I noticed in some of the pictures and video from the new tour that all the knobs on Ed’s stage amps are dimmed, so they’re obviously props, but do you think it’s possible he is using one of the new prototypes that he discussed in Guitar World (I think). The tone sounds a little different to me this time around, at least from the recordings I’ve heard.

Speaking of recordings… by this time in the 2012 tour, there were seven audio recordings and three DVDs uploaded at places like Dime. At this point there have been three audio recordings uploaded. I know a lot of effort goes into making this happen, but do you suppose there is not as much interest in this tour, or maybe it’s the outdoor venues?

At the start of the last tour, I wasn’t as busy with other projects as I am now, so I actively sought out videos to make DVDs right away. It was easier then also, because Youtube had a much better PM function.

But I’m quite certain that it’s just a matter of time before we start getting a flood of shows in.

dand363: I noticed in some of the pictures and video from the new tour that all the knobs on Ed’s stage amps are dimmed, so they’re obviously props, but do you think it’s possible he is using one of the new prototypes that he discussed in Guitar World (I think).

The spell check changed my word to dimmed, I meant turned all the way to ten. lol

Ed’s tone is definitely much easier on the ears this tour from what I’m hearing online. I was wondering the same thing – is he using the new upcoming amps… I think there’s a good chance he is.

ron: 082715 – Camden, NJ – Susquehanna Bank Center

i’ll be taping this one: 082715 – Camden, NJ – Susquehanna Bank Center

VAiN: Ed’s tone is definitely much easier on the ears this tour from what I’m hearing online. I was wondering the same thing – is he using the new upcoming amps… I think there’s a good chance he is.

He is using a new amp, the Stealth 5150.

Dutchie: He is using a new amp, the Stealth 5150.

I’m not 100% sure that’s just the Stealth. As someone mentioned all the heads on stage are just for show… it’s a pretty major shift from the previous buzzsaw tone. I wouldn’t be surprised if he mentions road testing the new ‘secret’ head on this tour.

I thought his best tone this year was on the Kimmel show. Now mind you, better production for broadcast TV, but his amp tone was insane good. I think that tone alone, is a hint that he is using this new prototype. I’d say it’s almost a sure thing that he is using the new prototype with probably 2-3 backup new Stealth heads for reserve.

Tom Webber has stated that Ed’s using 3 stealth’s off stage and the usual 3 lower cabs (WDW config) on stage and the reason the sound is better is the hotter tube bias.
The EL34 head is still in development with Matt B, so I don’t think that’s on the road.
Ed’s amps have always been off stage, even in the early days Ed would stack his amps to one side. Like wise his cabs way back to the Bradshaw ’85/86 days. He’s also used three lower cabs just as long, with the centre one, dry amp sound only and the left and right, effects sound. So yes, the back line is all for show with the exception of 3 lower cabs.