Is the Conversion of a AA-165 Bassman to AA-864 Specs Worth the Effort ?

The AA-864 Fender circuit is the most respected of all the Blackface Fender Bassman circuits, and other circuits are often converted to AA-864 specs. In this long and rather complex video we will first overhaul a mint original AA165 Bassman circuit to optimize its audio performance. Then we will convert the circuit to AA-864 specifications and provide an AB comparison of he two circuits. Audio comparisons will include 1.) The Normal Channel of both circuits 2.) An AB comparison of the AA-165 vs AA864 Bass Channels 3.) An AB comparison of both circuits with equal gain. In addition, we will open an incredible gift, be visited by Mitzy, enjoy a product evaluation, and have more fun than a barrel o' monkeys ;). See Table of Contents (below).
If you enjoy videos like this one, please SUBSCRIBE to our channel and consider becoming a Patreon patron at: / uncledougsvintageamps or making a PayPal contribution to [e-mail] Thanks for watching :)
Video Table of Contents:
0:00 Open Box
1:33 Chassis Revealed and Examined
4:36 Read Letter
6:11 Identify Circuit
13:48 Explain the Plan for the Experiment
15:34 Overhaul and Optimize AA-165 Circuit
17:07 Break: Open Fabulous Gift
22:51 Resume Overhaul of AA-165
45:50 Break: Product Review
47:20 Begin Conversion to AA-864
1:03:35 Audio Demo of Normal Channel Both Circuits
1:06:46 AB Comparison of Bass Channels with Discussion
1:15:25 AB Comparison with Equal Gain in Both Channels
and Discussion
1:19:59 Farewell Comments

[@choimdachoim9491]

The admiration and appreciation shown by the person who sent you the schematics gift reflects (get it?) how all of us feel toward you. Seriously. Tears formed when I saw it.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, CD. I agree.

[@AROSFC]

same thought...

[@richardnovitsky9003]

Uncle Doug restored my faith in humanity…well said….Richard

[@UncleDoug]

@@richardnovitsky9003 Thanks so much, Richard :)

[@stewartcohen7683]

ABSOLUTELY. Although all gratitude is deserved, I can't think of a more appropriate gift showing the labor of love returned.

[@barbmelle3136]

From Leo: Great to see you back. My wife and I were worried enough to pray that nothing was amiss with your health. We are happy to see your adventure and to absorb your teaching. That ring binder of schematics is really amazing.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Barb. Like death and taxes, we're here to stay.

[@andrewgillis8572]

@@UncleDoug Maybe the best-ever UD seminar - and Doug your pace (honed in the chalk-dust, at the front of a classroom?) just seems to lock in the info. And don't you know, Ms Gaynor got a walk-on; lol.

[@UncleDoug]

@Randy We appreciate your concern, Randy.

[@Y2kBug99]

Dear Uncle Doug, The last couple of years have been very rough for me, but whenever I was feeling like hell, your videos cheered me up. Your knowledge, expertise and care for your work is truely remarkable. So I wrote you a little something for you: Ode To The Craftsman Keepin‘ those tubes in line ain‘t no easy task. Most people just never ask. A craftsman for the craftsman, that‘s what we need. A man that solders till his fingers bleed. Checking all the values, wasting a little time, talking to his cats, then making sure the transformer is fine. A craftsman for the craftsman…. Don‘t worry Uncle Doug is here

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....Thanks so much, GJ. We appreciate your time and creativity.

[@irusman62]

George that’s right on

[@JonnySoundSounds]

hope your doing better y2k, all of us deserve to be happy God has blessed me through some very hard times. prayers your way and hope your doing ok

[@Y2kBug99]

@@JonnySoundSounds Thank you for the kind words :-) Things are getting better and I try my best to focus on what is good in my life. A change in perspective is sometimes the only change you need. Hope you are doing great. We need more people like you around ;-)

[@JonnySoundSounds]

thanks, I build 60s type fuzz pedal for a living, amps also but i sell 1 amp per 100 pedals haha, i was a heavy heavy heavy heroin user for over a decade and when i cleaned up i just stopped going out except for when my band plays shows. Sometime these groups and communities are the only social interaction I get. Its great to be a part of a group where so many people seem to genuinely care about others. that probably because Uncle Doug puts those types of vibes off so Im sure alot of us are drawn to that.@@Y2kBug99

[@alexdeleon7135]

Happy New Year, dear uncle! I am overwhelmed with relief that from this episode, we are provided evidence that you are still walking upright. I had feared you were unwell. Today's session featured a real time demonstration of the most sought-after modifications for the blackface Bassman. I hope 2023 brings you prosperity, and abundant health. That binder was the bomb diggity!! A very painstakingly compiled desktop schematic reference for all early production Fender amps. This was beyond anything petty. Thank you for posting today, and I look forward to the next bone chilling chapter.

