When B. Andrew Barta formed Tech 21 and introduced his unique invention to the world -- the SansAmp. It was, in fact, the culmination of something he simply wanted for his own personal use. As a performing musician with an electronics background, and whose “day job” was repairing, modifying and customizing amplifiers, Andrew had the expertise -- and determination -- to make his vision a reality. After ten years of exhaustive research and development with world-class guitar amplifiers, the SansAmp came into being.

The irony is that Andrew never intended on becoming a manufacturer.
He initially tried to sell his technology to some of the major manufacturers. They couldn’t foresee the potential and how much impact the SansAmp would have. Unable to abanon his idea, Andrew set out on his own. Although this kind of product had never before existed, it took a surprisingly short amount of time to gain acceptance from players. All they had to do was hear it. Players like Mick Jones of Foreigner, who, early on, helped Andrew get the word out. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Tech 21 pioneered the direct recording movement and created an entirely new category of signal processing.

This revolutionary tube amplifier emulator was the first device to enable musicians to dial in monster tones and patch them directly to a studio mixer or stage PA. Its discrete 100% analog circuitry uses a hyper-realistic tone structure that includes mic and speaker simulation with pre and power amp distortion characteristics. Finally, it was possible to get stunning, consistent tones without brutalizing amps, heaving speaker cabs or futzing with microphones to find that elusive ‘sweet spot.’ Instead, the SansAmp delivered all of its mammoth sounds from a pocket-sized pedal.

Two decades later, Tech 21 offers an impressive line of products to cover every application. Each product is made with the best possible materials and exclusive components, such as our smooth custom actuators. And each product is still handbuilt in the USA.

Tech 21’s range of products are developed with a critical ear for tonal perfection and an open ear to our customers’ needs. We welcome you to experience the exceptional tone of Tech 21.