$99 5W Stage Right Amp vs Vintage Silverface Champ.....Fair Match or Slaughter ??

There's been a lot of interest lately in extremely inexpensive "Champ-like" tube amplifiers currently appearing on the market. In this video, we'll take a closeup look at a $99 5W Stage Right amp from Monoprice.com. Every detail of its construction will be discussed and then its performance will be compared to a vintage Silverface Fender Champ amplifier, which shares a similar circuit. Regardless of your expectations, I think you'll be surprised and entertained by the outcome.
NOTE: In the next week or so, I'll draw a name from my list of Patreon patrons and send them this brand new Stage Right amp absolutely free. If you would like to become a Patreon patron and help to support our advertising-free channel, please go to this site: / uncledougsvintageamps or make a PayPal donation to [e-mail]. Thanks for watching and subscribing !!

[@UncleDoug]

After being advised by a viewer, I checked for a small bar code tag on the perimeter of the speaker magnet.....and found, in microscopic print, "Made in China". Apparently, the "Ipswich, England" on the large, Celestion sticker refers only to the location of the headquarters of the company. A bit misleading, but not misrepresentation.

[@smoggyama]

Deliberate misrepresentation. I like your channel. Perhaps expanding into mods as well as builds. Carvin Champ 12, Blues Senior. From SoCal, Thanks

[@smoggyama]

Try using a better tuner. Champ wins.

[@mattgilbert7347]

Same as my MIC Strauss amps. Strauss' headquarters are in Melbourne, Australia, distributed by Jade inc. Strauss are inconsistent, but if you find a good one - amazing value for money.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Smoggy :)

[@UncleDoug]

I'n not certain about all Celestion's being made in China, Patrick.

[@JoeDeMaio917]

I've had a Silver face Princeton since I was 12, I'm 55 now. Thanks Dad. I never had a need or a want for a Champ. But in my opinion, what ever that's worth, the Champ obliterates the $99 amp. But you know somebody will buy the $99 amp and be real happy with it, and at the end of the day that's all that really matters. I started playing guitar in 6th grade, 1975. That Christmas my Dad bought me a Blonde Tele with a maple neck a MXR Distortion plus and a Univox amp. My Dad was a guitar player too. I'll never forget when he asked if I liked the new stuff I told him the Tele was amazing and I love the distortion plus. But the Univox sounds like crap! He laughed out loud. A month later I got A Princeton Reverb. R.I.P Dad, thanks for everything.

[@UncleDoug]

It sounds like you had a very nice and supportive father, Joe. You're a lucky guy.

[@JoeDeMaio917]

@@UncleDoug Yeah, he was a great guy. I was very fortunate. Even when I was a kid I knew he was great guy. R.I.P. Dad

[@krisholden5365]

Reading this comment made my day. My dad and I have become closer than ever by his interest and involvement in my music “career”. I’m 35 years old and have been gigging for 10+ years and 3 years ago or so he started coming to shows and helping us lug gear and he went from not knowing how to wrap a mic cord then to being our unofficial 5th member and running our FOH sound at every single show. He is more of a gear-nerd now than I ever was! We have so much fun doing this stuff every weekend and he’s actually become a pretty damn respectable sound guy! Anyway, thanks for sharing this. It reminds me not to take even a minute of this stuff for granted. God bless.

[@Echzachtly]

Kali Southpaw I’ll give you 1200 for that Princeton today kali lol

[@tatialo37]

Bless you and your father!!!

[@misterguitargeek]

"Impress your girlfriend. When she visits you... in your doorm room". I died.

[@UncleDoug]

It used to happen back in the old days.....we'd sneak them up the fire escape :)

[@jeffbeck6501]

@@UncleDoug I had a 64 Blackface Twin in my dorm room at my university that taught me all lies.

[@UncleDoug]

@@jeffbeck6501.....and it probably taught all the other guys in the dorm how to avoid sleep.

[@pablozaninovic3897]

This is for Wembley Stadium 🤣

[@FlipDahlenburg]

@@UncleDoug Why would you have to sneak up your amplifier? Was it underage?

[@wildnmild]

Wow! That is the most thorough review EVER! Even taking it apart to compare the Amount innards and the speaker. And thanks for playing simple guitar rhythms to demonstrate the sound comparisons. Most excellent work Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you for addressing your excellent comments to the comparison itself, Kevin, instead of focusing on irrelevant side issues. We worked hard on this video and really appreciate your recognition of that effort.

[@DSilvergun]

I love these kind of videos - checking out the insides of amps - keep them coming!!

