The absolute best noise gate I have ever used.
Very precise noise gate. Worth the cost, especially for live performances.
Artist Spotlight: Jason Frankhouser & Fortin Amplification
While many fans know Jason Frankhouser as the front-of-house engineer for legendary acts like Bob Dylan, the metal community recognizes him by a different name: KillerToneTexas. As a producer, YouTube personality, and long-standing "friend of the brand," Frankhouser has become one of the most vital collaborators in the Fortin Amplification ecosystem.
From Forum Veteran to Signature Artist
Frankhouser’s journey with Fortin began long before signature models. Starting in the early 2000s, he built a reputation on gear forums for his ability to dial in "sickening" high-gain tones that remained tight and articulate. This "KillerTone" philosophy - defined by fast transient attack and a precise low end - caught the attention of Mike Fortin, leading to a decade-plus partnership built on genuine friendship and technical respect.
The "Evil Pumpkin": A High-Gain Masterpiece
The pinnacle of their collaboration is the Fortin Evil
Pumpkin, a signature 100-watt tube amplifier designed to Frankhouser’s exacting specifications.
- The Vision: Frankhouser wanted an amp that could deliver his signature "Texas" metal sound: a crushing, tight bottom end that never loses focus, even during the most complex riffs.
- Three-Channel Design: Two highly tweakable gain channels and a shimmering, American-style clean channel.
- Modern Connectivity: Full MIDI control, isolated 9vDC outputs to power pedals, and a buffered tuner out that integrates seamlessly with the Fortin Zuul noise gate.
- Studio Power: A unique standby mode allows players to kill the power tubes while running the FX send into a DAW, making it a high-end tool for modern home recording.
The "Grind" and Beyond
Before the signature amp, Frankhouser was instrumental in demonstrating the Fortin Grind and 33 pedals. His "Grind 101" series for the Fortin YouTube channel became the definitive guide for players looking to achieve the "percussive" pick attack essential for modern extreme metal.
Beyond gear design, Frankhouser has curated the Killertone Studio Kemper Pack, which features the only official digital captures of Fortin Amplification authorized by the brand.