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Average Price: $310
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$801+
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Description
The Fender M-80 Chorus is a classic guitar amplifier head that marries powerful performance with versatile tonal capabilities. Designed for guitarists who appreciate the rich, textured sounds that only a chorus effect can bring, this amp head is a reliable companion for both practice and live settings. With its stereo chorus circuit, the M-80 delivers a lush, expansive sound that can fill any room. This amp head features a straightforward interface that allows for easy tone shaping, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced players seeking a reliable workhorse.
The M-80 Chorus is equipped with a solid-state power amplifier that provides clean, consistent output, ensuring that your guitar's true voice is always at the forefront. It also includes a range of controls for fine-tuning your sound, including separate EQ settings for clean and overdrive channels, and individual volume controls for each channel. The built-in chorus effect adds depth and dimension to your playing, perfect for creating atmospheric soundscapes or enhancing your solos. Whether you're playing smooth jazz, gritty blues, or explosive rock, the M-80 Chorus offers a dynamic range of tones to suit your style.
Key Features:
- Stereo chorus circuit for lush, expansive tonal effects
- Solid-state power amplifier for consistent performance
- Dual channel operation with separate EQ for clean and overdrive
- Built-in chorus effect to add depth and dimension
- Individual volume controls for each channel
- Reliable and robust design for both practice and live settings
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | M-80 Chorus 2-Channel 2 x 65-Watt 2x12" Stereo Solid State Guitar Combo |
| Finish | Black Tolex, Grey Carpet |
| Year | 1990 - 1994 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Guitar Combo Amps |
| Built-In Effects | Built-In Effects |
| Color Family | Black, Grey |
| Electronics | Solid State |
| Model Family | Fender M-80 Chorus |
| Number of Channels | 2 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 2 Inputs |
| Output Power (Watts) | 65 |
| Power Tube Type | None |
| Reverb | Spring Reverb |
| Series | Fender M-80 |
| Speaker Configuration | 2x12" |
FAQs
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What type of amplifier is the Fender M-80 Chorus?
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The Fender M-80 Chorus is a solid-state guitar amplifier head with a stereo output, offering 65 watts per channel, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.
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Does the Fender M-80 Chorus have built-in effects?
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Yes, the Fender M-80 Chorus features built-in stereo chorus and spring reverb effects, which add depth and dimension to your guitar sound.
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How many channels does the Fender M-80 Chorus have?
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The Fender M-80 Chorus is equipped with two channels, allowing for versatile sound shaping and quick switching between clean and overdriven tones.
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What is the speaker configuration of the Fender M-80 Chorus?
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The Fender M-80 Chorus features a 2x12" speaker configuration, providing a full and robust sound suitable for various performance settings.
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Is the Fender M-80 Chorus suitable for live performances?
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With its 130-watt stereo output and built-in effects, the Fender M-80 Chorus is well-suited for live performances, offering ample volume and tonal versatility.
Videos
CigarBGuitarefx
Fender M-80 Chorus 90 watt guitar amp
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional clean tones; tubey, spanky, with full bass and glassy highs
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Versatile overdrive channel with responsive, crunchy rhythm and lead tones
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Surprisingly nice reverb, enhanced by a variable stereo chorus
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Solid build, lightweight and travels well
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Takes pedals well, both in front and through the effects loop
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Consistent tone and responsiveness at all volume levels
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Loud enough for outdoor gigs without losing clarity
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No need to worry about tube maintenance
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Offers gig/mixer versatility with pre-amp and power amp outs
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More affordable and lighter than similar tube amps
CONS
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Original speaker may require upgrade for optimal performance
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Matching Fender HM-412 cabs needed for best sound, could limit options
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Carpeted exterior may not appeal to all aesthetically
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender M-80 Chorus.
Comparisons
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Jason Becker reportedly used the Fender M-80 on demo recordings and with artists like David Lee Roth, despite having access to Marshall and Peavey gear.
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While not as durable as modern amps, the M-80 Chorus is favored by Radiohead fans for its unique sound profile.
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It has been compared to the Roland JC120, offering a similar chorus effect but at a more affordable price point.
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Use cases and applications
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Known for "monstrous" clean tones, the amp serves well as a pedal platform with 'woody' tonal characteristics.
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Some users highlight the amp's effectiveness in achieving the Alice in Chains "Dirt" sound, particularly with a Les Paul guitar.
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It's capable of delivering clean tones and a range of dirty tones from bluesy breakup to high-gain thrash sounds.
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Features and functionality
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Input 2 offers 6 dB less gain, recommended for high output pickups to avoid unwanted preamp distortion.
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The M-80 Chorus is noted for its stereo effects loops and ability to handle multiple pedals and effects well.
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The amp includes a short spring reverb tank, providing a unique ambient sound rather than the typical long-spring reverb.
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The built-in chorus effect can vary from subtle to very prominent, offering lush stereo sound when paired with stereo speaker cabinets.
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Setup and maintenance
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Input jacks are frequently reported as the main maintenance issue, often requiring simple fixes like cleaning or resoldering for optimal performance.
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Build quality
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The second input is often less reliable, commonly needing deoxit or resoldering due to solder joint stress, indicating a common weak point in the amp's build.
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The grey carpet finish is prone to wear, with multiple users noting it attracts cat hair and can resemble a scratching post.
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The amp features red knobs and grey carpet covering, similar to Peavey designs, and is lighter and more durable than tube heads.
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User experience
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