Atomic Amps Reactor 112 Combo

Not applicable, since it is an "opinionless" amplifier for digital modelers.

I play a variety of styles (everything from metal, blues, jazz), using a Schecter C1 Classic as the primary guitar and a Schecter PT Custom as a backup. The POD XT really comes to life through this amp. The Atomic gives a richness of tone that I have otherwise only heard through headphones. It gives a touch sensitivity that I have not found available through any other amplifier application (though I have not run through a tube power amp before). My only critique is that the amp seems very directional - tone clarity changes quite markedly when one moves away from the speaker. Not a big concern, but it seems quite pronounced given my other experiences with amps.

Hard to say, given that I have only had the amp for about three weeks. It seems very solidly built. I had one problem with the docking station (see the customer support section below), but it appears to have been fixed. Noticed some "tube rattle" when I had the amp on the floor; this went away with some patch tweaking and the use of an amp stand (which I usually use anyway).

I had emailed Atomic when I wanted to find the product in Canada. I got quick replies and updates. When I got the amp home and found a problem with the docking station cutting out intermittently, I emailed Atomic and Tom King emailed me back within an hour! We had a telephone conversation during which he diagnosed the likely problem. He sent a replacement part immediately and I was able to switch the part myself with ease. It appears to have solved the problem (just did it yesterday, so haven't moved the amp much). YOU CANNOT BEAT SERVICE AND SUPPORT LIKE THIS! FIRST CLASS!

This amp does everything that the company promotes. It requires some significant tweaking of the patches I am using, largely due to the surprising amount of bass response - the ported cabinet really booms! It's plenty loud enough for my uses; if I run into volume issues, I would mic it anyway (direct outs are still possible). If something happened to this amp, I would replace it in a second. The warm, rich tones available from this amp are awesome. I use a lot of crunch and distorted tones, but I am especially pleased with how the clean tones warm up with the Atomic.

Impossible to rate since it only has a power button, input jack, and effects loop. Nice and simple. No volume knob and no EQ.

I am using an Epiphone LP Custom with EMG 81 & 89 pickups and a PodXT Live.

This amp was recommended by Line 6 when I asked them why they do not make a simple amp for someone with an effects modeller. I am incredibly happy with this amplifier. It is 18 watts of tube power and definitely loud enough to be heard over drums and bass.

This amp was designed to work with a modeller and it does so very well. There is no noise from the amp, which is basically at full volume all the time, and the PodXT Live works very well. I can get a very nice clean sound with the single coil and an insane distortion with the humbuckers. It will deal with anything the POD dishes out.

I have only owned the amp for a month so I can not rate this area. I can not see much going wrong with it though, especially being a closed back.

I emailed Atomic from their website and Tom King (President) called me back the next day! I live in Canada and wanted to know where I could try one out.

I have also emailed Tom and he replies every time.

I have been playing for about 11 years total and this is the first tube amp I have owned. I would definitely replace it if lost or stolen and I am considering purchasing another one for stereo sound, or maybe the Reactor 212.

It would be nice if the amp had a standby switch.

I have tried other tube amps while jamming and I do not hear a difference between mine and other, more expensive, amps. I chose this amp for two reasons; it is designed to work with my PodXT Live but still give the tube amp "feel", and I did not have to repurchase all the effects that most other amps seem to have now.

The Docking system lets you hot-swap modelers. No need to power-off the amp. Very "gig-friendly" and gives you a stunning aray of tone options. Left and Right send jacks allow stereo operation. Feet on bottom as well as side so it can stand vertically when necessary, a very handy feature when floor space gets tight.

The stellar feature of this amp is how wonderful it sounds with digital modelers.

I am using a Variax 300 and a PODxt Live with my reactor 112. THe sound is nothing short of fantastic. The day I got it I played a dozen notes and was stunned at how good it sounds. I had never heard my Variax/POD sound so incredibly real and open. It is very quiet and has the feel or a boutique amp.
The Atomic has loads and loads of bottom end. With a high quality 12" speaker and a well designed ported cabinet (it is not a passive radiator design as reported on some web reviews) one would expect the good bass performance. What the Atomic Reactor delivers somewhat unexpectedly is superh hi frequency response. The Variax acoustic models don't sound good on a typical electric guitar amp. Like the guitars they are based on, they need the hi end of an acoustic amp. But the Atomic Reactor makes them sound great. Plenty of air and hi end shimmer on the acoustic models. I was quite happily surprised at this acoutic amp sort of performance. It makes the Reactor extremely versatile.

And the specs are not a good guide to judge this amp. It plays very very loud and retains it's openness and air when played at very high volume. Just ask my neighbors if you don't believe me. ;-)

Had it a few weeks. So good so far. Construction quality is great. it is rugged and looks to be quite relaible.

I have had no need to contact support

I have played 38 years. I have 2 electrics, 1 hybrid. and 2 acoustic guitars as well as several other instruments.

The on/off switch serves as the pilot light. It is recessed into the cabinet so unless the amp is sitting below your line of sight, then you won't be able to see it at a glance. Not a big problem, really, but the only one I can think of. The Tolex covering is a very attractive leather grain.

