1967 Fender Vibrolux Reverb with a Lazy Tremolo and too much Background Noise

In this video we will reduce the unacceptably high background noise and pep up the lazy tremolo in a really nice BF 1967 Fender Vibrolux Reverb. Both of these complaints seem rather common, so hopefully this video will provide some solutions for viewers. In addition there is a discussion on output tube mismatch.
If you enjoy videos such as this one, please SUBSCRIBE to our channel and consider becoming a Patreon patron at / uncledougsvintageamps or making a PayPal contribution to [e-mail]. The kitties and I would really appreciate it :) In addition, Patrons get early access to all our videos and sole access to the original audio demo music files.
NOTE: During the entire audio demo, the NFB was switched "off", providing some early breakup at the rather modest volume setting of 3 in the final three tunes. I felt that the slightly mismatched output tubes sounded great and left them in the amp.

[@Attack16]

Sir, I appreciate all of your content and subtle humor. You bring a lot of positivity to a very negative world. Been a big fan for years, and I just wanted to say thank you.

[@foorje]

Yeah, I don't have time to watch Dough all the time but every now and then I sit down and just enjoy it for the ride. Would love to be able to work with audio in my job as well, but alas, maybe another year.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, A16. We're really glad to hear it :)

[@ClarenceHW]

In total agreement with you.

[@J.C...]

Woooo! Uncle Doug! Hope you're doing well, sir! 🙏

[@UncleDoug]

Never better, JC. Thanks :)

[@pennykattack5789]

I gotta tell you, UD... I've ben trying to watch to other amps' repair channels, but can't stand them. One is self-centered, other is too shallow, other is too "look at my lab's gear", etc. Could not find anyone on "KZbinland" that could pair with you. Your knowledge, including in History, Geography, Philosophy and (of course) your delicate humorous comments are unbeatable. Your Euphemisms for rats' urine/droppings are to die for. You, Sir, are irreplaceable. I wish I were one of your students back then when you were a teacher. Thank you for this new video and all lessons taught. My sincere thanks.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....Thanks for all the very nice comments, PK.

[@matthewsmith8066]

Thanks so much for the work on my amp Uncle Jack! It sounds fantastic. A little more history on the amp - I'm the second owner. The original owner put the amp in a closet in 1974, where it stayed until I bought the amp. I suspect the power transformer was blown at that time. I do have the original transformer, but it likely needs to be rewound. I'm not sure if it's worth the time and effort to do that, but welcome feedback.

[@UncleDoug]

I wish I had received the old PT with the amp, Matt, to confirm whether or not it was at fault. If you intend to keep and use the amp, I would say that remaining as-is would be fine. If you ever wished to sell it for maximum price, then rewinding would probably be financially advisable.

[@-dazz-]

@@UncleDoug Is it just me or the collectable market is a bit absurd? I mean, that's a perfectily good PT replacement as far as I know. I understand that original components in vintage amps are desirable for collectors, but that amp is going to have plenty other non original components anyway. What's so special about vintage transformers?

[@UncleDoug]

Obsession with originality is common to collectors of all sorts of items, D. I recall, as a youthful stamp collector, being astounded that the nearly invisible trace of a stamp hinge on the rear of a collectible stamp reduced its value significantly. I suggest taking advantage of this nonsense by buying up every classic vintage guitar and amp you can find that is highly discounted over some minor discrepancy that does not actually affect their function. @@-dazz-

[@chriswareham]

Interesting to compare the fantastic condition of this 1967 Fender to the Bassman that Psionic Audio has just posted a video about on his channel. That one allegedly came from a shed in Mississippi, but judging by the rust had actually been in the Mississippi River!

[@UncleDoug]

Other viewers have mentioned the amp, Chris. I wonder if river crust is more disgusting than a half-inch of rat feces, urine, and matted fur (see one of my Silvertone videos).

[@mj-dd2fb]

We got a shot of Uncle Doug doing his Wilson impression from Home Improvement! BRAVO!!!

[@UncleDoug]

I am still awaiting word from the Emmy Nomination Committee regarding that performance, MJ.

