PRS HDRX 50 Amplifier Head (50 Watt)

The PRS HDRX 50 brings the legendary tones of late 60s British amplification into the modern era, featuring the meticulously documented “Authentic Hendrix” Touring Circuit. This powerful 50-watt amplifier continues the legacy of PRS’s acclaimed HXDA series, incorporating insights gained from studying one of Hendrix’s personal amplifiers that was purportedly used at Woodstock. Paul Reed Smith and PRS Amp Designer Doug Sewell had the rare opportunity to examine this historic piece in 2018, leading to this faithful recreation.

Built around a pair of EL34EH power tubes and premium pre-amp tubes, the HDRX 50 utilises a custom-designed Straight Edge output transformer for exceptional clarity. The amplifier features a documented 100-watt power supply that gives it the sonic characteristics of a larger amplifier whilst maintaining the manageable output of a 50-watt unit. This thoughtful design, combined with careful attention to the power supply and filament circuitry, results in remarkably low noise operation with minimal hum or hiss.

The control layout includes a 3-band TMB tone stack, 3-way bright switch, high-mid gain switch, and presence controls that mirror the original historic amplifier. Internally bridged channels with individual volume controls eliminate the need for external jumper cables, allowing players to blend the lead and bass channels seamlessly for precise control over distortion levels and tonal character. This modern convenience maintains the authentic sound whilst improving usability.

Manufactured in PRS Guitars’ Stevensville, Maryland facility, the HDRX 50 represents both historical accuracy and contemporary build quality. PRS has developed matching 2x12 and 4x12 cabinets loaded with modified Celestion G12H-75 Creamback speakers to complete the system. As Paul Reed Smith notes, this is a vintage-spec volume amplifier, and PRS recommends using a volume attenuator such as the Koch Loadbox LB120 II for optimal performance across various playing situations.