Guitar Gear Gems: JFX Deluxe Modulation Ensemble & more
This week's roundup includes a €36k boutique tube amp
3,8 / 5,0 | 
This week on Guitar Gear Gems, we check out the new JFX Pedals Deluxe Modulation Ensemble that combines Boss’s and EHX’s classic effects. Then we look at the Orange Valve Tester MKII, which is perfect for anyone into tube gear, as it tests the tubes. Finally, we look at the Jens Ritter €36k Encore boutique tube amps with laser engravings and precious jewels.
Deluxe Modulation Ensemble
JFX Pedals build some pretty special boutique effects, and their new Deluxe Modulation Ensemble is already causing quite a stir in the world of stompbox enthusiasts. The new pedal combines the EHX Deluxe ElectricMistress flanger and the BOSS CE-1 chorus pedal into one compact, modern unit.
BBD
Plus, it manages to stay true to the analogue BBD circuits. This new pedal has the CE-1 preamp with high/low toggle and peak level LED. It will run in stereo or mono operation and has an optional effects loop between the circuits.
The design incorporates true-bypass switching for the flanger and buffered bypass for the chorus/vibrato. It looks pretty impressive and has already sold out the first few batches. The next batch is due soon, though, and you can read the full details at the JFX Pedals site.
MSRP – CAD $ 574.99 / GBP £329
Orange Valve Tester MKII
Orange Amplification has revealed the new Valve Tester MKII, which replaces the older VT1000 model. This box of tricks will test your tubes and is now easier to use and features the ability to properly test EL34, 6CA7, 6L6, 6V6, 6V6GTA, KT66, KT77, KT88, KT120, 6550, 5881, EL84, 6BQ5, ECC81, 12AT7, ECC82, 12AU7, ECC83, 12AX7, and 12BH7 tubes.
Testing
It uses a microprocessor that executes a series of complex tests to assess valve performance and can help make the process much quicker. They have also made some optional expansion modules to test EF86 and the GZ34 rectifier tubes.
Tests include higher current capacity, advanced ‘grid leakage detection testing’, a novel ‘thermal runaway’ test, and a ‘digital microphony function’ for pre-amp valve testing. This piece of tube testing gear is going to appeal to anyone who repairs a lot of tube gear and could save a lot of time and money.
MSRP – Valve Tester MKII GBP 850 / Optional Expansion Module GBP 195
Jen Ritter Encore
These new boutique Jen Ritter Encore tube amps are the latest venture from the German guitar maker. They combine 50s-60s futurism with high-end premium components, including 18-karat white gold-covered tubes and ice-frosted, white gold-coated sapphire-topped control knobs.
Laser Engraved
The amp comes in a polished stainless steel chassis with laser engravings of famous guitar players’ names; these can also be customised when placing your order.
Twin Channel
They are a twin-channel, 58-watt amp voiced like a Fender Bassman and a Dumble Classic. Each amp also features two different 12″ speakers. A Jensen speaker in an open-back design for a warmer, more resonant sound. Then, an Electro-Voice is housed in a bass reflex system for a tighter, punchier tone.
These high-end amplifiers come at a high price and will set you back €36k each, with a build time of around 7 months per amp.
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One response to “Guitar Gear Gems: JFX Deluxe Modulation Ensemble & more”
I’m going to buy an ugly amp-thing with classic-rock guitarist names scribed into the body. For 36,000 Euros. Because I’m stupid and have bad taste.