Thanks for the review Jack. These little beasts sound much larger than their dimensions would have you believe. Fender did the right thing by putting a 10" speaker in it and reworking the tone stack ever so slightly. I played one recently at one my 'go to' local stores here in the DFW area and it made my jaw drop for no bigger than it is. The digital hall reverb sounds beautiful, lush and room filling. I suspect these will be a big seller for Fender for some time to come. Well done Fender and Jack Fossett!
I LOVE this little gem of an amp. Literally from go to whoa, the range of tones you pulled from this are second to none. The icing on the cake is that I don't like splashy old-school spring reverbs (so sue me!) and the hall 'verb sounds so neutral & natural. Time to save my pennies...
Nice review. What really impressed me was your last tone demo with the bass & treble controls rolled off and the volume full up. I was expecting a very dull flat sound but instead, hear a great overall tone. Very nice.
Nice demo Jack, thank you. Your playing is very well done. Fender 68 Custom Vibro Champ is the best of the modern Fenders. Great for humbuckers or single coils. I've had a great sounding BF1966 VibroChamp but I like this new one MUCH better. The 10" speaker + Reverb upgrades solves the limitations of the venerable Champ amp. Your tip at the end to cop the tone of the vintage VC is right on: it really does. When you remove treble+bass what's left are: MIDS. Perfect.
Smashed that like button hard bruh…I knew you would love this amp. I’ve had mine a few weeks now and just cannot get enough of it. Sometimes run it in stereo with an ac10 for pure tonal silliness. Great playing mang!!!
Thanks! That sounds like a great setup - how do you go stereo, do you just use a splitter or do you do it with some sort of pedals? Bet that would sound cool with a subtle stereo tremolo or chorus.
I have a tc flashback and hall of fame verb at the end of my pedal chain. So it goes to stereo at that point. It sounds huge. Yes on the subtle trem, I like turning the tremelo on the Vibro champ on and just let it blend into the background with the vox. My neighbor said it sounded good. Guess I better turn it down or close the window. Still want a super reverb, but I really just play at home so probably total overkill. I’ll just listen to you play yours!!!
Jack, just found your channel looking for information on this amplifier. Thank you so much for the excellent technical information and operation of this amplifier! I also really enjoyed you playing style as well! Now subscribe! Looking forward to future videos.
Appreciated the breakdown portion where you go thru the history and tone. Giving a pretty well detail of your thoughts of the amp. Will definitely be picking one up soon.
Great video Jack. I just picked up the new Fender ‘68 custom pro reverb on the suggestion of a friend. I love it, single channel, 1x12 speaker, 40 watts and is only 35 lbs. I think Fender is doing a great job all around. Anyone looking for a twin? It comes with a back brace.
I appreciate your candid thoughts on this amp. I had considered purchasing this amp a few months ago, but with with a Princeton instead because I wasn't sure about the digital reverb. It sounds nice and "shimmery". Nice review and playing!
I bought one of these a few weeks ago and have found it to be an excellent home amplifier. You can get some cranked tones at reasonable volume levels as you noted. Run it with a modest pedal board that includes a Boss Waza Craft Blues Driver and a Fender Santa Ana Overdrive as well as aFender Mirror Image delay pedal. I like its reverb myself, digital or not. Primary guitar is an HSS American Ultra Strat. Very happy with it. I would highly recommend it for home use. It is a lot of fun.
Great review & it does sound nice. I was very interested so I watched/listened & as much as I wanted to want this amp. I then played my Yamaha THR5 & realised that for my intended use (home) the Yamaha covers things perfectly. I also have a Deluxe Reverb & Blues Junior. For home use I find the Yamaha quite inspiring.
Yes I agree the Yamaha Thr5 is what I have too...a fantastic amplifier you should buy a used Vox Pathfinder 15r with the stock 8" bulldog speaker it sounds better then both the Thr5 or the Fender Vibrochamp Reverb
Wonderful! Just came here after watching the 65 vs 68 vid, and I think this sounds the best, straight up and with pedals. Not really a Strat guy either, but the tone here would change my mind.
Hi jack I was fixen to purchase a Princeton reverb tone master amp and I was wondering do you think the fender 68 vibro champ is better? Just playing at home. I’m a country picker.
Oh there could be some amazing Jack Fossett drinking games. Every time I say Now, So, That Being Said, or however. Unfortunately that game may be too dangerous to play. Alcohol poisoning within 5 minutes.
Jack, you do a very good job! Technical information are what the players are looking for and your sound examples are enjoyable to listen to.Fender should offer you a job!
My dad bought me a vibro champ as my first amp around 1980 or so. I can still see that ruby red indicator light. No idea what happened to it. I see them going for like 7-800 bucks now.
Hi there Jack, Couple questions if you wouldn't mind. I finally decided to pick this amp up almost 2 weeks of playing it. Really enjoying it. Except 2 things. The idle hum(not affected by increasing vol) normal or possibly a bad pre amp tube? How loud or quiet is your idle hum? Then 2nd- chasing the low end buzz/rattle. Single coils no humbuckers. Only on a few low notes at 5, then on almost all low notes with volume increased- tightened all the screws i could without pulling chasis and tighting actual speaker screws to the baffle. Also concerned about a bum speaker. Still has metal tube cage. Should remove im guessing. I will be doing that and prolly try anew 12ax7. Sorry for the minor rant. Im desperately curious if your exhibited any of those issues. Thank you kindly for reading. Enjoying listening to you play and discuss gear. Thank you I wanted to add one last thing. If pressure on the cabinet itself suppresses the buz/rattle, is that almost a sure bet that it is a mechanical rattle buzz and not the speaker?
