The Fender Princeton Reverb Buying Guide 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive Princeton Reverb buying guide! Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just stepping into the world of vintage amps, this video is your ultimate companion in navigating the nuances of Fender's iconic Princeton Reverb.
Join us as we delve into the history, tonal characteristics, and key features that make the Princeton Reverb a timeless classic. From its inception in the mid-1960s to its modern iterations, we explore the evolution of this beloved amplifier and discuss how its sound has remained a staple in music across genres.
We'll break down the different versions and variations, detailing the nuances between the Silverface and Blackface models, discussing the circuitry, speaker configurations, and cosmetic differences that aficionados seek.
Additionally, this guide offers practical advice on what to consider when purchasing a Princeton Reverb. Whether you're exploring vintage options or eyeing the latest reissues, we provide insights into the market, pricing trends, and tips for identifying quality components and authentic models.
Join us on this sonic journey as we help you make an informed decision to find the Princeton Reverb that perfectly complements your playing style and musical preferences. Don't miss out on discovering why this amplifier continues to be a cherished gem among musicians worldwide. Hit play and let's dive into the world of Princeton Reverbs!"

[@CasinoGuitars]

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[@jfrankcarr]

I have a '73 Princeton Reverb that I bought in 1988 for a whopping $100. It's still one of my favorite amps.

[@chadromney]

I'll give you $200 for it

[@daviddawson1718]

I watched my guitar player enter a pawn shop. He was looking at an unimpressed. Knowing Tim, I got a good view. After a few minutes, he was ready. We calmly got in the truck. Tim says, "I don't think they knew what they had. These are "these are pre CBS pickups. " he played those pickups until he was killed.

[@triumphantsam]

Great amp. I had three silver face Princeton Reverbs in the early 90s, and all three were fantastic for studio work and small jams. I actually preferred them to my old Blackface Princeton Reverb. And was in the same boat- $125 to $150 a pop back then

[@spiderman0863]

@@chadromneyI will give you 300.

[@bassage13]

@@daviddawson1718 What the hell did you just say?

[@charleseeckert2464]

Absolutely enjoyed this format! More please!!

[@jarojasn]

Loved this video, this is a format that you all can continue doing

[@dennismullins4930]

Dude, this is the comparison I needed. Please do more like this ☮️

[@13aphomet]

I love these kind of videos.. Keep em coming..

[@ashbody3499]

Oh man… the tone and mid-range of that Brown Stapleton Princeton is killer. The sound of Americana. Love it.

[@wirthwhilemedia]

really enjoyed this, great explanations and demos. Comparisons of a Champ, Deluxe, Blues Junior, Princeton Reverb in same video would be cool too.. I dig the 15w and under tube stuff!

[@whalenjam5294]

Add Pro jr to that list as well

[@benallmark9671]

Blues junior's too !

[@daleborgen3439]

Love this video format and would like to see more! It’s super helpful in understanding gear.

[@surfside73]

Great info and demonstration. Thanks Jonathan!

[@unclelefteye3166]

Yes, please, more of this. 👍🏽😁

[@brodiehutchins8049]

Fantastic and incredibly practical and credible overview! Thank you Jonathan and Casino Guitars.

[@tone1798]

I could listen to you play all day! Absolutely, more episodes of this nature would be kool!!!

[@vincenthudson8313]

Luv the reviews like this.

[@adamkim8346]

This was awesome!

[@brianmckenzie1318]

Really dug this!!!! More please! So nice to have someone explain the difference in a product line instead of searching all over the place for answers! Very beneficial!

[@yargnad]

Love this format. You guys are so entertaining and informative while also staying positive. I've been watching you guys for years now and I would say this is one of the best guitar shop channels on KZbin, bar none. It would be fun to meet you and Baxter in person someday. Never spent any time in NC, but I would venture a guess it would be worth it to make the trek and stop in to play some strings and shoot the breeze.

[@be2818]

nice format, kept it simple and straight forward

[@michaeldionne3139]

Do more of these videos. Awesome!

[@dennism7532]

I have not watched you guys in a long time. I like this format, as I am back in the market for a new amp. This was a nice comparison. And although I am no audiophile, it was a significant difference between a hand wired sound and the solid state.

[@Patrick.B223]

Great video. I liked hearing from each amp. Leo knew what he was doing. 👍

[@ahchv]

Great review thank you

[@mark106t9]

Great demo Jonathan! Miss you guys.

[@ericschuppert9011]

Very much enjoy amp profiles and would like to see more. Still have my '78 vibro champ, bought new way back when. The trem is still glorious!!

