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Description

The Fender Bassman 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head is a masterpiece that blends vintage charm with modern versatility, making it a staple for guitarists seeking both power and clarity. Originally designed for bass guitars, the Bassman quickly gained popularity among six-string players for its distinctively warm tube-driven tone. This amp head boasts a dual-channel design, offering both Normal and Bright channels to cater to a wide range of musical styles and preferences.

Each channel features individual volume controls, allowing you to dial in the exact sound you're after, whether it's a clean jazz tone or a gritty rock crunch. The all-tube circuitry ensures an authentic and responsive playing experience, while the 50-watt output provides ample power for live performances and studio sessions alike. Revered for its dynamic response, the Bassman head is a favorite among musicians who value tonal richness and flexibility.

With its robust build and classic design, the Bassman amp head not only delivers exceptional sound but also stands as a testament to Fender's legacy in amplifier innovation. Whether you’re jamming in a garage or performing on a grand stage, this amp head promises reliability and an unmistakable sonic signature that will elevate your music to new heights.

Key Features:

  • 50-watt all-tube amplifier head
  • Dual-channel design with Normal and Bright channels
  • Independent volume controls for each channel
  • Classic Fender tone with warm, responsive dynamics
  • Ideal for a variety of musical styles and settings
  • Renowned for its versatility and tonal richness

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Bassman 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Year 1970 - 1971
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Heads
Color Family Black
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Impedance 4 ohms
Model Family Fender Bassman
Model Sub-Family Fender Bassman 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

What are the tonal characteristics of the Fender Bassman 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head?

The Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head is renowned for its warm, rich tones and dynamic overdrive, making it ideal for rock, blues, and country genres. Its tube-driven circuitry provides a classic vintage sound with a smooth transition from clean to overdriven tones.

Is the Fender Bassman 50-Watt suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head is suitable for live performances, especially in small to medium venues. Its 50-watt output offers ample power for cutting through a band mix while maintaining clarity and warmth.

Can the Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head be used with both guitar and bass?

While originally designed for bass, the Fender Bassman Amp Head is highly popular among guitarists for its versatile sound. It delivers excellent performance for both instruments, offering a robust low-end for bass and a distinctive overdrive for guitar.

What type of tubes does the Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head use?

The Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head uses 6L6 power tubes, which contribute to its classic warm tone and dynamic range. These tubes are integral to achieving the amp's signature sound.

Does the Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head have built-in reverb?

No, the Fender Bassman 50-Watt Amp Head does not feature built-in reverb. Its design focuses on delivering pure tube-driven tones without additional effects, allowing players to use external effects for added versatility.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Bassman 2-Channel 50-Watt Guitar Amp Head.

Features and functionality

  • Users mention that jumping the bass and normal channels with a short cable can produce an exceptional clean tone.

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  • Bassman heads include dedicated channels for bass and guitar, offering versatility but requiring suitable cabinets for optimal bass performance.

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  • The Fender Bassman amp's channels are in phase, allowing them to be stacked for a thicker, louder sound, unlike other vintage Fenders.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Vintage Bassman heads are noted for being easy to modify, appealing to gigging musicians seeking customization for unique sound profiles.

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  • A modded Bassman 50 might include a high-gain mod on the "ASS" channel using an unused 12AX7 tube half, enhancing its guitar performance.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Bassman shines when used in stereo setups with other amps, like the AC30, blending well for enhanced guitar tones.

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  • The Bassman works well with both guitar and bass, sounding particularly good for recording bass but lacking the volume needed for live bass performances.

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  • The amp is described as being exceptionally loud, making it suitable for live performances in genres requiring high volume levels, like punk and rock.

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  • The Bassman 50 is praised for its clean headroom and is often used in rock and punk genres, as well as by Nashville studio guitarists for country music.

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Comparisons

  • The Bassman 100+ watt tube heads are more suited for bass because of their higher power, providing better low-end presence compared to the 50-watt models.

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  • Vintage Bassman heads offer grittier sounds compared to average Fenders due to an extra gain stage, contributing to early Grunge tones on Nirvana and Pearl Jam albums.

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  • The Bassman 50 is noted to provide a grunge guitar sound, similar to what Kurt Cobain used on Nirvana's "Nevermind."

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Build quality

  • The unique weight distribution of the Bassman 50 head can make it challenging to carry, with most of the weight concentrated on one side.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Replacing microphonic tubes, like 6L6s, can significantly improve the amp's performance, as noted by owners who replaced old, original tubes.

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  • Potentiometers can also have date codes, such as “1376839,” where “137” identifies CTS as the manufacturer.

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  • Original transformers typically have date codes like “606739,” with “606” indicating Schumacher as the manufacturer.

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User experience

  • Owners find the Bassman an excellent pedal platform, delivering articulate and punchy tones, especially with fuzz and overdrive pedals.

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