[@Ireland831]

Hi Uncle Doug....love your vids..please keep them coming. FYI that resistor you tested at 18:45 the color band is GREEN not BLACK. I think that one was testing properly and found its way into your 100K resistor pile.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, I.

[@turnbullfl4114]

@@UncleDoug I saw that too. Please double check if you haven't already emptied the trash can. The one on the right was obviously black, not so much the other one.

[@UncleDoug]

Will do, T :)

[@kimmassey6596]

Wow. Another Uncle Doug video in less than two weeks. Thanks so much.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Kim. With another one in the oven. It's feast or famine around here :)

[@I.M.Guitar-Nerd]

Two videos in as many weeks, we're being spoiled!

[@UncleDoug]

.....and another one on the way !!!

[@stratfanstl]

Interesting day in the Fender amp repair mines. Psionic had a 67 Bassman that looked like it was stored in a swamp. Uncle Doug, on the other hand, has what looks like a well taken care of time machine show up.

[@UncleDoug]

My heroic rescue of amps from the swamp......or rat's nest.....are hopefully in the past, Strat.

[@DeadKoby]

I had a Bandmaster come to my shop that "didn't sound right"....... and I sort of didn't want to play that game. Turns out the power transformer was replaced (years ago) with something that didn't really match up well with the amp. I swapped that out with a Weber transformer used in their clone kit, and restored any mods to stock. That did the trick.

[@UncleDoug]

Old repairs can be a huge source of misery for a tech, DK, especially if they are aged and inconspicuous.

[@DeadKoby]

@@UncleDoug This repair was OBVIOUS (to me) as they had deleted the rectifier tube and popped in diodes. There was no 5v winding.

[@UncleDoug]

Yep.....That would definitely be a clue ;)

[@Antony_Jenner]

Olli and Jack sound like they have been practicing and that reverb and tremolo sound awesome. I was given a Goldentone 1755 (Rose Morris, Melbourne Australia 1964) and have nearly finished the restoration. All of the problems you faced were present in my amp but now thanks to the magic of television it's all working great unlike me who was built in 1964 also. Thanks Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Antony.

[@CornishMiner]

A most enjoyable Sunday morning diversion. Best wishes from Cornwall, UK.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, CM :)

[@montygore1200]

Talking about the difference in tubes. I took the 12ax7 and replaced with an at7. This was done in an old Drake t4 transmitter. It smoothed the audio out so much every ham with this transmitter wanted to overhaul theirs like I did my buddy's radio. I had a lot of fun with this but did tell the truth about what I did. I love being a pain in the butt.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, Monty :)

[@framusburns-hagstromiii808]

Another great job! Kudos! From my time, back in the day,At tech school...old timer repairmen would never throw out a functionng tube, even if weak, as long as it worked because, just as you demonstrated, a tube not working optimally in one circuit might serve just fine in another. Tubes 'wear-in', sort-of self-adjust to the circuit they live in. Old time TV repair men would always have a stash of 'take-out' tubes for that reason. .might solve a problem without needing a new tube..maybe save the customer some $$ and get a set back in service without having to go back to the shop or order something....ahhhh those were the days.. wink.. wink!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FH, for both the nice comments and the interesting story.

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

Darn youtube has failed to keep your videos in my feed... I finally manually go to your channel and find a wonderful batch of new vids to watch. This one hits home for me, as this IS the model of amp I have lived with since late autumn of 1968. You may recall my mentioning mine in other comments.. It has one Oxford and one Jensen, mixed up at the dealer, Beaverton Music, at the request of the first buyer. Mine is still all original mint condition, dead stock except for upgrading the wire and RCA plugs on the footswitch. Like this one, it is CBS labeled on the rear, but still a blackface, so made in that time period after Leo sold in 1966, and the amps were changed in late 67 or early 68. I have been collecting parts to do a full service on it, so it will be ready to serve my son for another half century after I pass from this world. It will receive also a grounded power cord, and the switched NFB modification. Lovely to see this Vibrolux.. It is a wonderful device, ... in my humble opinion, the peak of Fender amps for all time.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for sharing your valuable knowledge and insight with us, Jennifer. I'm sorry about the KZbin snafu......hopefully, the situation will improve.

