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Controls for powering the amplifier on, off, and engaging standby mode.
Adjusts upper-mid/high frequencies (Presence) and low-end response (Deep).
Bass, Middle, and Treble controls for shaping tone on each channel.
Controls for overall volume (Master) and distortion level (Gain) per channel.
Includes Bright/Gain switches and the main guitar input jack.
Port for connecting the external footswitch.
Connects external effects pedals or rack units to the amplifier's loop.
Connects speaker cabinets and selects the correct impedance.
Details on main and HT fuses, voltage, and wattage requirements.
Details amplifier and tube warranty terms, including what is and isn't covered.
Instructions for obtaining service and returning products for repair or replacement.
Friedman's options for repairing or replacing defective units.
Exclusion of incidental/consequential damages and user legal rights.
Information on warranty registration and contact for customer support.
Controls for powering the amplifier on, off, and engaging standby mode.
Adjusts upper-mid/high frequencies (Presence) and low-end response (Deep).
Bass, Middle, and Treble controls for shaping tone on each channel.
Controls for overall volume (Master) and distortion level (Gain) per channel.
Includes Bright/Gain switches and the main guitar input jack.
Port for connecting the external footswitch.
Connects external effects pedals or rack units to the amplifier's loop.
Connects speaker cabinets and selects the correct impedance.
Details on main and HT fuses, voltage, and wattage requirements.
Details amplifier and tube warranty terms, including what is and isn't covered.
Instructions for obtaining service and returning products for repair or replacement.
Friedman's options for repairing or replacing defective units.
Exclusion of incidental/consequential damages and user legal rights.
Information on warranty registration and contact for customer support.
The Friedman Twin Sister is a high-quality, hand-wired, all-tube guitar amplifier designed by Dave Friedman, a renowned amp modder and designer with over 20 years of experience in the LA music scene. This amplifier is based on a modified JTM 45 circuit, delivering the signature British tone that Friedman is known for. It is engineered to provide a wide range of tones, from sparkling cleans to glorious vintage crunch and beyond, making it suitable for various music styles including blues, rock, and country. The Twin Sister is built with solid construction and beautiful finishing, reflecting the high standards expected from Friedman amplifiers.
The Twin Sister is a 40-watt, 5881-powered, dual-channel amplifier. Each of its two identical channels is capable of producing a full spectrum of tones, allowing guitarists to achieve everything from pristine clean sounds to rich, distorted crunch. The amplifier's design emphasizes versatility, enabling players to sculpt their sound by adjusting the gain structure, gain, and master controls. It is particularly adept at handling pedals, responding well to boosts, ODs, phasers, flangers, tremolos, and wahs. Additionally, it features an ultra-transparent series effects loop, which is ideal for integrating time-based effects pedals and rack units without compromising the amplifier's core tone.
To begin using the Twin Sister, it is recommended to start with the Bass control set to 6, the Mids at 7 or 8, and the Treble and Presence controls at 5. The Gain should be set around 6, and the Master control can then be adjusted to achieve the desired volume. Upon plugging in, users will immediately notice the amplifier's tight bottom end and harmonically detailed chords and single notes, which are hallmarks of the Friedman sound. The amp is designed to clean up remarkably well when the guitar's volume control is rolled back, even when the amplifier is set to higher gain settings.
The Twin Sister is primarily designed as a Classic Rock style amplifier, but its tonal flexibility allows it to surprise and impress with the variety of sounds it can produce. For those seeking a classic rock sound reminiscent of the 60s and 70s, the Twin Sister is an excellent choice. Friedman provides video tutorials and sample settings on their website to help users explore the full capabilities of the Twin Sister.
The front panel controls offer extensive tonal shaping. The POWER SWITCH turns the amplifier ON. It is crucial to wait for approximately one minute before taking the amp out of STANDBY to ensure maximum tube life. An indicator lamp provides a visual reminder that the amp is ON. The STANDBY SWITCH engages the amplifier's play mode, and similar to the power switch, waiting a minute before turning it ON helps prolong tube life.
The PRESENCE CONTROL is a global control that adjusts the upper mids and highs. It is recommended to start at 5 and adjust to taste. It is normal for this pot to produce a scratchy sound when adjusted. The DEEP CONTROL is also a global control, which adjusts the low-end response in the power section, allowing for fine-tuning of the amplifier's bass characteristics.
Each channel features independent tone controls: The BASS CONTROL adds or removes bass or bottom end. As the amp gets louder, users might find it beneficial to reduce this control slightly. A starting point of 5 is suggested. The MIDDLE CONTROL adjusts the midrange. Starting at 7-8 is recommended; lower settings will scoop the mids, while higher levels will help the guitar cut through the mix. The TREBLE CONTROL adds or removes treble. A starting point of 5 is suggested for this control. The MASTER CONTROL acts as the individual channel's master volume. Turning it up increases the overall loudness of the channel. The GAIN CONTROL adds gain and distortion to the channel. This control allows users to dial in anything from subtle crunch to heavy distortion.
Additionally, each channel is equipped with B1-B2 & S1-S2 switches, which include a Bright Switch and a 3-position Gain Switch, offering further tonal variations and gain staging options. The IN jack is the guitar input, where the guitar or the output of a pedalboard is connected. The SW jack is for plugging in the footswitch, allowing for remote control of channel switching and other functions.