If stolen, I'd certainly buy it again. I don't know of another amp with this performance for $499. It's a great value. This amp produces amazing sound first and last. That is the reason for it's existence. I guess my old amp is going to be retired now. After listening to the Atomic Reactor a while, I can't bear the sound of my old one. The Reactor has spoiled me that much.

The new Atomic Reactor valve amp 1 x 12" amp for digital modelers. I use it the reactor with a Boss GT6 for live performance. This Reactor holds is own live and you would never know it's only a 1x12.

I use the Reactor with several guitars and styles of music. I really draw all my tones from my GT6, but the reactor colors the tones and brings them to life. It's perfect fit for processor sound enhancement.

So far it has been as solid as a rock. I gig with it and lug it all over the place and have had no issues. It weighs as much as most 2 x 12's, so it's built solid.

Customer support is AWESOME!!!! I e-mailed Atomic and asked how to hook up my GT6 to the amp and asked for a copy of the owners manual. The same night I sent my email I received a reply from the president of the company. He gave me a manual and told me how to hook up my GT6. Now that's AWESOME!!!

I've been playing for 28 years and I've been searching for tone since the day I picked up a guitar and I really feel like I finally found the right combination. People looking into this product must remember it will only sound as good as you know how to use your modler. If you don't know the how to use your modler you might as well go buy an all inclusive amplifier that will cost you $1000.00 plus. For the money and the tone the Atomic Reactor will hold it own.

This is an 18Watt Tube amp manufactured in 2005. The Atomic reactor is awesome, great tone and increadible volume. This 18Watt amp is up there with the 300+ watts of my Vetta II. WOW! This amp is just that.. a basic combo amp geared to utilize your own PODxt, POD, V-Amp, Tonelab, or other preamp. I utilize this amp for onstage at church, and coffee bar settings, great for home studio as well.

I really really wish this cab had its own master volume, and it would be really nice to have the outs be isolated DI type XLR connectors instead of the 1/4" jacks, maybe utilize neutrik connectors or something..?? It could be just a wee bit smaller in size as its just 1 1/2" too wide for the padded Gator 1x12 combo tote.

The tone from this cab is awesome. The PODxt I utilize for toting was very thin sounding running though a 150watt PA with 2 1x12" mains. The EL84's really warm up the sound a lot. Granted your limited to the sounds of your modeler .. however this amp brings a lower end PODxt very very close to the same tone/sound quality as a Vetta II, although you only have a single amp model available to you.. where the Vetta II gives you two. Pretty much every person in my band is really impressed by the quality of tone, volume of sound, and the acutal responsiveness of the cab itself. Thumbs up Atomic!!! Way to go!!

I use Godin LG guitars, Gibson Les Paul guitars, and some of my band members utilize Fender Tele guitars.. ALL of these sound great through this configuration. I did notice some tone quality differience between the POD 2.0 which they had at the store (plugged into my amp), vs the PODxt that I plugged in. The POD 2.0 was not quite as good tone wise.. but after reading reviews on Line 6 site.. its the models, not the amp causeing the differience.

Clean tones.. oh yeah.. very clean all the way up the volume knob! I did get some pickup buzz on a single coil guitar.. but only at high pot volume. Lots of Tube saturation .. just like a tube amp is supposed to do!! :) Basically.. I'm selling the Vetta II and keeping the Atomic Reactor!!

So far it seems to be quite durable. I had a little trouble with the docking module as the amp I bought was the demo at the store.. so it had been plugged in a few times. A jiggle here and there and it fit back together ok. However.. they sell these docs separately.. so I'm guessing they figured that they might wear out over time. They are available though.

The 112 is just a slight bit too large to fit in Gators padded/wheeled amp tote, so it will probably get beat up as I gig with the fold up hand truck tote.

I sent an email to the company with lots of questions, however never heard back from them. Then again.. I haven't had any problems with the amp so far, so I suppose it doesn't matter until I really need to contact someone.

I've been playing guitar since the 70's. Currently my favorite guitars are the Godin LG SP90 & Quad Hotrail models, as well as the Gibson Les Paul Standard guitars. Prior to getting the Atomic Reactor I've been using a Line 6 Vetta II combo, but it was just too large to tote to gigs on a regular basis. The Reactor was the perfect solution for recording and live needs.

If my Atomic Reactor were lost/stolen yes, I would definitely purchase one again. I love the responsiveness of this amp, and the warm tone. The only thing that sits funny, not really hate, but is the fact that the cab size is just a bit off from most other 1x12 combo amp sizes.. making it difficult to match up with accessories.

I compared the Reactor with the Line 6 Vetta II, granted the PODxt is using similar models and I only get a single model at a time.. the Atomic reactor vs the Vetta II is a very close compare. However based upon the bulkiness of the Vetta, I'm keeping the reactor and selling the Vetta.

I wish the Reactor had isolated XLR DI jacks on the back with/or instead of its line outs. A master gain pot might be nice as well.

The Atomic Reactor is only 18 watts.. however, its got big sound. Like I've stated above.. it definitely rivals the Vetta II combo. I'll bet the 2x12 cab probably blows the doors off the Vetta for sure. Did I mention the very warm tone!! :)

This one has a born-on-date of 1/2005...this is one of those "why didn't I think of this" product. Incredibly transparent, yet it does have the unmistakable tube tone due to the actual tubes present. The only modifications I would suggest would be to add 1.5" rubber wheel casters to lift the amp up off the floor and allow tone dispersal in all directions. I use the V-Amp2 and had to purchase a "right angle" stereo plug adaptor to allow for connection of the V-Amp footswitch since there wasn't enough clearance between the wall of the docking station and the footswitch input. Other than that, it's a solidly built amp.