[@goodun2974]

Mario the rescue cat sounds a lot like the rescue cat we had named Elvis. Elvis started out as 13 pounds of muscle, a cruisin', bruisin', lean mean rock and roll machine who used to stay outside much of the time getting into fights and trouble, and fathering litters, and then coming home battered and bruised so we could patch him up. By middle age he was missing a few teeth, had a couple notches of flesh missing from his ears, and yes he drooled. He used to climb up on my chest when I was reclined in the lazy boy chair watching TV and he would purr ---- more of a Harley rumble really ----- while he pawed at me and drooled on my shirt. In his later years he became the Las Vegas version of Elvis and ballooned up to 18 pounds.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, GU :)

[@lonniehowell2360]

Now, *that's* the proper way to pack something for shipping!

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Lonnie :)

[@kendavis8046]

As always, thank you Uncle Doug! Always a bonus when I find that you have posted a new video. Personal note, the arthritis in my hands has gotten a bit better, and I find I can play guitar again. Alas, no better than I ever could, but it is good to be getting calluses on my fingers again.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ken. Good news......I wish I could say the same about my own hands.

[@kendavis8046]

@@UncleDoug It's a good thing you have those cats in the back line! 🙂

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, indeed. They have been my salvation :)

[@lorenzo6mm]

Wow I think the tubes not so balanced made a difference. The tones a 5 o'clock Volume consistent, the amp sounds Fantastic. What a sweet old sound with or without reverb and tremolo. Maybe a couple of tremolo examples matching tempos to tunes a little more, and even dead slow would show off the THROB factor A little more. But I get the feeling that amp is a one of kind sixties beauty. Well done. Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing your insights, Lorenzo :)

[@johannmuller5498]

Thanks Uncle Doug for reminding me to check the resisters in my hi-fi tube amp. It is a good 10 years now since I built it and the noise floor has been climbing slowly over time. Suspect carbon resistors are a very likely culprit..

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, Johann. Carbon comp resistors do not age well ;)

[@tater9384]

Excellent choice of tunes for the Sonic Escapades!!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed them, Tater :)

[@danielhalvorsen542]

Thanks as always Uncle Doug! I learn more in 20 minutes of one of your videos than hours of others!

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, Daniel :)

[@ant1sokolow]

As other stated i'm happy to view another vid that soon.. This amp had been packaged so good into this bespoke wood frame. People learn things, watching to your vids.. I remember you talked about output tubes mismatch. I tend to believe this theory, altough i didn't have enough experience for a sound opinion.. A bientôt.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks :) When ordering new tubes, I get matched pairs, Ant, but when assessing used tubes, around 10% mismatch is acceptable.

[@nickdevriese]

Doug… You are my favorite inspiration and cannot thank you enough for sharing your wisdom. Years of learning. (Disclaimer: For my own amplifiers as a hobby). So much knowledge… I can’t thank you enough.

[@UncleDoug]

We appreciate your kind words, Nick.

[@ix-Xafra]

Great to see more of your work! When you moved the reverb tank to see if it worked, I exclaimed, 'surf's up!' Peace, Love and Brown Rice from Brisbane...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Vinny. I wish the surf was up here......to reduce the ungodly heat.

[@EricEasterling-o6r]

I have been viewing your videos for many years and wanted to say that your guitar playing has improved so very much. I'm 68 yo and your playing and improvement gives me hope that I might, with no experience playing an instrument, be able to learn to play a 3 string guitar. May God continue to bless you Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, User. All credit goes to Ollie & Jack :)

[@20x20Ghost]

love your show I wish I could take a pill with your knowledge and become a true genious like yourself Uncle Doug you rock!!! Thanks for your show

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, 20x20. Thanks :)

[@Bob-Whiting]

Sounds great, I think the owner will be very happy with the job! (as per usual!) Thank you so very much for sharing this with us.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, MM. His comment is above. He seems quite pleased.