Your channel Sir has become one of my favorites. Not only is your playing great but also you share great information with us. One question for you! I’m looking for a not very loud amp for home. American voiced with great cleans. Should take pedals well. Is this one of the top options? What else would you recommend?
I’ve had one for two years now and though I traditionally prefer BF amps the VCR has been everything I wanted it to be. The 10” speaker is a great choice and I use the Fender BOSS 63 Reverb pedal. I also have it hooked up to a Weber MiniMass attenuator so even in my apartment I can crank it to 10 where I get the most glorious classic Fender overdrive tone with my LP Goldtop with P90s. With a Tele or Strat it’s much more edge of breakup at 10 but still an amazing tone. Basically it’s like a smaller Princeton that you can get to the sweet spot at home.
Bought one 2 weeks ago here in the UK.....currently most shops are out of stock with no idea when new stock will arrive...anyway it's incredible...I've waited years for an amp like this at a reasonable price...your review clearly showed the versatility of the amp and the wide pallet of sounds obtainable...great review.
Got one, love it... Started out with single ended amps and now I am back to them. (do yourself a favor, get a refurbish 8" JBL and fit it) (adapter ring required). Also tried a 10" R & A alnico,.. sweet. Thanks Jack, great video.
I still don't know if I should get the vibro champ or the Princeton...that said I am leaning toward the VC because of the tone to volume ratio. (Mostly home use)
I'd be on the same page with that - I would consider this amp more of a mini Princeton than a classic Vibro Champ. I actually used this one live quite a bit as well mic'd up and it worked great.
@@JackFossett the Princeton is my favorite amp, but for home use it’s way more than I need, so I’m leaning toward the VC. Does the lower head room noticeable effect the tone at relatively lower volumes? For reference, I’m usually playing with some light, pedal-driven dirt and some reverb.
@@foolhardymcpain I went with the Vibro Champ. It doesn’t quite have the openness of a Princeton Silverface, but it’s close enough and does have that small tube vibe. And the Vibrato sounds great. Highly recommend.
Tell me where I am wrong...I played this and the Bassbreaker 15 side by side and bought the Bassbreaker. I found the BB 15 on low gain with the bright switch in sounds bigger and better with the option of higher gain settings. The 12 inch V Type speaker in the BB 15 is light years ahead of the little speaker in the Vibro Champ and the 15 watts gives more clean headroom...just no trem which I have never used on any Fender amp, don't care for it myself. The BB15 is $100 less..
that black strat!! nice.... I have a 1968 that i cannot seem to get in shape- i have a middling understanding of tube amps; I maintain, sometimes mod and revitalize a healthy fleet of vintage blackline boxes ( silverface blackline drip edges 67-68).; but this damn vibro champ... The issue is the attack of nearly every note decays (distorts) - is this just par for the course with champs?, All the voltages check out and i just redid my cap can , changed many 6v6's so it isn't that.. it isn't a rectifier issue either. It is biased on the hot side if anything (bias resistor is in the 600s i believe running around 14 watts- NB. this is the JJ "tough" 6v6). Just putting it out there if anyone has any ideas
I. Have a real ‘69 deluxe trim ring with a tone tubby speaker. Have many others but this one is always on my gigs. Great demo thanks I fave a place for this amp
Hi Jack, thanks for your videos, I love them. I was wondering which one would you recommend to play in a small flat and avoiding a fight with neighbors ? Budget is not a problem. Thank you !
Thank you! Are you opposed to modeling? Modeling amps may be your best bet if you're concerned with volume - an HX rig will get you any tone you could ever dream of and even have headphone options.
@@JackFossett I tend to like the plug and play set up. Don't really like getting too deep into tech with music. HX needs a cab anyway as well no ? My rig won't be close to any computer. The lil 57's champ is on my mind right now, but I prefer the tone of the vibro champ.
I have had this amp for a couple of weeks now and I can’t stop playing it. Thank you Jack for your honest review. My amp sounds just like yours in your video. I have a 5f2 tweed Princeton klone too, and that amp is a a little mellower, just as it should be. I sometimes use a 212 cab with my Vibro Champ Reverb and this setup definetly makes it gig-worthy, even with a loud drummer. Who would have thought, with just 5 watts?
Thanks for doing this, Jack. I have also been waiting to hear and try out this amp. Great demo. Do you have an opinion on a Bluesbreaker-style pedal that would work well with the Vibro Champ? And/or a modest-sweet-bluesy OverDrive pedal?
Sure thing! So one of my favorite BB pedals thats under the radar is the Vick Audio Mount Pleasant. I also love the Snouse BB2 but thats harder to come by and more $$$. Xotic BB has always been a favorite too. Otherwise another pedal that I haven't tried into it yet but will is the Wampler Belle, not a blues breaker, but a beautifully smooth overdrive.
Hi. Very nice review. I would like to ask how much bg-noise should I accept considering its architecture? Or is it quite completely which I would doubt? Thanks in advance
Nice review thanks! I'd love this amp and trying to downsize but worried it couldn't keep up with even a quiet drummer staying clean could it? I'd mic it of course for gigs. Maybe a more efficient speaker may get it up to a louder volume? Should I just get a tweed pro junior instead haha?
This is not an reissue more of a new issue based on the original.. Which really makes it usable... Perfect for home and recording use.. And yes, if you Mike it, you can play a coliseum... ( You would be surprised what's behind those dummy cabs at concerts ) Great little amp. I always wanted reverb on any of my amps.. but that's just me.. Welcome to the 5 watt world...