I use this amp in a praise and worship group and I need it to be extremely flexible and I must say, using a standard Strat with nothing but a volume pedal between it and the V-Amp, this amp really delivers. I'm able to get everything from '80s metal to recent Santana (Dumble amp), to 50's vintage reverb Gretsch tone. Acurately duplicates the tones I could only get using my Bose headphones. 'Nuff said!!

The secret to getting long life from a tube amp is to avoid jarring the amp when moving it. I learned this tip from 2 longtime professional artists. Can't say enough about adding the soft rubber wheel casters (avoid hard rubber or metal). The musical golden rule: Take care of your equipment and it will take care of you!

Haven't needed any customer support, did email some suggestions to them.

I've been playing over 25 years and very fortunate to spend a very special afternoon with Waylon Jennings and his group in 1982...got to hear the "Dukes of Hazard" song before it was released on record album, it was "unplugged" before unplugged was cool. Also, got to spend a few days with former Air Supply guitarist David Moyse this past year and learned that professionalism and being incredibly humble can go together. As for the amp...I've got it insured...it gets stolen and I will pray that the offending party is afflicted with hemorroids!! Really is worth the money...might even add either a second 112 or get the 212 in the future.

The Atomic Reactor 112 is just a power amp. I bought this amp in April 2005 and I use it with my POD 2.0 (Version 2.3). I use it at home but it'll be the right thing for stage. I read about it in a german guitar magazin. They tested it with a POD XT and they were amazed about the sound quality. I like to use my POD 2.0 but I didn't like to use the POD with my Marshall amp.

Though I read about the sounnd quality of the Reactor in combination with a POD XT I was surprised about the sound that I got out of it with my POD 2.0. I needed some time to find the right settings but now I am completly satisfied. I get everthing from clean Fender sounds to Mesa Boogie lead sounds. Take some time to find the best settings and you will be completly satisfied. The Reactor is great with the POD but how must it work with the POD XT or the Vox Tonelab?

Don't know at the moment.

Didn't need any until now.

This is the amp I was waiting for. It brings togehter two worlds - the digital preamp and the tube power amp.

The new Atomic Reactor valve amp 1 x 12" amp for digital modellers, manuafactured 2004.

This is a great idea, a simple valve amp with no controls apart from 'on/off' that can accommodate a range of popular digital desktop modellers uisng a nifty slot in adaptor (supplied for POD ... you can order ones for Tonelab, V-Amp etc.)

Great sounds ... I use a Vox Tonelab, basic Fender-type settings, I play Blues, Jazz and Soul. Although I was impressed with the Tonelab in the studio, I never had faith in it live plugged into a PA or regular guitar amp .. it never sounded dynamic enough like a real tube amp. The Atomic Reactor really does the trick .. you've got to play it to drum levels to get the benefit, it's not a bedroom level amp. But it really does react like a valve amp because it is one! 2 x EL84's and one 12AX7 phase inverter. The Tonelab becomes the control panel of a regular valve amp with effects thrown in .. very convenient and potent sounding.

Too new to assertain, but built well (pine cabinet), the fan that cools the tubes is quiet, but it looks like the regular PC type, which can be a weak link in the chain after a few years in use, but easy to replace I guess. It's quite light at 40Kg, and as with all amps a decent padded cover or flight case is essential to keep it in good condition (not supplied)

No need for it as yet.

I've given the Atomic Reactor a high rating because as a working musician i believe in experiencing new technology and innovation and like many others I investigate the digital modelling arena, and until now my opinion has been that for recording or 'simulating' a range of amps it has been a great step forward, for convenience, ease of use and more importantly accessibility for those of us who don't earn big bucks to afford a studio of quality amps. However as for actually sounding as authentic as a real vintage valve amp IMHO digital modellers lack presence, bite and dynamics, which for some musical styles is more important than others. But the Atomic Reactor opens up the rich dynamics of the real-tube amp world to digital modelling folk .. for live work it's really effective, highly recommended.

Single input, el84 class A slave amp. Effects send/return. Appropriate for this type of unit. It'd be nice if it had a master volume or a point where I could readily hook up a power soak.

I'm using a '73 Telecaster Custom and a fancy Les Paul with Duncan Antiquities.

I initially used this rig with an original Line 6 POD - which sounded artificial, compressed and wierd, with a very pronounced 1k peak I couldn't get rid of. The XT I used in the store sounded much better.

But when I hooked my little Vox Pathfinder into it (using the Vox's line out to the Atomic's effects return) it sounded fantastic - like the boutique amp of my dreams. The Atomic smoothed out the Vox's harshness at medium distortion levels, gave it huge bass response and kept the wonderful chiminess of that amp. I'm toying with the idea of modifying a Pathfinder 15r chassis to fit the Atomic's generic rack. That combination alone is worth the money spent on the Atomic.