The rear panel provides connectivity for effects and speakers. The SEND JACK is where the input of external effects pedals or units is connected using a high-quality shielded guitar cable. The RETURN JACK is for connecting the output of external effects using a high-quality shielded guitar cable. There are two SPEAKER OUT JACKS for connecting speaker cabinets, and it is essential to use speaker cables only for these connections. The IMPEDANCE SELECTOR SWITCH allows users to select the correct impedance (4, 8, or 16 ohms) to match their speaker cabinet, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the Friedman Twin Sister, several maintenance guidelines are provided. It is crucial to keep the instruction manual for future reference and for the duration of owning the amplifier. Users should carefully read and understand all instructions, especially those related to safety, before operating the amp. All warning symbols and signs in the manual and on the amplifier itself must be heeded.
To prevent fire or shock hazards, the amplifier should not be exposed to water or moisture and should not be operated near any water source. The lightning flash with an arrow triangular symbol indicates the presence of non-insulated "dangerous voltage" within the enclosure, which can cause electric shock. The exclamation point triangular symbol alerts users to important operating and maintenance instructions in the manual.
The amplifier should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing equipment. It should only be operated from the type of power source indicated on the rating label. If the power supply type is uncertain, consult a product dealer or local power company.
The product may be equipped with a polarized alternation-current line plug, which is a safety feature. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, it should be reversed. If it still doesn't fit, an electrician should be contacted to replace the obsolete outlet, and the safety purpose of the polarized plug should not be defeated.
Power-supply cords should be routed to prevent them from being walked on or pinched, paying particular attention to the cord at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and where it exits the amplifier. The amplifier should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer, by wiping with a cloth slightly damp with water, avoiding water inside the amplifier. During non-use periods, the power cord should be unplugged from the outlet, especially before a lightning storm or when left unattended for long periods. Care should be taken to prevent objects from falling and liquids from spilling into the enclosure through openings.
The amplifier should be serviced by qualified service personnel if the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, objects have fallen or liquid has spilled into the amplifier, it has been exposed to rain, it does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance, or if it has been dropped or the enclosure damaged. Tube replacement or biasing also requires servicing. Users should not attempt any service beyond what is described in the operating instructions; all other servicing should be referred to qualified personnel.
Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation and must not be blocked or covered to ensure reliable operation and prevent overheating. Only attachments recommended by the manufacturer should be used. The product should not be placed on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table, as it may fall and cause injury or damage. Only carts, stands, tripods, brackets, or tables recommended by the manufacturer or sold with the product should be used.
For added protection against lightning and power line surges, the product should be unplugged from the wall outlet during lightning storms or when left unattended for long periods. When replacement parts are required, service technicians must use parts specified by the manufacturer or parts with the same characteristics as the original to avoid fire, electric shock, or other hazards. After any service or repairs, the service technician should perform safety checks to ensure the product is in proper operating condition.
Fuses are critical safety components. The MAIN FUSE is located in a compartment below the AC receptacle. For 120V operation, it should be replaced with a 3 Amp slo-blow fuse, and for 230V, a 1.5 Amp slo-blow fuse. Frequent blowing of this fuse, even with new tubes, indicates a serious problem that requires professional diagnosis. The HT FUSE should be replaced with a 1 Amp fuse for 120V or a 500mA fuse for 230V. If this fuse blows, it likely indicates a bad power tube.
Friedman offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser that the amplifier will be free from defects in material and workmanship. A dated sales receipt is required to establish coverage. This warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, neglect, abuse, normal wear, disaster, misuse, overpowering, negligence, inadequate packing or shipping procedures, or unauthorized repairs or modifications. Any modification to the amplifier will void the warranty.
For tubes, Friedman warrants them for 90 days from the original purchase date, with a dated sales receipt required. If tubes fail within this period, the sole remedy is replacement.
In case of a defect, customers should email friedmanamps@gmail.com. Often, problems can be diagnosed over the phone. If a product needs to be sent for service, it must be shipped freight pre-paid and insured to an Authorized Friedman Service Center or directly to Friedman, along with proof of purchase. A Return Authorization Number must be obtained from Customer Service prior to shipping and should appear in large print below the shipping address. Products should be shipped in their original packaging or equivalent, with the risk of loss or damage in transit borne by the purchaser. A brief description of the defect, along with the return address and telephone number, should always be included. When inquiring about a returned product, the Return Authorization Number should be referenced.
All replaced parts become the property of Friedman. Products repaired or replaced under warranty will be returned via ground shipping within the United States or Canada, freight prepaid. Friedman is not responsible for costs associated with expedited shipping. Warranty repairs outside the US and Canada must be directed to the dealer or distributor from whom the product was purchased.
Friedman is not liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use of any Friedman product. Users are advised to complete and send in the warranty registration card to Friedman Amplification within ten days of purchase to ensure they can be contacted directly in the event of a safety notification.
General| Type | Tube |
|---|---|
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 40W |
| Preamp Tubes | 3 x 12AX7 |
| Power Tubes | 2 x EL84 |
| Bright Switch | Yes |
| Effects Loop | Yes |
| EQ | Bass, Middle, Treble |
| Inputs | 2x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 2 x 1/4" |
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