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Average Price: $2,799

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash a wave of vintage charm with the Fender Princeton Amp 6G2, a timeless classic that echoes the golden era of guitar amplification. Crafted between 1961 and 1963, this combo guitar amplifier is renowned for its unique "brownface" and "tuxedo" aesthetics—a hallmark of its era. The Princeton Amp 6G2 is more than just a pretty face; it boasts a dual-6V6 output stage that delivers a robust 12 watts of pure, warm tube-driven sound, making it perfect for studio sessions and intimate gigs.

Guitarists treasure this amp for its lush clean tones and smooth overdrive. The simplicity of the control layout allows musicians to effortlessly dial in their desired sound, while the integrated tremolo effect adds a layer of depth and texture to your playing. Its compact size belies its powerful sonic presence, ensuring that this amplifier remains a staple in any guitarist's collection. Whether you're a vintage gear aficionado or a modern player seeking that classic tone, the Fender Princeton Amp 6G2 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Fender's innovation and craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • Era-defining "brownface" and "tuxedo" cosmetics
  • Dual-6V6 output stage with 12 watts of power
  • Simple, intuitive control layout
  • Integrated tremolo effect for added sonic depth
  • Compact and portable design
  • Ideal for studio recordings and small venues

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Princeton 6G2 Brownface 12-Watt 1x10" Guitar Combo
Finish Brown
Year 1961 - 1963
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Brown
Direct Output No Direct Output
Effects Loop No Effects Loop
Electronics Tube
Model Family Fender Princeton
Model Sub-Family Fender Princeton Amp
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 12
Power Tube Type 6V6
Reverb None
Series Fender Vintage Brown / Blonde Amps
Speaker Configuration 1x10"

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2?

The Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 is known for its warm, rich tones with a smooth overdrive. It offers a classic '60s Fender sound, characterized by a creamy midrange and a balanced low end, making it ideal for blues and rock genres.

Is the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 suitable for gigging?

With its 12-watt output, the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 is best suited for small venues, studio recording, and practice sessions. It may not provide enough volume for larger gigs without additional amplification.

Does the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 include built-in reverb?

No, the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 does not include built-in reverb. It focuses on delivering pure tube-driven tones without additional effects.

What type of tubes does the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 use?

The Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 uses 6V6 power tubes, which contribute to its warm and smooth tonal characteristics.

How many inputs does the Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 have?

The Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 features two inputs, allowing you to connect multiple instruments or use different input configurations for tonal variation.

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

The Greatest Guitar Amp for Recording EVER! Original Fender BROWNFACE PRINCETON!

Video thumbnail for The Greatest Guitar Amp for Recording EVER! Original Fender BROWNFACE PRINCETON! by Johan Segeborn

The Greatest Guitar Amp for Recording EVER! Original Fender BROWNFACE PRINCETON!

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

Video thumbnail for 1962 Princeton demo - Why the brown face Princeton is BEST value vintage Fender amp by Tone Science

1962 Princeton demo - Why the brown face Princeton is BEST value vintage Fender amp

Tone Science

Tone Science

Video thumbnail for Early 60's Brownface Princeton Amp by Brook Hoover

Early 60's Brownface Princeton Amp

Brook Hoover

Brook Hoover

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional natural overdrive, surpassing other Fender eras

  • Dynamic and responsive to pick attack

  • Capable of punchy clean tones at usable volume

  • Tremolo effect is highly praised

  • Offers a unique, darker sound with less scooped mids compared to other models

  • Considered the best version of the Princeton amps

CONS

  • High market prices can deter buyers

  • Some users find it less reliable than custom hand-wired versions

  • May not pair well with certain pedals

  • Sound preference is subjective; not everyone might appreciate the brown sound

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963).

Setup and maintenance

  • It's crucial to replace dried-out capacitors and install a 3-prong power cable for safety, as the original 2-prong can pose a fatal electrical hazard.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Mint, all-original units can fetch $5,000, whereas those with wear or non-original parts typically sell for around $3,000.