I got a Vox Tonelab a few days ago and it sounds beautiful also - much, much better than either POD, but I haven't yet gotten a sound out of it I like quite as much as the Pathfinder. The Tonelab is so complex I'm sure I'll find that and more, as I learn how to use it.

Just to see, I ran the Tele through a the Atomic and a Behringer Ultragain tube mic preamp I had lying around. Very very nice jazzy clean tone.

The cooling fan is too loud. It's fine for live shows, but in a studio that thing is going to sound like an idling 747. Looks like a 60mm fan to me. It needs to be at least an 80mm fan running half as fast. The amp itself seems plenty quiet.

Voted 8 because of the fan. Don't let it scare you off. You can get some wonderful tones out of this amp.

No problems so far. It's built better than my Kendrick, which lists for over three times as much. But if I made my living playing music I don't think I'd take either one on the road. The electrical junction where the rack meets the amp appears made from off-the-shelf computer parts. I don't know how well that will hold up if one were moving the amp around or swapping racks a lot.

For what it is it's fine, but it lack the idiot-proof roadworthy toughness of a high-end Fender or Marshall.

No experiences with customer support.

I've been playing guitar over thirty years and have owned about a dozen amps, mostly Marshalls, Voxes and old Bassmans. I chose this because the amps I love are now stupidly insanely expensive thanks to rich dilettante baby-boomer collectors, and the digital-tube hybrid concept intrigues me.

That retro Marshall grille-cloth probably looked great on the prototype but it doesn't line up very well on mine or the others I've seen.

If it were stolen I'd want another one. Good concept, good execution. I'm looking forward to seeing what other cool things the Atomic people come up with.

The Atomic Reactor 1x12 speaker 18 watt tube slave amp is a very innovative creation by Harry Kolbe and company President Tom King.

It presently accomodates Line 6 Pod Series, Vox Tonelab Desktop Unit

and the Behringer V-map 2.0

I have a podxt and a Vox Tonelab which sound spectacular in this amp.

It takes the modeled digital amp signals and converts them to analog

getting the true feel of the modeled amps. Its amazing and only by

playing through one will you truly understand what a transformation

of sound is made.

The Atomic Reactor is a tube slave amp, it has no tone of its own

only by adding modeling processors does the magic begin

outborad effects (stomboxes) can be used using the L&R sends on the

rear of the amp.

The conversion of digitally modeled amps revoiced through a analog tube

amp brings sounds that are truly reflective of the actual modeled amp

I loved my Line 6 PODXT but really love it now!

I also have a Vox Tonelab and that also sounds spectacular through

the Atomic Reactor

Very well Built, Very Srong Warranty (5 years on amp) 2 years on

Speakers and 90 days on tubes. I have had mine since Early Feb/2005

If you have more than one amp modeler I think it is prudent to

purchase a additional DS-1 doscking station. I bought a extra and keep

my Podxt in one and Vox Tonelab in the other. When the DS-1 is

removed from the Amp it remains functional. Just disconnect the

wiring of the DS-1 docking station and use the provided power

source.

I e-mailed questions off the website (atomicamps.com) and on

two occasions Mr. Tom King President of Atomic Amps called me

to go over questions that I had. No other company President

of any Music Gear Company has EVER called me personally.

I find that OUTSTANDING Customer Service!!!

I have been playing on/off since teenage years, resumed steadily 1999

guitar and bass, then sticking with the guitar. If lost or Stolen

I would buy one(or two) Immediately. I do plan to add this amp to

my insurance rider.(State Farm calls it a Marine Policy)

I truly love that warm analog sound of amps that would total

in the tens of thousands to actually own.

There is nothing I dislike at all.

(I would like our local Music Shop Lentine's Music to carry

Atomic Amps!)

I chose this model as my last purchase was a digital modeling

amp that is 150 watts and controls that were difficult to use

(Line 6 Flextone IIIXL) I bought just to powerful of a amp for home

use. Its a nice amp but its going up for sale

The 18 watts of the Atomic Reactor is just right and it actually

sounds much more powerful than 18 watts.

A new model is in the works a 2x12 55 watt amp.

I think Atomic Amps has come up with a great design and a very novel

concept www.atomicamps.com

This amp is well worth $499.99 699.99 would not be far fetched!

Pretty minimal features.I feel a master volume control would be a great addition to this amp.

Using this with PodXT and PRS CE-22.I play rock-ish type stuff in general,and don't really venture into metal territory.

The amp is pretty quiet.It has a small fan,which is quieter than your average desktop computer.Very little hum or hiss or anything like that,except what might come from higain models on the Pod.

This amp really livens up the sound of the Pod.It sounds great at all volumes.It gets LOUD-dont be fooled by the 18 watt rating.

I think the reviewer below didn't bother to take any time to dial in any good tones.I've found myself using less fx in general,just to hear the nice sound of my guitar and this amp.It's hard to believe that anyone could not like this amp,unless they just cant get a good sound from their Pod (or whichever).

Seems well built and solid.The docking system is a little sketchy.Most folks aren't probably going to be pulling their modeller out over and over,but if you were someone who often switched back and forth between 2 different modellers or something,I'd be a little concerned about how this would hold up.

I'd give them an 11 if I could.They totally stand by their product.If you call them,you will get the president of the company,and they treat customers really well.

