Ballarino Amplification Benzo / JohnH M2 2026

The Ballarino Amplification version of the legendary JohnH M2 attenuator. The BENZO / JohnH M2 is a fully passive, adjustable, reactive power attenuator for tube amps with up to 4 octal output tubes (e.g. 4xEL34, 4x6L6, 4xKT66,..) with a rated output power of 100W.

Originally developed by JohnH and documented in an extensive thread on . Hundreds of units built and tested by folks at home, this is now a production version of this highly advanced and effective amp attenuator. 

Both 8 and 16 Ohm versions have output jacks for connecting speakers with either 8 or 16 Ohms and switchable stages with an attenuation of -7dB down to -31.5dB, which reduce the volume of a cranked 100W amp down to living room levels. An amp-powered fan guarantees cooling the whole unit when attenuating powerful amps. No power supply needed.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 200x130x78mm (7.9x5.1x3.1in)
• Weight: 1.5kg (3.3lbs)
• Input impedance: 8 or 16 Ohm, depending on model
• Reactive load: yes, simulates speaker impedance curve
• Output jacks: 1x16 or 1x8 or 2x16 Ohm
• Base attenuation: -7dB
• Switchable attenuation stages: -14dB, -7dB, -3.5dB (combined with base attenuation for a maximum of -31.5dB)
• Fan: 60x25mm
• High quality Neutrik jacks
• Heavy-duty aluminum enclosure, acting as a heatsink
• Rated power: 120W continuous, 200W for t<15min