Fender Super Champ X2 vs 68 Princeton RI.

[@ourbackyardwildlife]

Just picked up an X2 combo after watching this and confirming with a couple of other online vids. Really impressed so far, one thing to note - it is definitely worth connecting your PC or Mac to the Amp via the USB cable, the software is really easy to use and provides you with access to a 'Mids' control knob which the amp doesn't have. It was already sounding pretty great for the size but having this extra control provides even more tone control.

[@TheLoneMutant]

Couldn't you also use a mids pedal, like the colour box or haunting mids the JHS company makes, and boost your mids without the use of a computer?

[@jameskamboouris9561]

That is very interesting. I have the xd model. No USB,but it is great sound still

[@angrytroll27]

Best reviews around! No bullshiting around and acting like 15 year olds. Just to the point!

[@coppulor6500]

Aaron Mifsud i suspect he's a 15 year old lol

[@barrydutton9900]

Thanks for all your great reviews and comments! I am a 60-ish guitar player who still learns something new each video. I mainly play at home with friends and have sought out quiet amps with great tone. I now use a Mesa Boogie Mark 5:25 head and MB 1x12 cab + Tone Tubby 1x10 cab with alnico red (lighter for hauling around). This amp has spoiled me and I have sold all others (Supersonic 22, Blues Jr., Blues Cube Stage, Vox AC15...) because they were too loud or just didn't have the sound. I love good warm clean tones. My question is - which small head to buy for use by visiting guitarists and as an alternative. I have been looking at the Fender Super Champ X2 and the Blackstar 1 and 5 watt models? I will use it through either a MB or Fender 1x12 cab. I have lots of pedals. My main goals are usually tone and home volume levels.

[@vincevesper167]

Phenomenal presentation! Just to add - your explanation about the lone 12AX7 tube is spot on! It functions as a phase inverter for the push-pull of the output tubes, and not as a pre-amp tube.

[@dowaliby1]

Absolutely! I followed the recommendations of a lot of owners of the X2 and popped an Eminence Ragin' Cajun speaker in there, and it went from a good sounding "Swiss Army Knife" practice amp to having a monstrous tone (clean and dirty), and easily suitable for gigs with my trio (electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass and vocals), especially with the beautiful boost and fullness added by my Ibanezs TS9 Tube Screamer (Level dimed and Gain off).

[@jmatson1287]

Dude, your reviews are awesome! The fact that you are a fender dealer, and this doesn't sound "fake" or "sales pitch-y". Really just a solid, honest, and insightful. Very big fan of your channel!

[@30smsuperstrat]

I was told by fender that in channel 1 (non modeling channel) the preamp tube is one half of the tube a phase inverter, the other half is used for preamp. The rest of the preamp gain is solid state, not modeling. This is common in many high end amps, although they use more tubes in the preamp gain stages. Paul Rivera uses solid state combined with tubes in the gain stages of some of his amp designs. The most famous was Alexander Dumble who's use of solid state preamp gain stages, in his hotrodding of fender amps is what many covet to this day.

[@shuttervuleinguitarroom]

Bought Super Champ XD 2 days ago for 280€. Got custom paisley cabinet to repack it to 12” variant. Gonna make comparison between stock 10” speaker and 12” Jensen P12R Alnico Vintage. 😊 Great video as always. 😊👍🏼

[@crisongs1]

I just bought a Super Champ X2 . It doesn't sound as "tubey" as the Princeton,but it can definitely hold its own at a bar gig. Lol

[@omarrahman5532]

Not sounding tube like was my primary concern. I was looking to cheap out and get this over a super sonic. Looks like I might need to reconsider.

[@chuchiri]

I have the Champ X2 and for me is a fantastic amp with all the effects and presets, am a begginer with tube amps and I love the sound that makes for the price, Saludos!!! from Mexico.

[@jessiet11053]

Phil I can't thank you Enough for all your Knowledge and Patience , and most of all talent and being just a Great Guy !!!

[@Krebsmonkey]

I own an X2, it is a great amp. The crucial thing missing from it though is a headphone out! It's great for recording though. Thanks for doing the comparison!

[@RiffsMcGoo]

this was an excellent comparison video. i love how helpful these are for consumers

[@bakerXderek]

I bought a Fender super champ xd at a pawn shop the other day and after these reviews i'm glad I did ! I just unplug the speaker in the back and use my Mesa 4x12 cab with V30s and its so crisp and beautiful its amazing. It truly is a swiss army knife.

[@Betterifitsfree]

Sounds cool. Check out the Cannabis Rex speaker upgrade comparison. Suprising.

[@ren1818ren]

Does your super champ play well at low volumes? I want to get it for my apartment but am worried it’ll be too loud.

