Inside the Phantom DRGN 45
Phantom DRGN 45 is built around a dual-voice gain structure that moves from classic British authority into fully developed high-gain articulation without losing identity.
The Plexi foundation delivers immediacy, harmonic texture, and midrange authority. The cascaded gain structure extends that voice into higher saturation while preserving clarity, note separation, and control.
This is not a switch between two amplifiers. It is a continuous system — designed to engage earlier and respond more fully within real-world playing conditions.
- British-voiced Plexi preamp foundation
- Cascaded high-gain architecture (switchable)
- Class-A cathode follower tone stack integration
- Phase inverter tuned for dynamic response and authority
The control system in Phantom DRGN 45 is designed for direct interaction — while preserving key elements of the architecture that allow the player to shape response, gain, and feel.
Frequency shaping, gain structure, and response characteristics remain closely integrated, delivering immediate connection under the hands with a focused set of controls that influence how the amplifier behaves in real time.
- Selectable JTM / JMP tone stack voicing
- Plexi / Cascade gain structure (switchable)
- Presence circuit tuned to 1968 Super Lead 100 response
- Dual-action Bass control with integrated low-frequency push
- Targeted response shaping for real-time player interaction
Phantom DRGN 45 is built around a 45W EL34 output platform designed for authority, responsiveness, and earlier engagement under real performance conditions.
The power section is tuned to maintain clarity and dimensionality as the amplifier begins to work—preserving the integrity of the signal as it moves from preamp articulation into output stage expression with a more immediate and accessible response.
- Dual EL34 output section (Class AB, fixed bias)
- Optimized plate voltage for dynamic range and responsiveness
- Solid-state rectification for tight response and stability
- Custom USA-wound transformers by Heyboer
Phantom DRGN 45 integrates patented volume management technology designed to maintain tonal integrity across a wide range of real-world playing environments.
Rather than reducing the amplifier to a lower-power version of itself, the system manages voltage, current, and output behavior to preserve feel, response, and harmonic structure at any usable volume — allowing the amplifier to engage earlier while maintaining a consistent, immediate playing experience from studio levels to stage.
- HybridMASTER™ volume management (patented)
- Venue Mode™ attenuation (patented)
- Maintains tone and feel across volume levels
- Designed for stage, studio, and controlled environments
- Foot-switchable +Gain integration
- Hand-wired, point-to-point construction
- Premium capacitors (F&T, Mallory, Orange Drop)
- High-quality Alpha potentiometers
- Custom transformer set by Heyboer
- Built in Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Output: ~45W (2x EL34)
- Preamp Tubes: 3x JJ ECC83S, 1x Sovtek 12AX7LPS
- Rectification: Solid-state diode
- Output Impedance: 16Ω / 8Ω / 4Ω
- Head Dimensions: 24″ W × 10.5″ D × 9.33″ H
- Head Weight: ~31 lbs
- 1×12 Combo Dimensions: 25″ W × 20.75″ D × 11″ H
- 1×12 Combo Weight: ~55 lbs
- Included: Single button footswitch with attached cable
info@3rdpower.com
615.945.3393