Glockenklang Soul II

Why is it every time I write about a Glockenklang head I’m tempted to trot out the tired German clichés; something about their precision, strength, and cleanliness—am I really that predictable? [Ed. Note: I knew you were going to ask that.] At least this temptation is based in fact, and not mere rhetorical laziness. Each Glockenklang I’ve encountered does in fact have all these qualities, a list to which I’ll add high cost. But the latest, the Soul II, is a comparative bargain at $1,639 street. The solid-state head cranks 440 watts into a 4Ω load and includes a full-featured set of EQ and signal-routing options. Plus, the preamp has been re-voiced for additional warmth and character, or “fun” as the press release puts it. I’m keeping my comically xenophobic mouth shut.