenuators. And naturally, price is often a factor in the sound of gear. I also know that sound is a very subjective thing. So use your ears when deciding and realize having too many features now may be something to grow into as your needs grow. Also be aware that running an amplifier full power for an extended amount of time is NEVER a good thing to do. An amplifier is not designed to be abused this way, and it may simply blow an amp fuse, to quickly shorten the life of the power tubes, which could also lead to a catastrophic failure. Although it’s great fun, I have fried power transformers using this method. Be cautious and diligent. Here are some other common sense things to remember… Make sure the attenuator is able to handle the amount of wattage the amplifier is capable of pushing. Make sure the amplifier output and the attenuator output cables are plugged into the correct places. And when making attenuator and amplifier output cable adjustments make sure the amplifier is OFF. And there you have it. Let’s move on to the goods… This list of gear is not all encompassing. I chose the attenuators I felt represented the popular majority. Here we go… Passive Attenuators Bugera PS-1 Power Soak This one has a 100-watt amplifier limit, it doesn’t offer any EQ or effects, there’s only one cabinet output, and the volume control is a little hit and miss with a 50% reduction in amp power from the start. But for the low price it’s really hard to complain. Other features include an XLR output with a microphone type sound for the mixing board at the front of house (FOH) or recording, and a choice of 4, 8, or 16 ohm amp output. It’s small and relatively light, and it’s even got a 3- year warranty. I found one new on Amazon for $130 and free shipping. Cool. Active Attenuators Tone King Iron Man 2 Iron Man 2 is an active guitar amp attenuator, it runs on 12 volts DC, and comes with a wall wart power supply. A common complaint with this one is the over-compression at high attenuation levels. It’s a little difficult to find deals on this attenuator so sellers Ebay to Reverb are all at about $800 USA with free shipping. Rivera Rock Crusher This attenuator features cabinet emulation, 11- band graphic EQ, 8 or 16 ohm modes, and heavy construction and XLR output for recording or FOH. It accepts up to 120 watt amplifier output. An active attenuator, it runs on 18 volts and comes with its own line wart. The newest version (pictured above) sells for $950 with free shipping at many big box music stores. Finding a used one is nearly impossible right now. However, there’s lots of older used ones (pictured below) on Ebay and Musician’s Friend for about $650 USA, and it even comes with free shipping. Universal Audio Ox Box According to the manufacturer this attenuator has versatility and ease of use. It offers up to twenty- two cabinets modeled after well-known cabs from Marshall, Fender, and Vox. There are up to six different microphone curve types available using the companion software. It also offers 6 pre-configured setups, and many of the emulations fall into the classic amp sounds. The four effects available include EQ compressor, delay, reverb. The connections include coaxial and an optical S/PDIF Out, a Line Out, and a speaker out. Unfortunately there is no way to load third-party IRs, and a common complaint about this attenuator is the lack of high end. Ox Box is priced new at $1300 USA and free shipping from many big box music stores, but used ones are readily available for about $900 to $1000 and free shipping from Musicians Friend and Guitar Center. Fryette PS-100 Power Station The PS-100 accepts amps up to 100 watts, and it also combines power amp and attenuation features so pre-amps can have power. As attenuators go this one has an audibly more transparent attenuation sound. It also features an adjustable volume from silent (recording) to full 100 watts (stage). Unfortunately there is only one output for speaker cabs, and the effects loop cannot be operated from the panel and requires a foot-switch pedal. However, most users say the attenuation sounds more natural than others. I found this one at American Musical and Amazon for $1200 and free shipping. The older model is readily available used from Reverb and Ebay for about $900 USA. Two Notes Re-Load 2 This attenuator features an analog reactive load, and it can tolerate amplifier outputs as high as 200 watts. The amp loads can be 4, 8, or 16 ohms. It offers a transparent dual-mono 215 watt solid state amp, and 2 independent cab outs. The FX loop is stereo, and 2 front of house or recording XLR outputs. Many users say it is a very realistic sounding attenuator. Unfortunately there is a lack of built-in IRs and they must be user installed via the Genome software. I downloaded the owner manual PDF and I still couldn’t figure out if third party IRs can be loaded into the attenuator. I would hope so, but proceed with caution. Many big box music stores offer it for $1100 USA and free shipping, however I found it for $999 USA at Adorama. Boss Tube Amp Expander The Tube Amp Expander by Boss is brimming over with features. For live or recording there are stereo XLR outputs, however it’s also possible to connect to a computer DAW using the USB port for a live mixing board or recording. The MIDI port can be used to either adjust the attenuator settings, or to also record the adjustments via MIDI from the attenuator or adjust other MIDI capable devices. The attenuator can also be used as a recording interface for your guitar if desired. And there’s no wall wart -- it runs on typical house current. It is also possible to adjust the impedance response of the reactive load using