Here's an interesting little product for all those who like to simply plug in their synths and play. The Torque T255SK is a 25+25 watt stereo keyboard amp with a built-in 3-channel mixer; the sort of thing that would be ideal for use in studio practice sessions, a personal writing suite or even a good ol' pub gig. The unit comes in three parts: a central amp/mixer and two speaker boxes - all of which would fit very neatly into a small flightcase for portability.

This is largely due to the small size of the speaker cabinets, which measure a paltry 340 x 205 x 290mm. Of course, this does restrict the size of the venue you can use them in; don't get any ideas about filling Wembley Arena with throbbing bass.

The amp unit is modelled along the lines of a small integrated PA unit with three channel inputs, all using stereo 1/4" jacks and controlled by individual Gain knobs. Channel three will also function as a mic input with the aid of a switch to select low impedance. The mix of the three stereo signals may be adjusted by means of Master Volume and Stereo Balance controls and there's a three-band EQ section with controls for Bass, Middle and Treble. Should you feel the need, it's also possible to use an effects unit with the amp; this can be patched in using the stereo loop jacks.

The front-panel lineup is completed by a single stereo line output, which could be useful for committing things to tape. The most noticeable feature on the back panel is the strangely massive neon power switch - surely this is overkill? - which keeps company with three mono jacks; one for each of the speakers, one for slaving the amp in stereo.

Once you've familiarised yourself with the hardware, using the amp is simply a matter of plugging in the speakers (leads are included, but are not of heavy-duty construction) and lining up your various inputs. Simplicity itself. But how does it sound?

Well, much as it looks, really - tough but small and a little 'boxy'. Naturally, the speakers represent the weak link in the system; one cannot help but wonder what could have been achieved with just a few more square inches of cabinet space. But all things considered the sound is acceptable enough - providing you're not using any 'extreme' synth patches. It would certainly make an excellent practice outfit, easily carried and yet flexible enough to cope with two or three keyboards. And for anyone who has a session at the Dog 'n' Duck with their DX7 and a mic, it could well be ideal.

Price: 2 x 25w £266 inc. VAT. T250 SK 2 x 50w £350 inc. VAT.

More from: Barns and Mullans Ltd. (Contact Details)