    Source
  • Brown tolex adds value; condition and service history greatly influence price, ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 or more.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Capacitor and tube replacements are common and won't devalue the amp, but purists prefer untouched units for authenticity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Chris Stapleton signature model, inspired by this amp, features a 12" speaker, enhancing its tonal output compared to the original 10".

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The amp is highly desirable and potentially appreciates in value, making it a solid investment for collectors and vintage gear enthusiasts.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners emphasize the importance of thorough research and valuation before selling, as it can be more valuable than initially perceived.

    Source
  • Selling directly online, particularly on platforms like Reverb, is recommended to avoid significant price cuts from local guitar shops.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Devin Townsend uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Devin Townsend

Singer, Guitarist

The Wildhearts

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Devin talks about his gear, including this one used in conjunction with Casualties of Cool.

See how Chris Stapleton uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Chris Stapleton

Singer, Guitarist

The Jompson Brothers

...
Verified via Photo

A FOH stage hand sent out a couple pictures of Chris Stapleton's live rig on May 27, 2016 in Simpsonville, SC at the Charter Spectrum Amphitheatre. The stage setup clearly matches the setup seen in various videos around the web from early-2016 shows. In a 'Gear Talk' Facebook group, one person claimed to have previously owned this amp and said that it is a '62.

See how Chris McQueen uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Chris McQueen

Guitarist

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

Chris mentions he uses a Fender Brownface Princeton at 13:53 into the video.

See how Jimmy Vivino uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Jimmy Vivino

Guitarist

Jimmy Vivino and the Basic Cable Band

...
Verified via Throbak

Mentioned on Vivino's ThroBak artist page.

Q: What amps are you using right now?

JV: The minute I got to California it was like getting to Fender heaven. I got a '53 Tweed Deluxe, a '64 Blackface Vibrolux, a 4x10 Bassman. My go to amp for recording right now in a '61 brown Princeton with a 10" speaker, one tone and the greatest vibrato. On Conan I am using a wonderful Magnatone Twilighter (1x12) that is just stellar. I've also got a Longhorn Texas Tru Tone (Tweed 1x12) from Austin, Texas that is a really great amp. I use pedals on Conan, and in the Fab Faux because I am simulating record sounds in that gig, but if I am playing a blues gig or playing with Al Kooper or Lee Rocker I just plug straight into the amp - I call that playing unsafe guitar, nothing between you and the amp! I won't try a guitar in anything but a small tube amp. I use my '61 Princeton every time I test a new guitar out. It's important to have a consistent amp when trying out a guitar.

See how Danny Kortchmar uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Danny Kortchmar

Guitarist

The Fugs

...
Unverified
See how Brent Rowan uses Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963)

Brent Rowan

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Rambos

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

Brent states he carried around a brown-tolex Princeton to his early sessions.

Album Usage

The Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963) 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 Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

5 alternative and related items for Fender 'Brownface' Princeton Amp 6G2 (1961-1963), curated by the Equipboard community.

Fender '62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition

$2,299.00 - $2,729.99

newer similar sound cheaper alternative

The Chris Stapleton edition Princeton is a reissue of the 6G2 'Brownface' Princeton.

Milkman Sound One Watt Plus

$2,159.00 - $2,459.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

The One Watt Plus is a simple take on the 6G2 Princeton circuit by Milkman Sound.

Dr. Z Z-28 28-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo

$1,200.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound mod

Despite its more Vox like EF86 preamp configuration, the Z-28 is described as a close relative to the Brownface Princeton.

Greer Amps SOMA 63 Vintage Preamp

$229.00 - $229.99

similar sound cheaper alternative

The SOMA is based on various 'Brownface' Fender amplifiers, and is designed to emulate the power section and grit of the 10 inch Utah speakers featured in the 6G2 Princeton.

3rd Power Amplification KITCHEN SINK 6VEL Head

 

similar sound

The Kitchen sink has a "Brownface" switch that when engaged, it will emulate a classic brownface or brown panel fender amp of the 60's.

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