When developing the Duchess MKII, we were careful not to stray too far from what made the original range so successful. Sonically, the Duchess remains the reference amplifier for clean and slightly overdriven tones, and the ideal platform for pedalboards. Furthermore, we drew inspiration from some of our more recent products: we added new tonal switching options from the MK Clean series and updated the reverb circuitry by integrating two types of digital reverb to choose from.
Voice switch
Increased tonal flexibility is now possible thanks to a new 3-position voice switch, allowing you to tailor the sound to any type of pickup or playing style. Each successive selection boosts low-mid frequencies via the treble control.
Mid Kick
This popular feature from the original Duchess range has been expanded and now offers three levels of dynamic mid-range shaping:
Position I: Original response
Position II: Boosted low mids
Position III: Additional gain in the high mids
Reverb
Two distinct types of digital reverb are now available on the front panel:
Vintage: Classic spring reverb, ideal for the Duchess's signature sound
Modern: A new type of reverb inspired by The Deputy, ranging from subtle ambience to total, shimmering immersion. Both reverb types feature level and dwell controls and are footswitchable (footswitch included).
Series effects loop
The switchable effects loop allows you to use delays, reverbs, etc. after the amp's preamp to maintain a clean sound. If the sound is not clean enough, try lowering the pedal's mix/output level, especially if you are increasing the amp's master volume.
Low power and new design
The front-panel switch offers a low-power mode, reducing output power to approximately 7 watts. We have also revised the front panel, giving it a cleaner style and our new Victory logo, introduced on the MK series.
6L6 or EL34 power valves
Although the Duchess range comes with EL34 valves, the V40 gives you the option to use either EL34 or 6L6 power valves. These offer slightly different sonic characteristics in terms of power stage saturation and overall frequency response. A bias switch allows for rough adjustment, but precise adjustment is also recommended whenever power valves are changed.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
FORMAT:
Mono amp head
POWER:
42 Watts,
Low power: 7 Watts
VALVES:
3 x ECC83, 2 x EL34 (standard)
DIMENSIONS:
222 (H) x 390 (W) x 220 (D) mm (including handle, feet, and controls)
WEIGHT:
9.2 kg
ADDITIONAL FEATURES:
Three-position Voice switch
Three-position Mid Kick switch
Dual digital reverb with footswitch bypass option
Series effects loop with true bypass
Single-ended mode
Lightweight metal chassis with rubber handle ("lunchbox" style model)
Single-button reverb footswitch included