First, why you want this one. SAFETY; this unit has been updated to "Fuse-First" so no matter what there is a fuse to protect you. Factory units run the hot from the AC Mains to the power switch and transformer before the fuse. MODifications; this amp has Cranky's exclusive Master Volume mod. It preserves the factory circuit values when the control is set to 10. When you drop the volume you still get great tone all the down to a speaking volume, unlike other master volumes and even high-end power-soaks. 6G16 power supply component values. This mod eliminates the factory error that eats rectifier tubes, and restores the compression levels and "feel" that the original circuit had. RELIABILITY; this amp had its power supplies rebuilt yesterday Sept 10 2025. The highest quality components that could fit were used for each filter. The Bias power supply cap is rated for high temperature, high ac ripple (and its in a half wave rectifier circuit so its getting the dickens every moment) and long life cap specification trifecta!
Next, in general, these amps are built to such a high specifications that they can be considered "heirloom quality". They truly are $4000 amps, all day long, why? Specifically, there are no printed wire boards, the full size pots are mounted to the chassis, as are the high quality tube sockets! That means infinitely serviceable construction, and smaller labor costs when things do need maintenance or repair. Next, on the rear panel you have selectable rectifier type; 50W solid-state "diode" and 40W tube rectifier (5ar4/gz34). Fender gave a factory Mod switch where up= normal, down = kill the non reverb channel and kill the vibrato, and boost the reverb channel. It is a very useful boost sound and makes the amp feel more connected, like you are standing closer to it. The SS mode on the rectifier make the amp have more bite, useful in getting that chime.
IMO I don't like 15" speakers, they are tubby and dead sounding, failing even as a favorite when playing bass, but this 15" suffers from none of that! It sounds and feels like a really good 12".
With the tilt-back legs you probably wont miss the upper back panel. She comes with a soft aftermarket cover.
I ship "skid-carton" so you have a glued wooden frame top and bottom, and then double corrugated to meet all insurance requirements. I have never had an amp get damaged in shipping, though anything can happen. If it does you need to keep the packaging so you can make a claim with the carrier. Tubes are never taken out between gigs, when flying amps overseas, or when amps are made - and I'm not going to take them out to ship you the amp. They are far safer in the amp sockets as long as nothing can shift around during shipping, and it wont.
The amp is here in my shop and can be played as loud and long as you want.
Cranky's
375 West St
Mansfield, MA 02048 show contact info
Mon-Fri 12-8 EST