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There are currently three Fat Dog combo amp models to choose from:  the Model 2A, the Model 4A, and the Classic 40. 

For info on the Mini Amp, to be released in the near future, click here.
A Fat Dog amplifier is not just another reworked guitar amp.  Each model was designed and built from start to finish as a harmonica amp to give you the good old fashioned blues harp tone you want.  Fat Dog amps respond to the way that normal musicians play the harmonica.  They go from sweet, mellow tones to full honk, and the threshold is right where you want it, so you don't have to put up with constant annoying distortion or excessive clean headroom.  Most importantly, Fat Dog amps don't have that "Big Fender Sound" that you hear all the time.  They sound more like what you hear on the old recordings from the 1950s, a lot of which were done with Valco, Lectrolab, and other small, cheap department store amps of the old days.  Fat Dog amps were designed for old fashioned sound in a big amp, so you can have that great vintage tone with big stage volume!

Another great thing about Fat Dog amplifiers is that you are free to choose which speaker cabinet you want your amp to come with.  For more info on Fat Dog speaker cabinets, click here.

All three Fat Dog combo models share the same preamp tube lineup, but the power amps are all different.  As a result, although they all have a lot in common each amp has its own voice.  The class A amps are more bright and brash, whereas the Classic 40 has more harmonic tones.  In the class A category, the 4A has a thicker sound, and the 2A is more in-your-face.  If you want a great vintage tone, you're sure to find just what you're looking for.
The Model 2A is the most versatile amp in the Fat Dog family.  It features stereo class A power amps, each with its own 6L6-class power tube.  The great thing about the Model 2A is that you can substitute KT-66, 5881, EL34 or other power tubes in place of the 6L6.  You can even mix two different types of power tubes for greater tonal variety.  I like to play mine with one EL34 and one 5881.  Not only that, but the Model 2A can be ordered in any cabinet configuration to give you just what you're looking for.  If you want a nice compact package with an edgy tone, try the 2x10.  The more speaker area you give this amp, the creamier the sound gets.  I use a 2A in a 2x12 cabinet, which has great bite on the note attacks and enough speaker area to give the sound a lot of punch.

The Model 2A's stereo power amps create a thicker, more complex tone while reducing feedback tendency.  With a total power output of about 25 to 30 class A watts, this amp can hold its own with a band and be heard at the back of the room. 

Although the Model 2A's sound has a lot in common with the Model 4A, the 2A has more bite on the note attack.  As one customer put it "This amp sounds like you sharpened the knife."
The Fat Dog Model 4A represents the pinnacle of thick blues tone from a class A amplifier.  With quadraphonic 6V6 power amps, the Model 4A has a smooth, creamy overdrive that you have to hear to believe.  Although not as customizable as the 2A, if you like hornlike tones, Chicago honk, and rich crunchy note attacks, this is your amp.

The Model 4A's four separate power amps create a very thick, complex tone, with a huge reduction in feedback tendency.  With around 20 to 25 class A watts, the Model 4A is perfect for a working blues band.  The sound has an amazing ability to penetrate to the back of the room.

The Model 4A has to have four speakers, so order a 4x10 cabinet with this amp. 
The Fat Dog Classic 40 is a more traditional amplifier, with a twin 6L6 push-pull power amp and a single speaker output.  If you prefer,  substitutes such as 5881, EL34, etc, can be used. 

While the Model 2A and 4A offer a down and dirty Chicago honk, the Classic 40 produces more harmonic overtones to give the notes a ringing quality.

The Classic 40 is available in any speaker cabinet configuration.  See the cabinets page for your options.  A Classic 40 in a 4x10 cabinet really sings, but if you want a nice compact unit the 2x10 will give you an edgier sound.

The speaker output on the Classic 40 has a standard 1/4" jack and a three position knob to select 2, 4, or 8 ohm speaker load.

If you still don't know which Fat Dog amplifier is right for you and your playing style, drop me a line or give me a call and we'll see if we can figure it out.  They all share the same preamp design, but they all sound just a little bit different.
Need more info?   Contact Robert Reynolds:  rob@fatdogamps.com