What tubes does the Matchless Lightning use?

The Matchless Lightning uses 3× 12AX7 preamp tubes and 2× EL84 power tubes.

Who famously used the Matchless Lightning?

Peter Stroud, Peter Frampton, and Pat Kelley are among the notable players associated with the Matchless Lightning.

Matchless Lightning preset

Verified · 92/100 confidence. Complete schematic. All component values readable. Parameters derived directly from the circuit.

The Lightning is a 15-watt single-channel Matchless with two EL84s in cathode-biased class A and no negative feedback. Two inputs feed a paralleled 12AX7 stage, then a bright-capped Volume, a second 12AX7 gain stage and a cathode follower driving a Vox-style Treble and Bass cut stack. A 12AX7 long-tail phase inverter with a Master control drives the EL84s, with a 5AR4 valve rectifier, 4/8-ohm outputs and a line out, for chime at club volumes.

Made in: USA
Wattage: 15W
Channels: 1
Preamp tubes: 3× 12AX7
Power tubes: 2× EL84

Known for: Peter Stroud, Peter Frampton, Pat Kelley.

Tags: american, boutique, el84, class-a, chime, low-wattage.

Schematic-derived preset files for 16 Fractal and Line 6 modelers: Axe-Fx II/XL/XL+, Axe-Fx III, FM3, FM9, and the full Helix family (Floor, LT, Rack, HX Stomp, HX Stomp XL, Native).

Gridleak extracts amp parameters from original circuit schematics using AI vision — component values, gain staging, tone stack topology, tube types — then generates native preset files for every supported modeler. Every extraction is scored 0–100 and the score is published.