[@glenncollins4778]

Unc., So happy to have you back. Happy new year.

[@J.C...]

You can find that list at EL34 world. Still, going through and printing them all was tedious!

[@Jethlin2020]

Wow! That binder of schematics is pretty awesome. That will definitely come in handy. What a great gift.

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, GW. I am still excited about it :)

[@luthiervandros]

It’s nice to have something with a fender pilot light that can’t shock you if you lose your focus for a second 😂

[@UncleDoug]

@@luthiervandros Especially when Lupe was involved ;)

[@luthiervandros]

@@UncleDoug 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@jeremiahlyleseditor437]

That schematic book is an incredible gift. What a show of appreciation for you and your channel. Gives you an edge over many and saves you time.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, indeed, Jeremiah. Thanks :)

[@CaptainRon1913]

Wow, that schematic book is amazing. Incredibly thoughtful gift

[@UncleDoug]

For sure, Ron. My jaw is still hanging open since unveiling it.

[@JohnCarey1963Jag]

So happy you're still making videos! I missed your great methods and narration. 🙂

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad to be back, John. Thanks :)

[@greglivo]

What an inspiring story it is to see Mitzy transform from life on the streets to becoming a brilliant vintage amp technician.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your kind words, Greg.

[@KarenTookTheKids364]

It's been a long wait for a new video but God above this is worth the wait. And what a fantastic gift off all the Fender schematics. Very thoughtful person.

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, KttK. Glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@kerrykurschinsky2451]

This was an VERY excellent video for me,... I have a AA 165,... that I aquired from an older gentlemen some years back,...he made me promise him,... that I wouldn't E-bay it,.... I said "don't worry about that" (easy promise),.... and for a price (you'd cry if I told you) and yearly service work,... on his "63" Chevrolet Impala SS,... he give it to me,.... I am now the same age as he was 21 year's later,... Imagine that amp riding around in that car,... WOW,.... he said the word was (back then),... the circuit change's were an up-grade to illiminate distortion and prolong speaker life (this amp has 12" Jensen's in it),..... a few year's ago,... I replaced the whole floor in that car for him,... grinding down spot welds (I'm a welder),... the new floor fit perfect, like the factory one,... when it was done,... he asked me how much he owed me,... I told him "nothing",.... he said "you gotta have something",... I said "no I don't",..... when he asked why,... I said "because I still got the better end of the deal"..... which I did,.... we're still all going strong,..... the clock doesn't stop,.... so I can't tell you how much I loved this video,.... take care,.... we were lucky to all have come from a good time,... thank's again........

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....thanks so much for sharing this with us, Kerry.

[@richardnovitsky9003]

That’s a great story …Karma is great!

[@GilgaFrank]

Always a pleasure to watch your work Doug. And great to see these old amps restored and sounding great.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Frank. Glad you enjoy our videos :)

[@philipharris2273]

Great to see you again! I wish you superb health. May all your cathodes emit, your plates collect, your grids control, and your solder joints be clean.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Philip.....and don't forget reverbing and tremolation.

[@rockbacklashify]

That was brilliance at work! The 864 conversion was a major upgrade with room left for your favorite germanium treble boost. You may have solved the mystery of the scratchy middle tone pot on my Mesa Boogie, as well. Thank you!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Rock. Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@brucewallace3285]

Glad to see you back. I learn something new with every video. Thank you so much for the lessons and for being such a thorough teacher. Cheers from rainy Maryland.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bruce. It's rainy here today. Mitzy and I are going to take it easy ;)

[@joeyalbertson2125]

Fantastic work, as always. The depth of your analysis is comfortably, and confidently understated. Always enjoy the projects - start to finish. Thanks so much.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Joey.

[@CC-te5zf]

That schematic book is just amazing! What a gift!

