October 2025 Issue
Cover StoryOnline Reading Access

The Austen Hooks Projector Pedal

By Riverhorse · Vol. 26, No. 12 · October 2025

Builder Austen Hooks transforms vintage military film projectors and Geiger-counter dosimeter housings into singular guitar amplifiers and a solid-state preamp pedal that has captivated players from Blake Mills and Keith Richards to Derek Trucks and Trey Anastasio. ToneQuest goes deep with Hooks on his journey from Texas A&M engineering student to underground amp visionary — and puts his Projector Preamp Pedal through its paces.

There Is Always More to Discover.

Continue reading this article and get Online Reading Access to The ToneQuest Report®—in-depth conversations, critical reviews and firsthand experience from respected players, builders and craftsmen.

Already a subscriber?

When the Story Becomes Your Sound.™

Every issue of The ToneQuest Report® brings you firsthand experience, independent insight, and new possibilities for your own pursuit of tone.

The Stories Continue

Continue your pursuit of tone with The ToneQuest Report®. Explore new issues and a growing collection of online articles through the subscription options that include Online Reading Access.

Explore Subscription Options
The Austen Hooks Projector Pedal — The ToneQuest Report®