Thanks! This one is definitely not small or boxy, although it doesn’t get terribly loud. As far as usability I like it quite a bit better than the AC10. The one thing the AC10 has over it would be the gain knob as far as versatility goes, but the quality of tone of this amp is superior IMO
@@JackFossett Ah cheers for replying. I definitely need to just get down to the guitar store and try a load of them out. I've had a Vox AC4C1-12 for ages and it's just so boxy and bright. Felt like I was spending forever trying to mod it or dial in a sound I liked, but I think I've finally admitted defeat. Looking for something that's reasonably versatile but primarily for home use. At the moment it's a toss-up between the Vibro Champ, Blues Jnr, I'll maybe give the Vox AC15 a chance but I'm worried it'll just be a louder AC4 - though it does have the tone cut. Anyway. Thinking out loud. Thanks again for replying.
@@JackFossett Thanks, I already have a prri 65 and I'm trying to get to Chris Stapleton's tone. I can't afford buying his signature model, it's very expensive. Can this one get me there, maybe the prri 68?
Can this amp do Deluxe Reverb type of sounds, how similair or different are these two? Looking to find a low wattage Fender amp for DRRI type of cleanish tones.
@@JackFossett also, what low wattage (5-15watts )Fender would you recommend for DRRI type of tones, is there one to look for? Many thanks for your videos, always so very informative.
@@80daytripper I honestly can't think of one for Deluxe reverb. You may be better off getting a Tone Master if its volume you're concerned about, or using a modeler. The DRRI is a pretty unique beast.
Great question - I think this one is more versatile, but the 57 is probably higher quality being handwired and with a better cab and speaker. It’s actually a nice little microcosm of the whole Tweed vs Blackface amp debate in general. I really want to get my hands on a 57, but push comes to shove, this is the one I’ll probably use more
@@JackFossett I have the 57 but was thinking about selling it so i could buy the 68 when i read the news about them. I also think it i would play it more, but the 57 is just so good looking and fun so ill keep it. But im glad to see someone else play it on a video (Y)
Bad timing, Jack. I just picked up a used Super Champ XD for $100 at a pawn shop. Excellent condition. Score! Anyway, I am liking the XD and the clean 1 channel a lot...Now this little silver face...? Man, the cleans sound crazy good on this amp. I can't justify buying this, but when has justification ever been a deciding factor? I'm going broke...
We have all heard of GAS (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome), but there is also the first relation AAS (Amp Acquisition Syndrome), and the second relation PAS (Pedal Acquisition Syndrome) 😁. Third, fourth and fifth relations are Tone Wood, Strings and Picks 😂. The SCXD is a great amp indeed, I have two, but have to say the speaker variability might explain some online likes/dislikes. SCXD 1 with stock speaker suits me just fine, takes pedals really well into CH1 (clean). SCXD 2 is a bit more harsh; the speaker needs playing in more (the output direct to the speaker in SCXD 1 is great). This might be why people replace the speaker. SCXD 1 has been very reliable (three years regular use, no issues). In contrast, a small all tube amp didn't last long, hence my aversion to paying considerable more for all tube amp. Never say never...one day!
What would be your pick to only have one home amp? Vibro champ or Princeton reverb? I’m also considering the deluxe reverb tone master. My current deluxe reverb is way too loud for home playing for my wife and kids so it never even gets used
My Deluxe Reverb reissue needed a better speaker... and the reverb, although not horrible, is beaten out by reverb pedals.. I've a silver face Super Reverb. It's freshly refurbed... and it has been "blackfaced." I'm still not thrilled with it. I'm probably going to sell it... This amp on a mic should cover any live gig. I used to front a band using a tiny amp with a big sound, on a mic... out front, nobody knew.... occassionaly I was asked, "where's your amp?" Eyes would bug out when I showed them. I really like this amp... big sound for it's size.
Small reverb tanks kind of stink anyway. Once you own an amp with a big tank you don't want a small one. Best spring reverb I have had in an amp was in a Ampeg Reverber Rocker reissue. The amp was not a keeper for me but the reverb was awsome. Small tank vs digital, I will take digital every time.
@@JackFossett The amp was a bit dark. One thing it could do well was the early Tony Iomi tones just plugging straight in with PAFs. no fuzz needed. It weighed like 80lbs. Fun to own for a bit but for me not a keeper.
@@JackFossett Awessome! been thinking on what to get as my first Tube Amp, if it will be the “simple” Pro Jr. or the Vibrochamp or the Custom Princeton Reverb (which you also demoed), since I already have an old fender mustang amp with all the effects and gadgets. Your demos made me consider the silver face amps more, but I guess I will have to try them to really see which of the 3 I like more. I also need to check how they sound at apartment /bedroom volumes. Cheers and love your videos!
So would you recommend it and does it stack up against the old Champs? I'm on the fence about it. The sound of it is amazing but the fact that it is only 5 watts is kinda iffy to me but from what I've seen and heard from this video and other videos, its a useful "back pocket" tool. Am I right?
I’m on the fence about buying this amp myself. The old guys would sit it in a closet and mic it for the sound on stage. It’s great for home and might hang with a drummer, depending on the drummer style. I’m thinking I like this amp but I’ve convinced myself it needs a better speaker. That’s another $150/200 more but it’s the tone in my head. Btw the reverb doesn’t scare me.
My guess would be different components, apart from it just being voiced differently - I’m sure Fender had received plenty of feedback on the 68 Princeton being a bit too bassy. I actually have a 65 vs 68 Princeton video coming this evening
@@JackFossett Thank you for the reply.Most people seem to blame the speaker but I guess that can’t be it.This one doesn’t do it with a ten inch,and my 65 Princeton reissue with a modified 12 inch speaker does do it.I love that amp but some days I wish it wouldn’t do “that” 😂.Looking forward to your Princeton video.