[@Bob-Whiting]

@@UncleDoug 👍

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

Red hot here in the UK. It's great to be sitting out in the sun drinking a beer and watching this!! Thanks Uncle Doug! Rich

[@UncleDoug]

It's been like living in a blast furnace here, Rich. Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@jonathanhorne6503]

My hunch, the unidentified tube was a 12AU7 and not an AX7, they often look the same. Fenders need the gain to get the oscillation going. I’ve experimented with this before and your issue agrees with my finding.

[@UncleDoug]

You may be right, Jon.

[@stevenclarke5606]

I look forward to Uncle Doug Videos! Best Entertaining, amp technical on KZbin

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Steve.

[@slyfoxx2973]

Gotta love all the different packing configurations! (perhaps kitty treats? we'll see) Old Fenders are really tough but good packing is important. In a moment of what not to do, I remember "fixing" my old pro reverb by flipping it over in a 360 degree frustration maneuver. Evidently this fixed the solder joint on the rectifier tube for a spell and allowed me to continue much to my amazement! But this temporary bodge proved wanting and a professional like Uncle Doug was eventually employed to set things right. 'Ol Bessie still functions correctly some 28 years later but could use a tune up. Wanna 73' on your bench?

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, Sly. Message me on FB: Uncle Doug's Vintage Amps to discuss repairs.

[@rhoneranger549]

Thank you again for all the knowledge, humor and love for nature and critters! Several years back one of my favorite music stores and instrument repair shops went out of business due to re-routing of massive transit construction .... , and I did pick up a copy of "The Tube Amp Book (Aspen Pittman) for a few bucks. Not only does this book contains an in-depth history of tube amps, but also has many schematics of vintage tube amps. Out of curiosity I looked up the AA864 schematic and found it! It was actually one of the Fender Bassman circuits.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, RR. The AP book is legendary :)

[@MichaelSmith-rn1qw]

What a beautiful amp! I'm surprised the previous tech didn't replace the screen grid and grid stopper resisters, as that seems to be a pretty standard thing to do when servicing an amp. Good info on why carbon comp resistors crackle and pop when they start to drift.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mike. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@MegaTubescreamer]

Now you have righted its previous flaws, the whole package stands on its own, staggeringly good tone like this is enough! thanks for sharing your work uncle doug, 👍

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Mega :)

[@motorosso3349]

Doug, the more I hear your demos, the more I appreciate your playing talent. Keep it up!

[@UncleDoug]

I'll tell Ollie & Jack, MR. Will do :)

[@michaelogden5958]

Uncle Doug videos always make my day better. Thanks, Uncle Doug! Ye Olde Vibrolux Reverb now sounds plenty fine to me!

[@UncleDoug]

Good news for me and the kitties, Mike. Thanks !!

[@timothyandrews2157]

Hi Uncle Doug, It's been too long since I've watched one of your videos. I've been so busy with house, yard, guitar and vehicle repairs I haven't worked on an amp a year or so. This one caught my eye as I own a '66 V.R. that you helped me diagnose and work on in previous vids. This is a great one as well. I'm so glad I watched, it was comforting to hear your voice again and now I think it's time to get back to my amps. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge in such an unselfish manor.👍

[@UncleDoug]

You're quite welcome, Tim. We missed you :)

[@gao1258]

Thanks Uncle Doug! after a long day at work my 60 plus y.o. bones certainly enjoy a cold brew(or 2) and an Uncle Doug vid! this vid plus the Vibroverb episode (man what a beautiful amp that was) has me pining for a Fender 2x10 combo!...well I will build a clone if I can't afford/find an original, but first ...lol...I have to start my practical electronics build education with some pedals....I can't wait to build and work on Amps! thanks again for all your help, humor and education !

