With its Spark series, the American company Positive Grid has broken new ground with the concept of a "smart amp". More than just a buzzword, the Spark 40 lives up to its "smart" moniker by not only combining an amplifier, USB audio interface, and Bluetooth speaker in one ultra-compact device, but also by offering a whole suite of intelligent control options via the free Spark App. The amp is also a breeze to operate: With voice command functionality via the Spark App, the user can tell it to stream a Rock song or a Blues backing track, or even ask for a virtual band to accompany a performance. The app also provides access to over 50,000 professional-quality sound presets for guitar and bass, an Auto Chords function, a YouTube song library, and much more. With the Spark 40, Positive Grid proves that smart doesn't have to mean expensive.
Although the Positive Grid Spark 40 BK has a wealth of features, it is first and foremost an intuitive and powerful amplifier for guitar and bass. The front panel features volume and gain controls as well as a three-band EQ section, a selection of essential effects, and a headphone output. Powered by a 40W class D power stage, the Positive Grid Spark 40 features a pair of 4" custom speakers. Those looking to tap into the full potential of the Spark 40 can access 33 amp models and 43 effects via the Spark App, where they can also explore and download thousands of additional tones created by others on the ToneCloud platform. Additionally, the Spark 40 can be connected to a computer via USB to start recording to any DAW software, and thanks to its Bluetooth functionality, the amp also serves as a fantastic-sounding portable speaker.
Positive Grid's Spark App and the deep integration it offers between a smartphone and the Spark 40 amp is at the core of what makes this offering so unique. Those open to embracing the newest innovations will quickly discover the space-saving benefits of this three-in-one solution and the advantages of the cutting-edge technologies it employs when it comes to practising and learning. With the Spark App, users can bring a whole virtual band into their living room, which thanks to the voice command function does just what it is told - something that can't always be guaranteed with real-life bandmates! What is more, the extensive YouTube song library, which includes real-time chord charts and fingering diagrams, makes the Spark 40 an invaluable companion for anyone who is learning to play guitar or bass.
Positive Grid was founded in the Californian city of San Diego in 2013, and from the very beginning the company’s mission statement was to bridge the gap between mobile technologies such as smartphones, as well as the potential offered by the digital world, and the analogue feel of guitar and bass equipment. The company’s pursuit of this goal has produced a range of exciting products, the most significant of which is undoubtedly the award-winning BIAS FX 2 amp and effects modelling software platform. With its “Spark Amp” series, Positive Grid has combined the limitless possibilities that the digital world provides with conventional guitar and bass amplifiers. Positive Grid’s spirit of innovation and the speed with which new developments are produced is a clear indication of what this still relatively young company has in store for the future.
The Positive Grid Spark lineup does not end with the Spark 40 amplifier and the Spark App: The Spark 40 is even easier to operate with the optional Spark Control, a wireless footswitch that is connected to the Positive Grid Spark 40 BK via Bluetooth and can be used to select between the amp's four presets. The four switches on the Spark Control can also be programmed with customised functions, for example to toggle between different effects or to start and stop backing tracks. If more power and volume are required, the Spark 40 can be complemented with the Spark Cab for a truly serious guitar rig setup. Positive Grid additionally offers an optional carrying case for users who want to use the Spark 40 on the go, as well as a variety of interchangeable grille covers for those looking to mix it up from the typical standard black look.
The Spark App
Positive Grid's proprietary app, available free of charge for Android or iOS devices via the respective app stores, is an integral part of the Spark philosophy and enables extensive signal chain customisation with the choice of 33 amp and cabinet models in addition to 43 effects. Positive Grid have gone to great lengths to maintain the feel of analogue gear when using the Spark App, while also adding modern flourishes. The app's amps and pedals feature realistic control knobs and switches that can be used with intuitive touch gestures. The sound engine is the multi-award-winning Positive Grid Bias FX 2 platform, and all settings in the app are immediately audible on the Spark amp. Once a preset has been customised, it can be seamlessly saved to the Spark app or to the preset buttons on the Spark amp for instant access.