[@mojo6778]

Enjoyed the Princeton Reverb buying guide, nice comparison. I would love to see more content like this.

[@kenv4716]

Fantastic, honest review.

[@chaplinesque111]

Awesome video, my man! Very informative, with good examples - Subbed!! 👍

[@ericmartin2778]

Excellent video, nicely done!

[@cptntwang]

I am constantly gigging with my Tonemaster Princeton. It’s a great amplifier

[@xxGriff]

nice one. so many price points. it is nice to have ALL these options for the amps that have such history/legacy, new! Yeah, I would watch more vids like this.

[@davidsummerville351]

Great info, thanks. 😎🤓

[@bigwavedave8492]

Yes yes on the format

[@mikewendeln5218]

Very informative.

[@birdsfabulous]

Had a blues jr for a few years...great amp in its own right. Decided to get a princeton reissue in the bordeux tolex with 12" speaker.....soo mamy classic fender tones in there even before the pedals touch it..great amps

[@ernieb3626]

Excellent video Johnathan thank you. These are my favorite turbo videos. I am considering a new amp and I want something that has natural break up but I don’t have to blow the windows out so I’m going to watch this for a second time I think you may have made up my mind.

[@BlpBud]

Great vid and info..accorking to serial numbers I own a '77 Princeton Reverb...sounds fantastic.

[@brentg80]

Keep these kind of videos coming! I really like them. Please keep your normal discussion videos too though!!!!

[@MisterSpermCell]

Enjoy all the Casino Guitars videos but yea this format is definitely both entertaining and informative. Do some more!

[@danwilson9530]

I have two Princeton amps. I have a Chris Stapleton edition I bought used off Trogly. He bought it new, tried it and if I recall correctly he didn’t feel it was distinctly different enough from other similar amps so he offered up for sale. He barely used it. I got a deal on a like new example. We’re both happy! The other is a supposedly Ltd Ed blackface/brown tolex Made in Corona GC exclusive with a 12” Celestion. They are both cool!

[@aminahmed2220]

Awesome video Jonathan I enjoyed the 1968 princeton reverb amp

[@juliochingaling5824]

Great video.

[@danwilson9530]

And yes, I like these kinds of videos

[@mileswatkinson8135]

Love this video. I would also like to see a head to head between the Princeton and a Blues Junior, as i would like to pick up a small tube amp in the future. The Junior appeals to be because of the master volume, however the Tonemaster is a good option with its attenuation circuit. There was a time i would have said "no, it has to be tube", but i think the line of demarcation is starting to blur, at least as tone is concerned. Beautiful playing, as always, Jonathan.

[@dunesbra]

Dude, you couldn't have sold that Tone Master to me less. Lol Great video/demo as always.

[@anthonyjohnson7719]

I have the 62 CS Princeton Reissue and I love it. It has become my number one. I use to use my Mesa Boogie Nomad 100 but I am thinking about selling it and getting the 64 Princeton Reverb and running a wet dry with rig with my 62 Princeton. I am also want to try the Magnatone Varsity Reverb.

[@JustAnotherINFJ]

I've got a 1954 Princeton that sounds like heaven.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

Great tones and very informative brother. In 2017 I purchased a 65 Fender Princeton Reverb, and it has exceeded my expectations. Those "Pristine Cleans" lush Reverb and tube-driven Tremolo are hypnotic. There is a Y.T. Video by a guy: Jon Parker Simpson ( where you really hear the beauty of this amp ) = Mesmerizing. oNe LovE from NYC

[@chrisstonebraker6319]

GREAT

[@comicsrcool5483]

Love this format. Would love to see you guys do this not only with Amps but Guitars also(Come on Jon. Do a Top 5 Tele video! You know you want to !! ;) )

[@jameshughes9706]

Just acquired a real ‘66 last week 😊

[@ItsVictoriaG]

Got my Fender Princeton Reverb 65 RI tweed edition from Sweetwater in 2022 as my first tube amp and I absolutely adore it. Simple, clean, sparkly, with that sweet, sweet tube smell. What more can you want? 😍 My favorite guitarists play Vox and Marshall… proof you ultimately have to experiment and find what YOU like.

[@gkott78]

I have the same one. I swapped the Crex speaker out with a Jupiter to get a more classic tone. The 12" speaker does make a huge difference, a little more headroom and volume. Such a great amp.

[@Axxman300]

Great demo video. The cool thing about being a guitar player is we can access legendary equipment if we so desire. Too bad we can't do this with cars. We can buy a '64 Princeton, and a '59 Les Paul reissue, but we can't buy a new '58 Cadillac. We are truly blessed.

