Guitar virtuoso Steve Vai has partnered with Positive Grid to release a signature version of the Spark MINI — the Spark MINI Vai. The custom-designed 10-watt portable smart guitar practice amp is designed to complement Vai’s stylistic approach to guitar and comes with four presets that reflect his iconic sound.
The Spark MINI Vai features a custom burgundy Tolex covering, gold piping and strap, and a mandala grille design inspired by Vai’s famed Hydra guitar. Vai titled each of the presets after elements of his playing:
- FRESH: Crystal-clear clean tone
- MILD: Bluesy clean tone with a touch of grit
- HOT: Well-distorted rock rhythm tone
- FIRE: High-gain lead tone
The four presets offer players a solid foundation for exploring Vai’s signature sounds, and provide access to backing tracks and loops directly from Vai’s catalog. “For me, this Spark MINI is an excellent portable practice amp,” says Vai. “The four tones allow for inspirational playing and I built these presets around my interests. The app allows for instant tweakage of any of the presets. I never travel without this little friend.”
While the Spark MINI Vai offers simple access into Vai’s complex musical world, the Spark MINI Vai isn’t limited to the styles and sounds of the eclectic guitarists. Beyond the custom features, the MINI Vai is just as versatile as any Spark amp, providing users access to a vast library of additional amps, effects, and over 100,000 user-created tones, using the Positive Grid mobile phone app. Like the Spark 2, the app comes equipped with Spark AI function that allows users to describe a sound their after and receive tone suggestions from the amp.
The Spark MINI Vai is surprisingly loud and offers multi-directional sound with just 10 watts of power. It’s lightweight and since it’s battery-operated it’s completely portable. In addition to being a stellar practice amp, the MINI Vai can be used as a Bluetooth speaker or audio interface for recording.
As a special treat, Vai has autographed 100 Spark MINI Vai amps, which will be randomly awarded to customers who purchase the amp during the pre-order period, which starts September 3.