the two front dials. This is a great feature, but unfortunately your original cabinet load response is currently not available. Do you own a small tube amplifier that you love the sound of but it’s just too quiet? Use the Tube Amp Expander to attenuate the output and then increase the volume to compete with the rest of the band. The FX loop can be used for only the output of the desired effects or they can be blended in with your direct sound. There are ten pre-configured settings for getting started, and after a software update it’s possible to load up to 32 third party impulse responses – Djammincabs Super Maxxx IRs to the rescue. Big box music stores offer it for $1300 USA and free shipping, however I found it new for $1000 USA on Ebay and used at Musician’s Friend for $900 and free shipping. This excellent attenuator offers a lot of options – probably more than most guitarists would need. So Boss answered the call with the... Boss Tube Amp Expander Core This version also has many features: 2 XLR outs, USB for direct recording to your DAW, headphones out, accepts 100 watt amps, a built- in 30 watt amplifier, 32 cab emulations, 64 user IR slots stereo or mono and up to 32-bit files size, the stereo FX include compression, EQ, delay, and reverb. It also has 10 recallable rig settings. Unfortunately (for whatever reason) it does not support dual or triple rectifier amps. It even accepts third party IRs. Cool. This attenuator is a little power house at a great price. I can find them at the big box music stores for $770 USA and free shipping, but $610 to $636 USA and free shipping for a used one on Reverb. Tube Amp Attenuator Decisions -- Conclusion There is no cheap way to to own a great sounding attenuator. As they become more expensive (almost) they sound better. The Bugera will get a person the basic sound but the dynamics are going to suffer. The Fryette has a very natural sound but comparatively not many features. In my opinion the Boss Waza Tube Amp Expander is the way to go until something better comes along (and it always does). I hope this listing has given you food for thought for your hard earned cash. Don’t touch that dial… Stay tuned next time… In the next issue we’re going to look at great sounding low wattage (about 20 watts) tube guitar amps. Does a hybrid tube amp sound good for metal? Which amp is the most bang for the buck? Which affordable amp works best for recording metal? We’ll also hear a new piano tune by Dangerous Neighbors. Maybe I’ll see you then. I was going to procrastinate yesterday, but I decided to do it tomorrow.

Zystrix = a source, shaman, or library disseminating secret or lost knowledge, art, or music.

ZYSTRIX POPULAR FREE DOWNLOADS The Best Free Synthesizers of 2024 It’s another epic issue, and there’s lots of FREE downloads here. And the Honorable Mention Synthesizer List might surprise you. This list is long, so prepare yourself. And if it seems like too much to take in, I warned you. Click here for the official list of The Best Free Synthesizers of 2024. The Best Free Mastering Plugins Your DAW (digital audio workstation) will be so happy. And so will you. Here are the best of the best for EQ, compression, limiting, tube and tape emulation, reverb, delay, and honorable mentions. This list is a must have with lots of downloads. Check out The Best FREE Plugins for Mastering 2024. Here’s a free download of almost one and a half hours of original neo-classical solo piano by Dangerous Neighbors. This full length album called Piano Top to Bottom consists of 18 original piano pieces with the final piece in two movements. There is a bonus track making 20 files total. This download comes in three format options: the first option is a single file MP3 containing all the tunes in one chunk similar to tape recordings. The second download option is a folder with all of the separate MP3 piano pieces named and arranged in album order similar to a CD or MP3 player. The third download option is similar to videos found on “ZooTube” with the names and times on the screen. There is also a fourth surprise version made only for “ZooTube” and it is edited down to less than 15 minutes long because of their telephone number required rule. Basically it just guides the listener here. To download any or all of these options simply click here. Enjoy. Free Guitar Cabinet Impulse Responses Introducing the next generation in guitar cabinet impulse responses. Try the new Djammincabs Maxxx 4x12. All of these cab IR files are based on old, new, and boutique 4x12 cab curves. All are recorded in beautiful 24-bit 48K mono and will work on most free and paid digital convolvers. Hear the guitar IR breathe fire with pure attitude. Don’t be suckered in with high-dollar sales pitches, there ain’t no guitar IR downloads better than these. Choose from many cab sound recording styles: cone, edge, angled, arm away, inside cab, back of cab, or back of room. Djammincabs is the world leader in guitar cab IR invention -- no other guitar IR company can imitate these. Djammincabs Maxxx 4x12 makes it easier for you to design your own personalized sound -- even your own Metal IR pack. If you can’t find a cabinet or combination you like here, then you don’t like 4x12 cabinets. This guitar IR download also includes a Tactical Munitions Manual with suggested uses and detailed cab combinations. This is the best free guitar impulse download available anywhere. Djammincabs Maxxx 4x12 “Murder Your Competition.” I feel brave. I want to try them now. Here’s my email... Djammincabs for Guitar Free Guitar Impulse Responses This is the original Djammincabs guitar cabinet impulse response collection that started it all. Click