Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $799

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier is a glorious revival of a 1950s classic, embodying the rich, pure tones that defined an era. This five-watt wonder is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a doorway into the heart of rock and roll history. With its hand-wired, point-to-point vintage style circuit board, this amp delivers the authentic all-tube sound that guitarists crave. Whether you're reliving the electric guitar craze of the past or carving a new musical path, the Les Paul Junior Amp provides the sonic palette to do so with flair.

The amp's single-ended Class A tube circuitry, powered by an ECC83/12AX7A tube preamp and a 6BQ5/EL84 power tube, ensures that every note you play is imbued with warmth and clarity. It features dual inputs, offering a choice between high and low sensitivity, tailored for your playing style. The custom-designed 8" Gibson Goldtone speaker, renowned for its ceramic magnet, faithfully recreates the gritty, soulful tones that have captivated musicians for decades. Housed in a classic beige cabinet, this amp isn't just about looks; it's about delivering a powerful and authentic sound experience.

For those who appreciate the marriage of vintage aesthetics and modern reliability, the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier is an indispensable addition to your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • 5 Watts RMS output
  • Dual inputs with a 3dB pad on Input #2
  • Gibson Goldtone 8" speaker with ceramic magnet
  • Single-ended, Class A, cathode bias tube circuitry
  • ECC83/12AX7A tube preamp and 6BQ5/EL84 power tube
  • Solid-state rectifier and universal power transformer
  • Hand-wired, point-to-point vintage style circuit board
  • Compact design in a classic beige cabinet

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model GA-5 Les Paul Junior
Finish Tan
Year 1950s
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps, Small Amps
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 2 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 10
Power Tube Type 6V6
Reverb None
Speaker Configuration 1x5-7" Oval

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier use?

The Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier uses 6V6 power tubes, which are known for their warm, smooth tone and classic tube-driven sound.

How many channels does the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier have?

The Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier features a single channel, providing a straightforward and uncomplicated setup for pure, vintage tone.

Is the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier suitable for gigging?

With an output power of 10 watts, the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier is best suited for small venues or studio use, offering classic tube-driven sound at lower volumes.

Does the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier have reverb?

No, the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier does not include a built-in reverb effect, focusing instead on delivering a pure and simple tube amp tone.

How many inputs does the Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier have?

The Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier is equipped with two inputs, allowing for different levels of gain and tonal variation.

sillennium

sillennium

Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Amp Demo with Plexi GA-5 Shootout -Gibson Goldtone-

Video thumbnail for Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Amp Demo with Plexi GA-5 Shootout -Gibson Goldtone- by sillennium

Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Amp Demo with Plexi GA-5 Shootout -Gibson Goldtone-

sillennium

sillennium

Video thumbnail for Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr modified by Bob McGilpin / Gemtone amps by mcmusicsound

Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr modified by Bob McGilpin / Gemtone amps

mcmusicsound

mcmusicsound

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Junior amp by Peter Keane

Gibson Les Paul Junior amp

Peter Keane

Peter Keane

Video thumbnail for Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Plexi Clear and Green Terry Cloth Shorts by FannysHouseofMusic

Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Plexi Clear and Green Terry Cloth Shorts

FannysHouseofMusic

FannysHouseofMusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional value for a US-made, point-to-point wired tube amp under $500

  • Surprisingly loud with great volume out of the box

  • Speaker quality is impressive for a ceramic, smooth cone

  • Offers a vintage tone with less brightness, ideal for studio or practice

  • Compatible with various guitars, especially shines with P-90 equipped models

  • Takes drive and boost pedals well, enhancing versatility

  • Unique tube configuration contributes to its distinct, bluesy tone

  • Responsive to tube changes, allowing for sound customization

  • Quiet enough for home use without disturbing others

  • Easy to service, maintaining the amp is straightforward

CONS

  • Not suitable for gigging due to its size and power

  • Original speakers may require replacement, indicating potential longevity issues

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend removing "tone suck" capacitors for fuller sound, or changing cathode bypass and coupling caps to enhance bass and reduce harsh treble.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the amp trebly and harsh, often lacking bass, suggesting potential circuit modifications for improved tonal balance.

    Source
  • Owners express satisfaction with GA-5 models purchased for around $550, highlighting their enduring appeal and reliable performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The GA-5 is praised as a great grab-and-go amp, ideal for open mics and smaller gigs when paired with a clean boost.

    Source
  • The GA-5, or its copies, fits the lo-fi, warm, and slightly distorted sound desired by enthusiasts, making it suitable for vintage tones on a budget.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The GA-5 circuit variations, such as power tube types, are less standardized compared to Fender amps, complicating model identification and purchase.

    Source
  • The GA-5 and GA-5T models, originally branded as Les Paul Jr. amps, later renamed Skylark/Skylark Tremolo, are noted for their distinct eras, with tweed versions being most desirable.

    Source
  • Some users suggest that vintage-style fuzz pedals, like FoxFuzz or Fuzz Face, complement the GA-5's circuit for achieving a warm, vintage sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Vintage GA-5 models have been noted to be a better investment than newer reissues, which are often criticized for being overpriced.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Les Paul Junior GA-5 Amp: A Hidden Gem - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior amp is an underrated gem in the world of vintage gear. Praised for its warm, rich sound, it offers a remarkable value compared to more popular models like the Fender Champ. While it may lack the robust resale potential of its competitors, its simplicity and quality make it an appealing choice for home players or those on a budget. However, potential buyers should be aware that it isn't powerful enough for large venues, which may limit its versatility for some musicians. Overall, it shines as a solid, affordable option for those seeking classic tube amp tones without breaking the bank.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dan Auerbach uses Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier

Dan Auerbach

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Black Keys

...
Verified via Guitars

Dan Auerbach's Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior amp was a part of his personal collection before being sold as a part of the "Dan Auerbach Collection" at Gruhn's Guitars.

See how Mike Plotnikoff uses Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier

Mike Plotnikoff

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

He uses this small 5 watt amp for recording.

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 Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1 alternative for Gibson GA-5 Les Paul Junior Amplifier, curated by the Equipboard community.

Gibson Goldtone GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Amplifier Reissue
Vintage or Discontinued newer similar sound

A reissue version of the GA-5 Les Paul Jr. Amplifier, produced from 2002-2006.

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