“The Mega channel has played a major role in heavy guitar tones since the early ’90s”: How the Diezel VH4 conquered metal, won fans in Metallica, Tool and Muse – and impressed John Fogerty too

A Deizel VH4 head photographed against a white background.

Amp Week 2026: For fans of high-gain amps, 1992 was a breakthrough year unlike any other (previously or since). This period saw the introduction of the Peavey 5150, Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier, Bogner Ecstasy, VHT Pitbull Ultra Lead and other contenders, along with the Engl Savage 120 arriving in early 1993.

All of these were game-changing models that still play a major role in the sound of rock and metal guitar.