From the Martin Barre collection we have this high-gain, all-tube Soldano Hot Rod head - an amp known for delivering the signature Soldano sound in a more compact and affordable package. Built in the USA and based on the legendary SLO-100 circuit, the Hot Rod 50 offers the same rich harmonic content, fast response, and tight low end that made Soldano amps a favorite among rock and metal players, but with a streamlined feature set and 50 watts of output power.  

Powered by a pair of 5881 power tubes and driven by five 12AX7 preamp tubes, the Hot Rod 50 delivers a bold, articulate tone with plenty of punch and headroom. The amp features two channels—Clean and Overdrive—accessible via a front-panel switch or optional footswitch. The Clean channel offers a sparkling, dynamic tone that stays articulate even at higher volumes, while the Overdrive channel brings the iconic Soldano gain—tight, saturated, and singing with sustain.

The control layout includes Preamp, Bass, Middle, Treble, Master, and Presence knobs, offering intuitive tone shaping across both channels. The Hot Rod 50 is known for its precise EQ response, allowing players to dial in everything from searing lead tones to cutting rhythm sounds without muddiness.

Around the back, the amp features a series effects loop, perfect for integrating time-based effects like reverb and delay. The loop is buffered and transparent, designed to handle both pedals and rack gear with ease.  

Encased in a durable, road-ready chassis with Soldano’s signature front panel design, the Hot Rod 50 is a gig-worthy amp that captures the essence of the SLO-100 in a smaller, more manageable format. This one is in excellent condition and comes complete with protective cover.