@@mrsoul4231 yeah I’ve used a 68 a handful of times but it’s one I borrow from my friend, so of course I haven’t modded it. I don’t think the Celestion is the best speaker but it doesn’t seem to be the culprit - people I know who have done speaker swaps have said it only minimally effects that bass
looking to purchase a fender tube amp, but why do some many of them not have a middle tone adjustment? Just Bass and Treble? Doesn't that severely limit your tone options?
Heavily modified American Standard. Has Lust for Tone 57 Lustcaster pickups, a Tone Man Guitar Eric Johnson wiring harness, and I swapped the tuners, string tree and pick guard for vintage style ones! Kind of a tribute to Clapton’s Blackie
Hey Big Jack, another classic! love your show! especially when you go from Harvard grad wizz, to 90;s jim carrey mode! lol...Launching a vintage correct wiring harness line, all the right components, just waiting for packaging for it to be official, been doing it for years for friends, family etc. and it bc a monster, word travels! i guess! anywho, id like to send you one soon....I just have some orders to fill, then ill get to it, i respect your work, and opinion...Shoot me an email, let me know which one , 335, lp, sg? Vintage correct down to the cotton beneath the cloth wires..KEEP JAMMIN!
surprised to see a Celestion in a Fender. I wounder how that speaker would sound in a Super Champ x2 ( poor mans Champ ). Upgrade? Those speaker can be had for next to nothing. Great review
First I was just gonna click that like button, then you pulled out that Gretsch and I just had to SMASH it. 😁 After hearing that I most likely have to smash that add to cart -button at the music store next...
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Thanks for watching! What do you think? And please follow me on Spotify!
~ open.spotify.com/artist/6RLQFre2Qp5T454mFR5Ol4
Nice amp. For clean but. How about gritty. Blues. So on
What model start are you using?
strat!
Thanks for the review Jack. These little beasts sound much larger than their dimensions would have you believe. Fender did the right thing by putting a 10" speaker in it and reworking the tone stack ever so slightly. I played one recently at one my 'go to' local stores here in the DFW area and it made my jaw drop for no bigger than it is. The digital hall reverb sounds beautiful, lush and room filling. I suspect these will be a big seller for Fender for some time to come. Well done Fender and Jack Fossett!
Thank you! I agree with all of that. The reverb was really a pleasant surprise.
I LOVE this little gem of an amp. Literally from go to whoa, the range of tones you pulled from this are second to none. The icing on the cake is that I don't like splashy old-school spring reverbs (so sue me!) and the hall 'verb sounds so neutral & natural.
Time to save my pennies...
At last, someone who demos an amp with music we can actually hear ! Instead of mindless noise ! - Subd
I always appreciate it how you demonstrate the Gretsch - and thank you for all of the work you do - your videos are really helpful and entertaining.
Thank you very much!
Mine is arriving today. This video really helped me get a jump start on some tone shaping. Thanks! Sounds awesome.
Nice review. What really impressed me was your last tone demo with the bass & treble controls rolled off and the volume full up. I was expecting a very dull flat sound but instead, hear a great overall tone. Very nice.
Nice demo Jack, thank you. Your playing is very well done. Fender 68 Custom Vibro Champ is the best of the modern Fenders. Great for humbuckers or single coils. I've had a great sounding BF1966 VibroChamp but I like this new one MUCH better. The 10" speaker + Reverb upgrades solves the limitations of the venerable Champ amp. Your tip at the end to cop the tone of the vintage VC is right on: it really does. When you remove treble+bass what's left are: MIDS. Perfect.
Smashed that like button hard bruh…I knew you would love this amp. I’ve had mine a few weeks now and just cannot get enough of it. Sometimes run it in stereo with an ac10 for pure tonal silliness. Great playing mang!!!
Thanks! That sounds like a great setup - how do you go stereo, do you just use a splitter or do you do it with some sort of pedals? Bet that would sound cool with a subtle stereo tremolo or chorus.
I have a tc flashback and hall of fame verb at the end of my pedal chain. So it goes to stereo at that point. It sounds huge. Yes on the subtle trem, I like turning the tremelo on the Vibro champ on and just let it blend into the background with the vox. My neighbor said it sounded good. Guess I better turn it down or close the window. Still want a super reverb, but I really just play at home so probably total overkill. I’ll just listen to you play yours!!!
Jack, just found your channel looking for information on this amplifier. Thank you so much for the excellent technical information and operation of this amplifier! I also really enjoyed you playing style as well! Now subscribe! Looking forward to future videos.
Welcome aboard! It’s a crazy train but always somehow manages to stay on the rails.
Appreciated the breakdown portion where you go thru the history and tone. Giving a pretty well detail of your thoughts of the amp. Will definitely be picking one up soon.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video Jack. I just picked up the new Fender ‘68 custom pro reverb on the suggestion of a friend. I love it, single channel, 1x12 speaker, 40 watts and is only 35 lbs. I think Fender is doing a great job all around. Anyone looking for a twin? It comes with a back brace.
Well I would be but I got my Twin back in the winter. I'm anxious to try out the new Pro, it looks awesome. Perfect gig size.
@@JackFossett Just joking I’m keeping the twin. I think the pro is perfect size too, and seems to work well with pedals.
Looking forward to hear the pro reverb 68 review! Great video as always :)
I appreciate your candid thoughts on this amp. I had considered purchasing this amp a few months ago, but with with a Princeton instead because I wasn't sure about the digital reverb. It sounds nice and "shimmery". Nice review and playing!
Glad it was helpful!
Dude, that intro was beautiful. I’m basically a beginner right now, but one day soon I will be playing like that.
