Sommatone Amplification
Jimmy Somma - Owner/Designer & Tech
Tommy Hayes - Guitar & Amp Tech

Austin, TX
(908) 947-8546 jimmy@sommatone.com

 

Ridgewood, NJ
(973) 851-6261 tommy@sommatone.com

 

 
Sommatone Amplification

Sommatone started in 1994. Initially, it was a part-time venture, more of a hobby for a few musicians who enjoyed experimenting on their own equipment. As our customer base grew, we realized that we were offering something different than other shops, so in 2001 we opened our doors full time.

Our philosophy is simple – focus on tone with an unrelenting passion for detail. From basic repairs to custom mods, we cater to the person who wants to get the most from their gear. And because we're musicians, we understand the difference between an amp or guitar that “works” and one that sounds and plays great.

Creating amazing tone is not a mystery. It is possible with the right combination of components and equipment. We believe that 80% of a player's tone comes from their hands, the remaining 20% is created by great gear which can inspire you to take your playing to the next level.

 

Jimmy Somma

As I've been a musician for more than 30 years, my musical tastes have gone through many phases. Growing up I listened to bands like Kiss and Led Zeppelin. Then in my teen years, I got into heavier stuff like Metallica and Slayer. In my 20s, I began listening to Eric Johnson, SRV, and Hendrix which led me to the great players that influenced them, people like Albert King, Buddy Guy, Freddie King, Robert Johnson, and many others. Now, although I can appreciate many musical styles, I play and listen primarily to blues, rock, soul, funk & R&B. I've played in many bands over the years, I currently play with The Larry Harris Band and Moving Blues.

My familiarity with such a wide range of musical styles enables me to help musicians, regardless of their musical interests, find the tone and sound they want.

 

Tommy Hayes

I started playing guitar at age 14. I started off, Iike any good child of the 90s, playin in the pop/punk scene enjoying the sounds and styles of Green Day and Unwritten Law. When I was 16 I saw a PBS special about Stevie Ray Vaughan & from that point I began to chase tone. In 2001 I met Jimmy Somma who was able to guide my decisions as a young blues player to get the best sound. In 2003 I started to work for Jimmy at his shop refining my chops as a tech. I have been part of the Sommatone family for 18 years and really dig carrying the NJ torch as Sommatone East. As a hired musician who plays across all genres, I understand what it takes to get a great sound from any stage and as a result, have been a fan of the Sommatone family for the better part of my career. My personal chops as a technician allow me to service all clients with expert-level skill while providing them with a product that is unmatched in the industry.

I'm currently playing with Dave Pettigrew. A touring CCM artist from northern NJ. I also front a fusion quartet and get hired to play in many different situations.

 

 

Austin, TX Location • (908) 947-8546 • jimmy@sommatone.com • Ridgewood, NJ Location • (973) 851-6162 • tommy@sommatone.com

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