ENGL Savage 120: every version
Every version, how to tell them apart, how to date one, and what to check before you buy. 2 versions, 1993–present.
The Savage 120 is ENGL's 120-watt high-gain flagship, first released in 1993 as the E610 and replaced in 2019 by the Mark II, the E610II. Both run 120 watts from just two 6550 output valves. The model code on the back and the Mark II's extra switches tell them apart.
The versions, in order
Savage 120 (E610) (1993–2019)
Mark I
Two channels with two modes each, 120 watts from two 6550s (KT88s were an option).
How to spot one
- Model code E610.
- Two channels, each split into two modes, with separate EQ for the clean/crunch and lead sides.
- 120 watts from only two 6550 output valves; KT88s were offered as an option.
- MIDI control and effects loops on the rear panel.
Specs
| Power tubes | 2 × 6550 |
|---|---|
| Rectifier | Solid-state (silicon diodes) |
| Phase inverter | Long-tail pair |
| Rated power | 120 W |
Savage 120 Mark II (E610II) (2019 on)
Mark II
The update: Mid Lean/Bold and Gain Lo/Hi switches, MIDI as standard and a built-in noise gate.
What changed from the Savage 120 (E610)
- Mid Lean/Bold and Gain Lo/Hi switches were added, MIDI became standard, and a noise gate was built in.
How to spot one
- Model code E610II.
- Mid Lean/Bold and Gain Lo/Hi tone switches.
- MIDI included as standard, plus a built-in noise gate.
- Six ECC83 preamp valves and two 6550 output valves.
Specs
| Power tubes | 2 × 6550 |
|---|---|
| Rectifier | Solid-state (silicon diodes) |
| Phase inverter | Long-tail pair |
| Rated power | 120 W |
| Preamp tubes | 6 × ECC83 |
Savage 120 buying checklist
Date it
- E610 means a Mark I (1993–2019); E610II means a Mark II (2019 on).
- ENGL serial numbers and the rear-panel label are the quickest way to confirm the model code.
Check it’s original
- 6550 or KT88 output valves can both be original on an E610.
- Check that MIDI and footswitch functions work, as the switching is central to these amps.
What usually needs work
- Two 6550s supply all 120 watts at high plate voltage, so the output valves are a wear item; set the bias after changing them.
- Relay and switching faults are the most common problems on heavily used amps.
Questions buyers ask
How does a Savage make 120 watts from two valves?
It runs two 6550s at a high plate voltage, where most 100-watt heads use four valves.
Mark I or Mark II?
The Mark II (E610II, 2019) adds Mid Lean/Bold and Gain Lo/Hi switches, standard MIDI and a noise gate.
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