Jack, Thanks for explaining that second channel. I bought this amp recently.
Got to be on of the best Reviewers on youtube Jack.
Thank you! Not sure I deserve that but I'll certainly accept it!
Thanks for the review and tone tips! Always love getting your perspective on gear
Really beautiful clean sounds with all guitars! Thanks for the video
Oh, and very nice playing, BTW.
Thank you kindly!
Smashing the like button - since you insist, naturally. Great reviews!
I appreciate the enthusiastic call to action. It’s all in the style, really. SMASH AAARRRGGHHH I LOVE THIIIISSSSSS
@@JackFossett Yeah, that pretty much sums up how I felt watching this review :)
I bought one of these a few weeks ago and have found it to be an excellent home amplifier. You can get some cranked tones at reasonable volume levels as you noted. Run it with a modest pedal board that includes a Boss Waza Craft Blues Driver and a Fender Santa Ana Overdrive as well as aFender Mirror Image delay pedal. I like its reverb myself, digital or not. Primary guitar is an HSS American Ultra Strat. Very happy with it. I would highly recommend it for home use. It is a lot of fun.
I run my '68 Custom Vibro Champ Reverb also with a Waza Craft Blues Driver. Perfect complement.
Good for pink floyd stuff , with that waza bd2?
Jack, this is maybe the best tone for me till now... Pure clean perfection.
Right? I love that you can get a great clean recording that doesn’t need EQ and compression to sit nicely in a mix
@@JackFossett Exactly! Natural as possible!
Decent size cab makes a big difference for a 5-watter. Nice amp.
Great review & it does sound nice.
I was very interested so I watched/listened & as much as I wanted to want this amp. I then played my Yamaha THR5 & realised that for my intended use (home) the Yamaha covers things perfectly. I also have a Deluxe Reverb & Blues Junior.
For home use I find the Yamaha quite inspiring.
Yes I agree the Yamaha Thr5 is what I have too...a fantastic amplifier you should buy a used Vox Pathfinder 15r with the stock 8" bulldog speaker it sounds better then both the Thr5 or the Fender Vibrochamp Reverb
Wonderful! Just came here after watching the 65 vs 68 vid, and I think this sounds the best, straight up and with pedals. Not really a Strat guy either, but the tone here would change my mind.
Hi jack I was fixen to purchase a Princeton reverb tone master amp and I was wondering do you think the fender 68 vibro champ is better? Just playing at home. I’m a country picker.
Love the silverface Fenders. Good enough for The Beatles.
Right? There's a difference between quality and collectability
I would really like to hear a direct comparison of this vs the Princeton 68 custom and the Priceton 65 reissue.
Take a shot every time Jack says “reverb”. Great video!
Oh there could be some amazing Jack Fossett drinking games. Every time I say Now, So, That Being Said, or however.
Unfortunately that game may be too dangerous to play. Alcohol poisoning within 5 minutes.
I love this amp. Sounds great with a Mad Professor Royal Blue and Lovepedal High Power Tweed Twin.
Jack, you do a very good job! Technical information are what the players are looking for and your sound examples are enjoyable to listen to.Fender should offer you a job!
My dad bought me a vibro champ as my first amp around 1980 or so. I can still see that ruby red indicator light. No idea what happened to it. I see them going for like 7-800 bucks now.
Oh nice! I actually used to go to a weekly blues jam that had an old Vibro mic'd up that we plugged into.
@@JackFossett that might be the one!! Lol
Hi there Jack,
Couple questions if you wouldn't mind. I finally decided to pick this amp up almost 2 weeks of playing it. Really enjoying it. Except 2 things. The idle hum(not affected by increasing vol) normal or possibly a bad pre amp tube? How loud or quiet is your idle hum? Then 2nd- chasing the low end buzz/rattle. Single coils no humbuckers. Only on a few low notes at 5, then on almost all low notes with volume increased- tightened all the screws i could without pulling chasis and tighting actual speaker screws to the baffle. Also concerned about a bum speaker. Still has metal tube cage. Should remove im guessing. I will be doing that and prolly try anew 12ax7. Sorry for the minor rant. Im desperately curious if your exhibited any of those issues. Thank you kindly for reading. Enjoying listening to you play and discuss gear. Thank you
I wanted to add one last thing. If pressure on the cabinet itself suppresses the buz/rattle, is that almost a sure bet that it is a mechanical rattle buzz and not the speaker?
Your channel Sir has become one of my favorites. Not only is your playing great but also you share great information with us.
One question for you! I’m looking for a not very loud amp for home. American voiced with great cleans. Should take pedals well.
Is this one of the top options? What else would you recommend?
Great vid. And the Gretch is pretty sweet. Nice job. Thanks!
I’ve had one for two years now and though I traditionally prefer BF amps the VCR has been everything I wanted it to be. The 10” speaker is a great choice and I use the Fender BOSS 63 Reverb pedal. I also have it hooked up to a Weber MiniMass attenuator so even in my apartment I can crank it to 10 where I get the most glorious classic Fender overdrive tone with my LP Goldtop with P90s. With a Tele or Strat it’s much more edge of breakup at 10 but still an amazing tone. Basically it’s like a smaller Princeton that you can get to the sweet spot at home.
Very comprehensive review! Well done! Many thanks and very appreciated
Bought one 2 weeks ago here in the UK.....currently most shops are out of stock with no idea when new stock will arrive...anyway it's incredible...I've waited years for an amp like this at a reasonable price...your review clearly showed the versatility of the amp and the wide pallet of sounds obtainable...great review.
I'm off to try one today. I want to hear it without all the reverb.
Here you go again, spending all my money...
