So it is with a tone of caution I type that buying a Ceriatone amp and then not putting it in a 12 or 18 ply birch cabinet may change the tone, or even not getting the same speaker will make a difference. Otherwise find a friend or aquaintance that has one and ask nicely.Īnd just to really throw the cat in amongst the pigeons, I really think an amp is the sum of its components and that a brand like Matchless and Ceriatone have gone to a lot of trouble to understand all the components and the build techniques that have captured the essense of their sound. I think that if you are in Sydney, then go to Jackson's with your guitar and play the &^2%3(! out of each, if pre arranged they can be very accommodating and will give you the opportunity to let it rip for a while. I think there are a few differences, one is that I think the Lightning has 12AY7 preamp tubes and Spitfire has 12AX7, but I am pretty sure it really isn't as simple as that. I really liked the Matchless Lightning, I played around four of these, but to my ears again it just didn't have the same gritty edge of the Spitfire. This particular amp just had a little more sparkle and punch. I know I am a bore by saying this but I really did just play as many Spitfires that were available (around 6) and to my ears, this was the best of a very good bunch. It takes pedals well, is dynamic, works really well with the guitars volume control and just sounds great. In all seriousness, I love my Spitfire it is a great amp, all the things I like, gutsy, very loud despite only being 15 (or 18) watts and small. I love my Spitfire, yes it is just a Matchless copy of a Ceriatone, but one day I shall get the real thing. Quote from: Pulgar on February 19, 2008, 08:40:17 PM FWIW, I asked Nik at Ceriatone what the difference was, and I'm sure he remarked that the Lightning was 'gainier'. I've never played through or heard a Spitfire, so I'm afraid I can't help much in that regard. The Lightning breaks up in a cool way though - I have a couple of teeny clips through a V30 that I am trying to get sorted to post if that helps - but I'd say the V30 is NOT the right speaker for the Lightning - still sounded great though (IMO) One of the rocking-est tones I've ever had In Mr Kermit's cab(s) with a CrunchBox, it sounded simply awesome - so much so, that I have full intention of purchasing a CrunchBox next payday Clearly different to my old, beloved JC120, but a gorgeous, full, glassy, expressive clean tone.( I'm all out of superlatives!! ) IMO - it is a brilliant clean amp - and loves pedals - but I haven't tried it with a band - only at home. I feel certain he remarked also on a slight tonal difference. I'll track his email quote and let you know. FWIW, I asked Nik at Ceriatone what the difference was, and I'm sure he remarked that the Lightning was 'gainier'.

Matchless lightning amp