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Description

Step into the world of rich, swirling sound with the Leslie Model 147A, a staple in keyboard amplifiers. Revered by musicians for its ability to bring out the warm vibe of a classic organ, this amplifier is more than just a piece of equipment—it's a cornerstone of sonic creativity. Engineered with a two-speed high-powered horn and a 15" woofer bass rotor, the Model 147A delivers a dynamic audio experience that breathes life into any performance. The handcrafted 40W RMS vacuum tube amplifier ensures that each note is delivered with clarity and depth, making it the perfect companion for Hammond Organs and other vintage models.

The Leslie 147A is not just about performance; it's about control. With a master volume control, you can effortlessly adjust the sound level to suit any environment, whether it's a cozy jazz club or a bustling concert hall. The time-honored craftsmanship of its construction not only promises durability but also a touch of vintage elegance that complements its powerful audio capabilities.

Whether you're a professional musician or a passionate hobbyist, the Leslie Model 147A is designed to elevate your musical journey. Its seamless blend of tradition and innovation ensures that you are not just playing music, but creating an unforgettable auditory experience.

Key Features:

  • Two-speed high-powered horn
  • 15" woofer bass rotor
  • Handcrafted 40W RMS vacuum tube amplifier
  • Master volume control for precise sound adjustments
  • Compatible with Hammond Organs and other vintage models

Owner's manual

Leslie Model 147A User Manual

Product specs

Brand Leslie
Model Model 147 Dual-Speed Rotating Speaker Cab
Finish Natural
Year 1970s
Categories Keyboard Amps
Direct Output No Direct Output
Reverb None

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Leslie Model 147A?

The Leslie Model 147A is renowned for its rich, warm sound with a distinctive rotary effect, achieved through its dual-speed rotating speakers. This creates a unique, immersive sound experience, ideal for organs and keyboards.

Is the Leslie Model 147A suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Leslie Model 147A is well-suited for live performances, offering 40 watts of power, which provides ample volume and presence for most venues, especially when used with organs or keyboards.

What is the difference between the Leslie Model 145 and 147A?

The Leslie 147A is similar to the Model 145 but features a taller cabinet, which can affect the resonance and overall sound projection, providing a fuller tonal experience.

Does the Leslie Model 147A have a direct output for recording?

No, the Leslie Model 147A does not feature a direct output, so recording would typically require microphone placement to capture its unique rotary sound.

Can the Leslie Model 147A be used with instruments other than keyboards?

While primarily designed for organs and keyboards, the Leslie Model 147A can be used creatively with other instruments, though it may require additional adapters or modifications for optimal connectivity.

keithb7

keithb7

Leslie 147 Cabinet with guitar

Video thumbnail for Leslie 147 Cabinet with guitar by keithb7

Leslie 147 Cabinet with guitar

keithb7

keithb7

Video thumbnail for ROCK Hammond Organ - Leslie sound (122/147) by marcoballa

ROCK Hammond Organ - Leslie sound (122/147)

marcoballa

marcoballa

Video thumbnail for Isolated Leslie 147 Sound Test by Jared Alston

Isolated Leslie 147 Sound Test

Jared Alston

Jared Alston

Video thumbnail for #75  Hammond Model A-105 with Leslie 147! by Jim Huss, Keyboard Exchange International

#75 Hammond Model A-105 with Leslie 147!

Jim Huss, Keyboard Exchange International

Jim Huss, Keyboard Exchange International

Video thumbnail for Leslie 145 147   type 6W Dr  Fishsticks controller demo   with guitar and preamp by Vintkey

Leslie 145 147 type 6W Dr Fishsticks controller demo with guitar and preamp

Vintkey

Vintkey

Reviews

PROS

  • Unmatched combination of design, materials, and technology

  • Exceptional sound quality, especially at close quarters

  • Captures every detail from connected instruments without needing tone controls or EQ

  • Unique valve-driven sound enhancement

  • High impedance input offers a slightly brighter sound than similar models

  • Delivers a distinct growl at high input levels

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Leslie Model 147A.

Build quality

  • New models use MDF cabinets and styrofoam lower rotors, unlike vintage models with plywood and wooden rotors.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Newer models' motor stacks are harder to fix, often requiring costly replacements from Suzuki.

    Source
  • Original Leslie amps were designed for high-output organs, affecting voltage (115v for preamp, 415v for power plates) and may need adjustments for guitar use.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 147A uses fast and slow motor stacks, maintaining traditional speed control methods like vintage models.

    Source
  • Original design's 40W output is understated; 6550 tubes can deliver up to 70-100 watts.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Vintage models, when serviced with modern film capacitors, are often preferred for their build quality and maintainability.

    Source
  • Class A single power tube amps like Fender Champ differ significantly in feel from the original dual tube design.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Newer models tend to be more expensive despite lacking durability and ease of maintenance compared to vintage ones.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Using 6V6 tubes in place of 6550s can lower output to 12-18 watts, breaking up earlier for a more vintage sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For authentic Leslie sound, maintaining a 15" speaker is recommended, though low wattage versions are hard to find.