Great video, Jack.
We aim to bankrupt here at Jack Fossett & Friends 🍻
Got one, love it... Started out with single ended amps and now I am back to them. (do yourself a favor, get a refurbish 8" JBL and fit it) (adapter ring required). Also tried a 10" R & A alnico,.. sweet. Thanks Jack, great video.
Stock speaker back in mine, breaks in nicely... Still love it.
I dig your channel man. 😎✌🏻
I still don't know if I should get the vibro champ or the Princeton...that said I am leaning toward the VC because of the tone to volume ratio. (Mostly home use)
I'd be on the same page with that - I would consider this amp more of a mini Princeton than a classic Vibro Champ. I actually used this one live quite a bit as well mic'd up and it worked great.
@@JackFossett the Princeton is my favorite amp, but for home use it’s way more than I need, so I’m leaning toward the VC. Does the lower head room noticeable effect the tone at relatively lower volumes? For reference, I’m usually playing with some light, pedal-driven dirt and some reverb.
@@mattoneill3909 in the same position as you, Matt! Are you any closer to deciding?
@@foolhardymcpain I went with the Vibro Champ. It doesn’t quite have the openness of a Princeton Silverface, but it’s close enough and does have that small tube vibe. And the Vibrato sounds great. Highly recommend.
Tell me where I am wrong...I played this and the Bassbreaker 15 side by side and bought the Bassbreaker. I found the BB 15 on low gain with the bright switch in sounds bigger and better with the option of higher gain settings. The 12 inch V Type speaker in the BB 15 is light years ahead of the little speaker in the Vibro Champ and the 15 watts gives more clean headroom...just no trem which I have never used on any Fender amp, don't care for it myself. The BB15 is $100 less..
your videos are SO good. thanks for always making quality content.
I am planning to get this but recently UA-cam is suggesting lot of videos for amp simulators where people say they are better than actual amps.
that black strat!! nice.... I have a 1968 that i cannot seem to get in shape- i have a middling understanding of tube amps; I maintain, sometimes mod and revitalize a healthy fleet of vintage blackline boxes ( silverface blackline drip edges 67-68).; but this damn vibro champ... The issue is the attack of nearly every note decays (distorts) - is this just par for the course with champs?, All the voltages check out and i just redid my cap can , changed many 6v6's so it isn't that.. it isn't a rectifier issue either. It is biased on the hot side if anything (bias resistor is in the 600s i believe running around 14 watts- NB. this is the JJ "tough" 6v6). Just putting it out there if anyone has any ideas
Great demo, really informative, solid playing, thanks!!
I. Have a real ‘69 deluxe trim ring with a tone tubby speaker. Have many others but this one is always on my gigs. Great demo thanks I fave a place for this amp
Like button: SMASHED
Thanks for the honest review and another great video.
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Hi Jack, thanks for your videos, I love them. I was wondering which one would you recommend to play in a small flat and avoiding a fight with neighbors ? Budget is not a problem. Thank you !
Thank you! Are you opposed to modeling? Modeling amps may be your best bet if you're concerned with volume - an HX rig will get you any tone you could ever dream of and even have headphone options.
@@JackFossett I tend to like the plug and play set up. Don't really like getting too deep into tech with music. HX needs a cab anyway as well no ? My rig won't be close to any computer. The lil 57's champ is on my mind right now, but I prefer the tone of the vibro champ.
@@tamieu Gotcha - this one is a great bet then. Its kind of a mini Princeton.
With my 1966 jazzmaster I have rha bass at 10 with the treble at 4 and holy smokes it cooks
Great review, fine playing!
I have had this amp for a couple of weeks now and I can’t stop playing it. Thank you Jack for your honest review. My amp sounds just like yours in your video.
I have a 5f2 tweed Princeton klone too, and that amp is a a little mellower, just as it should be.
I sometimes use a 212 cab with my Vibro Champ Reverb and this setup definetly makes it gig-worthy, even with a loud drummer.
Who would have thought, with just 5 watts?
Thanks for doing this, Jack. I have also been waiting to hear and try out this amp. Great demo. Do you have an opinion on a Bluesbreaker-style pedal that would work well with the Vibro Champ? And/or a modest-sweet-bluesy OverDrive pedal?
Sure thing! So one of my favorite BB pedals thats under the radar is the Vick Audio Mount Pleasant. I also love the Snouse BB2 but thats harder to come by and more $$$. Xotic BB has always been a favorite too. Otherwise another pedal that I haven't tried into it yet but will is the Wampler Belle, not a blues breaker, but a beautifully smooth overdrive.
Love the 68 series.
How would you compare this amp to the Blues Jr?
Sounds nice! Great playing as well.
Hi. Very nice review. I would like to ask how much bg-noise should I accept considering its architecture? Or is it quite completely which I would doubt? Thanks in advance
I have this amp it's really beautiful
Nice review thanks!
I'd love this amp and trying to downsize but worried it couldn't keep up with even a quiet drummer staying clean could it? I'd mic it of course for gigs.
Maybe a more efficient speaker may get it up to a louder volume? Should I just get a tweed pro junior instead haha?
This is not an reissue more of a new issue based on the original..
Which really makes it usable...
Perfect for home and recording use..
And yes, if you Mike it, you can play a coliseum...
( You would be surprised what's behind those dummy cabs at concerts )
Great little amp. I always wanted reverb on any of my amps.. but that's just me..
Welcome to the 5 watt world...
Only problem with a digital reverb: Should the chip ever fail, will Fender still have those - let's say in 10-15 years for replacement?
Does this amp have the same bass response as the 68 Princeton? I bought that and it was just too much base.
