Quilter Aviator Gold 8” Combo – USA 2018

Here is a Quilter Aviator Gold solid-state guitar amplifier, a modern high-performance design that delivers genuine tube-like tone without the use of valves. Developed by Pat Quilter, renowned for his long-standing work in professional amplification and high-end QSC systems, this amp represents the result of years of engineering focused on achieving authentic guitar tone in a lightweight, reliable solid-state format.

Unlike many earlier attempts in the 1970s to replicate valve tone using solid-state technology, the Aviator series stands out for successfully delivering a responsive, organic feel that closely emulates tube amplification while maintaining the benefits of modern circuitry. It forms part of Quilter USA’s acclaimed range of lightweight amplifiers designed for players who need tone, power, and portability without compromise.

The Aviator Gold series builds upon the foundation of the MicroPro Mach 2 platform, but introduces refinements including advanced noise reduction and an expanded gain structure with a wider “throttle” range for deeper, chunkier overdrive tones. This makes it a highly capable amplifier for both clean pedal-platform use and more driven, expressive applications.

Designed to suit a wide range of playing environments, the Aviator Gold excels as a flexible and reliable gigging amp. It offers open, dynamic response and strong compatibility with effects pedals, making it ideal for players who build their sound around pedalboards or require consistent performance across different venues and setups.

Despite its compact footprint, the Aviator Gold delivers impressive projection and clarity. The 8-inch Celestion full-range pro audio driver ensures a broad frequency response with excellent detail and articulation, while the sealed enclosure design contributes to tight low-end response and focused sound dispersion.

Lightweight and highly portable, this amplifier is designed for real-world practicality—easy to transport yet powerful enough for live performance. It combines modern engineering with musical responsiveness, making it a strong choice for players seeking tube-like performance without the weight, maintenance, or fragility of traditional valve amps.

Specifications: 

Year: 2018
Country: USA
Portable: 22.6 Pounds
Dimensions: 14.5”H x 17.2”W x 8.4”D (368x437x214mm)
Power: 100 watts per channel
Reliability: Won’t degrade or breakdown
Consistency: Tone sounds great at any volume
Flexibility: Works with any impedance extension speaker or even without a speaker
Tone: The Aviator is changing the game. Already on several national tours, the Aviator is quickly becoming a tone standard.
Built: USA (Costa Mesa, made from mostly local suppliers)
Performance: This amp sounds mighty good. It easily keeps up with typical 40 watt 12" tube amps and has enough power and responsiveness to happily surprise you all night.
Case: Comes with a custom made heavy duty canvas gig bag with pockets. Throw the whole thing over your shoulder & you’ll hardly notice it’s there.