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Average Price: $195

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$300

$701+

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Description

Experience the power and clarity of the Fender Pro 185, a solid-state combo amplifier designed to meet the demands of gigging musicians who crave both versatility and durability. This amplifier delivers a robust 150 watts of power, ensuring you’ll be heard loud and clear on any stage. With its dual-channel design, the Pro 185 allows you to switch seamlessly between clean and overdrive tones, making it an excellent choice for diverse musical styles.

The Pro 185 is equipped with two 12-inch speakers, providing a full-bodied sound that remains consistent whether you’re playing in a small venue or a large hall. The built-in reverb and chorus effects add depth and dimension to your sound, giving you the creative freedom to shape your music exactly how you envision it.

Its intuitive control panel offers a user-friendly interface, allowing you to adjust your sound on the fly. The amp also includes a footswitch for channel and effects switching, making it a practical and reliable choice for live performances. Whether you’re practicing in your garage or headlining a show, the Fender Pro 185 delivers the legendary tone and reliability that Fender is known for.

Key Features:

  • 150 watts of power for ample volume
  • Dual-channel design for clean and overdrive tones
  • Two 12-inch speakers for full-bodied sound
  • Built-in reverb and chorus effects
  • Intuitive control panel for easy sound adjustments
  • Includes footswitch for channel and effects switching

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Pro 185 2-Channel 150-Watt 2x12" Solid State Guitar Combo
Finish Black
Year 1988 - 1994
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Electronics Solid State
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 150
Power Tube Type None
Reverb Spring Reverb
Series Fender Standard Solid State
Speaker Configuration 2x12"

FAQs

What type of amplifier is the Fender Pro 185?

The Fender Pro 185 is a solid-state guitar combo amplifier featuring a 2-channel setup with a 150-watt output and a 2x12" speaker configuration.

Does the Fender Pro 185 have built-in effects?

Yes, the Fender Pro 185 includes built-in effects, offering versatility for various playing styles and sound experimentation.

Is the Fender Pro 185 suitable for live performances?

With its 150-watt output and 2x12" speakers, the Fender Pro 185 is powerful enough for live performances, providing ample volume and clarity for gigging musicians.

What kind of reverb does the Fender Pro 185 feature?

The Fender Pro 185 is equipped with spring reverb, delivering classic reverb tones that enhance the overall sound quality.

How many channels does the Fender Pro 185 have?

The Fender Pro 185 features two channels, allowing players to switch between different tones and settings for greater flexibility.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Pro 185.

Features and functionality

  • The drive channel offers a "grungy, garage rock" sound once dialed in, though some find it initially grating.

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Use cases and applications

  • The amp excels with FX loop use, making even harsh-sounding pedals like Digitech Death Metal and DOD Grunge sound surprisingly good.

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  • The amp is favored by punk and metal musicians for its volume and affordability, suitable for loud, high-energy performances.

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  • Some users find the Pro 185 particularly suitable for industrial and abrasive music styles due to its powerful volume and tonal characteristics.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners use the FX loop's gain control as an attenuator to manage the amp's volume, which can be "stupid loud" even at low settings.

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Comparisons

  • The amp's loudness and control issues are likened to the Fender Hot Rod Deville, known for its uncontrollable volume.

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  • Described as a "poor man's Sunn," indicating its capability to deliver loud, clean tones reminiscent of the Sunn brand.

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  • The Fender Pro 185 is often compared to the red knob Fender Twin, with some owners feeling the Pro 185 sounds inferior when played in the same room.

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Mods and upgrades

  • A compressor in the effects loop is suggested to mimic the "sag & bloom" of an overdriven tube amp.

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  • Some suggest upgrading the speakers, such as using Celestion Creamback 10s, to improve tonal quality significantly.

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User experience

  • Owners report that transistor-based drive pedals, like the Blues Driver, work better with this amp than op-amp/clipping pedals, due to their dynamic feel.

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  • Owners report that the amp is exceptionally heavy, often compared to a 70s Twin Reverb, making it less portable for frequent gigging.

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  • Owners reminisce about using the Pro 185 in stereo setups during the early 2000s, highlighting its capability for clean tones in dual-amp configurations.

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Value and pricing

  • With a price of £100, it’s considered a no-loss investment due to its cult following and potential resale value.

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  • The amp’s current market value is estimated between $125 and $400, depending on its condition, with mint condition models potentially reaching $600.

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