[@FredLock]

The commentary is the best part of this video. It's classic Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Fred......glad you enjoyed it :)

[@nationalduo4945]

I definitely agree :)

[@atbglenn]

Doug, the Champ is clearly the champ. Much fuller tone.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Glenn. I tend to agree.

[@jfjoubertquebec]

I have the Stage Right. Boy... they really are quite different... I don't think I can get over this. I was looking forward to that surprisingly meaty bottom end too. The Champ sounds really good. I wonder if those transformers are salvageable....

[@cass2771]

I found the Champ more pleasant to listen to. Maybe StageRight2 might fill out the tone? But for the price, I imagine a few will buy SR1. The 5W Wembley/1W boudoir option is nice, as is the external speaker outlet.

[@p_mouse8676]

The fuller tone also has to do with the size of the baffle.

[@evetsnitram8866]

It sounds more Fendery to my ears.

[@lazomachavez-walton1549]

Loved the flight and the music. Something beautiful about simple amps, simple guitars and nice people.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Lazoma. We're glad you enjoyed it :)

[@kevinsturges6957]

When you plugged the little MonoPrice amp into the 12” speaker it sounded great! Lots of personality and character.

[@UncleDoug]

Larger speakers really make a difference, Kevin.

[@UncleDoug]

@@SteveRyan1965 Never argue with a woman, Steve.

[@ClassicGuitarRockJFL]

Great video! I love how in depth you go in all of your reviews Doug. Thanks! I own the 15W Monoprice amp and love it. For under $100 this little 5w amp is a no brainer. I have a 75 SFVC but I paid 5 times as much for it than this! Thanks again for the great video.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, CG. I agree with you regarding the 5W and 15W Monoprice amps.

[@squigglefunk8283]

i just recently played through the 15 watter and was really impressed! Nice crunch tone.

[@mitchelevans9914]

The folks at Memphis Amps took the Stage Right amp, rewired it, installed 6V6 power and 12AY7 preamp tubes, a Weber Signature speaker, and sell them as the "Stage 5" amp. They are customized for the Harmonica's tonal range, and they get some fat, seriously great tone. And the little monster is loud enough to cut thru a band. I've never had to turn it up past halfway. They've also added a line out in the back. Best Harp amp I've ever owned.

[@UncleDoug]

That sounds like some great modifications, Mitchel. Thanks for letting us know about this.

[@shadowpathy]

Do you play the guitar with it or a harmonica?

[@vanguard9067]

So they saved the chassis and remade everything else? That’s one helluva mod.

[@sushimaster100]

Thanks Doug for this great video. Initially I was going to buy the Monoprice amp, but after watching your review I decided I'm going to get a used Fender Champ.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad the video was helpful. If you can, get a Silverface Champ. They are identical to the Blackface circuit and cost a fraction of the price.

[@richardvasquez8911]

Glad you took the time to check them both out I'm kind of partial to the fenders it was cleaner on the dirty side Fuller as well so that is my choice thank you

[@bertpeijmen6960]

"Tuning up for your recording session at Daryl's place..." Love it! :-)

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad someone caught on, Bert. Thanks :)

[@megwatts1903]

I would like to hear the Stage Right amp through the Fender speaker in the Fender enclosure. I'll bet the size of the box and the speaker would make a big difference. The Stage Right just sounds harsh and tinny to my ears.

[@UncleDoug]

That's an interesting idea, MW.

[@megwatts1903]

I'm an interesting fella...

[@michaelhead875]

I would also like to hear the Stage Right through the vintage Fender speaker. The SR Celestion is obviously not broken in and may well be a cause of the harshness, The SR sounded fuller through your shop speaker. The Champ's separate bass and treble controls (in comparison to the SR's single tone control) may also contribute. I'd love to see you mod the SR to have the the same tone stack. For $99, this could be a good mod test bed, and add an effects loop for good measure.

[@gpsontime4598]

I agree. Hearing the bigger enclosure more than anything else . . . maybe the speaker loosened up a bit too . . . I have the Stage Right 5W, but use it clean.

[@fortj3]

I'd like to hear how it sounds through a speaker in a closed-back cabinet.

[@whatspadethinks]

I just discovered the channel and I've thoroughly enjoyed going through the archive of your videos. Your dry sense of humor has elicited quite a few guffaws.... Subscribed and will keep an eye out for new videos...do work brother, excellent stuff!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, WST. Welcome to our channel. We look forward to hearing from you again.

[@mega12ax72]

Another truly entertaining and informative gold nugget from Uncle Doug. I love it when someone really knows what they are talking about 👍⚡😇

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mega :)

[@snafu1957]

Just got a Mono Price Gibson lp copy w/hsc 200.00, set neck cherry sunburst only thing I changed was the pups to 80's Dimarzio's I had kept for years. Better than any copy I'v ever had. I'm 60 btw.

