(March 23, 2008)
I've owned my 6601 since January '06 and will never let it go, as there is no better replacement for me. When compared to most amps the quality definitely exceeds the price paid. Suited to anything from country to jazz to heavy rock. It deserves a 10/10, however I've rated it 9/10 as I know I never take 10/10 ratings seriously.
The amp works on a cascading gain type circuit, and the controls did take a little getting used to, but nothing overly complicated. It is a single channel amp, with 2 stages of gain plus boost on each stage, effectively allowing for 4 modes of operation (all footswitchable). Has heaps of gain on tap, but doesn't lose any clarity and articulation. Cleans are spanky clean, the gain is always easy to control. I'm not really sure that there is a certain sweet spot, as it sounds great all the time, never seems to lose any of its balance. The only effects I am using now are a wah pedal and occasionally a midiverb for delay. No need for OD pedals as they would be overshadowed by the natural compression and overdrive of the amp. I own an Artist, SG, Les Paul, Flying V, Iceman and a strat, they all sound equally good through this. The valve driven effects loop is a great design as you can dial in the exact effect:amp signal ratio you want - you won't believe how good a wah pedal sounds in an effects loop until you try this one.
The matching cabinet is beautifully designed, and projects the sound in a way that it sounds louder 10 meters away than it does right in front. Moves a lot of air and sounds bigger than the twin speakers inside. Nice and light too, no strain on the back when manoeuvering into the car boot.
I can't say enough good things about Duane Ledford, you will not meet a nicer guy and is always a pleasure to deal with. If you're in the market for a great amp I strongly suggest seeking out and test driving a Ledford 6601.
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