Episode 158: Chris Benson of Benson amps and Bryan Sours of Soursound transformers make their long-awaited returns to the Truth About Vintage Amps. Why? They want to tell us all about the logging truck of an amp they are currently building, a 700-watt(!) all-tube beast dubbed Babylon!
The Babylon will feature 14 KT88 tubes, 16 total speakers, three knobs, and two power cords. It’s literally the most powerful tube amp they could make without requiring a dryer outlet.
Check our Instagram for a sneak peek at the creation.
and honorable mention to…
https://bottosbbq.com/
Hear the Babylon in person at the 2026 Wood, Wire & Volts festival (or anywhere within a mile or two radius of the show).
https://www.woodwirevolts.com/
Deep cuts: Bryan’s first appearance on our show can be found here (it’s pretty epic) and Chris originally appeared on our 30th episode.
Thank our sponsors: Grez Guitars; Emerald City Guitars and Amplified Parts. And happy holidays to all of our listeners and Patreon members for their support! We’ll be back in 2026.
Want amp tech Skip Simmons’ advice on your DIY guitar amp projects? Want to share your top secret family recipe? Need relationship advice? Join us by sending your voice memo or written questions to podcast@fretboardjournal.com! Include a photo, too.
Hosted by amp tech Skip Simmons and co-hosted/produced by Jason Verlinde of the Fretboard Journal.
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