Tone King Gremlin Head Cream – Boutique Vintage American Tone

The Tone King Gremlin Head Cream is a 5-watt tube amplifier head designed for guitarists who demand legendary American amp tones with pristine clarity and excellent touch sensitivity. This high-end amp brings together the bright cleans of blackface circuits and the thick, compressed drive of tweed-era amps, all in a portable, visually distinctive chassis. Gremlin Head Cream puts iconic sounds within reach for home, studio, and low-volume rehearsal. Those who appreciate detailed construction and faithful tone will find this model exemplifies the best of boutique engineering.

Unique Features for Discerning Players

Gremlin’s dual-channel input system—Rhythm and Lead—gives access to two classic American voicings. The Ironman II reactive attenuator lets you achieve saturated tube drive at any volume, a feature rarely found in this segment. Attention to detail extends to its hand-wired circuitry and robust Baltic birch cabinet.

Performance & Circuitry—Versatile American Sound

The amp’s tonal range is powered by a carefully chosen tube set and advanced attenuator design. Expect sparkling clean tones or edge-of-breakup drive, all with authentic American character.

• Power Output: 5 W (tube) — ideal for home and studio volume, but delivers enough punch for rehearsal.
• Preamp Tubes: 2 x 12AX7 — delivers rich harmonics and dynamic response for expressive playing.
• Power Tube: 1 x 5881 — provides ample headroom and a bold, slightly compressed timbre.
• Two distinct channels—Rhythm for clear blackface tone, Lead for gritty tweed-style drive—expand the sonic palette beyond typical small amps.

Attenuator Technology—Quiet Yet Powerful

With the Ironman II attenuator, enjoy full, saturated amp tones at apartment-friendly levels. The technology integrates Fletcher-Munson compensation and a reactive load, so tone stays intact even at lower volumes.

• Ironman II Attenuator: Built-in — get saturated tube drive without waking the neighbors.
• Controls: Volume, Tone — simple, intuitive layout puts focus on your playing.
• Inputs: 2 x 1/4" (Rhythm & Lead) — channel jumping is possible with an A/B/Y switch (not included).

Handcrafted Build—Premium Materials, Timeless Style

Meticulous assembly in the USA, premium Baltic birch cabinetry, and boutique components ensure lasting quality. Despite its compact footprint, the Gremlin offers a robust feel and classic Cream finish, with additional custom options available.

• Premium Baltic birch construction delivers resonance and longevity.
• Hand-wired in the USA for true boutique pedigree.
• Weighs approximately 6.4 kg and measures 203 mm x 381 mm x 235 mm, so it’s easy to transport and fit into any setup.

Who Will Appreciate This Model?

Discerning guitarists looking for authentic vintage tones at controlled volumes, whether for home, studio, or boutique collections, will find the Gremlin Head Cream a compelling option. Simple controls make it accessible for focused practice, while dynamic response and premium parts satisfy demanding players. It’s perfect for those who want both blackface clarity and tweed-style drive in a single amplifier.

Tone King—Heritage and Innovation Since 1993

Since 1993, Tone King has created premium tube amps respected for their tone and durability. The Gremlin Head Cream continues that tradition, blending American hand-wired engineering with custom voicing and classic styling. Each unit reflects the hands-on expertise of Tone King's artisans for players who value both heritage and innovation.