[@UncleDoug]

No kidding, CC. We are not worthy of such magnificence ;)

[@CC-te5zf]

@@UncleDoug 👍🏻

[@UncleDoug]

@@CC-te5zf Back at ya', CC ;)

[@SublimatedIce]

A number of transformers were made by a company in Canada called Hammond Manufacturing and rebranded for the US market. The amp likely wasn't made for the Canadian market, just the transformer was made in or for the Canadian market. CSA (Canadian Standards Association) is similar UL (Underwriters Laboratory) stamp. Keep up with the great vidoes!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the info, SI.

[@michael931]

Hammond is still alive and well. I buy their transformers all the time.

[@UncleDoug]

@@michael931 Good to know, Michael.

[@fc7896]

I've used Hammonds in two of my builds, inspired by UD. A Matchless Lightning 15 circuit and a black face Princeton circuit.

[@UncleDoug]

@@fc7896 Sounds like two good amps, FC :)

[@kenmearns6164]

Entertaining and educational. Best KZbin video I've watched in a while. What a fantastic gift, very happy for you and big thumbs 👍 to the maker. Keep up the great work Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ken. Will do :)

[@Slugg-O]

So nice, U.D. My New Year can finally get underway now that I've seen your first 2023 video. I wanted to post a comment about the amp as well as the gifts but I honestly don't think I can top the accolades posted by those before me. Your generosity in sharing so much with so many is simply incredible and tremendously respected.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Randy. It's always great to hear from you :)

[@87mini]

I think from a bass instrument point of view, the 864 would be far superior to the 165 preamp, and I agree, raising the treble control might just pull those brighter freqs up to a guitar level. The 864 certainly has gutsier sound for guitar! It would be interesting to see an audio freq sweep on the scope to see the circuits' frequency response compared, but we'll leave that to another video! Very nice work, Uncle Doug, and, as usual, fantastic presentation! Wishing you Health, Happiness and Prosperity in the New Year! 😀

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for all your interesting comments, 87. Likewise on the good wishes :)

[@EJP286CRSKW]

@87mini Lowering the 500pF capacitor to 250pF raises the _frequency_ at which the treble control starts to take effect, so it actually lowers the treble. I think this is a change in the wrong direction. I prefer 500pF here. AB175 has 850pF which is too far the other way.

[@UncleDoug]

@@EJP286CRSKW I was merely following the schematic, EJP.

[@EJP286CRSKW]

@@UncleDoug I get what you did, and it makes sense to stick to one or other schematic from the commercial point of view. I'm just commenting on the commentary. Not many people here seem to actually understand the circuit.

[@Jake-fo3rg]

I'd guess that the circuit changes introduced in the 165 series were to clean up the response of the bass channel for bass guitars (which is a bit too heavy in bass and mid frequencies). It would be interesting to compare the sounds of both circuits when using a bass guitar. Historically, guitarists loved the bass channel of the 164 series because of the heavy mids. But you have to love mids as they and cannot be easily dialed out with only treble and bass controls.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Jake.

[@alanlevin167]

@@UncleDoug You need to add a Mid control like in a twin reverb. A very easy job if this is what you want --I put one in my original '65 Deluxe. Also Blackface Bassmen were and are lovely guitar amps. They were and are not great bass guitar amps, especially compared to Ampegs of the same era. 2 reasons I can think of: AMpeg cabinets are much larger than Fender speaker cabs, considering the speakers inside-more air probably helps. Ampeg cabs are 'Portaflex' design and, though they have no real port, they leak some air and are sort of 'ported'. Fender cabs are sealed tight (except for the 1/4" speaker jack of course). Makes for a tubby sound I think--better than the flabby sound and blown speakers of unsealed cabinets but not as good as modern cabinets designed with ports using Theile-Small principles. The Fender amp is much better for bass when used with a better cabinet.

[@UncleDoug]

@@alanlevin167 Thanks for the good info, Alan.

[@stevem.1853]

I was thinking the same thing. It would be interesting to see a video where different bass players would play through a vintage Bassman and give their opinions. I suspect that in the 60s the Bassman was used much more on stage, in the studio it would be more likely an Ampeg...

[@UncleDoug]

@@stevem.1853 I have never heard any accolades for the Bassman as a bass amp.....only as a guitar amp.