[@bradleyard4195]

I have the 15 watt version of this amp, which I had been running in stereo with a Fender Frontman 212R. I just ordered a second one to replace the Fender, which recently died. I love that amp. These are an absolutely ridiculous value.

[@MarshallCommaDave]

Wow that champ looks absolutely mint. That was the clear winner in every test, by a lot.

[@sirzembla4512]

The comparison would have been more fair with a Stage Right with at least 10 hours of speaker training .... Anyway the old Fender champ is a champ , the Stage Right doesn't need any 12" cab , it sounds even better by itself ...But not right of the box , once it opens up it's a different story ... Its big brother , the 15 watts one , is a Fender blues jr killer ( with the same tubes , EL84 , marshallish ) , and the Blues Jr isn't a bad amp , not at all .. You can find some comparisons between them here , Stage Right = Monoprice = Harley Benton = i don't remember that one , in Australia i guess ....

[@jeanlawson9133]

I have a Epiphone 15watt with a 8" Bose and it sounds better than either...But it is not even stock. For personal or home bedroom Rocking,, I like both.

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, Dave.

[@ima640]

Great comparison video Doug. It amazes me that they can make these amps with a celestion speaker for 100 bucks. Thanks for sharing.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ima. Thanks !!! Me too :)

[@angry546]

Why are you amazed that a Communist country utilizing child and slave labor can make stuff cheap? BTW the "celestion" speaker you mention is also Chinese-made.

[@kenfernsler6507]

I have the 15 watt stage rite. It is very good at the price. I used it for a couple gigs where we had to pack less gear. Played a big club with it and it was plenty loud. I used a blues driver through it and a boost in the effects loop for solos.

[@larryn2682]

*Right

[@scottmallin2210]

Uncle Doug, you are Hilarious! Love your channel and all your guitar amp wisdom. Keep it going

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott. We will :)

[@carlmontney7916]

Champ wins hands down but that $99.00 price tag is hard to beat. For the cheaper price you could mod the Stage Right tone stack.

[@rangerdoc1029]

I got the 15w version for $157 shipped. It was slightly fizzy for my tastes & different tubes didn't fix it. The circuit is basically a Marshall JCM preamp, so it shouldn't be fizzy. I removed the bypass cap on the cold clipper first & added a bias switch for 10k, 5k, or 3k... It's amazing! Swapped the seventy80 for an Eminence Legend and it's got some of the sweetetest Marshally drive to stunning cleans. The bias mod gives it tons of headroom if needed, but overdrives to Fenderish crunch when pushed. All traces of fizz are gone and it's crunchy as kittly litter now.

[@cmkilcullen8176]

Yes, U have bern told that removing caps on the fender champion 600 does wonders as well..

[@cmkilcullen8176]

Check that...I have been told..

[@radsketchpad]

Cool thanks for your tip on the mod to the 15w!

[@mikaylahe.9875]

can you elaborate on which parts to change out for the cap and bias mod stuff? ... I am dying to do that mod

[@rangerdoc1029]

D'Lynn H. R27 is the 10k cathode bias resistor for the second gain stage. You can simply solder a wire with a resistor from the cathode socket pad to a switch to put it in parallel to R27. Other terminal on swutch goes to ground. The stock bypass cap is the lone black wire on plug HD3. Simply clip it to remove. I used a 5k resistor in parallel with the stock 10k for a 3.3k bias.

[@bddmhopp5]

Just bought one of these, very cool. The fit and finish was perfect. Musta got a Monday amp vs. a Friday afternoon amp...😉

[@kurtvonuniverse7493]

No such thing as a weekend at the factory these were made in.

[@slapitman]

Doug, I must comment on a very well intoned guitar. As a luthier I applaud anybody who takes the time to set a guitar up properly before an amp demo. It really makes a difference!

[@UncleDoug]

Good grief !!! Finally, someone has something nice to say about my guitar tuning and intonation. Thanks SO much.....I really appreciate your kind words :)

[@slapitman]

​@@UncleDoug So many people who do sonic demonstrations forget to tune the instrument but even less take the time to intonate it so it performs as it should. A badly intonated instrument will make a Dumble sound bad and a well intonated instrument a monoprice sound amazing - as you did.

[@UncleDoug]

@@slapitman Thanks again, BD. We really appreciate your kind words.

[@ScottAnders62]

love the sense of humor! Nice, thorough review.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott.

