Connections:
The Seymour Duncan PowerStage 100 Black is a compact stereo power amp in pedal format, designed specifically for guitarists who create their sound with pedalboards, multi-effects, or modelling systems: Instead of relying on a traditional amp, they can connect it directly between effects and a speaker cabinet. Despite its impressively small footprint, it delivers an equally impressive 100W at 4 ohms, and can even drive cabinets up to 16 ohms. An integrated fan ensures reliable heat dissipation, while the convenient built-in power supply means there's no need for an external power brick: Just plug and play. And thanks to switchable cab simulation and a balanced output, the PowerStage 100 Black is equally at home in rehearsal spaces and recording environments.
The PowerStage 100 Black's control panel is clearly laid out: Alongside a level dial, there's a full five-band EQ with bass, low-mid, hi-mid, treble, and presence, which shapes not only the main output but also the headphone and balanced outputs. Both the EQ and speaker simulation can be switched on or off independently, allowing musicians to work flexibly and on the fly with different setups. All the PowerStage's connections are located on its slim rear panel: 6.3mm jacks for input and output, two balanced XLR outs, and the IEC socket for the onboard power conversion circuitry. A trio of status LEDs in turn indicate power, power amp clipping, and preamp clipping. In practice, this all combines to deliver quick setup, minimal space requirements, and a power amp that integrates seamlessly into almost any pedalboard.
The Seymour Duncan PowerStage 100 Black is a dependable solution for guitarists who shape their sound entirely with pedals, multi-effects, or modelling systems – so all they need is a neutral-sounding power amp. Equally, it's ideal for players who want to keep their touring or rehearsal rigs as light as possible while still enjoying the punch and physical feel of a real cabinet. Studio guitarists who need to switch flexibly between recording with a cab simulation and a live speaker setup will also benefit from this concept. The PowerStage's simple operation makes it accessible to both practised professionals and ambitious amateurs, while the rugged construction and integrated fan ensure reliable performance on every stage and in any studio.
The Californian manufacturer Seymour Duncan is one of the largest suppliers of pickup systems for electric and acoustic guitars, as well as basses. The company founded by its namesake also develops pedals and other accessories for guitarists. The current product range is comprehensive and covers a wide variety of construction types. Pickups are available as after-market products, but are also often integrated by many guitar manufacturers, whether in the USA or the Far East (under the name Duncan Designed). In addition to the well-known models, such as JB, Duncan Distortion and Pearly Gates, many signature models have been created for and named after well-known guitarists of all genres, from Mark Knopfler and Joe Bonamassa to Yngwie Malmsteen and Dave Mustaine.
Live, the Seymour Duncan PowerStage 100 can sit directly behind a pedalboard to drive a guitar cabinet on stage without the need for an additional amp. It does need to be at the very end of the chain before the cab, of course – nobody wants to be sending 100W through another pedal! At the same time, the balanced XLR output, with its switchable cab simulation, provides a signal for FOH or an audio interface. At home or in the studio, it's ideal for neutral amplification, such as for re-amping or pre-production. As a backup solution for guitarists who normally use standalone amps or digital rigs, it's also a smart choice, since it can easily replace a full amplifier if needed. And its flexible impedance handling makes the PowerStage 100 universally adaptable, whether it's being used with 1x12, 2x12, or 4x12 cabinets.