[@ferdberfle5069]

Well! A new video from my favorite Uncle! Certainly made my day on this sunny, warm East Texas monday. Well done Unc! Very clear, concise explanations. That schematic library is way over the top! What a gift! Hope to see you again soon!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you liked it, Ferd. Agreed :)

[@robinosborne266]

Great to see you back Doug, I have really missed your fantastic content of late. What an absolute stunner of a return. Take care and all the very best to you and the gang.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Robin. Will do :)

[@GregsGarage]

Purists be damned!!! We need functioning circuits for people to make music with WAY more than we need museum pieces for people to drool on!!! Thanks again for bringing us along to see what it takes to get these old amps back to touring specs.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Greg. It's a real tightrope situation, trying to maintain history as well as usefulness.

[@Scott-rz9vw]

@Uncle Doug ......seems like this would make you the equivalent to the Flying Wallenda of amp repair, what a job. Well done sir! Thanks for posting.

[@UncleDoug]

@@Scott-rz9vw Good analogy, Scott, with about the same consequences if I screw up ;)

[@bullthrush]

Another great video! Thank you for taking the time to show the amp, repairs and mods. The normal channel sounds great.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Andrew :)

[@JonnySoundSounds]

man, building Amps, playing guitar, building hot rods, taking care of cats and dogs. we have identical hobbies and life styles. i make my living building and selling Fuzz pedals ive been doing it for just over 10 years. i learned to build amps about 20 years ago. Amps is more of a hobby and ive built them for guys around my erea. I watch your videos over and over. Ive learned some things and see you using the same type of practices in your building that my buddy taught me. the guy who taught me to build amps also designed and built the first 7 or 8 shot revolver he then sold the design to smith and wesson and they made around 2000 of the gun. he was a very intelligent guy old military guy as well. Love the channel, the gear the cats and dogs and the cars. Great stuff

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very kind words. It's always good to hear from a kindred spirit :)

[@edwardlarose7691]

Thanks for yet another fantastic video, Uncle Doug! I'm very glad to see you're still repairing classic amps and making great videos. Happy new year to you!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Ed. Likewise :)

[@HBSuccess]

Fantastic UD, as always. Please never stop producing this unbelievably detailed,yet understandable content. Best of everything to you in 2023 and beyond.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much TF. Likewise on the good wishes.

[@knightbrolaire526]

Your videos are superb mr. Doug! You take your time to explain everything you're doing, and your diction is perfect - I can easily understand everything you say even as a non-native speaker. I recently modded my Fender Champion 600 (followed a tutorial, my first time modding an amp) and felt huge gratification that it turned out great. Shortly after I ran into your channel and it inspired me to learn more about amps and maybe try building my own as soon as I have my workplace ready :) Thank you for great content! Cheers from the Czech Republic

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, KS. We love hearing from our international viewers.

[@rodneykroetsch2924]

Excellent overview and study of these Bassman circuits. I thoroughly enjoy your vids and have furthered my education on vintage Fender repairs. Thanks teacher 😃👍

[@UncleDoug]

That's great news, Rodney. Keep up the good work.

[@skip1835]

Thanks UD, another very interesting journey, I especially liked the actual removing/replacing of the components via the schematic during the transformation - all verified through your listening tests - - - I don't think I've mentioned your pets lately but I so love the comfort they obviously experience as you share your home with them, thanks for getting them into your video. And right "backatcha", best wishes to you and your family, Happy New Year my friend.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your kind words and comments, Skip. We're just one, big furry family ;)

[@jmonk77]

Always so informative. I often find myself watching the old "how tube amps work." This video is in that class as far as info.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, JD :)

[@HomespunEffects]

Another most excellent video. Thanks Uncle Doug. It's always great to see another video pop up from you. I have an AB185 on my bench right now. I am considering doing some mods after I get it back in spec.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, HE. Good luck with your project :)

[@marksieber8140]

Thanks, UD! A very informative video of your detailed and thoughtful work. I'd been wondering where you've been, and now I see you had a big project in hand. I agree with your conclusions and hope the owner agrees. Happy New Year! Keep those hits coming : )

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed the new video, Mark. It will be on YT soon. HNY to you all :)

[@R.AudioElectronics]

I’m speechless! That’s beautiful! Very nice gifting..and well deserved! I appreciate you all for another wonderful video. Nice to have you back UD!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Mike.

[@bobmckenna5511]

Beautiful box decorations. Thanks for sharing. Admire the heart of the sender.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bob :)

[@wedoshotz6645]

Thank you for another informative & entertaining video, Uncle Doug. I learn something every time.