Jack, where does your Marshall Bluesbreaker rank in your line of amps?
Love the videos. Would you say the amp sounds noticeably small or boxy? How does it compare with something like the AC10?
Thanks! This one is definitely not small or boxy, although it doesn’t get terribly loud. As far as usability I like it quite a bit better than the AC10. The one thing the AC10 has over it would be the gain knob as far as versatility goes, but the quality of tone of this amp is superior IMO
@@JackFossett Ah cheers for replying. I definitely need to just get down to the guitar store and try a load of them out. I've had a Vox AC4C1-12 for ages and it's just so boxy and bright. Felt like I was spending forever trying to mod it or dial in a sound I liked, but I think I've finally admitted defeat. Looking for something that's reasonably versatile but primarily for home use. At the moment it's a toss-up between the Vibro Champ, Blues Jnr, I'll maybe give the Vox AC15 a chance but I'm worried it'll just be a louder AC4 - though it does have the tone cut. Anyway. Thinking out loud. Thanks again for replying.
Man I'm trying to decide between this or the Princeton
So what did you get? 😁
@alinsandu7190 I got the vibrochamp and a few months later I got a tone King imperial mk2 do the vibrochamp has just been sitting with its cover on
great demo of a great amp
I see a bunch of pedals on top of amp…what pedals are you using.?
Awesome!
There is a limited amount of speakers available for replacement. It has a 10" Celestion® 3.2 ohm speaker.
I switched to a 4ohm Weber 10A125p and loved it
@@JackFossett
Thanks, I already have a prri 65 and I'm trying to get to Chris Stapleton's tone. I can't afford buying his signature model, it's very expensive.
Can this one get me there, maybe the prri 68?
No disrespect but I love how dude makes wah wah face without wah. ✌🏻great amp
Can this amp do Deluxe Reverb type of sounds, how similair or different are these two? Looking to find a low wattage Fender amp for DRRI type of cleanish tones.
This amp is very different than a deluxe - it doesn't have that edgy percussiveness that a Deluxe has.
@@JackFossett ok many thanks, I appreciate.
@@JackFossett also, what low wattage (5-15watts )Fender would you recommend for DRRI type of tones, is there one to look for? Many thanks for your videos, always so very informative.
@@80daytripper I honestly can't think of one for Deluxe reverb. You may be better off getting a Tone Master if its volume you're concerned about, or using a modeler. The DRRI is a pretty unique beast.
Hi,for playing pink floyd and jimi hendrix srv this amp fender vibrochamp is good ?
???
Hey Jack, you mention that this is a quiet amp but is it loud enough at 5watts clean to fill a living room playing with a pianist?
Definitely
Compare to Fender Pro Junior Tweed, which one do you think for small amp for home ? I already princeton 65 ri, but its kinda loud to reach break up.
Definitely this - the Pro Jr will be right around the same volume as the Princeton
what do you think about it compared with a 57 custom champ? They are both champs after all, so fair to ask. Great video!
Great question - I think this one is more versatile, but the 57 is probably higher quality being handwired and with a better cab and speaker. It’s actually a nice little microcosm of the whole Tweed vs Blackface amp debate in general. I really want to get my hands on a 57, but push comes to shove, this is the one I’ll probably use more
@@JackFossett I have the 57 but was thinking about selling it so i could buy the 68 when i read the news about them. I also think it i would play it more, but the 57 is just so good looking and fun so ill keep it. But im glad to see someone else play it on a video (Y)
@@bawanhardi9359 ua-cam.com/video/8Tr_FXw8VmI/v-deo.html
@@ItsJustRyan89 Thnx!
I built a BF Champ and a 5F1, and , to my ears the 5F1 is darker sounding.
Great video per usual!
Bad timing, Jack. I just picked up a used Super Champ XD for $100 at a pawn shop. Excellent condition. Score! Anyway, I am liking the XD and the clean 1 channel a lot...Now this little silver face...? Man, the cleans sound crazy good on this amp. I can't justify buying this, but when has justification ever been a deciding factor? I'm going broke...
Oh nice! Wow thats a great deal - those Super Champ XDs were amazing. Best underrated amps out there.
We have all heard of GAS (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome), but there is also the first relation AAS (Amp Acquisition Syndrome), and the second relation PAS (Pedal Acquisition Syndrome) 😁. Third, fourth and fifth relations are Tone Wood, Strings and Picks 😂. The SCXD is a great amp indeed, I have two, but have to say the speaker variability might explain some online likes/dislikes. SCXD 1 with stock speaker suits me just fine, takes pedals really well into CH1 (clean). SCXD 2 is a bit more harsh; the speaker needs playing in more (the output direct to the speaker in SCXD 1 is great). This might be why people replace the speaker. SCXD 1 has been very reliable (three years regular use, no issues). In contrast, a small all tube amp didn't last long, hence my aversion to paying considerable more for all tube amp. Never say never...one day!
Tough decisions call for tough solutions! Get em both.
What would be your pick to only have one home amp? Vibro champ or Princeton reverb? I’m also considering the deluxe reverb tone master. My current deluxe reverb is way too loud for home playing for my wife and kids so it never even gets used
Vibro is better for home use, it’s like a mini Princeton - but the Tone Masters are super versatile
'68 Vibro Champ Reverb over a Princeton. You can crank the Champ a bit, the Princeton will still be too loud for your family situation.
My Deluxe Reverb reissue needed a better speaker... and the reverb, although not horrible, is beaten out by reverb pedals..
I've a silver face Super Reverb. It's freshly refurbed... and it has been "blackfaced." I'm still not thrilled with it. I'm probably going to sell it...
