In 1989, Reinhold Bogner revolutionized the guitar amplifier after moving to the United States from Germany. It was during this time that the external multi-channel preamp setup was widely used and Bogner seemed to be dissatisfied with the performance of it, wanting to return to the sound of real and powered tube amps. It may have been his meeting with guitar legend Eddie Van Halen that was the catalyst for his explosion onto the music scene, as Eddie hired him to revise his original Marshall Plexi.
Over the years, Bogner amplifiers have changed considerably. In this article, you’ll learn how Bogner guitar amps have evolved over time.
Bogner Ecstasy 100
By 1992, external multi-channel preamps dominated the guitar amp market. This type of setup was widely used because various sound effects could be easily achieved. And so, Bogner developed the Ecstacy 100A and 100B. This is considered to be the first production 100-watt Bogner amplifier. Version “A” represented the American-sounding version, using 6L6 power tubes, the type of power tube traditionally used in American-made Fender amps; with the “B” version representing the British-sounding version, using EL34 tubes, the type of power tube typically found in Marshall amps.
Ecstasy 101 (also known as the white chassis)
Three years later, Bogner, still looking for a high-quality sound coming from the amp, decided to create another version of the Ecstasy, the 101, also known as the White Chassis. This guitar amp is considered by many to be second to none, even when compared to guitar amps manufactured today. This amp was very similar to the original Model 100, but had more features to accommodate the demands of modern players. Over the years the Ecstasy 101 underwent a number of changes, including a stripped down version very similar to the original 100 model known as the Classic. In 1997 the Bogner 101 had a total overhaul. Instead of just having the usual white chassis (which the amp is known for), it was now covered in sleek black.
the cave man
This was introduced to the market in the mid 90’s but had limited availability. The prototype was said to have the word Mojo on the back because this amp was originally a bit differently named Mojo. This two channel amp had an interesting six position Schizo knob that changed its sound a lot.
super sonic
Also known as the German Uberschall, the Super Sonic is a high gain monster with two channels. A 12ax7 power tube six section gave way to an EL34 power amp to put out 120 watts, a massive amount of volume. Over time, the company released three versions of the amp: the original, an early revision, and what was called the “blue revision”. Different versions related to issues like volume normalization between channels.
Shiva
The Shiva is a more subtle and complete amplifier. It’s designed to produce a bright, Fender-like clean tone and gain tone similar to a vintage Marshall JCM800. This model possibly represented an attempt to expand market share by producing an amplifier that could be used by a wider audience and not just metalheads.
Bogner amps are played and loved by a who’s who of artists. Heavy bands like Slipknot and Disturbed have used Bogner amps to create incredibly heavy sounds. However, world-class guitarists like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani have also played Bogners to create some of the most beautiful and tonally complex music in the world. A Bogner amp is a real investment, so if you can get one… go for it!