[@bakerXderek]

@@ren1818ren Ya it's great

[@ren1818ren]

@@bakerXderek thank you so much!

[@karlphilipemanuelcook4322]

Dude I feel so much smarter and more well informed after watching your videos. You're probably the best guitar guy on KZbin, definitely among the best.

[@williamseling7957]

Yea dude when it comes to guitar knowledge, you're definitely the man, lessons, gotta go with Marty. Do u guys know each other/work together for ideas, etc?

[@pcollenyt3683]

Tube "assigned to the power amp" is called the phase inverter and it dies drive the power tubes in a push-pull manner

[@jameskrys5286]

I went into my local GC last week. They had two Super Champ X2's, a new one and a used one. The used one had a Celestion G10R speaker. The used one just vibrated so nicely. I have a Super Champ XD, and now I have a Celestion G10R. 35 bucks on Ebay.

[@charlie-obrien]

In July 2019, the Princeton RI is about a $899 and I just bought a SC X2 fsr (wine red tolex) w/ Celestion g10 speaker for $499. With my Fender MP tele my total spent on gear is $928.00 (caught a sale on the Guitar). I considered the Princeton and a few others in the 500 - 1,100 range, but went for the SC X2 because of versatility, quality and looks. I am very happy with the quality and the sounds that I can get from the Super Champ. I may upgrade to a '65 Deluxe Reverb at some point, but I feel like the Super Champ really is the future. Especially for those who want a good tube experience for classic sound and modeling for a little something extra in their playing.

[@paulmaguire2537]

Thanks man. Straight talking, honest, well educated opinion from a fellow guitar geek. Lucky to have stumbled across your page

[@damonwrothe]

I like the fact that you pointed out what difference there was between the two. saying that you liked them both.

[@dynosnortfuss5799]

Thanks for another awesome comparison! I have a Super Champ XD, used mostly for low volume bedroom playing and I'm very pleased with it.

[@SaxJockey]

Same here, great amp, controllable volume (unlike a lot of other amps).

[@guitar-on7xu]

I bought the X2 but stepped up to the FSR. It has a wine colored Rolex a wicker grill and a greenback celestion 10". I'm very pleased with the versatility, price & sounds. If you're looking for an around the house do it all amp, this is it. I love it!

[@guitar-on7xu]

*tolex

[@123sambrose]

That super champ is a steal for the price. Been jamming on one for 6 or 7 years. Love it.

[@rfeufjf]

Best video for the X2 I've seen on youtube! I am a happy X2 owner and, for the price range, it's the best one out there.

[@Slaphitter]

Bought a 68 Princeton today. Coming off a Vox hybrid. I am completely blown away. What a gorgeous tone. Yeah, you can't get it to break up at home/bedroom volume - so I ran an OCD into it and it's like buttah. And on sale!

[@ransombaggins9301]

Great video, even in 2019. :) That X2 is amazing value for money, and with an upgraded speaker...well, you just have to hear it. Fortunately, there are some great videos on youtube demonstrating that. I'm waiting to hear from a guy who hopefully still has one local in excellent condition for between $200 (what I want to pay) and $250 (what he is asking--very fairly, I might add). Hoping for the best. And as others have said, your videos are so helpful. Thanks!

[@njt002]

Just bought that Super Champ from ya. You are quite the salesman. Well done.

[@LiberTBo]

Its refreshing to see a guitarist who's not perpetually shredding....What is the PRS model used ?

[@markp4818]

It says Mira right on the headstock truss rod cover,,, lol

[@deanmccaskill5495]

@@markp4818 Whoa sick burn man.

[@prestachuck2867]

They are definitely different sounding amps, but they both sound great! I would bet that you could duplicate that Princeton with the Super Champ if you spend some time tweaking the software via usb. I’ve ordered a used Super Champ X2 head. Excited to try it out with a well tuned 112 cab.

[@SlickCat]

Thanks.....they sound similar. Yes the 68 all tube has more depth however I wonder what the X2 would sound like with a better speaker.

[@firstnamelastname9370]

MoonGlow if anyone wants a cheaper tube amp, blues jr iii is the choice (no superchamp xd/x2)

[@gibson71wood86]

MoonGlow , it sounds louder and "better" with the 75.00 rajun Cajun.. I guess it sounds great plugged into a 2x 12 also but I've never tried that..

[@vicpnut1]

Was gonna say the 68 sounded a bit fuller , but yeah depth works too... I know This video and comments are old but am just now looking to get the x2 and doing the KZbin review / vs / comparison rounds ... and seriously on this comparison to me the around triple the price of the 68 makes the x2 along with the plethora of options my choice ....I mean shoot some of the different comparison sounded almost exact , don’t get me wrong any time one was better sounding it was the 68 but not at that price differential and me not a pro or gigging musician

[@mattlambert1551]

while the princeton sounds better, its around 3x the price. you could could get a champ, a pedal, and a guitar for the price of the princeton.