This amp on a mic should cover any live gig. I used to front a band using a tiny amp with a big sound, on a mic... out front, nobody knew.... occassionaly I was asked, "where's your amp?" Eyes would bug out when I showed them.
I really like this amp... big sound for it's size.
Small reverb tanks kind of stink anyway. Once you own an amp with a big tank you don't want a small one. Best spring reverb I have had in an amp was in a Ampeg Reverber Rocker reissue. The amp was not a keeper for me but the reverb was awsome. Small tank vs digital, I will take digital every time.
I tend to agree with you. Reverberocket is an amp I used to play at a local blues jam I went to years ago, I’ve wanted one ever since.
@@JackFossett The amp was a bit dark. One thing it could do well was the early Tony Iomi tones just plugging straight in with PAFs. no fuzz needed. It weighed like 80lbs. Fun to own for a bit but for me not a keeper.
Hey Jack! I've been watching your videos for a long time, your playing is great! But one question, how do you record your guitars? They sound awesome!
Oh thanks! I record in stereo and use an SM57 and a Blue Encore 200 with a Presonus interface.
@@JackFossett oh cool! Thanks, I wanted to learn how to record and this is very helpful!
Why do neither of your telecasters have a pickup selector switch knob? Did you let some customers from Guitar Center into your house?
They were confused and just wandered in, asking whether or not the Digitech Grunge is true bypass 🤷♂️
aside from earlier breakup, reverb and volume, what is this like tone wise compared to 68 and 65 Princeton
Tonally it would be much closer to the 65 actually. It doesn’t have that big bassy warmth that the 68 has.
So, the trem is after the verb?
Nice demo! Have you ever tried a Pro Junior?
I have! Very fun amps
@@JackFossett Awessome! been thinking on what to get as my first Tube Amp, if it will be the “simple” Pro Jr. or the Vibrochamp or the Custom Princeton Reverb (which you also demoed), since I already have an old fender mustang amp with all the effects and gadgets. Your demos made me consider the silver face amps more, but I guess I will have to try them to really see which of the 3 I like more. I also need to check how they sound at apartment /bedroom volumes. Cheers and love your videos!
So would you recommend it and does it stack up against the old Champs? I'm on the fence about it. The sound of it is amazing but the fact that it is only 5 watts is kinda iffy to me but from what I've seen and heard from this video and other videos, its a useful "back pocket" tool. Am I right?
I’m on the fence about buying this amp myself.
The old guys would sit it in a closet and mic it for the sound on stage. It’s great for home and might hang with a drummer, depending on the drummer style. I’m thinking I like this amp but I’ve convinced myself it needs a better speaker.
That’s another $150/200 more but it’s the tone in my head. Btw the reverb doesn’t scare me.
Nice demo, but I don’t see the amp while playing
Why doesn’t the bass get flubby like a Princeton would? Anyone know?
My guess would be different components, apart from it just being voiced differently - I’m sure Fender had received plenty of feedback on the 68 Princeton being a bit too bassy. I actually have a 65 vs 68 Princeton video coming this evening
@@JackFossett Thank you for the reply.Most people seem to blame the speaker but I guess that can’t be it.This one doesn’t do it with a ten inch,and my 65 Princeton reissue with a modified 12 inch speaker does do it.I love that amp but some days I wish it wouldn’t do “that” 😂.Looking forward to your Princeton video.
@@mrsoul4231 yeah I’ve used a 68 a handful of times but it’s one I borrow from my friend, so of course I haven’t modded it. I don’t think the Celestion is the best speaker but it doesn’t seem to be the culprit - people I know who have done speaker swaps have said it only minimally effects that bass
The main reason for the flubiness in the Princeton is the underrated power supply and phase inverter used . But that’s the sound of that amp 👍
looking to purchase a fender tube amp, but why do some many of them not have a middle tone adjustment? Just Bass and Treble? Doesn't that severely limit your tone options?
What strat is that? 😍
Heavily modified American Standard. Has Lust for Tone 57 Lustcaster pickups, a Tone Man Guitar Eric Johnson wiring harness, and I swapped the tuners, string tree and pick guard for vintage style ones! Kind of a tribute to Clapton’s Blackie
@@JackFossett sounds amazing and your channel is the best when it comes to gear demos can’t wait to see what’s up next :)
Jack, help meh!!! The vibro champ, tweed BJR iv, or 65 Princeton?!
Great video!!
Princeton if you can afford it. Tweed BJR if you gig, Vibro for more home use or small gigs.
@@JackFossett thanks!! Of course, I have a Bordeaux Super Champ X2, but I get itchy, so……Hahaha!!
Hey Big Jack, another classic! love your show! especially when you go from Harvard grad wizz, to 90;s jim carrey mode! lol...Launching a vintage correct wiring harness line, all the right components, just waiting for packaging for it to be official, been doing it for years for friends, family etc. and it bc a monster, word travels! i guess! anywho, id like to send you one soon....I just have some orders to fill, then ill get to it, i respect your work, and opinion...Shoot me an email, let me know which one , 335, lp, sg? Vintage correct down to the cotton beneath the cloth wires..KEEP JAMMIN!
It's been SMASHED, feel the pain/joy good sir.
@7:40 to 8:20
Hi Jack. John mayall. Was a good blues musician. Mr. Cencor man oder so ähnlich.?
surprised to see a Celestion in a Fender. I wounder how that speaker would sound in a Super Champ x2 ( poor mans Champ ). Upgrade? Those speaker can be had for next to nothing. Great review
Spring is King!....in older amps
First I was just gonna click that like button, then you pulled out that Gretsch and I just had to SMASH it. 😁
After hearing that I most likely have to smash that add to cart -button at the music store next...
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