[@UncleDoug]

That's good to hear, W.

[@danerickson1632]

I had 2yrs of electronics schooling back In 1980-82 . No tube experience with that, I have played guitar for years and just couldn't seem to find any commercial tube amp I liked. In 2009 I built a Ken Fischer TrainWreck amp clone with push-pull El34 tubes 40wrms and added the bias controlled duel 250k pot master volume control. Solved my amp problem and still play it today, the best sounding amp I've ever owned. At 3yrs from retirement I think I will start repairing these awesome relics from the past for some extra $ and something to give me purpose. Thanks your very inspiring.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Dan. Best of luck with your retirement projects.

[@74cannelle]

It’s always good to have you back with, as usual, a very informative project. All good 👍

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, 74 :)

[@davidsimpson3380]

I really enjoyed your artful presentation. Your many years of meticulous work and study make it look easy :)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, David.

[@YooTooobJeff]

What an excellent gift you give us! What an excellent gift you got!!! Bravo all around!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks twice, YTJ :)

[@davida1hiwaaynet]

Thanks for taking the time to make this comparison video! I can tell you really love making these old amplifiers the best they can be!

[@UncleDoug]

We try, David :)

[@milofh550]

I got worried having not seen one of your amazing videos in some time...I was so happy to see this pop up today!

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoy it, Milo :)

[@Tonetwisters]

Terry, you still got that dry English droll, sense of humor! Love it! Always makes me LOL! Yeh. Nicotine pretties up everything, hunh? I wanted to stay and get a master's high school diploma; but they kicked me out as a grad in 1965. Good year for skinny graduates and beautiful amplifiers. "864" says it all. August 1964 was when amp design was developed. I will guess ... the tone stack! That book of schematics is a beautiful blessing! Holy cow! This book seems to be a marketable product!

[@UncleDoug]

Terry ?? Thanks for all the nice comments, TT.

[@gleerichardson2299]

I believe that is the most thoughtful gift I have ever seen. I greatly appreciate your teaching methods

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, GL. Thanks !!

[@rankenfile]

Nicely done. Thanks for sharing the whole sequence. Definitely was worth converting the circuit.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Stephen :)

[@robertduvall7392]

I've been watching you for years and years. You are my favorite amp repair guy. The little quips are worth it alone. But I have learned much from you. The gift of the Fender amp schematics was tops. Polished metal binder - wow! It took a lot to put that together and to decorate the box. The markers and cleaner? Amazing! I have marked up a lot of drawings since age 22, I am retired in NM. Doing amp checks against schematic would be great with that tool set. I thank that person as a customer of this channel. Take care, man.

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, Robert, the amp schematic index was an over-the-top gift.

[@ThomasACarlos]

Great explanation of determining which build the amp is. Thanks for the video!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Thomas. I tried to cover several bases during the video, including the one your mentioned.

[@pennykattack5789]

Missed you so much. But it was worth waiting for you presented us with this amazing video. What a patient you have, Sir. Thank you a have a Happy New Year along with your wife and pets. Nice gift, BTW. A pretty impressive demonstration of craftsmanship indeed. Cheers.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, PK :)

[@Echo_III]

Wow! What a gift. My jaw just dropped when you opened the "glass". Such a good person sent this.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Echo :)

[@andrewjmcgee]

great to see you here again!! always a learning experience!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, Andy :)

[@bendintegrativecenter2311]

Was so excited to see this new video on my feed. I literally dropped what I was doing and ran upstairs to watch it. Well done and welcome back!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, BIC. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@vintagetubeamplifiers]

My favorite Uncle is back! It's a rainy day in Chicagoland but the sun is shining, birds are chirping and I am smiling as I watch this! The rubber finger pointer is a great addition and removes any guesswork of exactly where you're pointing.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you like it, VTA. I was hoping for a real, amputated finger, but the imitation will suffice.....for now :)

[@Iguanaman25]

Thank you again for another wonderful lesson and another addition to your invaluable resource.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Bernard. Thanks for the nice comments :)

[@geoffinthepod4275]

Fantastic Doug.. xlnt vid, as always clear and well paced content. love learning how to love this old tec. cheers from Aus.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Geoff.