[@gao1258]

p.s. ...do you have the schematic for Furslugginer model AZ729 from 1960? JK JK !! lol

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, GAO. Yes, I have contracted with the Library of Congress to release a poster-sized version of that schematic, suitable for framing. It's free.....but the shipping and handling are $150 ;)

[@markcaruana7233]

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. For the tech, the laughs, the humanity. ✌🏼😎👍🏼

[@UncleDoug]

3(You're Welcome), Mark :)

[@alexdeleon7135]

A informative history on the intricacies of the famed Vibrolux. When combined with the troubleshooting, and corrective action(s), this episode was incredible. Well done as always, dear Uncle. I look forward to this departure from the norm of your channel. Until then, stay safe and in abundant health.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Alex. We're working on some "fresh material" :)

[@alvagoldbook2]

Always good to see a new Uncle Doug vid. I’m about to repair a ‘67 bandmaster. The owner purchased it new and it’s never been serviced except to have it’s bias adjusted. Anyway, a story about resistor drift. I once put in a 100 ohm B+ dropping resistor right after a solid state rectifier. My idea was to mimic a tube rectifier. Well I install it and the amp acts funny. I get only a few volts on the plate of the first preamp tube. I measure that 100 ohm resistor and it had drifted up to around 5 megaohms. 😂 Basically, I failed to calculate the current and put in a resistor who’s wattage was severely under valued. And this despite that it was a metal oxide resistor. I think that resistors generally tend to increase in resistance as they fail. Carbon comps may heat up and crack, but I think film and oxide resistors probably begin to fuse, or internally melt, and the resistance goes up. I had a similar experience with a ‘66 Schumacher output transformer. It failed and the CT to one of the primary wires to the plate read 6,000 ohms while the other side read 78 ohms. My guess is that the coil began to melt, fusing together and the resistance increased.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your helpful input, Alva.

[@jaysorensenIBEW]

Unsurprising to me, I always learn something from these adventures. This one has me eyeballing a Vibrolux of my own, soon. Glad you're in good health, UD, and you and your furry friends keep rockin'. We will all be here to join in the fun. Kudos!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jay :)

[@bobtortorici2756]

I always enjoy your videos Uncle Doug, and like your kittys on catnip, can't wait for more. Great sounding, classic amp. Glad to know you're busy and doing well. Take care.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bob. A new video is in the works.

[@shalmanezer4193]

Nice work, Uncle Doug. Ollie & Jack were channelling BIlly Bragg on that last sample. Tasty!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Shal. Glad you liked it.

[@stratcat4450]

Thank you so much Uncle Doug. This is a fantastic video, an such a treat to have you put it out so quickly after the Wurlitzer viedo. That amps tones are to die for an the kittys are sounding like rockstars! I do wish Jackie would step back up an start helping protect you with his perfunctorily sniff tests! God bless you Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, SC. I promise to show Jack more in the future :)

[@tomstiel7576]

I miss the cat scans as well !!!!

[@stratcat4450]

@@UncleDoug well I'm sure we both know our kitties won't do anything they aren't in the mood to do. Ha ha

[@UncleDoug]

Then we'll have to wake Jack up next time a box arrives ;)

[@stratcat4450]

@@UncleDoug yes. Hopefully curiosity will over. ride his need to catnap!

[@michaelshown1362]

Your videos are always the most interesting and never fail to entertain and inform. I know I will never be doing amp overhauls in my remaining lifetime but I never fail to learn something from you with each presentation. Thank you. My 66 Super Reverb that you repaired for me is still sounding fantastic, Thanks again.

[@UncleDoug]

That's great news, Michael. Thanks so much :)

[@stevehead365]

Ollie and Jack have been practicing, it shows.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Steve. I'll tell them :)

[@soulgamblers]

I love the Vibrolux and I love your videos. Stay safe and healthy!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks twice, SG. Will do :)

[@ScottyBrockway]

Great video again Uncle Doug. I also found that ceramic caps and cheap mica caps can cause snap crackle pops too, and also can be microphonic.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott. Indeed :)

[@brucepickess8097]

Hi Uncle Doug. Just a bit of info about "Resistor Noise" it's quite a technical subject however I found this which might be of interest - All resistors emit some amount of noise when there is a current across them. This is known as Johnson or thermal noise. Audio noise generated by resistors results from the motion of electrons within the resistor, which creates an unwanted AC signal which gets superimposed over the primary signal. The motion of the electrons generates the resistor noise within the resistors. In general, there are 2 types of resistor noise, namely thermal noise and current noise. Thermal noise is usually the main contributor to resistor noise. The movement of electrons causes thermal noises. As the temperature increases, the motion of electrons increases, hence increasing the thermal noise produced. However, current noise decreases when the frequency and movement of electrons increase, unlike thermal noise. Also, thermal noise increases with a larger resistance value, whereas current noise decreases when resistance increases. 😏👍🇬🇧

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for this helpful info, Bruce. The troublesome noise most associated with carbon comp (CC) resistors is the loud popping and rustling sound heard in many vintage circuits. While thermal noise is an inescapable (and generally very minor) issue with audio circuits, CC-induced noise is not, and is easily remedied by replacement.

