Friedman Jose Arredondo 100 Watt Valve Amp Head

Jose Arredondo (1923–1994) stands as a true pioneer, whose legendary work on classic British amplifiers ignited the high-gain revolution and continues to inspire players worldwide. For years, Dave Friedman has admired and studied the nuances of these celebrated modifications. The Friedman / Arredondo JOSE head is the culmination of that admiration, meticulously capturing the essence of Arredondo’s sought-after sonic magic within a brand-new Friedman design.

The JOSE isn’t just a recreation; it is a loving tribute developed in partnership with Jose’s daughter Marisol Arredondo. This amplifier represents the definitive realization of the iconic “Jose mod.” Utilizing modern construction techniques and premium components, the JOSE delivers the coveted high-gain tones that defined an era. In Dave’s own words, the JOSE is “a tribute to a true legend in amp modification.”

A New Chapter in Friedman’s Tone Legacy

The JOSE represents a significant addition to the Friedman family, acknowledging the profound influence of classic modified amplifiers on Dave’s own tonal signature. This amplifier captures the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of ultimate tone that both Dave Friedman and Jose Arredondo embodied.

Authentic “Jose Mod”

The JOSE is a 100-watt, EL34-powered head designed to faithfully deliver the iconic high-gain tone and feel associated with Jose Arredondo’s groundbreaking amp mods. A three-way Gain Style switch offers access to three distinct Jose-style gain structures, taking this powerhouse into the tonal realms once dreamed of by the guitar heroes of the high-gain rock era. Combined with a Fat switch and dual Presence controls, the JOSE offers deep tonal sculpting and unmistakable “Jose mod” character—harmonically rich, saturated, and fiercely articulate.

Enhanced Tonal Versatility

While rooted in Jose Arredondo’s original design ethos, the JOSE brings those classic tones into the modern era. An internally jumped input stage simplifies gain staging, while a bypassable effects loop allows seamless integration of modern pedals and processors. The unique dual Presence controls further tailor the amp’s character—shifting its voice between vintage and modern tones with precision.
Built to Friedman’s exacting standards, the JOSE is engineered to meet the demands of any stage or studio. It’s a modern high-gain workhorse that honors the legacy of a true amplifier pioneer.