[@PhillipMcKnight]

I know it is kinda crazy. Thank you for posting,

[@mariek6993]

agreed, is the princeton 3x better? Im not so sure... its certainly not as versatile.

[@SaxJockey]

What we cannot be sure of from a video is how useable the volume control is on each amp. I have the Super Champ XD, love it. Would like the Princeton but do not want the price tag, size and weight...and risk that it may be too loud. I often see comments that some amps (even 10W/5W) are too loud/uncontrollable. I can safely say the SCXD is very controllable.

[@GuitarLover]

@@SaxJockey that was THE comment. It's Important for home players like myself. I cannot play that loud and I need to be able to control it. Thanks!

[@SaxJockey]

@@GuitarLover The SCXD (15W) is a GREAT amp for home use (my use), it also has a line out to an external PA system (or mic'd for more volume). You can get a good tone at comfortable volumes, or go crazy and 'feel the volume' (ringing in the ears). They can be found for as little as £150/€175/US$200 (plus carriage), or a little more with optional two mode footswitch (select CH1/CH2, select Effect ON/OFF). The F/S is VERY useful. Apart from the on-board amp models (CH2) and effects, the clean channel (CH1) takes pedals very well. So you have a very capable modelling amp and a pedal freindly clean amp. I am sceptical of very low wattage amp, I have a Fender Champ 600 (5W), and while the cleans are nice, I cannot get a decent volume from it. I would need to be firmly convinced before I consider buying a 1W amp, or 1/4W amp!

[@stevecassidyband6333]

Many thanks this is the most informative demo of these two amps I have seen on youtube -well done

[@davidcarson7936]

Loved the comparison, bought a X2 few years ago, fantastic four home use. Have a number of tube amps choices r simple for me. If you're sane and want to keep your wee woman happy u can't crank a tube amp in the house unless it 5 watts!!!!! Put A drive pedal infront of it. X2 Fender=happy woman....lol

[@musiclover.489]

I have a Super Champ X2 and love it. It's perfect for practice at home without pissing off the neighbors.

[@aliengtr]

the fender x2 is awesome, I have 4 of these and run 2 in stereo, you get a big sound, but push it too loud or heavy bass and the speaker will flub out on the combo, a replacement speaker like a celestion gold of canabis rex takes care of that.Also, all 4 of my amps had cabinet buzz, but just tighten the handle screws and the screws on the sides and that takes care of it,.plus I want the tube amp sound but dont want to have to deal with or replace 10-11 tubes etc.....3 tubes I can handle lol

[@djross2043]

I put a Celestion 10-30. What a difference. Downsized from a Hot Rod. Don’t feel bad at all.

[@losd5959]

I now own both of these amps as well. The x2 is fun to just mess around with and not worry about a bunch of pedals, but you are right. That Princeton just has that warm, rich Fender tube tone. So good.

[@michael_caz_nyc]

I Agree. you can really hear the difference.

[@timbyrne914]

Helpful review. I took a look at the schematic, and the dual triode has one side set up for modest gain and the other as a split load phase inverter to drive the push pull power stage. So the preamp tube does and a little tone shaping.

[@ExasBits]

One thing I noticed with my Super Champ: both channels at their base sound like Fender Champs. The difference seems to be that only channel two has a gain setting. The different amp voicing seem to come into play as you turn up the gain. So it’s not really modeling the amp but just the gain stage. For example, the Twin setting doesn’t sound any different until you start to crank the gain. Then it starts to sound more Twinny. Then you start to hear the tone sculpting and the change in EQ response. This isn’t a complaint, just something to keep in mind.

[@lukericard7209]

Boom. This guys superchamps. That is exactly what's up

[@scottbulmer7160]

Great video comparison, thx! I think your correct when assuming the larger cab on the Princeton as improving the overall sound. I heard/read that many folks are changing out the speaker to "upgrade the X2..we're never satisfied lol. I'm a X2 head owner. I've had it a month and use it with a 1x12 and 4x12 vintage Yamaha cab (41 years old)...sounds great. Now the X2 does have two '65 Princeton settings. It would be interesting to compare those with the real thing. Again, thanks and pray for me as I might try out the fuse software today (I'm terribly techno-challenged). Keep on strumming!

[@Reasepilotte]

I mounted my superchamp amp in a 1-12 fender champion 40 enclosure..im impressed....its a bit larger but huge difference in sound..happy me

[@fishpotpete]

I've got the Vibro Champ XD and feel the same way you do about your XD. Incredible amp for noodling around. I have a Egnator Tweeker 15 head that sits on top and I find I use the Egnator when I'm practicing with my pedal board to prep for my church worship team, but use the XD when I just want to unwind and have fun for 20 minutes. One thing I've noticed about the hybrids that use actual power tubes on the back side seem to sound very much more tube-like than the hybrids that have a 12AX7 that goes into a solid state amp. I think the Peavey Heritage had the power tubes on the tail end as well and it sounded killer (and was loud as _____).

