Is the Yamaha THR-II ready to conquer the Third Amp Market?

When the THR MK-I was released back in 2011, Yamaha introduced the desktop amp as an entirely new category of guitar amplifier. Neither a performance amp nor strictly a practice amp, the THR represented a "third amp" category. Offering guitarists features they need when they aren't on stage or rehearsing, in addition to exceptional sound and responsiveness at any volume.
When the original arrived at our London HQ it was met with some scepticism, this view was soon overturned. For all its functionality, what struck all of us was just how great it sounded. If you didn't know the glow of the amber lights were purely for the aesthetic, you'd have assumed THR contained valves. So enchanted was the feeling that it led Tom Quayle to surmise.
"Build quality is top notch, you have the choice of two models, both of which feature the most important elements of the design. The THR series seems like a no-brainer to me, given that it is a complete modelling, recording and monitoring system in one, with great sound quality. You can even run the units from A.A. batteries, allowing for the ultimate busking set-up with just enough volume to please the crowds! If you feel that this is a product that could solve some of your musical needs, then you'd be crazy not to check it out."
You can check out that review here.Â

Eight years have passed since then, and today Yamaha has released the MkII, and they have got a clear vision for this new incarnation. As inventors of the premium third amp segment, they understand their market and what customers want from the THR series.  The THR-II series delivers three times as many realistically modelled tube-amp sounds like the original THR10. Along with the addition of wireless features, more power, and a refreshed, stylish design, the THR will complement any home.

THR-II amplifiers employ Virtual Circuitry Modeling (VCM) technology to deliver the tone, feel, and expressive nuances characteristic of boutique tube amplifiers. The new amps provide 15 different amp tones, three modelled microphone sounds for acoustic-electric guitars, three bass amp models, and three-flat voicings for use with other instruments. Stompbox-style modulation effects and studio-quality reverbs and delays allow players to enhance their tone further. Stereo reverbs, and audio playback utilizes Extended Stereo Technology (EST), resulting in a more immersive listening experience than standard stereo. A specially-designed speaker enclosure was optimized by the award-winning Yamaha Audio Visual Division to handle both amplified guitar tones and audio playback with hi-fi sound quality.
All three THR-II desktop amplifiers provide Bluetooth support for audio playback and more. The THR30II Wireless and THR10II Wireless also feature a built-in rechargeable battery and an integrated wireless receiver, which when combined with an optional Line 6® Relay® G10T transmitter offer players a fully cable-free experience. There's also a USB port for direct recording and playback, and THR amps come bundled with Steinberg software for desktop and mobile recording. The free Yamaha THR Remote editor/librarian app is compatible with Mac®, P.C., and mobile devices.
The Yamaha THR-II desktop amplifiers provide all players with a perfect combination of professional-quality tones, convenient wireless operation, and stylish good looks. Whether they are practising, recording, or playing along with their favourite music, THR has a model for you.
Pricing and Availability
Yamaha THR-II amplifiers will be available soon from your favourite Yamaha dealer.
THR10II SRP £357
THR10IIW SRP £469
THR30IIW SRP £535
For more information check out their Youtube video here
Dan Le GresleyÂ