1961 Blonde Fender 6G6 Bassman.....The Garage Sale Special !!

[@analognoir7398]

10:04 First look at the circuit 15:46 Replace filter caps, 18:47 Replace caps in DC negative voltage bias supply (opposite polarity) 22:53 Replace resistors in DC negative voltage bias supply 20:00 Diode upgrade 25:23 Pots Stuck/Frozen 29:30 Replacing burnt screen resistors on output tube socket 30:00 3 prong power cord 31:46 Check if voltages are present in transformer 33:27 Red lights in Juarez HA 33:34 how to wire 6.3V filament heaters 34:12 List of parts tobe replaced 36:38 Reevaluation for gigging musician (modded for reliability, not for originality) 37:39 Differences between bass and normal channel 39:11 6G6 vs 6G6A vs 6G6B Fender schematic 40:44 Bass channel not working, replaced v1 tube socket 42:36 Plate voltage, 6l6GC biasing 43:41 Power tube comparison (6L6G vs 6l6GB vs 5881 vs 6L6GC) 45:09, 47:05 Bias pot installation, infinitely adjustable bias mod 46:42 Plate dissipation calculation (for longevity and tone) 47:59 Sound demonstration

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for another great synopsis, LR. I have pinned it for all to see.

[@ross3818]

A labor of love, this.

[@tommyr7105]

Uncle Doug, Every once in a while we all meet a person who sets the benchmark for what a man should be. You are that benchmark Doug. Thank you so much for sharing with us!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks so much, T Rob. We really appreciate it :)

[@historiclp4577]

Hi Doug, i have a 1997 Fender Twin amp, i was wanting to have it looked over and possibly fixed as far as Capacitors go and all,how do i contact you for service? It has a pcb board setup, would you think it would need to be “Re capped”? Do Capacitors wear out after so long? The amp has barely been run

[@highpath4776]

@@historiclp4577 1997 sounds recent , most re-caps are on 1960s and earlier, maybe some 70s gear. But the packing inside can fail with getting a voltage after long out of use, only replace that which does not pass reasonable tests as shown on other UD videos.

[@UncleDoug]

@@historiclp4577 Gino, I appreciate your desire to improve your amp, but I don't work on modern equipment, especially with PCB's. If it's working fine, with no hum or other problems, I would simply use it until something does occur.....if it ever does. Good luck.

[@timmooney7528]

@@historiclp4577 I would be more concrened if the amp was made in the early 2000's when a bad electrolyte batch in the Far East turned into a plague of bad capacitors.

[@doogdoogdoogdoogdoogdoog]

Uncle Doug gets a thumbs-up within the first 5 seconds, _no exceptions_

[@UncleDoug]

You are too kind, D. Thanks !!!

[@robertbarker2458]

@@UncleDoug lm the same👍

[@R3TR0R4V3]

Right?! Uncle Doug's videos are the best! Auto thumbs up from me.

[@PrinceWesterburg]

Actually, its better for him if you thumbs up at the end - KZbin like it more. You know what a ratings diva Doug is! LOL

[@UncleDoug]

@@PrinceWesterburg Amen, Prince :)

[@sirfultonbishop]

“Not since my days in Juarez has a red light looked that good.” 😂😂😂

[@UncleDoug]

It's the truth, Sir Fulton......sad to say ;)

[@madDadMusic]

I laughed out loud.

[@treborheminway1196]

@@UncleDoug I had a good ol belly laugh on that statement. and reminded my of my youth. While attending HS in ElPaso (go Rockets), I was curious(and 17) and drove my dad's van to one of the red-light districts in Juarez with my stepbrother. We parked and were immediately approached by a guy selling "real" diamond rings. He followed us down the road while dropping the price with every other step. He "proved" the authenticity of this incredible gem by scratching the windshields of several cars. "look - real diamond man - scratch - gouge". We passed on the deal of the century and decided we better leave or risk the windshield of the van to be used as his new favorite demonstration vehicle. I later learned that it was customary to pay local kids to watch the car. Later still, I was told they wouldn't actually prevent anything from happening to it, but you did get an exuberant account of what happened with full descriptions of the bad guys that could describe 99% of the native male population. They, of course, would still expect to be paid the final 1/2 have of the negotiated "watch" fee.