    Source
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Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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mike_pyne

Leslie 147

The Leslie 147 amplifier uses a high impedance input and is a skosh brighter than the Leslie 122's. The Leslie 147 really growls when you "give er da beans"!

From Gear Setup
george_rondina

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how George Harrison uses Leslie Model 147A

George Harrison

Singer, Guitarist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

It can be heard on Let It Be (single version) solo. In order to connect his guitar, George used a Leslie combo preamp https://images.reverb.com/image/upload/s--MchNoY7c--/a_exif,c_limit,e_unsharp_mask:80,f_auto,fl_progressive,g_south,h_620,q_90,w_620/v1411015494/ycfzs9u1rypnvujheaob.jpg

See how Lindsey Buckingham uses Leslie Model 147A

Lindsey Buckingham

Singer, Guitarist

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via Photo

Leslie seen on Lindsey side is used as a Organ Foldback for Lindsey, same for on John Mcvie's side The one in the Picture is a 122 but 1976-1982 a 147 was on Lindsey side

"The organ signal is sent through three Leslie speakers, one positioned near Chris-tine, one near John McVie, and the third near Lindsey Buckingham. Each one has been boosted to 180 watts by Keyboard Products and fitted with JBL speakers."

See how Peter Frampton uses Leslie Model 147A

Peter Frampton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Premierguitar

According to Premier Guitar's rig rundown, Frampton has Leslie 147 hot-rodded by Murph Wanka.

See how Rick Beato uses Leslie Model 147A

Rick Beato

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In a studio tour video titled "Rick Beato Studio Tour 2025!" on YouTube, Rick Beato mentions at 12:49 that he uses a Leslie Model 147A in his studio.

See how Derek Sherinian uses Leslie Model 147A

Derek Sherinian

Keyboardist

Dream Theater

...
Verified via Dereksherinian

Derek lists this piece of gear on his website.

See how Don Airey uses Leslie Model 147A

Don Airey

Keyboardist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Deep Purple

As described on the official Deep Purple website: "The Leslie Speaker Type 147 is a rotary speaker for the Hammond Organ. The speed at which it spins is controlled by foot switch."

See how Isao Tomita uses Leslie Model 147A

Isao Tomita

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Isaotomita

Accessories

AKG BX20E Echo Unit AKG BX10 Echo Unit Roland RV-800 Stereo Reverb Korg VC-10 Vocoder [24k JPEG] Used for the Voice Effects on the Final Track, 'Vocoder' Binson Echorec "2" Roland Space Echo RE-201 Eventide Clockworks "Instant Phaser" Eventide Clockworks "Instant Flanger" Eventide Clockworks "Harmonizer" Fender "Dimention IV" Fender Electronic Piano Hohner Clavinet C Mellotron Leslie Speaker Model 147

See how David Rosenthal uses Leslie Model 147A

David Rosenthal

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Rainbow

...
Verified via YouTube

David Rosenthal describing and explaining his rig, where he is explaining his touring rig for Billy Joel in October of 2014.

At 1:49, he acknowledges his Hammond XK-3c, and that he has that running into a Leslie 147. "The XK-3c, and that's running into a Leslie 147 which is below the stage."

See how Isaac Hayes uses Leslie Model 147A

Isaac Hayes

Singer, Keyboardist

The Louisiana Gator Boys

...
Verified via Sky High Sound

As seen in this photo, Isaac Hayes owned a Leslie speaker alongside his Hammond B3, both currently in the possession of Sky High Sounds.

See how Danny Louis uses Leslie Model 147A

Danny Louis

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Gov't Mule

...
Verified via YouTube

Danny Louis uses two different Leslie speakers with Gov’t Mule.

See how Michael Pyne uses Leslie Model 147A

Michael Pyne

Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

The Hammond B3 and Leslie 147 is featured in Mike Pyne's youtube video https://youtu.be/co72aaw-ggw Chimpsauce everywhere!

See how Steffen Presley uses Leslie Model 147A

Steffen Presley

Keyboardist

...
Verified

Steffen Presley is confirmed to use the Leslie Model 147A, as documented by the source "Thrust," which lists the equipment he employed during recordings, including the Hammond B3 organ paired with the Leslie 147.

Album Usage

The Leslie Model 147A 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 Leslie Model 147A, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Hohner Clavinet D6
Hohner Clavinet D6 Vintage & Electric Pianos
3
Yamaha Grand Piano
1
Neo Instruments Ventilator II
Neo Instruments Ventilator II Univibe & Rotary Effects Pedals
1
Martin D-42
Martin D-42 Steel-string Acoustic Guitars
1
Maestro Echoplex
Maestro Echoplex Effects Processors
1
Marshall Plexi 1959SLP
Marshall Plexi 1959SLP Guitar Amplifier Heads
1
Korg VP-10 Volume Pedal
Korg VP-10 Volume Pedal Volume Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
bios7

bios7

Gear IQ 97

mike_pyne

mike_pyne

Gear IQ 165

1 alternative for Leslie Model 147A, curated by the Equipboard community.

Leslie 122 Speaker Cabinet

$3,695.00 - $5,995.00

similar sound

The Leslie 122 is a similar alternative except that it uses a balanced input to the amplifier.

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