As someone who owns both the Positive Grid Spark 40 and the Spark 2, I can confidently say the Spark 2 is a significant upgrade in many areas, and it has quickly become my go-to practice amp. For context, I’m a beginner-to-intermediate guitar player, and I was looking for an amp that would simplify my setup while inspiring me to play more. The Spark 2 delivers on all fronts, addressing many of the limitations of the original Spark 40 while introducing new features that make it an absolute joy to use.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
The Spark 2 immediately stands out with its sleek design. I opted for the white version with gold trim accents and a deep red underside on the handle—it’s a beautiful piece of equipment that my wife doesn’t mind having displayed in our living room or on my desk. Compared to the Spark 40, the build quality is noticeably improved. The tolex feels sturdier and has a shinier, higher-quality finish, whereas the Spark 40’s tolex had a somewhat powdery texture.
Another subtle but welcome improvement is the new power button and the top-panel layout. The functions are more intuitive and easier to access compared to the Spark 40, where the interface sometimes felt cluttered.
Setup and Ease of Use
Setting up the Spark 2 was straightforward, even more so than my experience with the Spark 40. Firmware updates and app connectivity worked seamlessly, and Positive Grid seems to have addressed some of the connectivity hiccups that occasionally plagued the Spark 40. The Spark 2’s new interface makes navigating through presets, tweaking tones, and configuring the looper much smoother.
Sound Quality: Spark 2 vs. Spark 40
The sound quality is where the Spark 2 truly shines. While I’ve enjoyed the Spark 40 for years, its bass-heavy output often required tweaking to avoid muddiness, especially at higher volumes. The Spark 2 fixes this issue with upgraded DSP (digital signal processing) and redesigned speakers that deliver a more balanced sound. The clarity is immediately noticeable—whether you’re playing clean tones or heavy distortion, the Spark 2 sounds more natural and less “emulated.”
At low to medium volumes, the Spark 2 maintains its tonal fidelity much better than the Spark 40. The older model could sometimes sound thin at lower volumes or overly boomy on the floor, but the Spark 2 offers a well-rounded performance regardless of placement.
Features and Performance
Both amps are packed with features, but the Spark 2 introduces several new ones that set it apart:
- Built-in Looper: The looper is one of the most requested features that was missing from the Spark 40. It’s easy to use and allows you to create layered loops, which is a great tool for practice and creativity.
- AI Tone Creation: The Spark 2’s AI tone generator is surprisingly effective. You describe the tone you’re looking for, and it gets you 85% of the way there. With a little tweaking, you can achieve exactly what you want.
- Bluetooth Streaming: Both models support Bluetooth, but the Spark 2’s updated speakers make it a better Bluetooth speaker for general music playback. It’s crisp and loud enough to fill a room without the overpowering bass that the Spark 40 sometimes struggled with.
- Battery Option: The Spark 2’s optional battery pack is a game-changer for portability. While the Spark 40 was limited to being plugged in, the Spark 2 can be taken anywhere, making it ideal for tailgating, camping, or jamming in the backyard.
App Integration and Tone Management
The Spark app has always been a strength for Positive Grid, and it works beautifully with both the Spark 2 and Spark 40. However, the Spark 2’s improved DSP and updated tone presets make a noticeable difference when experimenting with new tones or downloading community presets. Features like Auto Chords and Smart Jam remain great learning tools, but the Spark 2’s better sound quality makes them even more enjoyable.
Limitations and Considerations
While the Spark 2 is a big step forward, it’s not without its quirks. Heavy distortion tones can occasionally sound a bit messy in the emulation, though this seems more like a firmware tweak than a hardware limitation. Additionally, the Spark 40’s cabinet-like design and slightly larger size give it a bit more low-end presence at very high volumes, which some players might prefer for certain genres.
One point of frustration with both models is the reliance on app connectivity for some advanced features. While the app is intuitive, it’s not always ideal to have your phone or tablet as an essential part of the experience.
Positive Grid Spark 2 50W Smart Guitar Practice Amp & Bluetooth Speaker with Built-in Looper, AI Features & Smart App...
Final Verdict
The Spark 2 feels like a natural evolution of the Spark 40, addressing its biggest shortcomings and adding new features that make it even more versatile and enjoyable. Here’s how I’d sum up the differences:
- Sound Quality: Spark 2 wins with clearer, more balanced tones and less muddy bass.
- Portability: Spark 2’s battery option makes it much more versatile.
- Features: The Spark 2 adds a built-in looper and AI tone creation, both of which are game-changers.
- Build Quality: Spark 2 feels more premium and thoughtfully designed.
For most players, especially those looking for a practice amp, the Spark 2 is the better choice. However, if you already own the Spark 40 and are happy with it, the upgrade isn’t absolutely essential unless features like the looper and battery are must-haves for you.
Personally, the Spark 2 has rekindled my love for playing guitar. It’s more than just an amp—it’s an inspiring tool that makes practice feel effortless and fun. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, the Spark 2 is a worthy investment.
Positive Grid Spark 2 50W Smart Guitar Practice Amp & Bluetooth Speaker with Built-in Looper, AI Features & Smart App for Electric, Acoustic, & Bass Guitar
Features
| Item Weight | 12.1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 9.72 x 15.86 x 17.28 inches |
| Country of Origin | China |
| ASIN | B0DDW4DK6F |
| Item model number | S5011G-EUSSS |
| Date First Available | August 21, 2024 |
| Color Name | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Guitar, Bass |
| Connector Type | 3.5mm Jack |
| Output Wattage | 50 Watts |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
- 50-Watts of rich, detailed sound powered by Sonic IQ Computational Audio and premium angled FRFR speakers.
- Built-in Creative Groove Looper with hundreds of drum patterns.
- Exclusive HD amp models powered by an upgraded DSP featuring new tube emulation and more.
- Describe your desired tone to Spark AI and it will automatically present tones to match.
- Play up to 12 hours with optional battery power. (Battery sold separately)
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