[@GuitarUnderground]

Love the sound of these Princetons. Nice to see so many options for a fairly obscure amp. I'm currently playing an Orange Tremlord and it's got a vibe similar to the Stapleton, though a little more British due to the EL84s. Regardless, I love it. Recommended for a more affordable option.

[@jasoncarey8841]

I have the standard '65 reissue but disconnect the Jensen and run it through a Marshall 1960AHW 4x12. (You need a way to deal with the different impedences but that's not hard.) Absolutely rocks... 😎

[@ryanhdmc]

I love the comparisons! I’m a little biased, i own the 68 but i put in an alnico gold. It’s definitely my favorite amp i own, and here your sound sample sounds killer.

[@brooksroman2918]

If you’re interested in the brownface Chris Stapleton Princeton, check out the Suhr Hombre. I played a Suhr Hombre 1x12 combo and couldn’t believe how good it sounded, and they’re not even as expensive as the brownface fender.

[@johnwashburn3793]

Great video. You increase my desire for a Tele, and I really am an acoustic guitar player.

[@yargnad]

The 79 Les Paul my dad gave me at 14 was stolen so I played acoustic exclusively for about 6 years at the turn of the century. When I finally got another electric, it was a 2004 seafoam mint metallic, new off the wall, and that started my love affair with the shovel. I have about 6 of them now, in various configurations, and couldn't be more satisfied. Don't let yourself down....you deserve a Telecaster.

[@travismccartney]

The '68 custom breaks up sooner mostly due to a change in the negative feedback circuit. I find the low end tends to get a bit blatty when pushed. This is due to the cathodyne phase inverter and blocking distortion. If you don't enjoy that, it can be fixed with just a single 470K resistor. Lyle at Psionic Audio has a lot of good info on the reissue Princeton amps on his channel including mods that can be done to increase their reliability.

[@Bob-Whiting]

Thanks!

[@christophersambuco9414]

@travismccartney...I didn't notice much of a difference with the 470k resistor, but a 1M really seemed to smooth out the distortion. The amp was also biased too cold. I have to change out a resistor in the bias circuit to get the tubes to 70% (I think?). So far, I think that the hotter bias also helps to smooth out the distortion

[@thesurfjunkies]

Just picked one up as a backup to our Deluxe Reverb. Swapped speaker though, stock it needed more chime for legit surf tones.

[@danielhorsley2259]

The 68’ custom is hard to beat!

[@matthewbrenton]

Great video, think I’m gonna get a ‘68 custom!👍🏼👍🏼

[@toploadtele]

5-Stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@michaeljoyce3286]

One of my things that have been on my radar for a while was Princeton however, I stay away from him. Didn’t know that much about them Great video.

[@Johnnybananass-_]

Princeton is the answer to every question

[@kitoyobeni1]

I had an early silverface Princeton Reverb that was a flea market find for $50, but I foolishly traded that away back in the 90s to enable my G.A.S., lol. I might be in a market for one again soon, so this was helpful.

[@number6photo]

Well done guys - great video! I’ve got a vintage ‘77 SF PR that I’ve made a couple of minor circuit tweaks to take a little of the fizz out of the overdrive (see my channel for a video on those minor changes). I also find running it slightly cleaner than the examples in this video is the really sweet spot: turn down the gain slightly and back off the bass control a little, combined with a Jensen P10Q speaker, the cleans and edge of break-up sound from this amp is absolutely killer. I like it better than Tone King Imperials, Fender Deluxe Reverbs, etc. You can also use an attenuator to give these sounds at very reasonable volumes that will help with maintaining family and neighbor relations.

[@leonlowery3389]

i love it when you guys play. very nice. Let's hear baxter on the hot rods. I'm interested in the tone masters. I'm 77 and have a bad back. i can't pick up what i used to. (may be why i have a bad back.) I've tried them but they just don't sound as warm as the tubers. Maybe I'm doing something wrong. (I have a Blues Deville 4 10s. can't get it off the floor. Also a hot rod deluxe. lighter but still too heavy.)

[@kthomasaus]

So thankful I was buying amps in the 90’s. Bought a 64 white knob Princeton no revert for 400$ in 95. Bought a 65 Princeton Reverb 2 years later for $500. Then bought a 68 PR local for 600$. Just gotta keep ‘em serviced.

[@danielcavazos5009]

I have my first amp my parents got for me back in 72 and just just purchased a custom hand wired 64 and love them both. I have other amps but theses are my favorites.