[@josemariatrueba4568]

both vibrochamp and superchamp XD sound exactly the same, much better than the newer x2

[@joe5583]

the 12ax7 in the SCX2 is mainly for the phase inverter for the output tubes, although phase inverters usually have some gain as well so the 12ax7 will have some impact on the tone

[@SaxJockey]

Yes, the schematic (available on line) states the ac test voltage points. The output of the 12AX7 is higher than the input, so some gain.

[@josemariatrueba4568]

12ax7 are two triode in a single tube, First is used as an amplifier and second one as a phase inverter

[@tcdropouts1429]

Great video. I’m a big fan of trying to get the best sound when comparing amps. People Obsess over trying to make the comparisons even instead of showing the best of each amp. I’d like to add a few notes, I’m sorry if they’ve been mentioned already. Voice 10 is 60s British Dirty/composed (Vox AC with a compressor pedal simulated in front) Voice 5 is 65 Princeton Clean Voice 6 is 65 Princeton dirty/composed (a compressor pedal is simulated in front) Fender discontinued support for their fuse software. I read you can still download and use it but they don’t update it or provide support anymore. I own and love the SCX2. Obviously it’s not as tube sounding as a real tube amp, but the difference is minimal. No one could tell the difference besides tone nuts like us. It truly has that 3D aspects of tube tone that we all loves. Hopefully you know what I mean by that. It truly doesn’t have that flat sound that mod amps tend to produce. The SCX2 retains enough of that tube warmness to make it a worthwhile amp IMO. One last thing, the SCX2 has a digital control knob to adjust the mids. You can only access it with the fuse software. I just read today that the mids are set to 10 by default. I read that if you get into the software and adjust the mid setting, it really makes some of the tones sound better. I I already love how this thing sounds, but I am excited at the prospect of adjusting the middle frequencies. I’m going to give it a try tonight. Great video though, thanks! Edit: One last thing! The clean channel is voiced for Fender Blackface clean tone. IMO, the clean channel is the most tube sounding channel.

[@motokev]

This is EASY STEVIE my friends. The Princeton sounds better. But, the SUPER is funner to play. AND isn't that why we play.....for FUN

[@greggaravet4932]

I picked one up with the stock speaker and it sounds ok. Plugged it in to a cabinet with a 12” mojotone anthem and it really comes to life on channel one. I might recab it so I don’t have to carry the extension speaker. The champion 40 is the same with and would just need some minor changes to support the head assembly.

[@SaxJockey]

Interesting demo Phil. The earlier Super Champ XD sounds great too. An inexpensive EQ pedal in front can provide more presence and transforms the sound. Expect the EQ settings are adjustable within the X2 (Fender Fuse software).

[@homeworldmusic]

Wow, that pedal comparison from 4:00 to 4:30 is like no-fi vs. hi-fi. Same for the next couple of comparisons. It is like using the Champ gives you a clean boost compared to the Princeton. "Creamy" tone is likely easily achieved by rolling off some highs, if you really want that "looking through a dirty window" sound.

[@thasandmanmorrison8469]

have you tried the new fender vibro champ with digital reverb ? i used to have a vibro champ and loved it. but like all of us do. i sold a great amp and moved to something else. i always thought for home use the vibro champ with tube reverb would be a perfect amp. but they never made that. i understand adding a tube reverb to the vibro champ would change the entire tone of the amp because of the change it would make to the rest of the circuit im curious about the new vibro champ with the digital reverb and how that reverb compares. whether it is worth pulling the trigger

[@timmyv694]

I replaced the speaker in my x2 with an inexpensive Jensen mod 10/50 and it really opened this amp up.

[@Antonymous2001]

Great video! I found the Super Champ struggled to keep up with our drummer! The Princeton had some balls! Once again I find both of these amps could use some upgrading that would make them better in more situations, by different players. (A Mid Tone pot for example.) Changing the speakers really improved the sounds!

[@Xn4W]

For the Plexi Drive/Tube Screamer pedal part, you should've just looked up the amp settings, the whole point of them is to accurately model the Princeton Reverb in this case, so we would like to hear the overdrives with the real princeton vs modeled princeton to actually hear accurate differences.. Should've done another section with comparing with Channel 1 because Channel 1 is essentially supposed to be an accurate "blackface" circuit tone, which is basically Princeton Reverb tone once again.