[@neutrodyne]

The champ is a much better sounding amp. however, it also has a much bigger cabinet which also helps out a lot.

[@ClarenceHW]

I have the 15watt version 12" Celestion. There was a noticeable difference in speaker response after a couple weeks 20+ hrs playing time. More bass, less mids.

[@UncleDoug]

I would guess that the speaker cone was finally broken in and had enough excursion to properly portray bass frequencies.

[@jackallen6261]

I am the viewer that sent the amp to UD, i bought the 15-watt version after this and was WAY more impressed! I had a nearly new Fender Blues Jr at the time and I must say the SR amp actually sounded better to my ears.

[@tompolk7588]

@@jackallen6261 How many hours on the 5-watt? Some say the speaker needs 20 hr run-in time.... I don't know.

[@jackallen6261]

@@tompolk7588 On the 5 watt I only unboxed it and gave it a quick run-through., I would suspect about the same and I would have to agree with Clarence on the around 20-hour figure.

[@schipbreukeling3]

@@jackallen6261 I only see good reactions about this amp, in Europe you can buy the same amp under the name Harley Benton TUBE15.

[@wannapg3750]

This was an unusually thorough and very competent review. Uncle Doug has a tongue-and-cheek, very funny sense of humor that makes the review's more dry electrical information much more palatable to those of us who don't have a clue what it all means- electronically. I'll be back for more.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your positive review, WPG. You are always welcome :)

[@klintmc]

Thank you for video taping and posting this amplifier comparison.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Klint.

[@johngeddes7894]

Jack invariably imparts a sense of fairness and objectivity to these comparisons. Much appreciated.

[@UncleDoug]

He is known for his impartiality :)

[@alberttatlock5237]

I'm hearing this through the internet therefore to say this sounds better than the other is ridiculous, the size of the cabinet makes a noticeable difference. Great video

[@UncleDoug]

Good point, Albert. Thanks !!!

[@tmitz73]

It's called a Champ for a reason...... great video Uncle Doug, nice playing too!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, T73 :)

[@TheKevinNewsom]

The 5 watt is ok, but the 15 watt mono is awesome sauce.

[@Sid-np3hf]

Considering the cost and what it is usually used for; there is no contest. The Champ sounded better in every instance but costs x6 as much. The used Champ 600 reissue is x3 more expensive on Reverb. For that kind of money I’m going bigger.

[@schipbreukeling3]

At Thomann you can hear audio samples of the Harley Benton TUBE5 Celeston . It's the same amp.

[@daveogarf]

MAN! Ollie and Jack are REALLY getting some chops! And the fact that you gave them an encore... YOU ROCK!

[@UncleDoug]

They earned it, Dave, as well as plenty of cat treats :)

[@Doones51]

I believe they ship tube amps upside down to prevent the tubes from falling out during shipping and also put the heaviest part of the amp nearest to the ground so it will be harder to tip over than if it is top heavy. Thanks for the great review.

[@UncleDoug]

They can pack them any way they want, John, but you know the box doesn't remain in that position during transport. You're welcome :)

[@grewejames1]

I just gained a deeper appreciation for the Champ amp. I wonder if Stage Right makes a Champ-style amp? Thanks Love your videos!!!

[@douglaschristine8387]

15w

[@blazer6248]

I've got the most recent 15w 1x12" Stage Right combo amp from Monoprice that's a copy of the Laney Cub 12R. Monoprice is/started as an American-based company who sources their stuff from overseas. Based out of Cali. They're not like Wish or the other places as most people think they are. For $219, it's absolutely INCREDIBLE! I'm glad they do the "box in a box" trick. It ensures that my amp is protected well and makes it to me unscathed. Supposedly, Joe B likes to use the Celestion 70/80 speakers that are used in the 15w. That's the word around the internet. He likes stuff that's easy to source from anywhere. The 70/80 falls directly into that category.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for all the info, JC.

[@wtangodelta1715]

I gotta say it again...no matter which video of Uncle Doug's I choose to watch, I get a couple of good laughs!!! I laugh out loud every time! Thanks again Uncle Doug!!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, WTD. Glad you liked it :)

[@karlmichaelcronin9618]

Great review. Only found it as it popped up when I was looking for a review of an identical rebadged Harley Benton tube5. Something I impulse bought. Even after 20 hours playing it ain't gonna sound like that fender. That fender comes with memories as they say (and I'm listening on a cheepo mobile phone, I can still hear them). Still I'll piss about with some pedals or something at some stage, as we all have suspicions. Good channel man, glad to have found it. K

[@UncleDoug]

Welcome aboard, Karl. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@JuusoHoo]

Thanks for your nice comparision! This was a eye opening experience . I think the speaker makes the biggest difference for the silverface to sound better to my ears, but for 99$ plus a extra speaker that would do nicely. I actually have a couple of old P12Q Jensens (25w) in a Bell&Howell case to which that amp unit would fix nicely! Wonder if I get that in Europe!