[@mattelder9147]

I run an’64 Custom Princeton Reverb and the Chris Stapleton with a champ in the middle Wet/dry/Wet.

[@vapidwind1014]

In 2020 I got my first fender Princeton A hand wired 64 re issue Couldn’t be happier. Well I could I put a doctor Z z brake attenuator in it now I’m pretty much gold for playing in a trailer park

[@billymccormac3616]

Awesome video! I play a vintage 1966 vibro champ! Could you make a buying guide video for vintage Princetons?

[@JasonChannell]

Great work Johnny Rob. Can you do Deluxe Reverb next?

[@Seggy75]

I wanted a small and sweet amp. I bought a Fender 68 reissue Vibro Champ. The sound it made was perfect, however, I returned it because there was a ticking sound coming from the Tremelo circuit that I could not live with. You would play a chord and as it was fading, the tick would come in and spoil the sound. Apparently this is what it does, not a fault. I couldnt stand it. So I got a Princeton Tonemaster and love it so far. The tremolo is not as good and lucious... but I can live with that, I cant live with a ticking sound on an £800 brand new amp.

[@colinlizc4603]

I really liked the format, it would have suited me when I was buying my 1st amp, a 68 Custom Deluxe Reverb. It had a warmth from the 12” speaker that I preferred over the Princeton’s 10”. But really, the CDR is more powerful than I need, heavier and a bit hissy, though I do like the Bassman tine stack. If I had seen this earlier, I may have grabbed one of the Princeton line instead. Maybe a a review of the Deluxe line next?

[@Bob-Whiting]

@Casino Guitars Definitely liked this type of video! For me, if I was gonna splurge on another amp (Fender I mean) it would be the '68 I think.

[@jeff1872t]

Build your own if you can.

[@ToddTheJoker]

I was thinking of getting the Princeton Reverb ToneMaster but here in Canada(it may be the same in the US of A, I dont know but) it is more expensive than the Deluxe Reverb Tone Master which , to me, is crazy! so Deluxe Reverb it will be eventually! I like the attenuation options on the Tone Masters and the light weightness! lol Thanks Jonathan!

[@jeff1872t]

If you are inclined I recommend building one yourself.

[@jonjones655]

If it's got the Fender badge, I'm in. More please.

[@jonwanrocks]

nice

[@mikefromusa6902]

My 79 is my go to for when I have no idea what to expect at a gig. To be honest, it’s my go to period. Definitely very different than the stock 65 or 68 reissues. I’ve never tried the 64 or tonemaster, but you’re not fixing that tonemaster if innards break or glitch as easily as the old AA764.

[@allenhayesmusic]

I use the Chris Stapleton Princeton and let me tell ya… So good!

[@BITESIZEJONES]

Didn't here enough difference compared to the PCB.

[@tallthinkev]

Forgot the Princeton Chorus! One of the very best amps for a clean sound, takes pedals very nicely and unlike a JC120, you can pick it up!!

[@timnewman1172]

I bought a Roland Blues Cube shortly before the Tonemaster series first came out. I would compare it favorably with a Princeton, but everything is subjective... Bottomline, I wanted something that was reliable, easier to carry, and could play quiet when necessary as well. If I had it to do over, I'd probably go with the Tonemaster Deluxe, but I really love the Princeton!

[@BrandonTheBoyWonder]

If you try playing the tone master deluxe with a drummer you really get drowned out. The blues cube artist sounds much better to me and has a bit more power and low end when playing with a band. Both awesome amps though!

[@timnewman1172]

​@@BrandonTheBoyWonder Thanks!

[@fisiosaiter]

I had a dream today and a lady gave me a Princeton. Never thought seriously about the amp until now.

[@edwardmarks4293]

Enjoy all Casino videos. So, yeah, do some more of these.

[@TheMasonator777]

I am a Silverface fan, but with the period correct speakers. I prefer less breakup, pushing things with overdrives, and “amp channel” pedals. Running a Boss OD-2 into a fat Silverface amp clean is a great rock tone. Swap it out with an OD-3 for blues. I liked them all… but tone for buck, I’d go Tone-master or the ‘65 with the Jensen.

[@GitShiddy]

That whole 68 Reissue line is a bit of a sleeper of Fenders current amps. They just kick ass.

[@ClintsCrypt]

I wish you had covered the Princeton Recording Amp, as there is not very much info out there about them. I know they have attenuation. I have had a chance to try one on a couple of occasions and it seemed good.

[@giotto9525]

Thanks Baxter, well done. Very informative. Any chance a vintage amp could be included in the mix? Thanks!