[@JimsGuitarGarage]

Phillip, you gotta plug this into your computer! It's the only way to adjust the mids for the amplifier. It makes a huge difference in the sound. Most of the settings have the mids way down, it kinda kills the tone coming out of the amp. I have the head version also and couldn't believe the difference after adjusting the mids on all the channels. I ended up keeping it, instead of returning it.

[@PhillipMcKnight]

+cruiserrider Yes, I am going to finally mess with that. I like this amp so much. It is fun and always sounds good.

[@JimsGuitarGarage]

+Phillip McKnight You won't regret it! You can set up the reverbs, delays, overdrives and all the other effects to your liking. This amp (head) into a 2x12 with Greenbacks=tonal heaven. I enjoy your channel, and the information you put out. Keep up the good work!

[@markbader4942]

I haven't plugged my x2 into my computer yet either. Are there some pre-sets that will adjust the mids as you describe, or are you more or less on your own as far as fiddling with the settings? I see there are a bunch of saved presets, I guess I'm wondering if there's any you'd recommend for adjusting the mids. Thanks,

[@JimsGuitarGarage]

+Mark Bader I bought mine used, but when I plugged in and used editing software, most of the mids on channel 2 were right around 3. The eq setting for mids are adjustable for each of the 16 pre-sets. It's not a global midst setting across all presets.

[@markbader4942]

I'll take a crack this weekend, thanks mate

[@bo1ivarj]

Phillip, thanks for the review. Curious how you would rate the X2's Marshally tones to the DSL15. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@walt957]

I had a DSL15C it is a beast. traded that for DSL40CR for Marshall tones. Can't get rid of the Super Champ X2. I upgraded the speaker to Cannabus Rex 10" - Huge, wider tones and maintains character of the fender tone. I hit it with a reverb pedal and amazing. I would bet you could come close to the Marshall with the X2...

[@danejurus69]

Phillip, does the X2 sound like the XD? Would a Super Champ XD be a nice amp for a longtime player for home use? I'm just looking for a good sounding, inexpensive tube amp for my Tele.

[@alexmurphy5289]

Buy the X2, they are out there

[@Fugettaboutit]

Changing the speaker in the X2 makes a huge difference too. Was going to get an X2 and an Eminence Ragin Cajun 10", but just might get the head version and plug into my Deluxe Reverb's speaker.

[@looneytunes47]

Yes the 12ax-7 in the x-2 is a Phase Splitter for the Output Tubes...

[@Jeepjones85]

The Princeton sounds fantastic!

[@ronandlanadisorda2001]

Am I correct to assume that the silver face reissues are better built (better transformers and all) than the blackface reissues? Thanks for your time and consideration.

[@uriahroseii1026]

I've for a 65 PRRI (western tolex with a 12"), the 68 Custom (added mid pot, some NOS tubes and Celeston 10" Gold), a Princeston Recording, and a 1979 Princeston Reverb. I recently got a SCX2 off FB Classifieds for $120.00. After changing the speaker (with a Jensen 10" Falcon I had) it was a drastic improvement. I think it works well with the smaller cabinet of the X2. I use the little X2 cleanish with reverb or tremolo. This is my 4th one (a head, another X2 combo and a XD, all gone), but I'll probably keep this one for a even more compact rig then my Princetons. I'd like to see Fender come up with an updated version of the X2 since they quit supporting the Fuse software which will suck for X2 and Mustang owners in the near future.

[@walt957]

Like your video. I bought the X2 combo used for 175 and love it. Just put in a Canabus Rex and sounds amazing.

[@MrMongo321]

I just bought the X2 and I love it! I'm still toying around with the settings to see what sounds I can get out of it....

[@danwright8735]

Hi Phil. Love your work. Question about the Super Champ! I had a Fender Acoustasonic 150 with the ´Amp style options´. Sound was LUSH at lover volumes. But When it was turned up ..all was ok til about 7. Past that point the bottom end DISAPPEARED and there was no further increase in volume. The shop got me second one - but that had the same problem. I walked out with a Fishman Loudbox Mini. I hope the power amp behaves better on the Champ. Ta.

[@BrianKaplanUCNBG]

This amp is traditional Push Pull 12 ax7 feeds the power tubes and is mixed with digital signal prior to getting to the power section...how do you think the voice you choose gets ultimately to the speakers? It has to mix with original guitar signal prior to power amplification and then sent to output transformers!er to speaker...some of the digital signal can be post pre amp but I do not know how that could be post power amp. Anyways...maybe checking schematic or with someone prior to posting video..that can read a schematic...amp design can. Be understood by acquiring and reading the Fender Book Soul of Tone.

[@jimmuncy5636]

I expected the Princeton to sound much better than the Champ, but it didn't, not to my ears. It would be a great practice amp and probably for small venues.

[@demetrios4699]

I agree. .