Fantastically pleased with my purchase!
They just started selling the 2x12 for ~870.00-I think it is 55 watts.Though personally I'd rather get another 1x12 for more stereo spread if I needed more power.

New
18 watt tube (2 x EL84 + 1- 12AX7) power amp/speaker combo.
Since this is intended to be a power amp/speaker combo for use with a modeler, (Pod, etc.) versatility/channel switching/features are really N/A. Includes FX loop, however.

Gibson Historic '59 Les Paul Std. I play classic/blues rock. Difficult to see how this unit would fit ANY style.
Quite quiet.

Can't answer since I returned the amp already, didn't have it long enough to find out.

N/A

I've been playing guitar for nearly 30 years.
If I had kept it and it were stolen, I'd celebrate, provided it were insured, of course!
Since it's (as far as I know) the only unit of it's type in existence thus far, I can't compare it to other units. Since there are no competing amps, there is no choice if one wants an amp to use with his or her modeler in this fashion.
I was unable to find a local music store that carried them so I could try one out before buying, so I was forced to take a chance and order online "sound unheard" based in part on the positive reviews on Harmony Central.
I subsequently returned the Atomic, unfortunately for the store (who were great, BTW) and for me, since I had to eat the shipping costs...
This amp seems like a great idea. Since I love some of the sounds in my Pod XT direct or through headphones, (not ALL the sounds in the Pod are great, but that's a whole 'nother topic) I thought the concept behind the Atomic 112 was brilliant, an 18 watt tube power amp in a classy looking 112" combo cabinet with '70s style Marshall check front grille designed for use with most of the popular amp modelers, (i.e. Pod, Behringer, Vox) it's stated purpose being to "de-digitize" the solid state modelers with it's tube power amp, producing a warm, yet objective (they call it an "amp without an opinion") sound.
The reality is that nothing could be further from the truth. With my trusty Pod XT mounted in the Atomic, (I tried setting the Pod to bith direct and emulated output settings, I didn't find a big difference, despite what others have written here) I proceeded to scroll through some of my favorite presets...what a disappointment! The Atomic sounds completly flat, sterile, and lifeless. The Pod by itself sounds more like an amp, in actual fact this thing makes the modeler (well, I can only attest to the Pod XT) sound far more "digital" than it does direct!
It is notably UN-dynamic, doesn't respond to picking nuances or clean up well when you back down the volume control on your guitar. (the Pod by itself DOES) It seriously lacks high end, even with the Pod's treble and Presence controls maxed out. Also, (again contrary to what others have written) it's not very loud, I doubt you could gig with this unless you had a VERY light hitting drummer.
So, to sum up, this is an example of a good idea poorly executed.
Perhaps with some serious design changes it could be made a lot better. I have a sneaking suspicion that the "specially designed" speaker could be a big part of the problem, but since I planned to return it, i wasn't about to start taking it apart and swapping out the speaker to find out.
Maybe Atomic can sort out its problems, from what others have written, they seem like a caring company...until then, my advice is stay away!

I just got mine in December 04. No features to list. A speaker 3 tubes input jack on off switch. Hence, I give it a 5. Not to take anything away from the Atomic, but without a modeler you know what I mean.

I am using it with the pod 2.0. I have never owned a modeler before I had messed around with them as they came out and had a line 6 flextone for a while but was never happy with the live sound at stage levels. They all sounded great when recording or at bedroom levels but seemed to lose "the Tone" live. I heard and played this set up at my local music store, and was quite impressed. We then ran the same pod in front of a marshall jtm 45 re-issue and although the marshall was impressive the pod was not. To me its all about the cabinet design I think that makes the most difference. The sounds you get are only limited to your modeler. I use quite a few different amps, all tube. some boutique some standard fender and marshalls. Fenders with humbuckers, gibson firebird (p-100's) a couple of early eighties bc riches, they all sound good through the Atomic(a Little eq'ing is required for each guitar)The pod can get noisey with the gain cranked.

just got it, so can't really say I did use it New Years Eve and It held its own next to my Rivera.

I heard these guys will actually talk to you. but haven't dealt with them. Hopefully as the company grows which I think it will they will continue a close as they can relationship with customers.

I've been playing off and on for around 20 years and own and have owned many different guitars and amps. this is my first modeling type amp that i'll keep around. (got rid of the Flextone) It can sound supprisingly warm and tube like, much different then placing a pod in front of an amp. I wish it had a stand by switch. I think the cabinet design with the port really helps this fantastic idea out alot. Hopefully we'll see some expanded lines from these guys in the future.

There are no features on the amp itself, that is up to your modeler. there is an power switch and left and right outs. the design is fantastic and the DS1 is very stable and holds my PODXT very securely

WOW - FREAKIN WOW. the sounds that come from the XT have been brought to life. Dr. Frankenstein has created the perfect creature with this

I have already lugged it around with my car and it is holding up very well. only had it for a week but it seems to be made very sturdy

What can you say about a company who president answers all your questions directly. I'm sure as they grow that wont be as easy for him to do, but he definately stands behind what he is doing and loves the product himself. very responsive and nice to deal with

What can I say. This is a great idea that was well executed. Cudos to Atomic. Great sound from my modeler. Wonderfull power and response from this amp