[@UncleDoug]

A speaker cabinet containing two 12" Jensen Alnico speakers would make just about any amp, including the Stage Right, sound great :)

[@JuusoHoo]

@@UncleDoug well as a matter of a fact: I have three, one solo and two inone cab!!!

[@UncleDoug]

@@JuusoHoo Sounds like a win....win to me, JH.

[@markbatten5178]

I cant believe you didnt let Jack inspect the box ! Nice comparison video , Champ wins hands down.

[@Sherman1862]

Great Review, I just bought the 15-Watt version and I'm totally tonally happy with it.. Messing around with different tubes though just for fun...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Sherman. I'm glad to hear of your purchase and satisfaction.

[@cdavidlake2]

I know nothing about amp construction - nor do I even really wish to learn - yet I'm sure I'm not alone in finding Uncle Doug's videos enormously entertaining.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank so much, CD.

[@donstewart368]

I've got its big brother the 15 watt with a 12 inch speaker and it sounds great. It was $199

[@JuusoHoo]

Hi Don, meaning the chinese amps big bro? The model? Thanks.

[@m0j0b0ne]

@@JuusoHoo Yes Stage Right also makes a 15W amp with 12 in Celestion, spring reverb tank and an FX loop.Cosmetics ate similar, and it's regarded as an excellent pedal platform.

[@J4060]

@@m0j0b0ne , does it have a real spring tank inside?

[@robmeier1895]

Some great videos on it too

[@jimhoffman937]

Yes it does have a legit spring tank for a great reverb compared to a $800 blue x style tube amp with spring reverb Great for lugging around because it is super light I use it often for going to a friend’s house in the world of social distancing and no more playing in clubs

[@stephenguzman9042]

Enormously thorough and hilarious. Very enjoyable watch.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Stephen :)

[@brettjamz3]

I really appreciate your detailed examination of this amp

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad to hear that, Brett. Thanks.

[@stephenthomas2972]

Thank you! I think it would be interesting to run the speaker out from the Monoprice into the Champ cab/speaker to see how much of a difference the larger cabinet and different speaker make

[@UncleDoug]

That would be an interesting experiment, Stephen.

[@dhpbear2]

4:10 - One advantage of the white covering: it will disguise the white ceiling-paint spots! ;)

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, indeed :)

[@DavidHBurkart]

Fun comparison. Surpeisingly good little amp. Really like those Fender tones though. Can't go wrong with a $99 tube amp whose speaker alone would set you back for more!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, David. I agree :)

[@jameswooldridge8757]

Excellent across the board!!! You make great videos!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, James :)

[@XwpisONOMA]

Thank you uncle Doug, I really enjoy watching your videos, very entertaining and educational.😉👍

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Χωρίς. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@Lee-NN7X]

Russian pole Dancers....I was fine till someone posted a link....took me a half hour to get back to this video.... Really good work Uncle Doug...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Lee. I was wondering where you went.

[@offbeatbassgear]

I own one of these Celestion-equipped Stage Right amps and I'm really really impressed with how good it sounds. Granted, this is mainly a little practice amp to keep handy to bounce sounds out of, but this is a fine sounding tiny tube amp. Keep it in perspective when comparing it to a more expensive amp.

[@chrissullivan40]

I have the 15 watt SR. Sounds better.

[@sterlingwendt6288]

when using pre-recorded audio file through a line out signal, wouldn't the results be different? or do you match the output voltage of the audio file to the voltage that would be created from using an electric?

[@groovemonkey2498]

Excellent comparison, love the sense of humor!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks,, GM :)

[@fabiansaavedraesquivel868]

Love your videos!!! Saludos desde Costa Rica :)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Fabian :)

[@zetaminor77]

I remember reading elsewhere that the 5W Stage Right is a clone of a 5W Laney Cub. Could that be the case?

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, several viewers have stated that it is.

[@tatialo37]

I have one of those and it sounds great! Changed the preamp tube for a JJ and it sounds great!!! Break in the speaker and it is good for even gigs! Mic of course!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ruben. I believe you.