[@joshiuahallenbeck531]

Princeton with pedals did however.

[@tysonrinker5958]

The champ is still a tube amp at the end of the day

[@tysonrinker5958]

Of course princton sounds like the real deal and has that responsiveness that I always look for. But nothing wrong with the super champ

[@fooll]

I just picked up the X2 today. I'll be using it for open mics. Funny thing is I was comparing it with the 68 Princeton but could not justify spending more than I needed. For now I believe I made the right choice.

[@alphajames33]

Hi, Phillip. Can you make a comparison of the Super Champ X2 with the new Vox AV amp? I believe they are both tube amps with modeling solid state pre-amp. That would be really usefull. Thanks.

[@nichyd7740]

alphajames33 so which one is better what do you think?

[@fooll]

I own the AV30 and just picked up the Super Champ X2 today. I prefer the over all sound of the Vox better the effects are not as good. With the Vox the effects stay the same between both channels and it doesn't have Tremolo. ( which is the main reason I went on the market for a new amp.)

[@lydmo8287]

I like both, but I don't want to spend so much for an amp that I'll seldom crank up; and anyway, I play mostly jazz oriented rock and pop, and some experimental-atmospheric w/ delays-reverbs. I have one Strat, which I play the least. I'm usually playing hollow and semi-hollows with humbuckers (Japanese Super 58s, Chinese Super 58s, USA Gibson 57 Classics). My question is, with the additional USB connector to Fuse online at Fender, can the Super Champ be tweaked to acquire that "full" sound you mentioned? From my end, I like what I hear coming out of the Super Champ, but I do think it need a bit more bass/lows. I watched another review and the player said that the EQ can be tweaked considerably, customized and uploaded/saved to any of the 1 thru 16 presets, hence giving the player even more versatility. What are your thoughts about this? By the way, I enjoy your straight talk on gear; I've learned a lot from you. Thanks! :)

[@1961jscofield]

I recently bought a used Super Champ X2 and am really liking it. Does well with my limited few pedals too. Perfect for my apartment living.

[@KellerFkinRyan]

hey all, ive never bought a tube amp before and my friend is offering me a super champ x2 for $75. im wondering a few things, and some of these may be answered, but I haven't watched the full video yet so sorry if theres a few redundant things -is the 15w tube or solid? meaning, is it loud like a 15w tube, or quiet like a 15w solid? -do valves blow less often on a hybrid? -is there a clear ratio between tube and solid wattage? like, is 25w tube similar to 100w solid? if so, is there a formula to convert wattage in terms of volume? -if the 15w of the super champ is tube, is that because of the power tubes or the preamp tubes? -why is the super champ highly regarded while the valvetronix is talked down upon? are all hybrids not created equal?

[@jeffellingson373]

Great Videos keep it up man

[@TheTruthseeker707]

I Would have wished you would have used the same exact pedals on both amps to be able to A B them properly.Question, is the champ gigable?

[@55BLUTO]

+TheTruthseeker707 I use the X2 head with a 1X15 cab loaded w/Jensen. Crank it to 8 and use it to play out. GREAT rig.

[@TheTruthseeker707]

Bluto Miller thanx. But was wondering is the combo by itself is gigable?

[@55BLUTO]

+TheTruthseeker707 Never had a combo, just the head.

[@TheTruthseeker707]

Bluto Miller thanx

[@jameskamboouris9561]

Is there a good pedal you can use with the super champ, ?"not that you would need it" thanks jim

[@scotttregan]

Phillip - have you ever tried an isolation cabinet such as the 'axtrak' - to allow you to push an amp with no line out (such as the Princeton) to get the tube distortions without the high volume . Do these work or do you have any opinion? Thanks !

[@wildebassman]

The speaker also has a big influence on the sound of the amp, could be the champ sounding more like the princeton with the same celestion speaker...

[@BaronVonSchnarffler]

Just took my Fender Champ X2 out of storage, 5 years,the software, support etc is not there, can't find the App on my Google 7 Pro phone?? a blog said Apple has it still, so my question is, does anyone know how I can get/run it on my phone without buying Apple? Such a great little amp I hate to not have it's full capabilities available Thank you very much

[@grassmastersmith4422]

I have the Camp X2 combo and I love it. My favorite amp. My friend listened to me play along with ZZ Top Foxy Lady and Pink Floyd KZbin "half stoned" and offered to sign me to his Hollywood booking agency. I have a Mint Carvin X112 Hot Rod Mod but it's just too powerful to turn up. I'm sure it would sound fine in a sports stadium but its not practical for home use. My solid state Mustang 1 is great but not practical to practice with a band. The Champ X2 sounds sooooo much better to me and will do everything the Mustang will do with the "Fuse" software. The Champ X2 presets sound so good I haven't had the need to adjust anything. I use the clean channel to run my pedals through. In the video the Champ sounds a little tinny but just turn the bass up a notch or the treble down and mess with the gain a little and you will see the light.