[@bonedale]

I bought a Princeton, well actually 3. All were new and had the baffle support but all rattled like crazy. I was told it was bad factory tubes, or whatever, but mine would have sounded waffling paper and metal if I played past 6. I need a properly built version from another company because I really liked the tone.

[@mikefromusa6902]

I had the same issue with the 65 RI I had when they FIRST came out in 2008. I have had another version of the 65 with a 12 inch speaker and evidently the issue was fixed because so many people complained. Needless to say, I don’t have that reissue with the 12 inch speaker anymore. I think these amps do better tonally with a good 10.

[@bottomkitchen250]

Wow, if that '64 handwired didn't cost so much I'd probably buy it. I'm definitely looking for a new amp. Really thinking about the vox ac15 but a little worried that it's going to be too loud for my main use. If the vox hand wired had reverb that would be the one I'd get, especially because that model can lower the wattage. But i love the real spring reverb. Maybe I'll just keep saving. These Princeton's do sound amazing. This video was really helpful. I never really knew much about Fender amps.

[@mstrammd]

I have the ‘64 Princeton Custom RI that I bought new in 2021. I love it. Using in basement home studio. You can usually get 15% knocked off from list if you get from Sweetwater or MF. I also have a Vox Ac15C2 which is way louder than the PR. The Vox is great, but I can’t crank it up in my home without blasting my ears. The PR also starts to get pretty loud at 4. Works great with pedals too. The reverb and tremolo are to die for. If you are using mainly at home I’d go with the PR.

[@benlogan430]

Techs like the ac15.

[@georgespencer3973]

@@mstrammd You were lucky to get 15% off from Sweetwater. When I asked if there were any discounts from my rep he said “We’re really not a coupon company. Did you find it somewhere for less?” I ended up buying one anyway. I love it, too! But Sweetwater? Not so much. Maybe if I had spent 30k over the past 4-5 years instead of 20k, I’d be eligible for a discount on something.

[@Maplefuzz3542]

Hi! I'd like to see the same comparison with deluxe reverb!

[@allisonholmesmusic97]

Well damn, now I’m all sorts of confused. I’m starting to look for my first tube amp. I had been looking at the ‘65 Princeton Reissue. I hadn’t considered the’68 Reissue because there’s something about the looks of the silver face that puts me off (I know, I know), but I’ll be damned if it was my favorite sounding amp out of the ones you demonstrated

[@christophersambuco9414]

I'm a big fan of Princeton Reverbs, but I have one complaint about this video... The Princeton Reverbs have a great clean sound, but sometimes the distortion character isn't that great (mild circuit mods can sort that out). Brown Princetons can have an almost "Marshall-y" distortion quality to them. This video demonstrates both styles of amps in the opposite way. I would love an updated video showing the Princeton Reverbs played clean and the Brown Princeton cranked up. Thanks for the video and BTW, great playing!

[@KyleJohns-zk9kv]

I agree

[@MrSmiley1964]

The finest amp I ever owned was an early '64 Princeton Reverb. It was nothing short of glorious and the reverb was like nothing I've heard since. But life has a way of beating a person up sometimes, and like a fool I sold it 30 years and I have kicked myself in the ass every day since then.

[@DigitalSacalait]

They're all a little tubby sounding on the low end. But we're all kinda used to that sound, right!? The Tone Master was the least tubby of all! I have a 69 Twin (original) and a Waza Tube Amp Expander that I use to tame the volume. I love the clean sounds but just can't get into the overdriven sounds of a Fender without some pedal pushing the amp. But I saw a video of John Hall saying he used a Princeton on "Still the one" and that solo sings man! He used a Dynacomp too though. Nice work.

[@jeffbriggs4268]

Great review! I have a 15 watt (stated on the back of it and in the manual) 65 Princeton Reverb which I bought new in 2018. It is my favorite amp for Teles and Gibsons with P90s whereas some other guitars I have I like better through a Blues Jr. Why are some Princetons 15 watts and some 12? Did Fender change the output? What are your thoughts? BTW - I like this format for gear reviews!

[@slick51]

I've owned a Princeton Reverb II since I bought it new in '83 ($395). I modded it to calm the buzzy thing the Rivera-era stuff had going on, and of the dozens of amps I've owned(and still own) this one isn't going anywhere. A JBL D120F seals the deal... As far as the Handwired version, I own the HW Deluxe Reverb..20 watts and a 12" is my new goto...lol

[@Douglas_I]

I have a 1976 Princeton non reverb that I absolutely love but unfortunately have to sell 😢

[@charliesundance]

Chris Stapleton Princeton is also hand-wired.