I bought the amp new, I've owned it for one month. The amp is very simple, on/off switch, and connectors for various inputs/outputs of your modeling device, no volume/tone/standby or gain contorls - that's all done from you modeler. 2 EL84's power the unit for about 20 watts of class A/B power (push/pull), a single 12AX7 in the input stage. There's a single 12" speaker in a completely enclosed cabinet with a single port in the front. If you using floor type modeler (I use a Vox TonelabSE) there are inputs on the back panel to hook into the amp. I need a system with quite a bit of versatility, I need to be able to play everything from spanky clean to classic rock crunch (no metal for me so I can't comment on how the amp performs in that style). At 20 watts the amp has almost enough power - it's hard to get a good clear clean sound at club levels, I play in a band with a drummer who uses an electronic kit, I'm fortunate enough to be able to set the mix up allowing me to get a decent clean sound - anyone playing in a band with a hard hitting drummer won't be as lucky. The features are simple but exactly what the amp was designed to be so I'm going to give it a high rating eventhough the amp is simple. Note, the amp comes with some kind of universal insert, since I'm using a floor modeler I need to get a blank insert to fill in the hole on the top of the amp - naturally the people carrying the amp don't have any of the blank panels in stock, I have to order one - in looking at the amp I think a blank panels should be supplied with the modeler and any of the desktop modeler holders should be purchased seperate.

I use a late 80's Clapton Strat and a Heritage H535 (335 style) guitar, the Strat has an active pickup/tone circuit, the Heritage has two seymour duncan 59 humbuckers. The amp seems to sound best with the Heritage, with the Strat I find myself dialing out virtually all of the treble on just about everysetting on my Vox - can I blame the amp, I know and I'll give more details later. The overall sound on the amp is very balanced, it's very loud for 20 watts, the lows are tight and amp is balanced well across it's entire range. Remember, this amp is just producing the sounds your amp modeler is producing, if it's sounding really crappy don't blame the amp, blame the modeler. My only complaints on the amp is - the sound if VERY directional, most likely due to the closed back design. If you don't use an amp stand you'll need one, if you stand close the amp and play you won't hear it - and if you crank it loud enough to hear it well the poor people sitting 10 to 15 feet away will have to move. So far I've been able to dial in some very good sounds with using this amp, far far far better than I could using a solid state power amp and running into my Avatar 2x12 cabinet. The amp reacts like a tube amp, it's very quiet when idiling (guitar volume down). Mine came with JJ EL84's and a no name 12AX7, I replaced the no name tube with a JJ select - not really any difference in the tone but I feel the JJ's are very reliable and in the event the pre amp tube goes microphonic (not likely as the tune isn't being used to produce any overdrive) it's not an easy replacement. I like the sound of the amp but like I said it's very directional almost to the point where it's a problem when gigging.

Who knows! The amp is new, but the circuit is pretty simple so I can't imagine the amp having a ton of problems, since I'm using an amp modeler and I own the PA I always have the backup amp with me! Not having a standby switch might mean the power tubes won't last as long as an amp with a standby switch - something only time will tell - but the EL84's are pretty reliable so I'm hoping there won't be tube issues in the future. Perhaps in a year I'll come back and update this category, right now I have no opinion on this.

I went to a local music store which had a couple of Reactors in stock, the salesman told me had thuroughly tested these amps out and knew every about them. He asked me what I was using and I said a TonelabSE, he immediately told me I couldn't use the amp with that type of modeler - I sent an email to Atomic and got a reply within minutes from the owner and designer with all the correct information. Nice guy, very responsive, hopefully I'll never have to deal with them concerning a problem.

Overall, the Reactor give us guys using modelers a great tube amp option, it's a little underpowered for high volume clean sounds (as it is but see below for my resolution) but overall it's a great product. If it were stolen I would buy another. The only other products I've compared it with are solid state amps driving my 2x12 cabinet and I didn't like the sounds I was getting at all, no amount of tweaking improved the tone. I've heard the peavey 50/50 amps sound good with modelers but haven't been able to try one as they are no longer sold, Carvin makes a 100 watt rack mount tube amp which sounds excellent with my modeler but it's very heavy and is way more power than I need for what I do. I have made some modifications to the amp - I realize I've probably voided my warranty but I'll deal with it. In an effort to work around the directional sound problem I added closed circuit 1/4 input jack on the back panel - what this does is allow me to use my 2x12 open back cabinet (8 ohm) and remove the speaker in the cabinet from the circuit to maintain the same 8 ohm impedence. I was stunned how much better this amp sounds run through my cabinet - the sound is open, full and much louder than the single 12 in the amp - my clean sound is now right where it needs to be even with humbucking pickups. I wish they offered the amp as a stand alone head, I'm thinking of designing a head to mount the amp in and use it with my 2x12 cabinet. Overall the amp is a great tool, could use some improvements but well worth the selling price.

This category is somewhat deceiving because the amp works in combination with YOUR modeler.
The amp itself is a study in simplicity. There is an 18W TUBE amp (I have always owned a tube amp) which serves to power YOUR modeler (in my case a Pod XT) There is a housing which enables you to use a number of popular modelers (or use the amp as a stereo slave which I am doing - more on this later) and an On-Off switch. The back panel has a Send Left, Send Right and Return. That's it.
Installing your modeler is intuitive - connect the supplied cables to your modeler, mount in the housing using the supplied screw in supports and plug into the amp. Turn it on and your modeler's controls determine the sound, effects, volume, etc. So the features of the amp are actually dtermined by the features of the modeler. The POD has loads of features, hence, so does the Atomic.
This is truly a "why didn't I think of this" kind of product!
The amp has a vintage-retro appeal and uses high quality materials which make it look much more expensive than it actually is. Even the logo is well executed.