[@starfire5656]

To Ron Light’s response below it would be interesting compare the same pedals used on the Princeton n the XD’s clean channel and maybe throw your XD head and 12” speaker cabinet into the mix. Thanks for the great reviews Phil, keep up the good work my friend!

[@alecpilarchik2338]

Great video. I love the Princeton but my only concern is not having a master volume. If im gigging with it and need to turn it up to match levels, what do I do if I get too much break up? Also vice versa. At low volumes im afraid I wont be able to get the natural tube overdrive when I want it. Is there a way to deal with this that I am not seeing? Thank you and again great video.

[@beanabus77]

Buy the '65 PRRI (the '68 is made to break out earlier) and swap the speaker to a more efficient one. An eminence ought to do the trick. Use a tubescreamer or something to drive it. That's what I do, and the amp is fine with drums. An amp like this has to played like an instrument - you simply aren't going to get natural tube overdrive at low volumes (unless you use an attenuator of course), it's a different deal to a modern channel switching amp.

[@Kathayne636]

Drive the input with a booster or any pretty much any pedal with a level on it to get earlier breakup. To get more headroom the only thing you can do it get a larger cabinet or more efficient speakers.

[@kcampbell4098]

hey Phil, need a princeton, a real snazzy one, got any hanging around? Had 1 as a kid.....oB

[@davidgreer5150]

The Super Champ X2 with a Ragin Cajun darn hard to beat. I have used many amps over the years and this combo is my go-to for about every occasion... playing live, mic'd through the house, using with a redbox or palmer DI, and in recording. It takes pedals very well on either the valve-only channel or the sims side (especially voice #8 - 65 Twin). It has much more versatility over the princeton and other one trick re-issue amps that I've owned (that all cost and weigh a lot more). The X2 is a winner in my book.

[@dvanolya]

How much does the Ragin Cagin change the low end, assuming it does... more punch, tighter maybe? Also, anything else that is an improvement over the stock speaker?

[@johnhatt6145]

Thomas Halbert the RC slightly diminishes the highs but creates a much fuller and articulate tone; it also DRASTICALLY raises the volume making it useful even for gigging. ( the only thing is now when I’m just practicing in my house I can’t turn it past 3 without it blaring )

[@stratplayer96]

I own an vintage '68 Princeton Reverb. It is in a different dimension. However, I have also owned the Super Champ XD, which I upgraded the speaker to an Eminence, added a Weber beam blocker and upgraded the tubes (JJ's). It was a fantastic amp. The line out sounded so good it was worth the amp itself. I ended up selling it to a close friend of mine dirt cheap because I wanted him to have great tone as well. How I miss that little amp!

[@henriquelhrf]

Except for the tremolo, the X2 sounded better in all situations for me. Great comparison, thank you!

[@henriquelhrf]

@the supernatural for sure princeton is much better in person.

[@MIKE-ej6ud]

Thanks to this particular video (nice job!) and a couple of hours of checking it out at a local music store.....i just purchased the SCX2. I will pick it up next week, brand new in the box and I can say that I'm so far, loving the sounds it can make. I believe that it does indeed, sound like a tube amp compared the the very good solid state Fender amps that i own and have played through. Also, i'm not going to be gigging in front of a large audience ever again, so I will have pretty damn close to the big airy Fender clean sound and some dirt, at a much lower volumes. I couldn't ever crank up a Deluxe Reverb or the Princeton Reverb and get that breakup that we all crave.....it would just be too loud. Rock on, folks!

[@gregs8685]

I’ve had both nd agree the Super Champ is a Swiss Army knife and the Princeton 68 is a one tick pony. The Super Champ is fun with a bunch of different sound options. None sound great but for a small home practice amp it’s fine. If you can stretch your budget, the Princeton is a way better amp, it sounds bigger and more lush and if you push it it has great natural break up, but it will be loud to get the break up. It’s also one of the best small wattage pedal platforms. Bottom line is if you’re all in amp/pedal budget is $1000 budget consider a Princeton and a couple of pedals.

[@josemariatrueba4568]

Sounds from superchamp XD are great, better than X2.

[@PhillipMcKnight]

You can buy some of the gear demoed on this channel at a discount right here. www.mcknightguitarco.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=77_92

[@skeys79]

Could you get ahold of a 65 Princeton reissue and compare your 68? That would be fun.

