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Average Price: $700
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Description
Unleash the vintage tones and classic vibes of the late '60s with the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp. Revered among musicians for its rich sound and timeless design, this amplifier head embodies the quintessential Fender sound that shaped rock history. It delivers a powerful, clean output that suits genres ranging from blues to surf rock, offering versatile tonal options for any guitarist. The Bandmaster Reverb Amp is cherished for its lush reverb and deep tremolo, delivering a distinctive sound that has remained popular for decades.
This amplifier head was crafted during a pivotal era in music, where its durable construction and reliable performance made it a staple on stages and in studios alike. The AB763 circuit, which defined Fender's sound in the '60s, is a key feature of this model, providing that unmistakable, rich tonal clarity. Whether you're seeking to recreate vintage sounds or explore new sonic territories, this amp offers both the foundation and flexibility needed to inspire creativity.
Key Features:
- 40-watt all-tube amplifier head
- Renowned AB763 circuit for classic Fender tone
- Built-in spring reverb and tremolo for enhanced sound dynamics
- Two channels: Normal and Vibrato
- Four 6L6 power tubes and four 12AX7 preamp tubes
- Classic Fender silverface era aesthetics
- Ideal for a range of musical styles, from rock to jazz
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Bandmaster "Drip Edge" 50-Watt 2-Channel Guitar Amp Head |
| Finish | Silverface |
| Year | 1968 - 1969 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Guitar Heads |
| Color Family | Black |
| Direct Output | No Direct Output |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Model Family | Fender Bandmaster |
| Model Sub-Family | Fender Bandmaster Amp |
| Number of Channels | 2 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 4 Inputs |
| Output Power (Watts) | 50 |
| Power Tube Type | 6L6 |
| Reverb | None |
| Series | Fender Vintage Silverface Amps |
FAQs
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What are the main tonal characteristics of the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp?
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The 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp is known for its clean, bright tones with a strong midrange presence, typical of the Fender Silverface era. It delivers a classic tube-driven sound that is ideal for genres like rock, blues, and country.
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Is the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp suitable for live performances?
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With its 50-watt tube power, the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp is suitable for small to medium-sized venues. Its robust output and clear sound make it a reliable choice for gigging musicians.
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Does the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp have built-in reverb?
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No, the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp does not include built-in reverb. It focuses on delivering pure, unadulterated tube tones without additional effects.
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How many channels does the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp have?
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The amp features two channels, allowing for versatile sound shaping and the ability to switch between different tonal settings during performances.
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What type of power tubes does the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp use?
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The 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp uses 6L6 power tubes, which contribute to its warm, clean tone and dynamic response.
Videos
Loud Art Gear Supply
1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb-Amp TFL5005D // "Telecaster"
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional tone quality, from blues to rock
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Versatile, performs well at both low and high volumes
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Takes pedals well, offering great tone options
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Crisp response, dynamic with pick pressure
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Unique mod potential, transforming sound distinctively
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Durable, with potential to last generations
CONS
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Requires maintenance and updates for vintage models
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May need speaker configuration changes for optimal performance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp.
User experience
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Owners highlight the "drip edge" aesthetic as a standout feature, making these amps visually appealing and distinctive in vintage collections.
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A first-time owner recounted needing an additional speaker cabinet, indicating that newcomers should anticipate this requirement for full functionality.
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Utah speakers in the Bandmaster are praised for their surprising quality and vintage mojo, competing well against stock Oxfords and JBLs in clarity and tonal character.
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Value and pricing
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The 1968 Bandmaster Reverb has seen significant appreciation, with current prices around $1800, reflecting its rising status as a desirable vintage amp.
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Use cases and applications
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The amp's clean tone is particularly noted for its power, often requiring low volume settings at home, implying it's best suited for gigging environments.
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Comparisons
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Owners of both reverb and non-reverb versions express satisfaction, with the reverb model receiving special praise for its tonal qualities.
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Compared to the Bassman, the Bandmaster offers a smoother transition from clean to distortion, with a notable brassy overtone that some find needs EQ adjustment.
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Setup and maintenance
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Fiberglass insulation is often stock in closed-back Fender cabinets to reduce standing waves, tricking speakers into perceiving a larger enclosure for enhanced bass.
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A professional re-cone job significantly benefits the performance of vintage speakers like Utahs, enhancing their sound and reliability.
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Features and functionality
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The Bandmaster's larger cabinet delivers a pronounced, clear tone and a "wall of sound" effect, especially with clean settings, unlike standard floor amps.
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Utah speakers provide a commendable tonal quality for non-metal styles, with a particular endorsement for their performance in a Pro Reverb setup.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
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According to Jake Ewald's website, the 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp is listed in the equipment section.
In a user-uploaded photo on Joel Plaskett's official website, he is seen using a 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp alongside a Twin.
In an article by Matt Parker for Guitar World titled "Cloud Nothings' Dylan Baldi: 'I've always had the philosophy that going into recording or a show, you can't control everything,'" Dylan Baldi states that he uses a Fender Bandmaster guitar head. He has been using a 60's Silverface Bandmaster Reverb Amp consistently since the "Here and Nowhere Else" era, as evidenced by its vertical size compared to a standard Bandmaster in various videos from that period, such as the one on Pitchfork.
Album Usage
The 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1968 Fender Bandmaster Reverb Amp, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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