The Engl Savage MKII is the second iteration of a classic amp that the company originally released in 1993, and this updated version retains the same basic layout as its famous ancestor. The two main channels (Clean and Crunch II) both feature the same three-band EQ as the original head, and Engl has now added tone-shaping circuits such as Mid Lean/Bold and Gain Lo/Hi for enhanced control over the frequency response. Together with Crunch I and Lead, this effectively places four fully fledged channels at the player’s disposal. The inner workings remain close to the original, with six ECC83 preamp tubes and two 6550 power amp tubes delivering a sound that is still difficult to rival even among the professional ranks. Despite retaining these essentials, Engl has given the Savage a facelift that makes it a worthy successor and a state-of-the-art companion for every conceivable musical situation.
Unlike its predecessor, the Engl Savage MKII is now fully MIDI-programmable, meaning that all of the amp's switching functions can be performed via MIDI, including channel selection, the advanced sound-shaping options (Lo/Hi-Input, Preshape, Contour, Rough/Smooth, etc.), the noise gate, and the two effects loops – each with dedicated dry/wet controls to finely tune the signal return. And no, that isn't a misprint: There are two of them, which means that effects can be routed in any configuration imaginable. Write/Copy functions make it easy to store and recall complex presets, and Engl’s proprietary Serial Amp Control (S.A.C.) system offers similar control options via standard footswitches. This combination of features is virtually unique to the Engl Savage MKII, making it a truly professional-grade amp.
Engl amplifiers are synonymous with an unapologetically full-on tube sound and "made in Germany" build quality, and the Savage 120 MKII is no exception. The 120W power output generated by its ECC83 and 6550 tube complement, together with switchable noise gate featuring adjustable threshold (a must-have when using high-gain amps), makes it clear that this head is squarely aimed at Rock and Metal guitarists. What is more, its combination of puristic all-tube circuitry (not a semiconductor in sight) and cutting-edge digital control makes the Engl Savage MKII an ideal choice for professional players who want complete reliability and versatility from their amp without making any compromises in terms of sound.
The German manufacturer Engl stands for not only quality and tradition, but above all for innovation. Founded in 1983 in Tittmoningen, Bavaria, by Edmund Engl, the company's initial project was a digitally controlled all-tube amp - a worldwide first. In 1985, the legendary Engl Straight was launched, establishing Engl as a specialist in hard rock and metal sounds. When Engl conceived the first Savage-120 in 1993, the scene was abuzz with interest. In collaboration with Ritchie Blackmore, Engl designed a signature version of the Savage, of which Steve Morse was also a proponent. Other Engl endorsers include Paul Stanley (Kiss), Judas Priest, Victor Smolski and Rudolf Schenker (Scorpions).
The Engl Savage 120 MKII’s impressive feature set is rounded out by a wide range of connectivity options that easily adapt to most rigs and applications. Multiple outputs (1x4 ohm, 2x8 ohm, 2x16 ohm, and 1x16 ohm), as well as a line-out socket, allow the amp to be connected to any of the common speaker configurations or even an external power amplifier. MIDI control, SAC footswitch system, and outstanding flexibility makes the Savage MKII equally at home on stage, in the studio, or in demanding touring setups. Discerning professionals will always find a use for this refined and ferocious amplifier, worthy successor to one of Engl’s most legendary designs, whatever their purpose might be.