[@dannyrivers3922]

Did he not drive the tube channel with a pedal? Considering it gets a little break up at is higher volumes

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

Out of these two amps which you you recommend....vibro champ xd or super champ x2 ? Thanks

[@pabtele]

Hello, very good your video. I have a superchamp x2, what settings can you recommend to get a jazz sound. I will play it with an ES 339. Thank you very much

[@fattboyzz1355]

These little SCX2 amps are great lil amps . They take pedals well and the voicings & effects offer lots of options to find great tones . Id love to have a Princeton ,but just can't drop a grand on one .

[@greenleaves6924]

Looking to buy a Princeton, with pedals what are your setting on amp itself?

[@jimtippens]

Awesomeness. Love your stuff. Always detailed answers to most concerns. Thank you. I bought a new SCX2 combo $279 & a used head for $200. l had a 1x10 cab already. I put a Ragen Cajun in the combo. Such a Great amp. I also have a Clean 130 watt RMS tube amp head with 2x12 EV cab that I use for power & the X2 head Line Out as a Pre Amp. I suggest trying the Fuse Software to Totally Customise any amp or Fx in any of the 16 voicings. Also has a Midrange Controll which makes a big differance when ya boost the Mid. It just makes me LOVE this amp all the more. I use the Line Out for Direct recording in PT12 Best sounding & I have an 11Rack. I but I tend to use the Line Out on the X2 more for recording. Small point on the combo I bought brand new. The 5 year warranty is not on the Tubes. The 12AX7 went & I thought the amp was gone? after only having the amp about 4 months. Lucky I had an extra GT I've kept for 35 year's for just such an occation. Thank God I popped it in & it worked perfectly. Thanks for this Awesome channel. Happy Jamming to All.

[@tricko2286]

Phil great video - thanks. I own the 68' Princeton and the SC XD (which prefer in tone to the X2)... You descriptions were spot on- Princeton is a lifetime keeper but as you said, too loud if you want to drive into breakup for home use. I still think the SCXD is one of the best practical amps anyone can buy for the money.

[@SaxJockey]

I also have the SCXD and love it, I do not want to be messing about with USB computer connections and potential software/interface issues going forward; just switch on and play! I have read several times that folk prefer the tone of the XD over the X2. I am happy with the stock speaker. I did try patching the output to a Jensen C10Q that I have in another cabinet. That speaker brightened up the output from another amp (giving a more chimney Fender tone), but it was actually warmer and smoother than the stock speaker in the XD. This did not help, the stock speaker is fine for the various roles it has to perform (clean to heavy overdrive). I might try the Jensen again later, when my ear develops further.

[@midwestfisherman]

What model of strat is that? Does it have the Shawbucker in it?

[@joelloyd1111]

It's a 2015 american hss shawbucker strat

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

The amp comparison definitely helps, thankyou.

[@adamwebb241]

The 68 performed exactly as it should for the price difference, particularly when being driven. The tremolo is just gorgeous as well.

[@wajang1000]

The Super Champ tweed with the Rajin Cajun speaker option sounds better to me than the standard X2.

[@marco.at.youtube]

Hi, Thanks for your review. an you tell me how fast the x2 will crank up? I like to play my Gretch with clean tones. Some break up at high volume is great, but I would like to have enough margin for clean sounds.

[@GtrMan863]

is the fender Super Champ too loud enough to gig with ?

[@psc502]

Plug your x2 in and immediately turn of the cab emulation like I did. It seriously improves the sounds of the channel 2 voices(takes out alot of the speaker muffle sound). Then get their reverse effect and add it to the effects(it's so nice and ambient). Also you can download a distortion pedal into one of the 16 effects as well and turn it on instead of using the voices at all, which even with turning off the speaker emulation are still the weakest link in the X2s sound to me. You can also adjust the virtual mid knob which isn't even included on the amp, and yes it works just like the bass and treble for both channels.

[@scootergreen3]

Phillip I'm thinking of getting a Fender Hotrod Pro Jr III (Not the blues). A simple tube amp. They say it's all pure tube. Do you agree? I have a Fender Vibro champ Xd. It's a hybrid like the Super champ but I hate the sound of it. It doesn't sound pure. I'm used to the 60s and 70s tube amps.

[@jimashtube]

I have a Projr, and a Vibro Champ XD. Put the XD on voice 1, gain about 4, tone controls just about 7 each sounds like a real Champ. First 3 voices are really all you need. The ProJr is good for gigs and practice. Not good for at home. In a recording studio it will amaze and delight, but not in your bedroom. It is pure tube and bone simple. But there rely isn't a clean sound to be had, and it;s kind of boxy. I also now have the 68 custom Princeton and it is much much better than either for warm clean. But it isn't standard. It is modded. I like it like that. You might not. It can be unmodded for $5 and some soldering. But the standard Princeton is the '65. Back face not as much gain, or sustain.

[@scootergreen3]

Thanks Jim! That helps!

[@MaxRadin]

I think the champ sounds great. Will it keep up with a band? If an extension cab is used? thanks