I play a number of guitars - piezo equipped acoustic-electric, P-90 electrics, single coil strats and teles, numerous humbucker equipped Gibsons. This amp FINALLY unleashes the POD sounds formerly available only through headphones or direct to a board but NOT through an amp. Other amps tend to color the POD, this one exploits the POD strengths and enables you to have dozens of amp/cabinet combos available effortlessly.
I play various musical styles. I have played for more than 34 years and I mainly play at home. My first priority is getting numerous SOUNDS at liveable VOLUMES. The Atomic was the answer. I have owned Carr amps, Fenders, I still own a Mesa/Boogie and a Soldano Speedster and more than 35 guitars. This amp is fantastic. I set up a second Atomic combo connecting the Send Right of the main to the Return of the slave and I have the POD in STEREO. That means the chorus, flange, phase all sound lush and full. I did not even know this was an option but I discovered it after talking with the President of Atomic Amps who suggested I try it. IT WORKS! Note that the stereo sound is determined by the effect used, not the guitar iteself. So if a rotary, phase, flange or chorus is selected, you will get a stereo effect with the dual amp set up.

The amp appears to be very well built. It is sturdy without being overly heavy. (just heavy enough I guess) I would have no problem relying on this as my only amp.
I am giving this category a 9 because of a minor problem I encountered early on - but which was easily remedies and I am certain and confident it will not reappear.

HERE IS WHERE ATOMIC SHINES. I purchased my amp from a store over the internet. I had a small connection problem and sent an email to Atomic. THE PRESIDENT, TOM KING, CALLED ME PERSONALLY ON A SUNDAY! He listened to my description of the problem and determined it was probably a 1 in 100 problem in the first batch of amps dealing with the multi-pin connector. At Atomic's expense they shipped me a replacement amp via 2 day and he suggested I KEEP the first amp to try out the stereo feature (as the connector which was causing me problems is overridden when the RETURN jack is used.
I think so highly of a company - especially a young company, where the head of that company gives its customers personal attention. Tom King has since followed up with other emails and another phone call to make sure everything was okay. Not only did he isolate the small problem I was having - he sold me a SECOND amp which I am now using as a STEREO RIG (my first) and it is fantastic!! He turned a potential problem into a second sale, and earned a new fan (as you can tell by my stellar review).

At $499, this amp is a downright BARGAIN. I have gladly (okay, not gladly) spent over $2000 for "boutique" amps which I am certain were worth it in terms of workmanship and quality. But THIS amp is the most versatile, best sounding amp I have heard. What more can you ask for - all the POD (or other modeler sounds) in a REAL TUBE amp that is loud enough for gigging and low enough for home use and SOOO versatile. I would say that at this price point they will sell out, no matter how many they make.
As I indicated above I have played guitar for 34+ years. I currently have 35 guitars (10 acoustics and 25 electrics - mostly high end custom shop and one off guitars) I love to play - even though I play only at home. I am a stickler for sound quality and ease of use and dependability and customer support.
I highly recommend this amp. You can always add a second for stereo and if you can afford that - get it. You have never heard chorus sound so great - it would be especially great on a stage set up. I would definitely replace this amp and if I were a gigging musician, it is at a price where it is not just affordable - it is a true value. If you already own a modeler, BUY THIS AMP.
I sold a CARR Mercury (paid almost $2000 new and sold it for just under $1700 on eBay) and I bought TWO Atomic amps and a new POD XT and still pocketed several hundred dollars. The Carr is a great amp - it truly is, but this set up is much more versatile in terms of sound and it is stereo to boot! I still use my trusty Mesa/Boogie (wood and cane cab combo - a beauty) and my screaming yellow Soldano Speedster head and cab. But the Atomic is my new "main" rig. That is the highest praise I can give it. I rely on these reviews when I research new products and I take them seriously, I know that this is high praise, but I really love this amp. I would not be surprised if it is the last amp I buy.

Very simple, but powerful amp. I am currently using with a Pod XT, and it makes it sound better than anything I have ever heard...awesome.Dont understand why they didn't include a standbye switch.You can really get the volume up there! Loder than it looks. Mic with an SM-57 for gigs.

Fanatstic sounds, though you better know how to actually use your POD XT to really get it to sing.Very versatile. But I really think it depends on what amp modeler you use

I have had it for three months, so time will tell. I have used it in an outdoor and indoor setting. Gear Geeks come and are blown away by the tones. My other guitarist is using a Marshall DSL100, so it is really a brute!!again, time will tell on it's dependability

Havent dealt with

Really worth checking out if you are looking for something different.I know Tech 21 made something like this..the Power Engine. This BLOWS it away. VERY Warm response. Clean sound that compliments my Pod XT.

This is an update to my submission. The output of the modeler pedal needs to be set at direct out (no amp sims) for the Atomic Amp to really open up. It makes a big difference.

