Matchless were making modified Vox style amps back in the 90s, and the original examples will set you back a small fortune. This little punch machine started life as a standard Ceriatone Lightning kit, but it's been bolstered by a set of genuine Matchless transformers and a set of caps by Sprague and Sozo. The result is a low-wattage amp with remarkable touch sensitivity and soaring complexity. With the input volume below midday, this offers a chiming clean tone with heaps of breath and note separation. With the volume dimed, you get a mammoth growl with a lovely girth through the low end and a sweet, eloquent treble. This is a really enjoyable amp, pair it with spicy cab and you're going to have a very, very fun time.

Model: Ceriatone Lightning 15
Made: kit made in USA, assembled in Australia
Output: 15 watts
Power: 240v (Australia/NZ)
Speaker: none
Finish: red/cream leather tolex
Mods: Sozo and Sprague caps installed, transformers swapped for Matchless examples
Weight: 10.6kg
Extras included: none

Condition notes: minor cosmetic wear. No major marks, few light scuffs, fully functional. Overall: very good condition (8/10)