Damage: 7D (stun) /5D(stun) /3D (stun) (see below)
Cost: 500 credits.
The original JJ-9 amplifier was an acoustic device of moderate
power, with an irritating whine at higher amplitudes that rendered
it a complete failure on the open market. However, when a backyard
engineer attempted to reduce the whine of the amplifiers, he
discovered that it was relatively easy to boost the power of the
whine to levels that could literally shatter eardrums. Once he
replaced all the windows of his house, and had his hearing
restored, that individual began selling modified JJ-9s, which he
termed "Sonic Mines". The modifications were very easy to make,
and the resultant weapon proved very effective against unprotected
personnel. Since then, just about every mechanic that deals with
this sort of thing has learned how to modify JJ-9s, and
SuperHarmonics is doing a booming (no pun intended) sub-legal
business in the devices.
When a Sonic Mine is engaged, the device causes the listed
damage to unprotected individuals. It also causes several other
results. Anyone within medium range of the device must make an
easy Stamina roll to avoid spending one action holding his hands
over his ears to try to shut out the noise. This difficulty goes
up one category per round spent in that area. The difficulty and
rate of increase are doubled for close range. While in the range
of one of these devices, all actions are at -2D. In addition,
prolonged exposure to the device can lead to permanent hearing
loss, and brain damage. Deaf individuals, as long as they still
posses eardrums, are subject to this damage, but halve it.
Individuals wearing protective gear are immune to this damage.