FM3/FM9/AXE-FX III Patch based on Eddie Van Halen first version Peavey 5150 "Block Letter" signature amplifier (PVH 6160)

FM3/FM9/AXE-FX III Patch based on Eddie Van Halen first version "Block Letter" Peavey 5150 signature amplifier (PVH 6160)

This patch is built around the “5150” block amp in the FM3 — a digitally inspired creation derived from the original Peavey 5150 head, the one personally designed with Eddie Van Halen in 1992. This version represents the first production run of the amp, with shared EQ and a raw, darker gain structure compared to its later siblings like the 5150 II or 6505+.

When the Peavey 5150 was first released in 1992, the amplifier featured a prominent “EVH” logo in block-style letters on the front panel. This design choice led to these early models being nicknamed “block letter” 5150s. However, due to a trademark dispute with Electro-Voice (EV), which had a similar logo, Peavey and Eddie Van Halen opted to replace the block-style “EVH” logo with Eddie's signature on subsequent models. These later versions are often referred to as “signature” 5150s. The distinction between “block letter” and “signature” 5150s is primarily cosmetic. However, some enthusiasts believe that the early “block letter” models, which came equipped with Sylvania tubes, offer a superior tone compared to later versions that used different tube brands. It's worth noting that, aside from the logo and the stock tubes, the circuitry of these amplifiers remained largely unchanged.

Used also by notable other artists such as Trivium, Killswitch Engage, Machine Head and Bullet for My Valentine.

If compared to earlier Eddie Van Halen's production, the sound here is more compressed and aggressive — closer to what you'd hear in Balance, Van Halen III, and modern metal. You can also expect more gain, tighter low end, modern high-gain voicing. Originally engineered for saturation and sustain, this machine is ideal for metal and hard rock.

At Gymtar we did our best to give you a pro patch that satisfies your quest for an organic and chewy tone, with excellent midrange response and harmonic bloom. Have a try and buy today!

SCENE 1 RHYTHM
SCENE 2 LEAD

Effects : phaser, flanger, pitch detune, delay