The Edge of Breakup

Masters of the Edge of Breakup

At Bad Cat, we understand the pursuit of that elusive “edge of breakup” tone — the sweet spot where clean meets overdrive. It’s that rich, dynamic sound that responds to your touch: articulate and warm when played softly, with just enough grit when you dig in. It’s not fully clean, not fully distorted — just alive and expressive, breathing with every note you play.

Our amps are built to live in that space. Hand-wired and boutique by design, models like the Cub, Black Cat, and Jet Black are crafted specifically to deliver this kind of nuanced tone. If you’re searching for clarity, warmth, and a subtle bite all in one, our amps are made to get you there.

What Is the Edge of Breakup — and Why Does It Matter?

The “edge of breakup” is a tone favored by legends — from Eric Clapton to Gary Clark Jr. to The Edge. It’s the point just before full distortion, where soft playing stays clean and detailed, but harder attack adds grit and attitude. This range lets you shape your tone entirely through touch.

It’s why players like John Mayer and Warren Haynes rely on amps that are as dynamic and expressive as their playing. At Bad Cat, capturing that feel isn’t just a feature — it’s a foundation.

Bad Cat Amps Designed for the Edge

Cub V
Based on an original Mark Sampson design, the Cub V is a fan favorite — purpose-built for edge-of-breakup tone. With rich mids, sweet overtones, and extraordinary touch sensitivity, it transitions effortlessly from chimey cleans to soulful grit. Think John Mayer’s tone on “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” — expressive, articulate, and full of depth.

Black Cat
The Black Cat is a versatile workhorse. Clean and clear at lower volumes, it opens up into warm, harmonically rich breakup as you push it. Ideal for everything from the smoky textures of Gary Clark Jr.’s “Bright Lights” to the punchy swagger of Keith Richards, the Black Cat offers a responsive platform for players who need both subtlety and edge.

Jet Black
For those who push a little harder, the Jet Black brings more power and headroom without sacrificing touch or tone. It holds the edge of breakup beautifully, while offering enough gain to channel the grit of Clapton’s “Crossroads” or the drive of Jimmy Page on “Whole Lotta Love.” It’s the amp for players who need punch and clarity in equal measure.

Built by Guitarists, for Guitarists

We’re not just amp builders — we’re players, too. Every Bad Cat amplifier is hand-built in Southern California with meticulous care and the finest components. We build amps that inspire, that respond, that feel alive. Whether you’re in the studio, on stage, or practicing at home, you’ll hear and feel the difference.

If you’re chasing that perfect balance between clean and overdriven — that magic edge where your tone breathes — Bad Cat has your amp. The Cub V, Black Cat, and Jet Black are more than tools; they’re extensions of your playing. Discover the edge of breakup. Discover your sound.