What is the wattage of the Peavey Decade Too?

The amplifier has a power rating of 10 watts, making it ideal for practice and studio recording.

What speaker is used in this combo?

It features an 8-inch Celestion speaker that has been custom-tuned to replicate the sound of vintage Rola drivers.

Who is the artist associated with this amplifier?

The amp was designed in collaboration with Josh Homme, the primary songwriter and guitarist for Queens of the Stone Age.

Does the Decade Too have an effects loop?

Yes, it includes a dedicated effects loop for connecting external pedals and processors.

Can I use this amp for live performances?

While 10 watts may be quiet for an un-mic'ed stage, the transformer-balanced XLR direct out allows it to be easily integrated into a PA system.

How does the 'Saturation' switch function?

The Saturation switch engages an overdriven circuit that provides thick, tube-like sustain and rich harmonics.

What controls are available for EQ?

The amp features a standard three-band EQ (Low, Mid, High) along with additional Bass and Top boost switches.

Is this a valve (tube) amplifier?

No, it is a solid-state amplifier designed to replicate the specific saturated response of the original 1980 solid-state Peavey Decade.

Can I connect an external speaker cabinet?

Yes, the unit features dual speaker outputs for connecting to larger external cabinets.

Does it have a direct output for recording?

Yes, it features a transformer-balanced XLR direct output, making it suitable for studio use without a microphone.

What is the typical price for this model?

The Peavey Josh Homme Decade Too typically retails for approximately £299.

How does it differ from the original 1980 Peavey Decade?

The Decade Too adds modern features like an XLR DI out, an effects loop, and updated speaker voicing, while retaining the signature saturation of the original.

Gear article

Peavey Josh Homme Decade Too 10W Guitar Combo Amp

The Peavey Josh Homme Decade Too is a 10-watt solid-state guitar combo amplifier designed in collaboration with the Queens of the Stone Age frontman. It serves as a modern reimagining of the vintage 1980s Peavey Decade, specifically voiced to capture the saturated, mid-forward tones associated with desert rock and stoner metal.

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Background and Development

The original Peavey Decade was a budget-oriented practice amplifier released in 1980. Over time, it gained a cult following due to its unique saturation characteristics, most notably becoming a secret weapon for Josh Homme in the studio for recording Queens of the Stone Age tracks. The 'Decade Too' represents an official collaboration between Peavey and Homme to recreate that specific vintage sound while adding modern professional features suitable for contemporary recording and performance environments.

Key Features and Technical Design

The amplifier is built around a 10-watt power section driving an 8-inch Celestion speaker, which has been specifically tuned to replicate the sonic profile of the vintage Rola drivers found in original 1980s units. Control is provided through a three-band equaliser (EQ) supplemented by dedicated 'Bass' and 'Top' boost switches for further tonal sculpting.

Unlike the original units, the Decade Too includes professional connectivity options. It features dual speaker outputs for driving external cabinets, an integrated effects loop for time-based processors, and a transformer-balanced XLR direct output designed for sending signals directly to a mixing desk or audio interface without the need for a microphone.

Sound Character

The primary sonic characteristic of the Decade Too is its raw, saturated overdrive, which is activated via the 'Saturation' switch. The circuit is designed to deliver tube-like sustain and rich harmonics despite its solid-state architecture. The amp is capable of producing everything from gritty, low-gain overdrive to the thick, mid-heavy 'honk' that is a hallmark of Homme's signature guitar tone. The addition of the boost switches allows for a tighter bottom end or a more aggressive high-frequency response.

Target Audience and Comparison

This amplifier is primarily aimed at enthusiasts of the 'desert rock' sound and guitarists seeking a compact studio tool with a distinct character. While it lacks the high wattage of professional gigging amps like the Synergy SYN-20IR or the Fender Blues Junior IV, its unique voicing makes it a specialised alternative to standard modelling amps like the Fender Mustang LTX50. Its small footprint and high-quality direct output make it particularly well-suited for home recording and project studios where high volume is not feasible.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the wattage of the Peavey Decade Too?: The amplifier has a power rating of 10 watts, making it ideal for practice and studio recording.
What speaker is used in this combo?: It features an 8-inch Celestion speaker that has been custom-tuned to replicate the sound of vintage Rola drivers.
Who is the artist associated with this amplifier?: The amp was designed in collaboration with Josh Homme, the primary songwriter and guitarist for Queens of the Stone Age.
Does the Decade Too have an effects loop?: Yes, it includes a dedicated effects loop for connecting external pedals and processors.
Can I use this amp for live performances?: While 10 watts may be quiet for an un-mic'ed stage, the transformer-balanced XLR direct out allows it to be easily integrated into a PA system.
How does the 'Saturation' switch function?: The Saturation switch engages an overdriven circuit that provides thick, tube-like sustain and rich harmonics.
What controls are available for EQ?: The amp features a standard three-band EQ (Low, Mid, High) along with additional Bass and Top boost switches.
Is this a valve (tube) amplifier?: No, it is a solid-state amplifier designed to replicate the specific saturated response of the original 1980 solid-state Peavey Decade.
Can I connect an external speaker cabinet?: Yes, the unit features dual speaker outputs for connecting to larger external cabinets.
Does it have a direct output for recording?: Yes, it features a transformer-balanced XLR direct output, making it suitable for studio use without a microphone.
What is the typical price for this model?: The Peavey Josh Homme Decade Too typically retails for approximately £299.
How does it differ from the original 1980 Peavey Decade?: The Decade Too adds modern features like an XLR DI out, an effects loop, and updated speaker voicing, while retaining the signature saturation of the original.