Before Tom Scholz , the perpetually mulleted , sleeveless Boston guitarist , MIT grad , audio pioneer , and allaround mad scientist , released the first Rockman series headphone amp in 1982 , trying to shred at low volume was a pretty sad affair . It was just about impossible to achieve any kind of inspiring tone at practice-friendly levels . The first Rockman was the game-changer though , with multiple rich-sounding clean modes , convincing distortion , cab simulation , stereo chorus , and echo . Naturally , the series was very successful , and has many rabid devotees to this day . In fact , one can still find vintage Rockman models for sale that have been recapped and otherwise lovingly refurbished by very knowledgeable enthusiasts . Or , you can just buy a new one . Jim Dunlop acquired Scholz ’ s company in 1995 , and still produces the Guitar Ace , Bass Ace , and Metal Ace models , which are pretty similar to the original ‘ 82 Rockman in sound and function .
Rockman Guitar Ace
Before Tom Scholz , the perpetually mulleted , sleeveless Boston guitarist , MIT grad , audio pioneer , and allaround mad scientist , released the first Rockman series headphone amp in 1982 , trying to shred at low volume was a pretty sad affair . It was just about impossible to achieve any kind of inspiring tone at practice-friendly levels . The first Rockman was the game-changer though , with multiple rich-sounding clean modes , convincing distortion , cab simulation , stereo chorus , and echo . Naturally , the series was very successful , and has many rabid devotees to this day . In fact , one can still find vintage Rockman models for sale that have been recapped and otherwise lovingly refurbished by very knowledgeable enthusiasts . Or , you can just buy a new one . Jim Dunlop acquired Scholz ’ s company in 1995 , and still produces the Guitar Ace , Bass Ace , and Metal Ace models , which are pretty similar to the original ‘ 82 Rockman in sound and function .