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Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier

$950.00 Price Tier: High-end

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jun 26, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 26, 2026.

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5.0 (9)

$950.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $950

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

Price Tier

In the Combo Guitar Amplifiers category, Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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GA-5 "Skylark" AMPLIFIER Amazing quality and fine tone reproduction at a low price, with true Gibson workmanship, perlormance and guarantee.

Sturdy, compact 3/4" solid wood, lock-joint construction; attractive gold covering; slanted front panel, top-mounted chrome-plated chassis with easily accessible control panel, three tubes; two instrument inputs: 8" Jensen speaker; 4 1/2 watts output, jeweled pilot light, protective fuse; volume control and on-off switch. Size: 13 1/2" wide, 13 1/2" high, 7 1/4" deep, weight 12 pounds.

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	GA-5 Skylark
Finish	Tan
Year	1960s
Made In	United States
Categories	Guitar Combo 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	1x8"

FAQs

What is the power output of the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier?: The Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier has a power output of 10 watts, making it suitable for practice sessions and small gigs.
What type of speaker is used in the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier?: The amplifier features a single 8-inch speaker, which contributes to its classic vintage tone.
What kind of tubes does the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier use?: The Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier uses 6V6 power tubes, known for their warm and smooth sound characteristics.
Does the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier have built-in reverb?: No, the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier does not come with built-in reverb, focusing instead on delivering pure tube-driven tone.
How many input channels does the Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier have?: The amplifier has one channel with two inputs, allowing for flexibility in connecting different instruments or pedals.

Reviews

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PROS

Smooth power tube distortion perfect for recording or practice
Highly sensitive to playing dynamics, capturing nuanced performances
Versatile tone from 50s blues to modern metal with pedals
Rare and collectible, offering a unique sound experience
Comparable to Fender Champ at a more affordable price
Simple design without tone controls for plug-and-play use
Great for blues harp, enhancing versatility
Easily modifiable for custom setups and improved sound dispersion
Low-midrange speaker tone sits well in a mix
Increasing market value, making it a potential investment

CONS

Can’t achieve clean tones even at low volume settings
Limited wattage may not suit larger live performances
Requires servicing for optimal performance due to age
Tremolo issues reported, though fixable with servicing
Price increasing as popularity grows, may deter budget buyers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson '59 GA-5 Skylark Amplifier.

Mods and upgrades

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Increasing cathode bypass and coupling caps size can enhance gain and bass, transforming the sound to resemble a Deluxe amp.
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Replacing the original speaker with a 10” Greenback may resolve issues with bass response and harsh treble.
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Replacing the Sprague "tone-suck" network with a straight capacitor enhances versatility and midrange presence.
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Adding a 1M master volume allows for breakup at lower volumes, enhancing usability in smaller spaces.
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Build quality

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The original "tone suck" capacitors from this era reduce bass and create a thin, sterile sound; removing them can improve the amp's tone.
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Setup and maintenance

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Modern filter capacitors may require 3D-printed adapters for proper fitting due to size differences with original mounts.
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Removing the "death-cap" and upgrading to a 3-prong cord is recommended for safety.
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Comparisons

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Models with 6AQ5 power tubes are preferred by some for their distinct tonal characteristics, often compared to early '60s Skylarks.
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This amplifier inspired the Swart Atomic Space Tone, known for its distinct tonal characteristics.
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Using a transformer for a phase inverter, similar to the Fender Musicmaster Bass amp, blocks DC effectively.
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Use cases and applications

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Ideal for recording, offering a pleasant small combo sound that excels in studio settings.
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The GA-5 is praised for being an excellent platform for modifications, offering a variety of tonal possibilities.
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Features and functionality

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Built-in tremolo models are particularly praised for adding sonic versatility.
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Value and pricing

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Some enthusiasts are unwilling to pay more than $500, viewing that as a fair price point.
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Owners highlight the affordability of GA-5s compared to Fender amps, often costing less than a few dinners out.
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User experience

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Stock models break up late on the dial; post-modifications, breakup occurs around 6-7, with manageable volume levels.
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Artist usage

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Dan Auerbach

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Black Keys

Verified via Photo

In this photo recently posted by one of our contributing members you can clearly see Dan plugged into a Gibson 'Skylark' GA-5 amplifier. You can tell its a GA-5 by the distinctive Gibson tweed cosmetics from the 59-61 era coupled with the slanted rear control plate (not unlike the much earlier fender champion amps) unique to the GA-5 as opposed to all other Gibson tweed combos which featured top loaded control panels like Fender's tweed amps.

Jake Kiszka

Guitarist

Greta Van Fleet

Verified via Instagram

Jake Kiszka was confirmed to use the Gibson '59 GA-5 amplifier when he shared a post on his Instagram account, stating, "As the storm recedes, the Gibson GA-5 emerges, its voice a lingering rumble."