[@captainfineweather5610]

One day later: Now you did it. I will have "Tangerine" as an earworm for days. Not the worst thing to happen though...

[@jonnybeck6723]

Hey-oh Uncle Doug... So nice to see you posting Hope all is well

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jonny. Just living the dream :)

[@matthewf1979]

Fantastic amps! Hope you and the kitties are doing well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Matt :) Never better :)

[@preiter20]

I forced myself to wait until the weekend to enjoy another Uncle Doug video. I knew this was going to be a deep dive into amp repair because of the cat scan. Thank you, again, for producing such great videos.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, P20. I hope you enjoyed it :)

[@thomashowe855]

Love how well packaged it was. Beautiful video!

[@UncleDoug]

Me too :) Thanks !!

[@thecappy]

I just had my ‘67 Vibrolux worked on. It was still all original with death cap and everything. Wasn’t cheap but hopefully it’ll last another 56 years.

[@UncleDoug]

We join you in that hope, TC.

[@manfredbaer3297]

Again a very good repair job. Thanks for letting us know what you did to fix the amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Our pleasure, Manfred.

[@MrPodvig]

There are tons of us who appreciate you without every commenting. Well, there were. I rounded up a bunch into my re-education camp. A few more semesters, and we're good to go.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your support, Mr. P :)

[@hestheMaster]

I really appreciate the electronics knowledge you share during your videos Uncle. They are both practical and realistic things that can break a restoration of something very valuable if not done right.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, HM :)

[@thBrilliantFool]

Rice Krispies: "snap crackle pop" spent amp resistors: "pop crackle sizzle"

[@UncleDoug]

Quite true, BF :)

[@jimdevries9479]

❤ by far the best sounding demo yet and best amp! Thank you, uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....Glad you liked it, Jim :)

[@peterhughes3648]

Hello again, nice to see you back making videos. I have missed you!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Peter. More videos are on the way.

[@starcarrier1874]

Wonderful amp, nice work Uncle Doug. I hope the speakers are up to snuff, and he gets those leads isolated well. Thanks.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, SC :)

[@tomw9875]

Thanks Uncle Doug, I love seeing such a nice amp going back to a person who appreciates the importance of packing it adequately enough to withstand the rigors of shipping!

[@UncleDoug]

I do too, Tom, and it was easy to re-pack for return shipment :)

[@tomvarley4344]

The CV4024 is a British, government specified special quality tube, equivalent is the 12AT7 (ECC81), it was designed to withstand greater environmental extremes, you might notice a very heavy getter inside used to clear the vacuum to a greater effect.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing this info with us, Tom.

[@l6srob990]

Thanks another great video always look forward to them

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, Rob :)

[@markbernier8947]

That Marvel PT is one of the ones sold by CE Dist (Antique Electronic Supply) as their "house brand" Fender replacement transformers --- I've used many, many of them and I still have a few BF Vibrolux/Tremolux ones (125P26A replacement) on the shelf ---- They were great value for the money and I've never had one fail ---- My #2 1965 BF Bandmaster (sitting behind me) has a Marvel (from CE Dist) PT, a slightly larger model (125P7D replacement) ----- I bought this amp to fix/sell but when I tried it out it sounded almost as good as my #1 1965 BF Bandmaster that is exceptionally good sounding --- I ended up keeping both 1965 Bandmasters ---- Great work on the BF Vibrolux Reverb, btw

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mark.

[@meesterprofe007]

How wonderful to see yet another video from you! ...did I hear a bit of Kurt Vile on the final audio check?

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, MP. We are flattered by the comparison. Ollie & Jack really like his tunes.

