In 2018, BOSS released the Nextone series, an entirely new concept in professional guitar amplification. While many amps rely on tone shaping at the preamp stage, Nextone amps focus on the power amp section. This allows it to capture the signature tones and dynamic response of beloved vintage amps. At the same time, it offers consistent sound and ultra-reliable operation. Nextone amps also boast practical features like line and recording outputs, extended foot control, USB, and more. Discover how the Nextone Version 3 update enriches the already powerhouse amp series.
A Tale of Four Tube Types
One unique feature of Nextone amps is the option to choose from a quartet of power amp options. The four Nextone analog Class A/B power amp circuits allow players to switch between four classic power tube types: 6V6, 6L6, EL84, and EL34. Utilizing Tube Logic technology, changing power amp types revoices the amp from input to speaker. This modifies the tone of the amp as well as its feel and response.
In addition, Nextone provides a world of deep customization options for players to explore. These include Character Shape, pre/post preamp EQs, Boost types, and independent effects settings for Custom mode.
"Utilizing Tube Logic technology, changing power amp types revoices the amp from input to speaker. This modifies the tone of the amp as well as its feel and response."
Vintage Power for the Modern Era
The most famous tube amp designs center around one of four output tube topologies, each with a distinctive character. For example, we associated EL84-based power sections with the classic chime of British combo amps. Alternatively, the EL34 power amp in non-master volume British stack amps is vital to creating its iconic midrange roar.
6V6-based circuits yield the sweet, singing overdrive of low-wattage American combo amps. By contrast, the bold 6L6 power section evokes higher-powered American combos. These provide crisp twang, authoritative punch, and heaps of transient headroom. There’s no need to choose one over the other, however. The Nextone has four innovative, analog power sections to capture all these sounds and more.
Constant Evolution
The Nextone Editor unlocks a deeper level of customization. It allows players to virtually mod their amp. They can tweak onboard effects, fine-tuning bias, sag, EQ, and other parameters to their preference.
In 2019, BOSS released the Version.2 update, bringing a host of new features to the platform, including Character Shape, separate pre/post preamp EQs (including 10-band graphic), seven new Boost types, independent effects settings for Custom mode, and more.
Welcome to Version 3
Version 3 is a free update for Nextone Stage and Nextone Artist amps. A powerful update, Version 3 adds two key features in the power section to enhance the playing experience.
- Selectable Power Amp Bias option
- 0.2W Power Control option
"6V6-based circuits yield the sweet, singing overdrive of low-wattage amps. The bold 6L6 power section evokes higher-powered combos."
Power Amp Bias: Fixed Versus Self
What is power amp bias? In the most basic terms, tube amp biasing is an electronic process that ensures power tubes receive the correct voltage. This ensures optimum running conditions and tone.
Some tube amps utilize a fixed bias circuit. This means users can swap out tubes without additional adjustment, provided they stick to specified power tube types. Other tube amps use a self-adjusting cathode bias, which accepts a wider range of tubes without adjustment.
Adding the selectable Power Amp Bias option to the Nextone Artist and Stage amps bring them in line with the flagship Nextone Special. This setting is another way Nextone amps bring circuit-level customization to players’ fingertips. Without burning them in the process.
"Fixed Bias has a crisper, more modern feel, while Self Bias evokes the soft, warm vibe of a well-used tube amp."
In practical terms, the bias setting fine-tunes the nuance and feel of the amp. Fixed Bias has a crisper, more modern feel, while Self Bias evokes the soft, warm vibe of a well-used tube amp. It’s a subtle difference that’s hard to describe. Digging in with fingers or a pick changes the dynamic response.
Power Control
As mentioned earlier, the magic of the Nextone platform lies in the power amp section. To that end, cranking the Master Volume up behaves like a vintage tube amp. The louder you go, the more one can hear that distinctive power tube behavior.
The Power Control allows players to crank the Master to their ideal setting. From there, the actual volume can come down to more manageable levels, with Half Power and 0.5W settings. Nevertheless, some users report that for their preferred sweet spot on the Master Volume, 0.5W on the Power Control was still too loud for home.
In the Version 3 update, users can now swap the 0.5W output setting for a more civilized 0.2W. After updating your amp, access this in the Global Settings menu in the Nextone Editor. Or simply power on the amp while holding down the TONE and BOOST buttons.
Play Live, Play Loud
With Version 3, Nextone amps now have a pair of new features for gigging guitarists. These include a solo boost for each channel plus the ability to switch between delay and tremolo from the top panel. Let’s explore both options and how they can take a live show from good to extraordinary with a few quick steps.
Solo Boost
The Solo control has independently adjustable levels and activation for Clean and Lead channels. After selecting the Clean channel, simply press the same switch again to activate the Solo function. The same goes for the Lead channel. The respective LED will blink when it’s active.
Independently adjustable Solo EQ allows players to increase their volume when a solo kicks in. They can also tailor it to their preferences. Some options include adding mids to cut through a mix or extra treble for a biting solo tone. Furthermore, users can position the Solo EQ either before or after the preamp section.
Gigging guitarists looking to elevate their live show are in luck. The new Solo boost feature is controllable via the optional GA-FC footswitch for onstage use.
"Independently adjustable Solo level and EQ allows players to increase their volume when a solo kicks in and tailor it to their preferences."
Switching FX On the Fly
Access all these parameters via the Editor. However, let’s say it’s necessary to adjust the level of the Solo boost in the middle of a gig. No problem. Hold down the channel switch, and use the EFX LOOP and DELAY switches to adjust the Solo Level up or down.
Last but not least, users can switch between Delay or Tremolo in the effects section, straight from the top panel. This provides expanded versatility on the go without connecting to the software editor. You can use the Delay button to switch between Delay (LED lit red), Tremolo (LED-lit green), or Off (LED not lit).
DOWNLOAD
Nextone Version 3
To get started, download the latest firmware and version of Nextone Editor, and update your amp.