[@Stratisfied22]

I tried one of these the other day and was blown away with the sound coming from it. Has to be the best deal on a tube combo you can get. The 15watter gets a lot of praise as well but I've not tried that one.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Strat :)

[@AnalogOpher]

Is that you playing in the drone video? I love it! It has a curious, almost west African vibe. And tone to die for.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks so much, AO. Yes, it's me playing a tune that I made up while listening to the backing track. So glad you liked it :)

[@TheEZGlider]

I have the 15w MP amp, and have been very pleased. It also has the power selector (15w/1w), master volume, full tone stack, external speaker output, and, unusual at this price, an FX loop. Celestion 12 in. speaker, which I've swapped for an Emminence Cannabis Rex. Sounds kinda like a Blues Jr./AC15 hybrid. For $200 or under, (MP is almost constatntly offering 15-20% off) it's really a gem of an amp!

[@-jank-willson]

Stage Right also makes a 30 watt amp for 399$ that is INSANE for the price point. They also make a 10 watt amp too I think

[@bobwasmycat]

I'm almost shocked someone sent you a new amp just to make a video but some people get real upset when a cheap amp isn't taken as seriously as an icon. People are interesting. Great video. The A/B comparison puts the differences right there. I like those old Fender tones. You made that Champ growl properly! The other thing is a neat amp for practicing if you only have $99.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed Tom. Thanks !!

[@ronnietronic2786]

Great Video Uncle Doug. I bought one of these Stage Right amps and replaced the stock speaker with a $29 Celestion Eight 15 because I didn't like the sound of the stock speaker and noticed that the Magnet in the Eight 15 weighed over 2x as much as the stock, 13 grams vs 6 gram magnet, hoped it would make a difference. I'm glad I did. The tone is so much better with the speaker upgrade. I'm now able to get some really nice tones out of this amp. Somehow, I convinced myself that it would be even better with Tung-Sol tubes. Those are coming today. Now, after watching your Champ 600 PCB conversion, I'm afraid that might be the next step. Thank you for the great videos!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ronnie. Good luck with your project.

[@ronnietronic2786]

Thank you for all of your videos. You have inspired me and many others, I'm sure. I've decided not to do the PCB conversion on the Stage Right amp and instead, do a new build inspired by the Valco 510-11 Spectator. I would like to include the fender reverb tank/circuit like you did on your tremo-verb build and the 12" speaker. Is there any reason that you wouldn't recommend incorporating the reverb circuit or the 12" speaker into that build? Thanks again, Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

@@ronnietronic2786 You're welcome, Ronnie. No problem with the addition of reverb and larger speaker to the Valco circuit, just be sure the power transformer is husky enough to handle the extra current draw, and that the output transformer has the proper impedance for the speaker you choose.

[@bevo65]

BONUS POINTS FOR "OLD BATS ON THE VIEW." You are my kinda dude!

[@rickya3877]

So agree!

[@rickya3877]

I so agree!

[@blueseruser]

I know Chinese workers get paid more than a bowl of rice each day but....the purchasing department must be a really sharp group of buyers on parts to offer this including freight to get this to market for $99.00(plus the governors tax)!!

[@oleksiishekhovtsov1564]

It's about time someone made a comparison like this, good thing it's done by the best youtuber around. Btw this little amps are surprisingly good mod platforms and for the price it's not the end of the world if it gets damaged.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Oleksii. I agree :)

[@cmguitar50]

Helps you work on your surface mount component soldering ;)

[@agdtec]

Uncle Doug, how hard would it be to mod a circuit board amp like that?

[@jackallen6261]

Brad the Guitoligist reworked an Epiphone Valve jr. in one of his videos and it was all PC board like this, it really helped it a bunch!

[@jfjoubertquebec]

IAnd here ? kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5aYiaaMaNaMf6M Same tone as this though....oO

[@davidwalter2282]

Great video! Love your sense of humor. I’ve been looking at used Silverface Champs online for $499 when I saw this video. For a brief moment, I thought there might be a cheaper solution. Clearly, the Champ is still the King of the 5 watt space. Thanks for posting!

[@UncleDoug]

Don't sell the SR amp short, David. With a few fairly-inexpensive modifications, it can hold its own against the Champ.....or close to it. See some of the viewer-recommended modifications in this comment section

[@davidwalter2282]

Uncle Doug, would you be willing to do a video on the modifications? I think this would something many people would be interested in.

[@raydodson2514]

Your cats are very cool. They have a guitar style much like mine. I have ordered the 15 watt version of this amp. Thanks for the videos!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ray. Best of luck with your purchase.

[@JohnDodgeNetJD]

For 200$ the 15W 12" SR combo is pretty sweet for the price point...

[@UncleDoug]

I would say that it was quite a bargain, John.