[@phonotical]

I've never ever noticed any difference in tone using one type of resistor from another, these days I will ONLY use metal film resistors, so much more accurate and longer lasting, people forget that those old resistors aren't brand new, even new old stock, you're still trying to get something that's 70 or 80 years old to work like new, that ain't going to happen 😂 I think also resistors like that might absorb moisture over time and you get like a weathering effect, shrinking and expanding all the time, you're right when you say that thing gets cracks! Surprised to see a video again from you so soon! (oh, that solder blob on the outside if the case can't be original, is it? It's hideous!) I've always found with tubes, I clean them, and the paint just comes right off when it hits the water (maybe we just used crappy paint in the UK!) I have to take pictures now and then write it on after

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing this with us, P.

[@phonotical]

@@UncleDoug might have gone on a bit too long there 😅

[@UncleDoug]

We always enjoy your comments, P.

[@loupatch4896]

Thank you Sir for the great BFVR video! I have a 1965 Fender BFVR that I love. However, there is a pesky ticking noise in the tremolo(vibe) circuit. Also, my tremolo/vibrato speed doesn't go passed 7 on the knob. The oscillation just stops at that point from 7 to 10. This video has really given me some things to chase down some fixes.

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad the video was helpful, Lou. Good luck with your projects.

[@iroffman]

A sweet sounding amp... now! I wonder, would a sort of small-value "sweet spot bias pot" circuit be a good idea to option, during a service, like your NFB circuit, to allow a slight mismatch on demand for savvy players? Your videos are always stimulating, educational, amusing and entertaining, in many other ways as well. Cheers to you, Doug, your family and your menagerie! I love having you back.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much. Good idea......in our next video I show how to install a failsafe bias-adjusting pot.

[@iroffman]

@@UncleDoug Very cool! Can't wait!

[@MidnightVisions]

@18:20 that black band on the resistor is actually a very very dark green. That would make the resistor 150k, and measured at 147.8k

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, MV :)

[@Dutchamp]

As allways a nice and clear video. Thank you Doug

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, WW.

[@orionwarren4244]

Lots of jangle and ring. Great sounding amplifier! Uncle Doug does it again

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Orion :)

[@jamesdepalma6341]

Sometimes the LDR is the issue, I had the same issue with tremolo on my BF VR and it would be slow to start the first time you used it that day, after it started, it would sound nice and strong, and it would fire up right away for the rest of that day. Next day same thing, slow tremolo startup. I tested EVERY part except the LDR because when it worked it worked really well. I finally had enough and replaced the LDR and never had the issue happen again. Anyhow, very good video! Thanks

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, James, and have offered the same advice to several viewers who sought help with this problem.

[@advanceddragonchasing2286]

i get so excited to see a new Uncle Doug video!!

[@UncleDoug]

We hope you enjoy it :)

[@jimmccanna]

In my view, you represent all that is good about the internet and none of the bad. I have learned a lot from your videos and deeply appreciate them and you.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....Thanks so much, Jim. We try to maintain a polite environment for our viewers, where they can share ideas without fear of insult or conflict.

[@madDadMusic]

Man, I had a pristine one of those that I foolishly traded for a "The Twin" in 1988. I cry everytime I see one.

[@UncleDoug]

We've all been there and done that, MD :(

[@donfostermusician3690]

Informative, and entertaining videos from Uncle Doug are hard to beat,, super cool stuff here

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, Don :)

[@bluesingmusic3443]

Absolute beauty of an amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, B :)

[@guitfidle]

Nice work Uncle Doug! My old Silvertone is making some noise too, I bet it needs a couple resistors replaced as well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, G :)

[@Dennis-mq6or]

HE'S BACK! Welcome back my friend... Missed your videos while you were gone.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for watching, Dennis :)

[@olnberg]

I've enjoyed your electrical work for some time but I have to stay Ollie and hack we're particularly on form for this one, great playing of some of my favourite tunes!

[@olnberg]

Also, hope we get to see that custom strat at some point!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much. Watch our previous video on the Wurlitzer sound system, where the Strat is on display for all to see.

