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Average Price: $999

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$300

$801+

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Description

Step back in time with the Fender Black Panel Showman 2-Channel 85-Watt Guitar Amp Head, a staple of the 1963-1966 era that continues to captivate musicians with its classic tone and formidable power. This iconic amplifier head was a favorite among surf and rock guitarists for its robust 85-watt output, ensuring your sound carries with clarity and authority. The Showman's dual-channel setup offers versatile tonal shaping, catering to both clean and overdriven sounds that are distinctively Fender.

Known for its durability and reliability, the Showman head is perfect for both stage and studio settings. Its all-tube design contributes to the warm, organic sound that is both rich and articulate. The amp's bright channel adds a touch of sparkle to your high frequencies, while the normal channel delivers a more rounded, full-bodied tone. An integrated vibrato circuit provides that classic, shimmering effect, further enhancing your sonic palette.

Whether you're seeking a piece of musical history or a reliable workhorse for your gigs, the Fender Black Panel Showman delivers with style and performance. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, making it a cherished choice for guitarists who demand both vintage charm and modern reliability.

Key Features:

  • 85-watt all-tube amplifier head
  • Dual-channel configuration: Normal and Bright
  • Integrated vibrato circuit for added tonal versatility
  • Classic Fender tonal quality, ideal for surf and rock genres
  • Durable construction for both stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Showman 2-Channel 85-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Finish Black Panel
Year 1963 - 1966
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Heads
Color Family Black
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Impedance 4 ohms
Model Family Fender Showman Amp
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 4 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 85
Power Tube Type 6L6
Reverb None
Series Fender Vintage Black Panel Amps

FAQs

What is the wattage of the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 amp head?

The Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 amp head delivers 85 watts of all-tube power, making it suitable for powerful performances with guitar, bass, or keyboards.

How does the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 handle different speaker configurations?

The Showman AB763 is designed with a 4-ohm transformer, allowing it to drive two 8-ohm speakers in parallel, making it versatile for various speaker setups.

Does the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 come with built-in reverb?

No, the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 does not include built-in reverb, focusing instead on delivering a pure, powerful tube-driven sound.

What type of power tubes does the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 use?

The Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 utilizes 6L6 power tubes, known for their robust tone and reliability in high-wattage amplifiers.

Is the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 85-watt output and durable construction, the Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 is well-suited for live performances, offering ample volume and clarity.

Uncle Doug

Uncle Doug

1965 Fender Showman.......Back from the dead, but not without an epic struggle

Video thumbnail for 1965 Fender Showman.......Back from the dead, but not without an epic struggle by Uncle Doug

1965 Fender Showman.......Back from the dead, but not without an epic struggle

Uncle Doug

Uncle Doug

Video thumbnail for 1965 Fender Showman Amp Repair - Marx Brothers Model - Is This A Joke?? by Granville Guitars

1965 Fender Showman Amp Repair - Marx Brothers Model - Is This A Joke??

Granville Guitars

Granville Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Big, deep, and clean sound with a full-frequency spectrum

  • Excels with pedal effects, offering versatility across genres

  • Ideal for loud Surf, Rockabilly, and classic rock and roll

  • Easy to repair and modify for those interested in amp tech

  • Low noise levels, ensuring clarity and quality of tone

  • Reliable performance, especially when properly serviced

  • Vintage Fender tone that's sought after by enthusiasts

  • Compatible with a variety of cabinets for customizable sound

CONS

  • May not suit high-gain guitarists or those seeking complex mid-tones

  • Tremolo can audibly tick at idle, which may require attention

  • Some players may find the aluminum dome speakers impart "ice-pick" artifacts with distortion

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Artist usage

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See how Keith Urban uses Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 (1963-1966)

Keith Urban

Guitarist, Bassist

Artists of Then, Now & Forever

...
Verified via Photo

Keith used modified Fender Showmans running at 135 watts before swapping to Marshalls

See how Paul Kantner uses Fender 'Black Panel' Showman AB763 (1963-1966)

Paul Kantner

Singer, Guitarist

Jefferson Airplane

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Paul Kantner is seen using a Fender Black Panel Showman 2-Channel 85-Watt Guitar Amp Head from the 1963-1966 "Blackface" era. The amp, featuring a psychedelic-painted grill, is paired with a Fender Twin Reverb and played through the vibrato channel.

Genre Usage

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