[@goodun2974]

Theres a JJ Cale song, "Tijuana": "Just below/San Diego/ Tijuana/ land of broken dreams/.....Senoritas/ dancing in the moonlight/ flashing Spanish dark eyes/ at everyone it seems.....they say ' hey gringo/ won't you take me across the border?/ tell 'em I'm your daughter'......". David Lindley plays this song beautifully on acoustic lap steel.

[@UncleDoug]

@@treborheminway1196 We must have trod the same pathways, Trebor. Did the "police" ever shake you down for your watch ? Always a good reason to leave the Seiko at home and wear a crappy Timex instead.

[@NickRatnieks]

When I watch your work, the word that comes to mind is "precision." We live in a world, where a slapdash approach appears to be condoned if not even fostered- whether it be in spelling, grammar, and a whole host of areas of life where it was once alien and rooted out. On that basis, doing a bad or sloppy job is the standard for so many- a "take the money and run" attitude. It is a real delight to see someone putting pride in the job at the top of the list and delivering on this- not least in a situation where somebody's life may be at risk if something is done badly or with a less than diligent approach.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Nick. We do try to live up to the standards you describe.....despite the temptations of catnip and booze ;)

[@NickRatnieks]

@@UncleDoug What is the favourite tipple for those kitties?

[@themusicshopct]

After having watched most of your videos I can say that you are by far the best thing on KZbin for vintage amp electronic repair. I love your sense of humor and clear, concise way. A true national treasure! Thanks and please keep 'em coming Uncle Doug (and Jack!)

[@Finom1]

Bless you Uncle Doug, for sharing your wisdom with us. Just a great educational video. Your videos make us feel young again. Thank you for saving our guitar tube amp history.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, F1. We really appreciate it.

[@reddgrapes1]

I"d like to nominate "Uncle Doug" for this years "Leo Award" for best comprehensive and outstanding video in electronics amplification , and "Jack" for best supporting assistant!!! Many thanks and appreciation!!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, RG. Jack and I gratefully accept your nomination and hope that it comes with lots of beer and steaks ;)

[@rickyhuff]

I have a 1962 Bassman Head that belonged to Warren Flock, who briefly played with Eddie Cochran. I bought it from his son. Had it freshened up, much like what Doug is doing with this amp. I have found it to be one of the most spectacular amps I own. While I've had this amp for many years I've found it loves different cabs and speakers. Example; Vox Sovereign 4X12 with 2 Vox Blues and 2 JBL D120F speakers. I had no idea how good an amp can sound until I tried this combination. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Try other cabs and speakers! Stunningly beautiful. Thank you Doug!

[@texasmartini]

Poor Uncle Doug. He suffers from integrity. In true Texas style, he slays dragons and gives his customers value beyond measure.

[@UncleDoug]

It's an ailment that causes a lot of extra work.....but great satisfaction when the customer is very, very pleased.

[@SilverPaladin]

"sufferers from integrity".. I like that phrase! It describes some situations I have seen as well!

[@nickleonard8936]

Great work! One day I'll get as clean at my work as you! I built my first amp over the summer, and I decided to be ambitious and build a 6G6-B and do some additions and modifications including a reverb circuit, a dual rectifier, a switchable additional gain stage and bright switch on the normal channel, a deep switch on the bass channel, and a NFB bypass switch. It's a tone beast! I couldn't have done it without your videos! You may know this, but the Blonde Bassman was Paul McCartney's primary bass amp for most of the original Beatles recordings, and on the later albums, they would fight over who could use it. After the Beatles broke up, George Harrison used it for years. I'm amazed that someone found one at a yard sale!

[@mechanoid5739]

What a lovely sounding amp! Thanks for sharing the restoration!

[@dougakers7974]

All my teenage memories flood back as I see so many amps from my era come alive. I played bass and was taught a bit of guitar as I took bass lessons and can play so many of the songs you do on your show. Thanks

[@UncleDoug]

These vintage tube amps do conjure up a lot of great teenage memories, Doug. I guess that's one more reason to love them.

