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Average Price: $750

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Description

The Traynor YSR-1 guitar amplifier head is a testament to classic rock tones and reliable engineering. This all-tube amp is cherished by musicians for its versatile sound that ranges from smooth, creamy cleans to gritty, overdriven blues. Designed and manufactured in Canada, the YSR-1 features a robust build quality, making it a long-lasting companion for both stage performances and studio recordings.

At its core, the YSR-1 is powered by four EL34 power tubes, delivering a rich, warm sound that guitarists crave. Its two-channel design allows for seamless switching between clean and lead tones, providing flexibility for various musical styles. The intuitive control panel includes a 3-band EQ, presence, and reverb controls, allowing for precise tone shaping. The amp head is well-suited for both vintage enthusiasts and modern players, offering the iconic Traynor sound with today’s reliability.

Whether you’re playing rock, blues, or jazz, the Traynor YSR-1 amplifier head offers a dynamic range of tones that can be tailored to fit your personal style. With its hand-wired circuitry, this amp head promises authentic sound and exceptional performance, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist’s arsenal.

Key Features:

  • All-tube design with four EL34 power tubes
  • Two-channel configuration: clean and lead
  • 3-band EQ for bass, middle, and treble adjustments
  • Built-in spring reverb
  • Presence control for enhanced tonal clarity
  • Hand-wired circuitry for authentic sound
  • Durable construction for long-lasting use

Product specs

Brand Traynor
Model YSR-1
Finish Black
Year 1970s
Categories Guitar Heads
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Direct Output No Direct Output
Effects Loop No Effects Loop
Electronics Tube
Impedance 4 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 4 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 50
Power Tube Type 6V6
Reverb Spring Reverb

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Traynor YSR-1 amplifier?

The Traynor YSR-1 is known for its classic tube-driven sound, delivering warm, rich tones with a natural overdrive. Its spring reverb adds depth, making it suitable for rock, blues, and vintage tones.

Is the Traynor YSR-1 suitable for live performances?

With 50 watts of output power, the Traynor YSR-1 is capable of handling small to medium-sized gigs, especially when paired with an efficient speaker cabinet.

Does the Traynor YSR-1 have an effects loop?

No, the Traynor YSR-1 does not feature an effects loop, which means effects should be placed before the amp in the signal chain for best results.

How many channels does the Traynor YSR-1 have?

The Traynor YSR-1 features two channels, allowing for versatile sound options and easy switching between clean and overdriven tones.

What type of power tubes does the Traynor YSR-1 use?

The Traynor YSR-1 uses 6V6 power tubes, which contribute to its smooth, vintage tube sound with a warm midrange and soft breakup.

The Guitologist

The Guitologist

1970 Traynor YSR-1 Custom Reverb Head DEMO & OVERVIEW

Video thumbnail for 1970 Traynor YSR-1 Custom Reverb Head DEMO & OVERVIEW by The Guitologist

1970 Traynor YSR-1 Custom Reverb Head DEMO & OVERVIEW

The Guitologist

The Guitologist

Video thumbnail for Traynor Amp YSR-1 Found at Estate Sale by Tim White

Traynor Amp YSR-1 Found at Estate Sale

Tim White

Tim White

Video thumbnail for Carvin Bolt + Traynor YSR-1 Custom Reverb Demo by Mark White

Carvin Bolt + Traynor YSR-1 Custom Reverb Demo

Mark White

Mark White

Reviews

PROS

  • Similar to Hiwatt and Marshall Plexi, offering versatile tones

  • Excellent pedal platform for fuzz, drive, and time-based effects

  • Features quality spring reverb and built-in tremolo

  • Capable of very loud volumes without losing clarity

  • Easily attenuated for controlled volume levels

  • Absorbs all pedals well, enhancing clean mid-rich tones

  • Hand-wired with huge transformers for durable, quality sound

  • Performs well with both guitar and bass

  • More affordable due to lesser-known brand status

  • Extremely durable, survives rough handling

CONS

  • Requires channel jumping for optimal sound, which might be complex for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Traynor YSR-1.

Features and functionality

  • The YSR-1's reverb is noted for its potency, and its bias-type tremolo circuit is considered exceptional among amp-based tremolos.

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Build quality

  • The YSR-1 uses Hammond transformers, highlighting serious construction quality, and was originally designed as a robust rental amplifier.

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  • Caution is advised with the jagged spot welds on the slider pieces at the bottom of the chassis, which can be sharp enough to cause cuts.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The amp runs high plate voltages, which can be tough on tubes.

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  • It's noted that running the amp into a 4-ohm cab can accelerate tube wear, with 8-ohm configurations preferred for optimal performance and longevity.

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  • Power tubes with a white tip indicate a loss of vacuum and need replacement; it's crucial to replace old filter caps for optimal performance.

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  • The EL34WXTs tubes can be used interchangeably with 6CA7 tubes in the Traynor YSR-1, accommodating American nomenclature due to its Canadian build.

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  • Capacitors must be properly discharged before maintenance; this can be done with a resistor or by watching a voltmeter for a slow drain.

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Use cases and applications

  • Bridging inputs with a small jumper cable is recommended for enhancing the amp's performance and integrating effects like chorus, delay, and reverb.

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  • Jumping the amp's channels and adding fuzz is recommended for achieving powerful tones, particularly effective for baritone guitars and low B power chords.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have successfully converted the original 2x15 cab to an oversized 2x12 using Eminence Texas Heat and Eminence Swamp Thang speakers for improved sound and weight reduction.

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  • Using a matched pair of tubes is recommended for consistent performance and sound quality.

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User experience

  • Traynor YSR-1s are described as "bulletproof," having survived falls and abrupt stops without damage, highlighting their durability.

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  • Handling the Traynor YSR-1 without professional knowledge is discouraged due to high voltage risks, with many recommending consulting a professional technician.

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Value and pricing

  • Vintage Traynor amps are highly regarded for their sound quality and build, offering significant value for Canadian buyers compared to Marshalls and Fenders.

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