[@gayrambo4529]

I'd love comparison where each amp was played through the same speaker. And I build amps myself, and there is no way in hell I could build a champ clone for $100 even using the cheapest parts. I'm thinking about getting one as a modding platform as I have some vintage Shoemacher output transformers I'd like to try out.

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, GR. The parts alone are worth more than $99.....especially the cabinet and speaker. It would be a great basis for modification.

[@smoggyama]

Genius

[@bobmckenna5511]

I loved this evaluation, and side by side comparison.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm really glad to hear that, Bob. Thanks !!

[@1000BrokenKeys]

very informative video, great voice and great sense of humour. Thank you

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much :)

[@bobboitt3126]

Im betting the stage right can match the Champ with NOS tubes, break in the speaker and roll off the treble a bit on the tone control. Great video. Something about an old 5f1 though that cant be beat.

[@JammyCrackcorn]

The little amp sounds good to me but it is a little harsh...Still would like one for practice...The little Champ has a fuller tone Always love your videos too....Miss seeing Rusty too...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, James. The tone can be adjusted and the harshness will subside after the speaker is broken in.

[@russianbot2397]

Morning Uncle Doug. We're expecting a whole bunch of snow today, so i took off from work and im gonna play my two week old Monoprice 15w all day. It's such a good amp, and takes pedals extremely well. It has a real spring reverb tank too.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, I understand that it is a really nice, economical amp, RB. Have a great (snowy) day.

[@astro8585]

Many moons of appreciation for Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Astro. We appreciate it :)

[@garydmercer]

I have the monoprice SR tube amp. It is excellent. I owned the Fender Champ amp years ago, then a Princeton reverb later on. The Fender amps are superior. DUH! Have had it for a year now and it has very clean sounds. I use a distortion box for rock and other amp modifiers. I like the space saving size of the amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, GM.

[@TheColindavid]

I've got the larger amp. The 15watt 112. It's a little beast. Got online at Walmart for $165. Uncle Doug could you do a review on one of these?

[@UncleDoug]

I may, if I ever get my hands on one, Donald.

[@sc3ku]

Uncle Doug i had one of the 15 watters too. Sounded just great for the $150 i paid - when it worked - random pops now and then, and twice crapped out into a loud buzz before working fine days later.

[@UncleDoug]

@@sc3ku I guess bargains can get a little temperamental from time to time, JM.

[@Jonathan-L]

Love the commentary ... well done Uncle D!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jon :)

[@flamencoprof]

I haven't heard such dry humour in a long while. An enjoyable watch.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, FP. Thanks !!

[@chrisf6216]

1:54 "... watch those old bats on The View..." LOL, oh tears. Russian pole dancers, what, wait...

[@UncleDoug]

From the ridiculous (old bats) to the sublime (Anastasia)......all in one sentence. You can't get this stuff on network TV :):)

[@74dartman13]

I don't even like commercials about the view! Now the Russian pole dancers...hmmmm. May be interesting!😂

[@atbglenn]

I'd never watch The View. I'd get banned if I said what I'm thinking about those bitches.

[@cmkilcullen8176]

@@UncleDoug Yea the bats ...very funny!

[@elstongunn1385]

Glenn Martin Must see Skank viewing, lol.

[@comicblueswithjonygitar36]

Pine jointed cabinet, jensen speaker matched for 5w makes Champ the champ

[@stephenbunton2159]

Cool comparison video. I own both stage right amps, the 5 watt and the 15 watt. I have replaced the speaker with a Jensen c8r and keep rolling different tubes in it but keep coming back to the jj ecc803s and electro harmonics 6v6gt or a nos rca black plate 6v6gt and tung-sol 12ax7. It's a pretty good little amp especially for $100. The 15 watt is a very good amp, I replaced the tubes with jj el84's and a sovtek 5751 in v1 and jj ecc83s for v2 and 3. The celestion 70/80 is a good all around speaker. I have been thinking about changing the el84's for something else like mullard or sovtek. Good job on the ZZ Top riff.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for all the info and nice comments, Stephen. I'll tell Ollie and Jack that you enjoyed their performance :)

[@stephenbunton2159]

I did replace the jj el84's with mullard and I am very happy with the Mullards. The jj's seem to be darker than the Mullards. I also have some 1959 sylvania long plate 12ax7 that I put in v2 and v3 and they sound fantastic. Just wanted to post an update. I also accidentally cracked the ecc803s and put a 1959 Raytheon long black plate 12ax7 in the 5 watt that sounds really good.

[@anthonyjames3074]

Great video Uncle Doug. Been working on low cost guitars lately (Firefly Semi-Hollow and Harley Benton Dynamic-HSH), so now it's time for a great low cost amp. Everyone seems to love this Stage Right Amp. Time to open the wallet. Thanks.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Anthony. Let us know what you think of the SR amp after you get one.

