Supro is a legendary name in the world of guitar amplification, known for its rich history and iconic vintage sound. Founded in the 1930s, Supro has re-emerged in recent years with a range of amplifiers that capture the spirit of their classic designs while incorporating modern features. In this article, we’ll explore the three best Supro amplifiers that cater to vintage tone enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern performance.
- Supro 1695T Black Magick
The Supro 1695T Black Magick is a modern reissue of the classic Supro amp that was closely associated with legendary guitarist Jimmy Page during the early days of Led Zeppelin. With its sleek black Tolex covering and white racing stripes, the Black Magick oozes vintage cool. This 25-watt, 1×12 combo amp is driven by two 6973 power tubes, which provide the distinctive vintage Supro tone.
The Black Magick features two independent channels, Clean and Overdrive, and a unique tremolo circuit that harks back to the original Supro designs of the ’60s. It’s known for its warm and harmonically rich sound, making it ideal for classic rock and blues players who want to capture the magic of the past while enjoying modern reliability.
- Supro 1606 Super
The Supro 1606 Super is a part of Supro’s popular reissue lineup, faithfully recreating the tones of the mid-’60s Supro tube amps. This 5-watt, 1×8 combo amplifier is a compact powerhouse with a vintage charm that appeals to tone purists.
The Super’s simplicity is its strength, with a single volume knob and tone control. This amp boasts a gritty, raw tone that breaks up beautifully when pushed, making it perfect for raunchy blues and classic rock. The Supro 1606 Super is the embodiment of “less is more” and is favored by players who appreciate the simplicity of vintage amplifier designs.
- Supro 1812R Blues King
The Supro 1812R Blues King is a compact, 15-watt, 1×12 combo amp that captures the essence of the golden era of blues amplification. Its vintage styling, featuring a blue rhino hide tolex and white piping, pays homage to the original Supro models of the 1950s.
The Blues King is equipped with a dual 6L6 power section that delivers a full-bodied clean tone with plenty of headroom. It also features a genuine analog spring reverb, providing lush and spacious ambience for your guitar sound. The two-band EQ allows for tonal shaping, making it a versatile option for a variety of musical genres, not just blues.
Conclusion
Supro amplifiers are cherished by vintage tone enthusiasts for their ability to capture the magic of the past while offering the reliability and convenience of modern features. Whether you’re inspired by the legendary Jimmy Page, seek gritty blues tones, or want a classic all-around amplifier with vintage flair, Supro has you covered. The Supro 1695T Black Magick, Supro 1606 Super, and Supro 1812R Blues King all exemplify the brand’s commitment to delivering classic tones and timeless aesthetics. These amps are more than just amplifiers; they are a sonic journey through the rich history of American guitar amplification.