2004 Atomic Amplifiers Reactor 112. Bought it 3 weeks ago and wanted to "wring" it out before reviewing it. Has a on/off switch, 1/4" input connector for the guitar cable on top and a send-L and send-R (these are direct sends from the outputs of your modeler pedal), and return 1/4" inputs on the rear. Came with 1 DS-1 docking station and mounting kits for the POD, PODxt and a Blank kit. Has optional kits for Behringer V-Amp & Vox Tone Lab. Everything is designed to mount into the docking station and be removeable from the amp as such. You can use the amp with any modeling pedal however without mounting it using the return input. I wish it had a master volume (uses the modelers volume only) and a stand-by as the area around the tubes gets very hot. Has two EL-84's and one 12ax7 tubes. One 12" speaker (rated 150 watt @ 8 ohm), which is mounted on the RH side of the enclosure and what appears to be a passive radiator in the LH side. It is a closed back enclosure rated at 18 watts. (It's as loud as my Carvin Bel-Air rated at 30 watts). Don't know how to rate it for features as it's one-of-a kind.

This is what I want to talk about..sound. Myself and a friend have used it with both a V-Amp and a Boss GT-3 modeler pedal. This amp is advertised as bringing analog tube warmth and feel to the digital modeling world. We all bought the modeling pedals looking for those amps we just couldn't afford, or didn't want to haul around. Like most people I didn't like the digital sound that always seemed to ride in the pedals sound. WOW! I was completely blown back by this amp. It takes the sounds from the modeler and makes it into a true tube sound and feel. Yea some of the sounds have to be eq'ed in the modeler to bring out the proper tone, but for once it's possible to not have that digital sound. What you end up with it a true tube amp. The amp is tight and focused. Becouse of the speaker setup you need to be away from the amp about 5 feet to get the amps best sound. No doubt the best thing going now for the modeler pedals. You probably would not want to mike the amp up close using the Send-L and Send-R outputs to the board. The amp is very quiet as it only uses the modeler for the volume. Really have to work to get it to breakup. Down side is its only as good as the patch you have in the modeler. Got to give a 10 here cause it really brings that tube tone out.

Like I said before, used it the last three weeks and don't see any problems. Well constructed and tightly built. Using it without any backups but always have a backup plan. Looks as good as anything out there.

E-mailed the company about the optional mounting kits a week ago without an answer. Has a phone number in the owners manual, but I haven't called it. so I'll leave this for later.

Been playing way, way too long to sound this bad (1972). Got a lot of gear, acoustic and electric. Without a doubt I'd get this again. I love the tone. Wish it had a master volume. Bought it from American Musical Supply with the thought of returning it within the 45 day limit if I didn't like it. IT'S NOT GOING BACK!!!

The only real feature of this amp is the fact that it interacts with the digital modeler in a very good way. Even though I use a POD XT Pro currently, I might buy the XT just to put in the docking station and make my setup easier. The DS-1 docking station seems well designed and it is a plus that you can install modelers from Line 6, Behringer, and Vox based on personal preference.

I have a Jaros and Hamer for my main electric guitars. Both are the double cutaway LP style w/ SD Humbuckers. The range I can get out of it is only limited by the POD XT. It doesn't seem to be noisy on high gain settings and if you drive the amp full out on the clean channel it just starts to saturate. I just back off the volume on the guitar and all is good.

The speaker seems to be a decent one. Don't know who made it, but it seems tight and had good bass response.

Hard to rate this right out of the gate. Seems built well and fairly solid. Being a tube amp I thought they would've had a standby switch.
It's a good thing it is well ventilated, the tubes area gets quite hot.

Hopefully the delays that happened getting the product to market resulted in some improvements. I did get an email response on my inquiry about availability a few months back. Maybe that is a good sign.

The amp is brand new. It is a tube powered combo with a tuned 1-12 cab to use with modelers such as the Line 6 POD. The only feature it has is a pair of effect sends on the back that are the same as the outputs on the modeler, POD XT in my case. This is nice so you can send a line out the the board and use the Atomic as a monitor to hear yourself on stage. I do wish it had a volume level other than using the output on the POD, this would allow you to turn up and down the amp without effecting the level going to the board. The amp is 18 watts and is quite loud enough for my purpose. If you need more volume, send a signal to the sound board or mic it. You can also use the outs to send half to another amp for stereo.

With a strat and the XT, I'm getting the best tones I've gotten from the POD since I got it. I use this at church, we play contemporary music and I need several different amp tones. The POD makes the tones and the Atomic just makes them sound more like you wished they did in the first place. You can overdrive the power amp and this may not be what you want, I run mine at moderate levals.

I understand they have a 5 year warranty. Brand new, only time will tell.

Mine had a damaged place in the chassis, I mentioned this on another sight and they contacted me offering another amp. As I live in the middle of the US and they are on the west coast, the freight didn't apeal to me and they really didn't offer to pick up both in and out. I ask for a new screw to replace the one that is missing and haven't heard from them since. Was a nice first impression though, for whatever that means.

Been playing for 30+ years. I've got a lot of nice gear but don't like lugging it around. I got this as a compromise, it sounds good and if it someone steals it, it's replacable. Like I said, it needs a separate volume after the output on the POD. It does make the best monitor for a POD I've heard.