The RPA 100 Power Attenuator by RockBoard addresses a problem all too familiar to guitarists and bassists: Tube amps only deliver their iconic, saturated tone when pushed to high volumes, which causes the tubes to distort and compress in that desirable way. Unfortunately, in settings like home practice, rehearsals, studios, or even live performances, such volume levels are often impractical or unwanted - yet turning the volume down typically means sacrificing that beloved sound. With the RockBoard RPA 100, there's no longer any need to choose between tone and volume, as the device sits between the amp and speaker to reduce output while preserving the amp's authentic sound - all while providing a built-in cab sim, D.I. output, AUX input, headphone out, and more for seamless integration in both live and recording environments.
Measuring just 180x160x125mm (L x W x H), the RockBoard RPA 100 easily fits on any amp, cabinet, or even a desktop, with a design that evokes the look of a stylish mini amplifier. The front panel provides controls for adjusting both the output volume of the guitar signal and the line out, while the rear panel includes a 6.3mm jack for connecting speakers with 4, 8, or 16 ohms, along with an AUX input for external sound sources, a headphone output, line out, and a D.I. out. The latter features optional speaker simulation - switchable between 2x12" and 4x12" cabinets - making the Rockboard perfect for sending signals directly to a mixing console or recording interface. As its name implies, the RockBoard RPA 100 is capable of handling up to 100 watts of power with ease.
A power attenuator like the RockBoard RPA 100 is an invaluable tool for guitarists and bassists who cherish the unmistakable sound of tube amps, which continue to hold their magic and appeal even in today's increasingly digital music landscape. The RPA 100 makes it possible to enjoy that dream tone anywhere - on stage, in the rehearsal room, in the studio, during home recording sessions, or even while relaxing on the sofa - without being limited by volume. Silent practice with headphones is just as effortless, and there's no need for an additional bulky unit cluttering the living room. Whether it's fellow musicians, family members, or neighbours, everyone around will likely appreciate the RPA 100 just as much as the player using it.
RockBoard is a brand belonging to Warwick, which is based in Markneukirchen in Germany's Vogtland region. RockBoard's range focuses on pedalboards, which are available in numerous different designs to suit any application and budget, and are complemented by an extensive range of pedalboard accessories, from slick patchbays for expanding the boards and high-quality patch cables for loss-free connection through to high-performance power adapters and the "QuickMount system" for rapid effect changes. In short, RockBoard offers virtually everything that players need to easily set up their own individual pedalboard.
The RockBoard RPA 100 Power Attenuator excels in capturing the sound of all-tube guitar or bass amplifiers, whether in a professional studio or a relaxed home recording setup, offering players a versatile toolbox designed specifically for these situations. A major advantage is its ability to operate without being connected to a cabinet, allowing the amp to be used silently while avoiding unwanted bleed into other microphones or tracks. The power amp signal is routed directly from the amplifier into the RPA 100's D.I. output, which can then be sent to a mixing console or audio interface for further processing. For an even simpler route to professional tone, the built-in cab sim can be engaged with a switch, providing a choice between the classic sounds of a 2x12" or 4x12" cabinet and delivering studio-quality results with minimal setup work.