[@peteleoni9665]

You get those beauties and I get flood victims. Btw, no amp guy on YT talks through this stuff like you do, always entertaining, compelling and most of all brilliantly educating. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Pete :)

[@bullthrush]

Plenty of learning opportunities with this one, and I barely worked up a sweat. Great sound. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure was ours, Andrew. Thanks :)

[@philhardy18]

Great to see you Doug

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Phil :)

[@edwardebel1847]

I like how at around 26:30 or so we can see your reflection in the power tubes, revealing the camera setup...sorta. :-)

[@UncleDoug]

I always use a stand-in when reflections are an issue ;)

[@wayshot]

I once wondered about lower-than-expected preamp voltage in my modded "Knutsen amp" from 1963. After all, the preamp and PI had been redesigned with all-new components. Checked the still-original dropping resistors. The preamp dropper had drifted from 47k up to 70k. Voltages got better after replacing that one. By the way, nice to see Mitzy helping you out. How is KC, Jack and Ollie doing? Hoping to see all the kitties in a future video.

[@UncleDoug]

Resistor drift is a common cause of amp ills, Asle. The kitties are better than ever and ready for their next video scenes :)

[@pietervanballaer]

Great video, as always. Thanks!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Pieter.

[@edwardhannigan6324]

Hey Doug two videos in quick succession... Treats for us all..! Great video, and lots of tips etc..After all these videos I've been watching, I'm beginning to second guess the problems, not bad for an old guy..Thanks for sharing once again, your expertise..Ed..uk..😀

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Ed. You guys will become diagnosticians by osmosis :)

[@christophergallagher531]

Cool amp. I remember Danny Gatton plugging a SG in to a BF unit saying, that he preferred two tens instead of a single twelve. Who needs pedals. Glad the cats have good homes. Chris

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Chris. I agree.....multiple speakers always add an extra dimension to music.

[@christophergallagher531]

@@UncleDoug Hey thanks for the reply. You mentioned a Strat with P 90s. Wow, it must be an animal. I have a pair of SD Phat Cats in a Tele, with a .002 uf treb by pass. This gets into a DSR with the pair of 15" JBLs, like nothing else. They are on to them selves, not P 90s. Thing is I like 'em more better. Of note, I saw Carlose Santana in '69 with a P 90 loaded SG. The real deal. Chris

[@UncleDoug]

Speaking of a P-90 SG, just wait until our next video ;)

[@edwardebel1847]

HEY! That screen resistor is still good! Some Crazy Glue...good as new!

[@UncleDoug]

I already sold it on Ebay.....at double the price of a single resistor.

[@graxjpg]

thank you uncle doug for doing what you do, and for being who you are.

[@UncleDoug]

It's a pleasure, G.....especially with great viewers like you :)

[@chrislayman4142]

Hi Uncle Doug! Thanks for another great video. l always learn something !

[@UncleDoug]

That's good to hear, Chris :)

[@davidsigglekow1349]

Great to see you Bringing back old amplifiers to life my friend ……stay well

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, David. Will do :)

[@bluemule3891]

Hey Big D, wasss up. Ok I have a screenshot of your face in the reflection off of the getter flash, I have sent it to NSA for I.D. purposes. I liked the Wurlitzer Vid, something really different. You talked about being a guy taking two weeks to figure out what is wrong with an amp, I feel your feeling 😂😂, even retired, I'm the guy who everybody brings their car to, after 5 other guys messed it up by trying to fix it, yeah two weeks is about right 🤣🤣🤣🤣. Also, if you want to annoy your gen x,y,z,etc neighbors, crank the amp up, push 15Khz through it, you and I can't hear it but they can, Oh yeah it stops barking dogs also. Well the AMP sounds great, not as good as a Leslie of course, but great non the less, also again, your playing has really gotten good, congrats. Don Leslie Rules Blue Mule

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the helpful tip, Mula Azul. I could probably lower the frequency to 5Khz and still not hear it ;)

[@alvarofalcon7136]

Hi Uncle Doug! I’m glad you’re back and with such a wonderful video! Vibrolux Reverb Amp is one of the best amps Congratulations!

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Alvaro. Thanks !!!

[@pearsedunne9938]

Great job, Uncle Doug….🇮🇪👍

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Pearse :)