[@richardk7256]

Seriously impressive! A clear and careful explanation of a complex process.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Richard :)

[@drrobert2120]

Happy New Year Uncle Doug...Great video as always. Glad to see you're Ok...Looking forward to seeing more in the future!!! 👍👍🎸🎸🎸

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Doc. Likewise on the good wishes :)

[@thomasburnett4712]

Welcome back Uncle Doug and thank you very much for yet another gem! We all wish you good health and happiness in the new year!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Thomas. Likewise :)

[@jamiemorgan4146]

Thank you Uncle Doug!🙏🏻 Very enlightening and educational.... You’ve answered and demonstrated a musically historical question, that’s only lived in opinion and speculation. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@UncleDoug]

Our pleasure, Jamie. We love to address issues that are generally open to pure speculation.

[@acanadiancarpenter]

All the best to you and yours in the new year, so cool to see your videos and what about the best freaking gift ever wow.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks and likewise, ACC.

[@Nicko30able]

well sir, as usual its all miles over me head, but i watch every minute with great joy. i admit i was getting worried about you but relieved that all is well. incidentally, that gift box with the schematics was overwhelming. how wonderful your viewers can be. i look forward to seeing you marking those sheets in color in the coming installments! much peace to you and the kittehs!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoy our video productions, Nick. Keep watching and it will all begin to make sense.

[@Nicko30able]

@@UncleDoug I'm not convinced at my age anything will make sense, but will keep on watching!!!

[@UncleDoug]

@@Nicko30able I feel your pain, Nick :)

[@manfredbaer3297]

All the best for 2023 and thanks for another very interesting video!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Manfred. Likewise :)

[@Eddy63]

Another great vid ... Good to see you back at it ... Thx ...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Eddy.

[@scottmulrooney3130]

What an amazing gift. Goes to show how much you are loved by us fellow tube amp junkies.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott.

[@johnhulsker1453]

Good to see you back ! Still funny as hell and your still wearing that ring! Good for you, I've lost three of them, and ouch, expensive and I'm not talking about rings, OK, when I saw the "severed finger" in closeup where the stylus is not seen cracked me up, good job! Feather River update, we have been isolated from humanity two and a half weeks of no road out. Four separate rockslides, were talking auto/buss size granite blocks. No estimate when we can get out of here, always something going on in the canyon, take care Doug p.s. have you ever heard the Collins kids ? There are now numerous performances on utube, my best discovery for 2023, you'll love it, the kid plays a double neck Mosrite while dancing, seven years old!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the update, John. I will check them out.

[@lanehaverly4332]

Thank you keeping a snow bound viewer with great content Happy New year

[@UncleDoug]

Our pleasure, Lane :)

[@michaelmerritt1722]

I'm happy you can keep up with everything. A few of my caps are leaking in my old age, and I blew a fuse trying to follow the changes. Hahaha!! Thanks for the video Uncle Doug !!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Michael :)

[@deandee8082]

haven't gotten a notification from your channel in a half a year, so I thought i would look only missed the 2... glad you're OK in good health and still up to the task... so much that way has gone wrong for so many.. props man...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your concern, Dean. We are in great health and still working on videos.

[@ShiroiTengu]

You're alive! I was starting to worry. What a great way to start the day 😃

[@UncleDoug]

Don't believe the obituary, Shiroi, we're here to stay :) Thanks !!

[@stirlingschmidt6325]

So glad to see you back! Thanks again!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, SS.

[@russellsmith4615]

Greatness! I've had the great pleasure of working on a couple of Fender Bassman amps: my 1966 (an early AB165) and a later iteration of the AB165 (same year) for a friend - and they both sound so good! I modded mine to the AA864 but per the friend's request, I kept his stock - only doing the upgrades (replacing tired electrolytics and out of spec resistors, and one leaky signal cap). Both sound really amazing though each has it's own sound/mojo. I learn so much from your videos and refer to them often as touchstones to keep me out of hot water! You and Mitzy keep up the great work! Many thanks and Happy New Year!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Russell. Likewise :)

[@raycochrane3971]

It's been a while & I wondered about the why. A very welcome return and another terrific video.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ray.

[@jonnybeck6723]

Ah-HA! ..@20:11 we pretty dern near got a glimpse of the elusive and forever camera-shy Uncle Doug ...but 'tis so nice to have you post and virtually join me for coffee once again ...and I don't s'pose you'd be venturing to L.A. so's we could jam (?) also The web shows a confusing reference to a AA 864 as a Vibrolux reverb (+I'm a duly registered dingbat)

[@UncleDoug]

Don't be fooled, Jonny. That was our reflection stand-in ;)

[@reportingfromthebunker]

Glad to see You back. Happy New Year to You and Your family.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Nikki. Likewise.

