The Pics-Only Graphics (1972)
The Pics-Only amp introduced Orange’s now-iconic graphic panel and crunchier sound, marking the true birth of the classic Orange tone.
Adrian Emsley, Orange’s Technical Director, on the evolution of a sound: “The circuit of the Pics Only is markedly different from that of the first Orange amplifiers. Those early models, like the OR200, had the volume control positioned in front of the EQ circuitry, whereas the Pics Only had the Baxandall EQ first, then the Gain, and finally the phase inverter.
“The DC-coupled ‘concertina’ phase inverter used in the first Orange amps was replaced by a capacitor-coupled version in the Pics Only. This type of phase inverter drives the output valves harder, producing a more overdriven, crunchy sound. In this way, the Pics Only marked the beginning of the signature Orange tone that people associate with our amps today.”
Behind the Nickname
Mick Dines remembers: “The ‘Graphic Valve Amplifier’ was designed in-house by John James in 1971 and manufactured between 1972 and 1975. It quickly earned the nickname Pics Only, a nod to the graphic-only symbols on the front panel, which was a unique feature at the time.
“Early versions were built with Woden or Drake drop-through transformers, with later units using Parmeko. A four-channel PA version was also introduced. Some Pics-Only models — especially the Slave 120 Graphics — were made and sold up until 1975 as we used up remaining stock and components. There was often this sort of overlap when we introduced a new range.”
From Plexi to Pics & Text
“Early graphic Pics Only amps became known as ‘Plexis’ due to their reverse-printed Perspex front panels mounted on orange steel backplates. These were fixed to the chassis with four front-panel bolts and plastic seating washers. Later versions dropped the plastic in favour of silk-screened metal plates with no visible bolts.
“In hindsight, the graphic icons on the Plexi were probably a bit too large and visually dominant. So in 1973, we redesigned the front panel and made a few electronic tweaks. The result was the Graphic 120 Pics & Text, which was a new take on the Orange aesthetic and tone.”
