Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $950

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Step back in time with the Gibson EH-185, a legendary combo guitar amplifier that has been a favorite among musicians since its original debut. Known for its distinctive vintage tone, this amplifier is a staple for guitarists looking to capture the authentic sounds of the early blues and jazz era. The EH-185 offers a rich and warm tonal palette that is difficult to replicate, making it a prized possession for both collectors and performers alike.

Crafted with passion and precision, the Gibson EH-185 features a unique circuit design that delivers that coveted tube-driven sound. It's a perfect match for those who appreciate the subtle nuances of classic guitar tones. Equipped with a single 12-inch speaker, this amplifier provides a balanced mix of sound projection and audio fidelity, ensuring that your music is heard in all its glory, whether on stage or in the studio.

Whether you're a seasoned musician or a vintage gear enthusiast, the Gibson EH-185 offers a timeless appeal that bridges the past and present. Its enduring design and sound quality make it not just an amplifier, but a piece of musical history that continues to inspire and elevate performances.

Key Features:

  • Rich and warm tonal palette for authentic vintage sound
  • Tube-driven circuit for classic tonal character
  • Single 12-inch speaker for balanced sound projection
  • Ideal for early blues and jazz enthusiasts
  • Perfect for both collectors and performing musicians

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model EH-185 Lap Steel
Made In United States
Categories Lap Steel Guitars
Body Shape Non Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Top-Load
Frets Fretless
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Fazio Electric

Fazio Electric

Gibson EH185 Restoration | 1939-1940 Era Guitar Amplifier

Video thumbnail for Gibson EH185 Restoration | 1939-1940 Era Guitar Amplifier by Fazio Electric

Gibson EH185 Restoration | 1939-1940 Era Guitar Amplifier

Fazio Electric

Fazio Electric

Video thumbnail for Gibson EH-185 Lap Steel & Amp by BlackBook Guitars

Gibson EH-185 Lap Steel & Amp

BlackBook Guitars

BlackBook Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson EH-185 by BlackBook Guitars

Gibson EH-185

BlackBook Guitars

BlackBook Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Use cases and applications

  • The Gibson EH-185 is noted for its great sound when cranked up, suitable for classic rock and heavy blues.

    Source
  • Gibson's early 60s Discoverer amps are preferred for their gritty studio sound, akin to Fender's Champ or Princeton.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The GA-15 model, often compared to the Trace Elliot Velocette, is praised for its performance in classic rock recordings.

    Source
  • The Gibson Explorer amp from the 50s is likened to a Fender Tweed Deluxe but with a more straightforward layout and a 10" speaker.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The GA-15's design is based on the Trace Elliot Velocette, making it similar to an AC-15 clone.

    Source

Build quality

  • The GA-15 features an EL84 tube, uncommon outside the UK, offering unique tonal characteristics.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Gibson GA30 RV combo is praised for its sound but criticized for being heavy and expensive.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Homme uses Gibson EH-185

Josh Homme

Guitarist

Kyuss

...
Verified via Photo

This photo shows an old Gibson amplifier, the EH-185, which was made between 1939 and 1942. Josh Homme was using it on stage with Them Crooked Vultures.

See how Achim Reichel uses Gibson EH-185

Achim Reichel

Singer, Guitarist

The Rattles

...
Verified via Photo

In the picture you can see Achim Reichel with a Gibson EH-185.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson EH-185, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Gibson Les Paul Vintage
Gibson Les Paul Vintage Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

1 alternative for Gibson EH-185, curated by the Equipboard community.

The Nocturne Brain Jr Barnyard

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

The Jr Barnyard is an octal preamp style pedal, inspired by pre-war Gibson amplifiers such as EH-185.

More Gibson Combo Guitar Amplifiers

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Community setups

Gear Guides

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    Gear IQ 8195