Hotone unveils Ampero Mini multi-effects and amp modeler pedal

June 20, 2023 · 2 sources

Hotone introduced the Ampero Mini, a palm-sized multi-effects pedal and amp modeler, on June 20, 2023. Guitar World reported it as Hotone's smallest fully fledged amp modeler pedal and its cheapest, at $255¹. Gearnews described it as the smallest and cheapest model in the Ampero series².

The pedal weighs just over half a kilo (about 1.1 lbs) and is 134mm long, according to Guitar World¹. It has two footswitches and a 4-inch touchscreen that handles navigation of amps and effects, arrangement into 198 preset slots and parameter tweaking¹². Gearnews reported that the footswitches can switch presets or activate the looper². It comes in six colors: Vanilla, Orange, Marigold, Purple Taro, Matcha and Mustard¹.

Inside, Guitar World reported a dual-DSP platform led by an NXP RT Series A main processor, along with Hotone's CDCM HD + F.I.R.E modeling technology¹. Gearnews reported two DSP chips and 24-bit operation, as on the previous full-sized Ampero². The model counts given by the two outlets agree:

Guitar World reported a custom IR loader that supports third-party IRs, and Gearnews reported that microphone type and position can be chosen freely¹². The looper offers up to 100 seconds of recording time, which Gearnews specified as 100 seconds mono or 50 seconds stereo¹². Guitar World also listed acoustic simulation algorithms¹.

Guitar World reported a USB-C output that lets the pedal double as an audio interface, and Windows/Mac editing software for effects and IR management¹. Gearnews reported that the USB-C port handles firmware and editor presets, and listed rear connections: input, an output that handles stereo via Y-cable, an Exp/Ctrl connection for an external foot controller or footswitch, 3.5mm headphone and AUX in jacks, and a master volume control².

Guitar World noted the pedal lacks an FX loop and an extra footswitch¹. Gearnews reported that only the Vanilla color could be pre-ordered at the time, with other colors to follow at the same price².