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yoTrakkz « classic amp »
Published on 10/04/11 at 20:31I looked for an amp like this for a while, that has a good clean tone to build off of that still can get a nice subtle tube "drive" at higher volumes. This amp has the ability to provide that but, like most stock amps, requires a little tinkering to get the best results. I swapped out the stock speaker for a Jensen C12K (very nice, clean and powerful speaker), Then upgraded the power tubes to JJ's and RAISED the bias (it comes biased VERY cold from the factory), and then swapped out the 12AX7 preamp tubes for two JJ's 12AT7 - this lowers the gain in the preamp stage and has the greatest impact on providing a lot more headroom.
UTILIZATION
This amp definitely has the quality of the "fender clean" but it is darker and less spikey than the Hot Rod Deluxe. More useable in my opinion. It is designed to have the "Tweed" character in its stock form so it will breakup rather early (around 4 on the volume) if played stock.
SOUNDS
Sounds great, very warm and clear.
OVERALL OPINION
Overall, If you want vintage, 'boutique' tone for not a lot of change, this is where you get it. Plus side.. it's a Fender! They wrote the book on amp design back in the formative days of rock 'n roll! For me, I keep everything stock, and this amp is definitely at its best when cranked--the 'normal' channel emanates a warm, sparkly, spongy yet crunchy overdrive when maxed out, which is just the ticket for classic rock, punk, or hard blues. Playing at max (if possible) also helps wear in the speaker and tubes, so that when going back to playing at bedroom volumes, you can get even more warmth and responsiveness. The only complaints I have are that a resonance knob would be useful, as well as a half-power switch.
UTILIZATION
This amp definitely has the quality of the "fender clean" but it is darker and less spikey than the Hot Rod Deluxe. More useable in my opinion. It is designed to have the "Tweed" character in its stock form so it will breakup rather early (around 4 on the volume) if played stock.
SOUNDS
Sounds great, very warm and clear.
OVERALL OPINION
Overall, If you want vintage, 'boutique' tone for not a lot of change, this is where you get it. Plus side.. it's a Fender! They wrote the book on amp design back in the formative days of rock 'n roll! For me, I keep everything stock, and this amp is definitely at its best when cranked--the 'normal' channel emanates a warm, sparkly, spongy yet crunchy overdrive when maxed out, which is just the ticket for classic rock, punk, or hard blues. Playing at max (if possible) also helps wear in the speaker and tubes, so that when going back to playing at bedroom volumes, you can get even more warmth and responsiveness. The only complaints I have are that a resonance knob would be useful, as well as a half-power switch.