The “Blackface” era of amplifiers, which originated in the mid-1960s, is revered for its iconic clean tones and lush reverb. Amplifiers from this era, produced by Fender and other manufacturers, have become legendary in the world of guitar amplification. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the world of Blackface-style amplifiers, examining their history, characteristics, and some of the best options available today for achieving that coveted vintage tone.
The Blackface Legacy: A Brief Overview
The term “Blackface” refers to a specific period in Fender amplifier history when amplifiers featured black control panels and white “tailed” amp logo plates. This era, roughly spanning from 1964 to 1967, produced some of the most iconic and beloved amplifiers ever made, including the Fender Deluxe Reverb, Twin Reverb, and Princeton Reverb.
Key characteristics of Blackface-style amplifiers include:
- Clean, Sparkling Tone: Blackface-style amps are celebrated for their pristine clean tones, characterized by shimmering highs, warm mids, and tight lows.
- Reverb and Tremolo: Many Blackface-style amplifiers feature lush, tube-driven reverb and tremolo effects that add depth and character to the sound.
- Tube Amplification: These amps typically use vacuum tubes (valves) in both the preamp and power amp stages, contributing to their distinctive tone.
- Versatility: Blackface-style amps are renowned for their versatility, suitable for a wide range of musical genres from jazz and blues to rock and country.
Best Blackface-Style Amplifiers Available Today:
- Fender ’65 Deluxe Reverb: The ’65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue by Fender is a faithful recreation of the original Blackface Deluxe Reverb. It offers 22 watts of power, onboard reverb, and vibrato. This amp is beloved for its sweet, bell-like clean tones and responsiveness to pedals.
- Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb: A modern twist on the classic Deluxe Reverb, the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb features both vintage and custom channels. The custom channel offers a more “British” tonal character with added gain, while the vintage channel stays true to the Blackface sound.
- Supro 1650RT Royal Reverb: The Supro Royal Reverb is a boutique option inspired by Blackface amplifiers. It offers 35 watts of power, a lush tube-driven reverb, and a genuine tremolo circuit. It captures the essence of vintage tone with a touch of modern refinement.
- Victoria 35210 Deluxe: Victoria Amplifiers crafts hand-wired, vintage-inspired amplifiers, and the 35210 Deluxe is no exception. It’s based on the classic Deluxe Reverb but offers some custom options. These amps are highly regarded for their attention to detail and authentic vintage tone.
- Mesa/Boogie California Tweed: While Mesa/Boogie is known for high-gain amplifiers, their California Tweed series pays homage to the Blackface era. The California Tweed 6V6 4:40 is a 40-watt combo that captures the vintage clean tones with a Mesa twist.
Considerations for Choosing a Blackface-Style Amp:
- Power Rating: Consider your intended use. Smaller amps like the Deluxe Reverb (22 watts) are great for studio and small gigs, while larger amps like the Twin Reverb (85 watts) are better suited for larger venues.
- Vintage vs. Modern: Decide whether you prefer an authentic vintage reissue or a modern interpretation of the Blackface sound with added features.
- Budget: Blackface-style amplifiers can vary significantly in price, so set a budget that aligns with your needs.
- Playing Style: Think about the musical genres you play most often. While Blackface-style amps are versatile, some may suit specific styles better than others.
Conclusion
The allure of Blackface-style amplifiers lies in their timeless clean tones and legendary history. Whether you’re a vintage purist seeking authenticity or a modern player looking for that iconic sound with modern conveniences, there’s a Blackface-style amplifier that can satisfy your tone cravings. Explore the options, test them with your guitar and pedals, and embark on a journey to capture the magic of these iconic amplifiers.