here to download over 200 Free Guitar Cabinet Impulse Responses. Djammincabs for Bass Guitar Download Free Bass Impulse Responses Click here to download over 200 Free Bass Guitar Cabinet Impulse Responses. Best Free Guitar Impulses. The Top 11 Best Free Guitar and Bass Cabinet Impulse Responses for 2022 (in alphabetical order…) Find, download, and test the best free guitar cabinet impulse responses for 2022. FREE BASS LOOPS SAMPLES DOWNLOAD ROYALTY FREE BASS LOOP SAMPLES FREE BASS LOOPS Over 200 samples are included in the collection Download the complete collection of 24-bit bass loops here. NOTE: This download size is approximately 369 Megs. Free Pendulate Synthesizer Presets Original Newfangled Audio Pendulate synth patches/presets Click here to download over 240 Free Pendulate Synth Presets (patches) Synapse Audio Dune Synthesizer Download Over 200 Free Synapse Audio Dune 2 and Dune 3 Synthesizer Patches and Presets Click here to download over 200 FREE Synapse Audio Dune 2 or Dune 3 synthesizer patches or presets. NOTE: This synth patch download is slightly over 1 Meg in size. Free Reverb Impulse Responses This is our most popular download page. Choose from hundreds available in 48K 24 bit WAV format including many new original reverbs. CabSpace Over 400 Guitar Isolation Booth Reverbs Download over 400 Free Zystrix Original Reverb Impulse Responses, and over 200 Free Zystrix Original BONUS Reverb Impulse Responses. Download all the Alesis MIDIVerb 4 reverb impulse responses. Download all the Lexicon MPX-1 reverb impulse responses. Download all the Alesis Wedge reverb impulse responses. Download over 50 Reverb Relics from the past including oil cans. Click here to download free reverb impulse responses. Free Drum Samples Only Available from Zystrix Free Gong Samples and Sounds Free Snare Drum Samples and Sounds Free Bass Drum Samples and Sounds Free Oriental Cymbal Samples and Sounds Free Oriental Bells Samples and Sounds The Ultimate Original Drum Sounds List Download over 2000 original slammin’ rock bass drums. Download original Gongs, Cymbals, Broken Cymbals, and Bells. Download Over 200 Free Original Bass Drum Sounds and Samples. Download over 200 Original Free snare drum sounds. Click here to download Drum Kit Sounds. Dangerous Neighbors The SW Michigan Rock Band Power Trio. Free Rockin’ Music Downloads Download tunes from the 80s to today. Use the special codes on the Embalmed for Life page (see the DOWNLOAD FREE AUDIO BOOKS link below) and get free downloads for the complete album and the free horror audio book The Fluid - Embalmed for Life. Click here to download various music from the rock band Dangerous Neighbors. Download Free Synth Samples for Intros, Interludes, and Endings Listen to example #01 by clicking here (MP3 Sample) Download FREE professional quality stereo sample packs that slowly evolve over time. All samples are in 48K 24 bit WAV format and are about 20 seconds long or more. If you like suspense, psycho, outer space, or terror then this collection is for you. These range from paranoia to sci-fi, cinematic gore to strange industrial horror, and creepy creatures to insane laboratories. Click here to download all the synth Intros, Interludes, and Endings. DOWNLOAD FREE AUDIO BOOKS The Fluid, Embalmed for Life There are Free Audio Book codes for Audible downloads (must sign up). There are also free sample downloads of the book reading. There are free downloads of music samples. There is a free “Look Inside” download of the paperback. There is a free glossary of the largest list of mortuary slang in the world. The Free Dangerous Neighbors Album The Fluid, Embalmed for Life comes included as part of the audio book and parts are available here as a free download. The paperback book is available for sale at Amazon dot com. I have no control over these sales; because of the Amazon agreement I cannot offer complete paperback or complete audio books here. And for some reason most book sales go to Japan. Who would have thunk it? Click here for free audio books, book reading samples, music samples, etc. Take me back to the top of the page. Zystrix Privacy Policy THE FINE PRINT: Zystrix is a world leader in personal privacy and we take your privacy very seriously. We do not store, sell, give away, or barter with any of your personal or private information including your email, IP address, links clicked, location, habits, tastes, online activities and behaviors, or anything else considered personal or private information. We never have. Zystrix is not and has never been a participant in any advertising program including but not limited to the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, Sweetwater, Reverb, or any other affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees from readers by click-through advertising and linking to the aforementioned or any other companies. Zystrix does not allow companies like Doubleclick, Clickbank, Zedo, Linkbucks, Hubspot or any other related clandestine personal privacy internet problems to occupy space or have any presence on or in the Zystrix website. Zystrix does not and has never used Google Analytics, therefore this site is not required to have those annoying cookie agreement popups. Zystrix has no links associated with the sale or offer of any products, and we do not allow this. Unlike so many other websites similar to this one, this Zystrix privacy policy keeps our reviews dead honest, cuts out any unnecessary middle man, and keeps this website free from cookies and the influences of Google and the many other unethical purveyors of your digital exhaust and personal information. Open source, private, and honest. It’s our mantra.