[@anthonyjames3074]

@@UncleDoug What precautions do I need to be aware of with this tube amp? I've read they can still retain an electrical charge once it is off; you have to let them warm up and cool down gradually, etc. Is it this same for this little amp?

[@UncleDoug]

Unless you plan on doing some electrical work on the circuit, Anthony, you have no worries at all. I would only suggest that you protect it from harsh impact that might damage the internal components of the tubes.

[@snwbrdr65]

How would the Stage Right amp sound through a 12" speaker cabinet? Great video Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Much better I would wager. Thanks !!!!

[@tomasjones3755]

".....and Jack; playing the role of Schrödinger's Cat". As to the SR Amp... it's $100. I heard one driving 2-10" vintage Utah Alnico's & was quite impressed

[@StephanieM772]

I replaced the Celestion with a Jenson and that got it a bit closer to sounding like a tweed Champ. It takes pedals well and for playing quietly in a practice situation it is a really decent little amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you for your input, Stephanie.

[@TheRealMikeySullivan]

I picked one up these up recently and felt it benefitted a lot from replacing the 12ax7 with a 12at7 to add more clean head more and a bit more low end over all. It really shines through a 12" cab though.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the helpful input, Mike.

[@p_mouse8676]

The Silverface has a wider baffle which automatically gives a bit more low end (fuller sound) because of the baffle step.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, a rather sophisticated observation, Piet. Thanks !!

[@p_mouse8676]

Uncle Doug . It would be interesting to compare the same speaker in both cabinets.

[@gpsontime4598]

Or . . . place the SR in a corner to open up the bass. It is open back . . . and that speaker needs some break-in time too.

[@kendavis8046]

Great video. The Champ shines through as the winner of overall tone, of course, but for $100, the little Chinesium amp is still pretty cool. I had a Bugera 5W/1W amp I obtained probably 5-6 years ago, bet it was the same circuit boards. It disappeared with one of my nephews, to whom I "loaned" it, never to be seen again. IIRC, I believe that Billy Gibbons actually used a Champ on a LOT of the studio versions of ZZ Top songs. Thumbs up.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ken :)

[@johnsweda2999]

Ken Davis no it doesn't not what I heard it wasn't a true fair comparison they had the tone control to high up if it was turned back down to quarter of a turn! it would have had a warm feeling, plus the soundstage has more detail in its stage right the champ was muddy sounding and uninspiring.

[@kendavis8046]

Folks have different impressions, and I respect your opinion. Mine happened to be that the Champ sounded better in the video. No worries, I have no dog in this hunt other than an opinion. Peace.

[@johnsweda2999]

Ken Davis true depends what device you are listening it on?? I would have liked to have heard the champ and stageright played through his big speaker alternatively that would have given you the sense of what the actual amplifiers sounds like.

[@UncleDoug]

Perhaps, but the point was to compare the two amps on an equal, as-is basis......not with all possible combinations of cabinets, speakers, different tubes, etc. I will leave the modifications up to others to perform and hopefully document with videos.

[@Fadetoz]

I really liked this video Doug. I've been hearing allot about the SR amps. For the $ they seem great. I have a beat up 74 Sliverface and really like it better than any other amp I have tried. I just found another one that is in mint condition and the guy is the original owner. He even has the manuals. Can't wait to get that one. My current one was not well taken care of but works great after being serviced. Your Champ is absolutely mint and so nice. I haven't found anything that impresses me as much as the old Champ amps.

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, Marc. Thanks !!!

[@lerlo]

This was the most entertaining review of anything, ever!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Lerlo. After all the nitpicking by many viewers, it's a pleasure to finally get a purely positive comment.

[@Kettletrigger]

It might be interesting to see a cost comparison between building a Champ from scratch, and using the SR as a "kit"...rewire it PTP with better components.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, it would be an interesting project, KT. Thanks !!

[@stevejackson2986]

As far as what I hear in this video goes, to me the Champ doesn't sound better so much as different. If they were channels on an amp I'd like them both, but I also can't help but think that in person, the Champ would sound way better.

[@stevehogan8829]

Great review Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you, SB. It's great to hear a nice, simple compliment :)

[@SkonrokkenTV]

Awesome review! More detail then I could have ever imagined! Mine is of course a Harley Benton. Keep up with detailed reviews like that! Looking at a Fender vibrochamp myself, but costs 6x the price! This was to replace a 1950's Gibson Skylark, which has stopped working. Costs more to fix than replace.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, S. Glad you enjoyed it.