5F6-A Bassman

TOPOLOGY
Four independent high sensitivity inputs. Three 12AY7 gain stages. The third stage is configured as a cathode follower which drives a classic tweed era tone stack featuring independent Treble and Bass controls with local negative feedback. One 12AX7 recovery stage. Global negative feedback with Presence control. 12AX7 cathodyne phase inverter. Two 6L6 power tubes with fixed bias. Four 10″ speakers.

DESCRIPTION
Surely one of the greatest amps of all time. The Bassman started life as Leo Fender’s attempt at providing an amplifier to pair with the new Precision Bass. But guitar players quickly figured out that the “Bassman” sounded even better with guitar. Soon after, Jim Marshall copied the design and sold it in huge numbers.

The 5F6-A that I make is based on a great sounding 1960 example that differs slightly from the published schematic. Undocumented changes were unusual for Fender, but the process of continual improvement was not, and so this is a great version of arguably the best amp of all time. It’s a pro’s amp for sure. Powerful and glorious. Capable of going from a whisper to a scream. The sound of rock and roll.

BASE CONFIGURATION
Weber 10A125 speakers, Mercury Magnetics transformers, Jupiter Yellow capacitors, carbon composition resistors.

Base Price $1900