[@aland2253]

That schematic book is phenomenal! What a brilliant gift. Unless it was an elaborate scheme to get a peak at your face on film. All I can say is thank goodness you were wearing pants when you filmed it. 😂.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Alan. I agree. As far as the reflected image, I always hire a stand-in whenever there is a chance of my reflection being seen. I am actually much younger and better looking than the guy you saw ;)

[@BurnleyNuts]

It's taken me weeks to get around to watching this epic Unc' but boy was it worth it. What a super video in so many ways. I thought Missy was even reading through the circuit diagrams at the end.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, BN. She is working hard on her schematic-reading skills ;)

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

Just got home from work and get a notification. What a fantastic surprise to get an Uncle Doug video. I am skipping my tea and watching this. Happy New year Doug!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Richard. I hope you enjoy it.

[@pauldavis6356]

Absolutely love the finger-tip-on-a-stick. Fabulous. And glad to have you back.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Paul.

[@tomw9875]

Thanks Uncle Doug! another fantastic, entertaining, informative video.

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure was ours, Tom :)

[@lawrencesherman8435]

I really enjoy your videos. I especially love when you use the term "cycle " for frequencies. My grandfather used that term instead of the modern "Hertz". Brings back fond memories of him, and his scratch built stereo system.

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad you enjoy them, Lawrence. It was "cycles" for many years before Mr. Hertz decided to screw things up :-)

[@michaelbutler2312]

an amazing video. thanks, this was a great learning experience about the 3 circuits!!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Michael.

[@kellypeterson2625]

Great to see a new video from you! Thank you Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Kelly.

[@eugeneeaton7262]

Great video, I’m always learning something new. Happy New Year 2023.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Eugene.

[@meesterprofe007]

So wonderful to see a new video from you UNcle Doug....have missed your style!

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoy it, MP.

[@nickdevriese]

Uncle Dougie! I’ve missed your educational videos, sir. This was a pleasure to watch but I got side tracked at work to thank you. Hope all is well in the new venture of 2023.

[@UncleDoug]

Never better, Nick. Living the dream :)

[@jamesbruno5896]

Happy New Year Uncle Doug & family, thanks for the great video!

[@UncleDoug]

Likewise, James. You're welcome :)

[@michaelszarzynski8698]

UNCLE DOUG !!! Great start to the year! Happy New Year

[@UncleDoug]

Likewise, Mike :)

[@iskandertime747]

That schematic book is amazing. Classy tribute to Lupe as well. Say "hi" to everyone from snowy Portland, Maine.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Isky. Mitzy is waving a paw your way :)

[@maorienteg]

What a fantastic video to kick off our "Uncle Doug" 2023. Your commitment to, and anticipation of your viewer's interests are 2nd to none. Thank you

[@UncleDoug]

So glad you enjoyed it, Mike :)

[@davkdavk]

Glad you are still making videos, Uncle Doug. Cheers

[@UncleDoug]

So are we, Dav :) Thanks.

[@wlogue]

Thanks Unc! please take care, and Happy New Year!

[@UncleDoug]

Will do, 682. Likewise :)

[@djentlover]

So happy you're still active! Can't wait for the hour and a half's worth of fun!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, DJ.

[@djentlover]

@@UncleDoug I laugh every time you abbreviate my username. :D "Djent" is an aggressive palm muted guitar sound, that kinda sounds like the word. - Santeri

[@UncleDoug]

@@djentlover Believe it or not, I knew that, but was just having some fun :)

[@LarsonGuitarPlayer]

This has been a great learning experience! Very interesting. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Larson.

[@jcwear89]

Love the box decorating 😍! And the amazing contents! Wow

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, JC :)

[@stutas7818]

Great work again uncle Doug, and a big hello and happy new year from Tasmania, Australia 👍

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Stu. Give my regards to the T. Devils :)

[@BillyBongwaters]

What a great show...I learn something every time i watch you...thanks man

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Billy :)

[@roverer109]

So glad to see a new vid!!! Thanks Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoy it, R19 :)

[@fartzerelli1385]

So happy to see Uncle Doug is still making old amps great again!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FZ :)

[@waldodontliveherenomo2488]

Good to see you percolating! Nice vid!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Waldo :)