Why Hiwatt?

As probably known I'm the proud owner and user of a Hiwatt DR103 Custom 100. There are many reasons why I use such a rare amplifier compared to other brands these days.

Firstly is my musical influences. I'm a huge fan of The Who and Pink Floyd who were probably the big main users of Hiwatt amplifiers and the tones that have been produced by these bands over the years on their earlier and some later records have that typical Hiwatt punch and power.

Secondly, feedback. Having played through many 'high end' amplifiers like Marshall's JTM 45, 1959 Superlead Plexi and JCM 800, the Soldano SLO 100, Vox AC30s, Fender Twins etc, none of the above have the harmonic responsiveness of the DR103 when playing loud. For example, the feedback that is generated is very musical and sweet in its quality with a real howl to it, rather than a more shrill and thin sounding feedback.

Thirdly the Hiwatt has huge amounts of headroom; thus meaning that my sound remains clean and undistorted at high volume. This allow me much more scope to mould the sound to my liking with pedals to suit the task in hand.

Fourthly, the responsiveness to players input. Sounds almost seem to come from the speakers before the note is played, the dynamic response is impressive with all nuances of my playing being heard loud and clear thus by using this amp I've developed my ears and technical skills as all mistakes are audible.

Finally, the cutting capabilities in a mix. The amp cuts through like a saw making me stand out and not get swamped in a performance.