The Slightly Technical ToneX amplifier captures are tone models of amps that are unique in many ways. Some are from my personal collection, while others belong to my friends or clients. All the amplifiers have been modified or tweaked by me to achieve unique tonal qualities. These tone models are direct input (DI) captures of amps and are intended to be used with various IRs. The profiles available are just examples of how the tone can be designed, but I strongly advise exploring the raw Tone Models and designing your own unique presets.

This amplifier is very special to me. It began its life in 1968 as a Sound City 100, and fate has brought it into my care. It has since undergone a complete wiring overhaul to Hiwatt standards, and the circuit has been uniquely modified.

At its core is my favorite Hiwatt Custom 100 DR103 circuit, and this mode of operation is what I call the DR103 Mod. It has been carefully calibrated to produce my favorite Hiwatt tones. Additionally, a negative feedback switch has been added to toggle between various output transformer taps—since different Hiwatt amps used different taps to shape their sound. A 16-ohm tap delivers more of the Gilmour-style cleans, while the 4-ohm tap leans into the cranked rock tones of Pete Townshend.

On top of that, two switches have been added to activate several carefully designed gain modes—something I call the ST103 Mod, or the ST103 mode of operation. This unique gain enhancement uses the otherwise unused triode stage found in the classic DR103 circuit. Since this amp isn’t typically known for producing distortion in a “nice” way, the modifications were meticulously designed to deliver a distinctive and musical overdrive.

With the upgraded wiring and these thoughtful mods, this has become my favorite amplifier—thanks to its authenticity and uniqueness.

The ST103 Full Pack includes 13 presets crafted from 9 distinct tone models, offering a wide range of sounds. It covers different levels of gain, different gain structures that are achievable with channel mixing and boosted tones as well.

The pack also features an impulse response (IR) of a Fane-loaded Hiwatt cab, included as an optional companion to the presets. However, the tone models are designed to work seamlessly with other cabinets of your choice.

The ST103 Full Pack includes:

SLT SCST103 Little Wings

SLTSC ST103 Modern Lead

SLTSC ST103 Rock Lead

SLTSC ST103 Spacey Lead

SLTSC ST103 Zakkin'

SLTSC ST103 AC Drive

SLTSC ST103 Beaky Solo

SLTSC ST103 Boosted Crunch

SLTSC ST103 Boosted Solo

SLTSC ST103 Bulldozer

SLTSC ST103 Flangin'

SLTSC ST103 Heavy Crunch

SLTSC ST103 Heavy Rhythm