5F4 Super

TOPOLOGY
Two independent 12AY7 channels, each with high and low sensitivity inputs. A second gain stage consisting of one half of a 12AX7, leading to a 12AX7 cathode follower that drives a tone stack with independent treble and bass controls and local negative feedback. One 12AX7 recovery stage connected to global negative feedback with Presence control. A 12AX7 cathodyne phase inverter. Two fixed bias 6L6 power tubes drive two 10″ speakers at about 30 watts.

DESCRIPTION
The Super is one of a trio of late 50’s amps that were nearly identical except for the transformers and speaker configuration: The Super (2×10), the Pro (1×15), and the Bandmaster (3×10).

The 5F4 Super pairs this classic circuit with two 10″ speakers in a 22″ x 18″ x 10″ cabinet to create a compact and powerful tone machine. Leo re-used this particular circuit over and over for a good reason: It’s pretty close to perfection. The Super delivers warmth, punch, beautiful cleans, and a satisfying grind when cranked up. The original combination of two alnico Jensen P10R’s is a bit under-powered and most vintage amps have been converted to the P10Q. Alnico speakers are a timeless for this amp and never fail to satisfy. But some players prefer one alnico and one ceramic speaker for an even fuller sound with more headroom and punch. The amp can also be built with a 1×12 baffle to open up a world of 12″ speaker options.

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

Base Price                                                             $2100

OPTIONS

Speakers

  • Eminence Legend 1028k                                  No charge
  • Fat Jimmy C1025                                              No charge
  • Your preferred speakers                                    TBD

Output Transformer

  • Soursound SST1848                                        +$80

Capacitors

  • Jupiter Red                                                        +$50

Cabinet

  • Aged lacquer finish                                            +$95

VIDEO DEMO

Here’s a great video from Zac Childs demonstrating a vintage 1959 Super. He provides some history, some sound examples, and some tips on how to use the controls to get the best out of these great amps. Zac is NOT playing a Yorke amp here, but everything he shows you applies to my accurate reproductions.