AER Compact TE - Tommy Emmanuel Signature Amp

AER formalizes their relationship with Tommy Emmanuel by unveiling the new AER Compact TE signature amp.

This new signature acoustic amp is based on their best selling Compact 60 combo, and comes with tweaks to meet Tommy's sonic taste, as well as added cosmetic embellishments that he approved of.

With Tommy Emmanuel's skills and accomplishments, having multiple signature gear under his name is not much of a surprise. Actually, I was surprised that it's taken AER this long before they actually formalized their partnership, considering that Tommy is easily one of the most recognizable and well respected guitarists that use their amp. I'm hoping that this delay is due to proper diligence, so that Tommy won't end up like other artists who switch amp brands like shampoo.

The new Compact TE (short for Tommy Emmanuel) is based on the combo acoustic amplifier that Emmanuel often used on stage. Carrying over the same 60Watt amplifier with dynamic control that's tweaked specifically for acoustic guitars. Along with the twin channel design that feature independent EQ controls, and built-in digital effects.

What sets it apart however is the incorporation of Tommy's favorite reverb/delay effect setting from the Alesis Midiverb II, which is built-into the amplifier effects section in position 3. This gives the amp the same sound as Tommy's amp and effects unit, removing the need for an extra unit and making your gear more portable. The DI Out signal is also modified to include the built-in effects, as preferred by Tommy himself. This means that the built-in effects of the amp will pass on through the PA or recording console, which again is meant to simplify rigs into a compact package.

This new signature amp also comes with aesthetic additions to make sure that you know it's a Tommy Emmanuel signature. First of is Tommy's "TE" initials carved into one side of the cabinet, along with "CGP" which means "Certified Guitar Player", a special honor bestowed upon Tommy and four others by his mentor Chet Atkins. The other side of the amp features Aboriginal art which according to the press release, symbolizes Emmanuel's connection with the Aboriginal Australians and his love for his homeland Australia.

AER President Udo Roesner expounds, "Our relationship with Tommy began organically several years ago. He has always played our amps 'as-is'. No tweaks, no hidden secrets. So rather than piling on a list of additional features that Tommy himself has never relied on, we chose instead to give his amp a truly personal feel by incorporating tributes to several of his influences."

The new AER Compact TE is scheduled for North America release in mid-September of this year, with a suggested retail price of $1499. More information will soon be available at AER Amps.

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