Experience the legendary "hot-rodded" British high-gain sound of the iconic Friedman JOSE 100 in a compact and versatile 20-watt format. Developed by Dave Friedman in close collaboration with Marisol Arredondo (daughter of legendary amp modifier Jose Arredondo), the JOSE 20 series delivers the inimitable tone, harmonic richness, and touch sensitivity that shaped rock history—ideal for the studio, stage, or home.
Whether you choose the JOSE 20 1x12 combo (ready to play) or the JOSE 20 head (more flexible), you get uncompromising tube tone, handcrafted in Los Angeles and designed for today's guitarists.
INTERNAL CHANNEL JUMPING
The Volume I and II controls allow you to blend the "Bright" and "Normal" inputs for a fuller, more complex tone, replicating the classic channel-jumping technique used on vintage amps.
PLEXI/DRIVE SWITCH
Adds a true extra gain stage for more saturation, punch, and flexibility in gain structures.
GAIN STYLE SWITCH (3-POSITION)
Alters the circuit's response by repositioning the Master Volume and introducing diode clipping for more bite and a more modern response.
THE LEGENDARY "JOSE" SOUND. MODERN PERFORMANCE.
Jose Arredondo’s revolutionary amplifier modifications helped define the high-gain rock sound. His modified British amps offered increased sustain, richer harmonics, tighter bass, and unprecedented responsiveness for the musicians of the time. These were not production-line amps, but individually modified instruments; they became the secret weapon of countless professional guitarists and inspired generations of players, builders, and tone enthusiasts.
CLASSIC CHANNEL JUMPING
The JOSE 20 series condenses this inimitable sound into a compact 20-watt format without sacrificing the character that made the original models legendary. Internal jumping of Volumes I and II recreates the classic channel-linking technique guitarists once performed with patch cables, blending bright attack with a warm foundation to create the rich harmonic base at the heart of the "Jose" sound. A TRUE EXTRA GAIN STAGE
The unique three-position "Gain Style" switch further expands the JOSE 20's sonic palette by repositioning the Master Volume within the circuit, while introducing diode clipping for more bite and sustain. Rather than simply adding gain, each position reshapes the amplifier's response, offering a vast range of tones: from tight, supercharged "Plexi" crunch to devastating rhythm sounds, and smooth, harmonic-rich lead tones—all while retaining the unmistakable "Jose" sonic identity.
PLEXI/GAIN SWITCH
The Plexi/Gain switch introduces a true extra gain stage, allowing for seamless transition from a classic "Plexi" response to the aggressive saturation that made Jose’s modifications famous. The "Fat" switch adds body, authority in the low end, and more punch, while preserving the articulation and clarity that give this amp its exceptional responsiveness.
AUTHENTIC "JOSE" DYNAMICS
A transparent series effects loop and a System Master Volume make the JOSE 20 series as practical as it is inspiring, allowing guitarists to enjoy authentic "Jose" dynamics at any volume level. Whether for recording, rehearsals, stage work, or simply getting a great sound at home, the JOSE 20 series offers the punch, feel, and harmonic richness that have inspired guitarists for decades.
FREEDOM OF CHOICE
Available as a 20-watt head or a 1×12 combo equipped with a Celestion G12M-65 Creamback speaker, the JOSE 20 series gives musicians the freedom to choose the format best suited to their rig without compromising the unique "Jose" sonic experience. Selected by Dave Friedman for its warm mids, smooth highs, and dynamic response, the Celestion Creamback perfectly complements the amp’s harmonic richness and expressiveness.
The JOSE 20 is much more than just a high-gain amplifier. It is a faithful interpretation of one of the most influential sound signatures in rock history, reimagined by Dave Friedman for today's guitarists. FEATURES
20-watt all-tube combo (1×12 configuration)
2 x EL84 power tubes
4 x 12AX7 preamp tubes
Equipped with a Celestion G12M-65 Creamback speaker
Developed by Dave Friedman in collaboration with Marisol Arredondo
Inspired by the legendary amp modifications of Jose Arredondo
Internal Volume I and II jumping reproducing the classic "channel jumping" technique
Plexi/Gain switch adding a true extra gain stage
“Fat” switch adding body, punch, and authority in the low frequencies
Three-position Gain Style switch modifying circuit response to offer three distinct Jose-inspired gain structures
System Master Volume
Transparent series effects loop
Custom-made transformers
Handcrafted in Los Angeles, California
5-year limited warranty
Dimensions: 11.5″ (D) x 18.75″ (W) x 16.75″ (H)
Weight: 45 lbs (approx. 20.4 kg)