[@LitesLAB]

Watching you bring that gem back to life was just amazing! And the sound! Damn! Thank you Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for watching, LB :)

[@aaronatwood9298]

I just decided to go back and rewatch this. I really hope I’m not alone in this, but I honestly think the 6g6b is probably one of the best sounding circuits. I think it’s way ahead of its black face and newer counterparts. Thank you again Uncle Doug. You and your channel are an amazing wealth of knowledge and humor l.

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad the video was helpful, Aaron.

[@mozilla2576]

I rewatch Dougs videos all the time. I second the compliment to Doug and his great work.

[@buzzawuzza3743]

Really cool watching you take an old beat up amp from the scrap heap and making it function well again. Thanks, Uncle Doug, love the posts.

[@UncleDoug]

It was our pleasure, BW :)

[@cassvirgillo3395]

Hello Uncle Doug & Family, Kitties too, It pretty much goes without saying, that, you are the tube amp master. Beautiful repair and sounding oh so good. Olie and Jack have been practicing! The song 'One' by U2 is really easy and a good song. Good gravy, pulling a few G's in that little Rambler! Thank you, C.

[@rcjward]

I love your humor, Doug. I never laughed so hard as when you suggested keeping that original power cord or that the standby switch has to be broken since the power switch is. Always a joy to watch you repair an amp, especially something as vintage as this old Fender.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ronny. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@michaelmenkevich5712]

Uncle Doug, you are a national treasure, your teaching will inspire a new generation. I would love it if your get Jack and Ollie to turn it up a bit and blow the lid of of the joint. That Bassman amp is capable of some serious mischief. Of course the neighbors will complain, and call the cops. That is the price of rock and roll. Who needs distortion or overdrive pedals? That amp can make some serious decibel levels. Let it rip.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Michael. To be honest, the amp is routinely set right at the threshold of pain for us making the audio demo. The microphone and recording gear tend to moderate the volume down to a tolerable level. Even if we ran the amp at 10, the recorded volume would still be about the same.....and we would be deaf.

[@michaelmenkevich5712]

@@UncleDoug I understand, in my opinion there is nothing sweeter than the pure tone of a well amplified instrument. I do enjoy the sound of a guitar. But the amplifier has the power and the ability to add another dimension. Not just roar and rumble, but a real singing feedback that can be manipulated by the player. That is what distinguishes one amp from another. A Fender has a signature tone, that is different from and Ampeg or a Gibson or a Valco. If you wish to get pure clean tone, then the solid state amps are the way to go. With vacuum tubes there is a transfer of electrons across a distance that can not be duplicated in any other way than in a bottle. And that is why we love them.

[@UncleDoug]

@@michaelmenkevich5712 Very well said, Michael. Thank you for your input.

[@michaelmenkevich5712]

@@UncleDoug Thank you for the kind reply, you are a gentleman and a scholar. I was thinking about your hot rod cars. Back in the day the drag races were big, but outlawed. In Philly we had the meadows and Decatur road, which were back roads with good asphalt and a sweet 1/2 mile strip. Every weekend the racers would assemble to try their latest jazzed up hotrod. Some great races. Also some wild crashes. The cops would bust it up every so often. Your interest in hot rods and tube amps is interesting. And my point about pushing the tube amps is similar to hotrods. You do not build a street rod to cruise along at 55mph. And if you have a guitar and an amp, you crank it up and see what it can do. Turn the amp up to ten and control it with the guitar.

[@UncleDoug]

@@michaelmenkevich5712 Thanks for your input, Michael.

[@jipes]

Nice to see Mr Jack in perfect shape ! Great revival of this Bassman beauty !

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks twice, JB :)

[@acesteele8559]

Truly Enjoyable to watch! A total drool worthy Fender amp ... From one 1961 blonde, (me!) to another, I wish this awesome amp, another 6 decades of life!

[@UncleDoug]

You too, Ace :)

[@1959Berre]

Giving the video's on this channel a thumbs up prior to seeing them is becoming standard practice for me. Great job! :)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Berre. We hope to be worthy of your trust.

[@oliverlangner5202]

Oh yes! Uncle Doug on a '61 Bassman! A great start in the weekend. What a great piece of music gear put back to life by my favourite technician. Fantastic!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Oliver :)

[@brianm9282]

I take notes as you talk, on all of your videos Ive watched so far, it helps me retain knowledge better. You have taught me so much and I just want to say Thank You Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

You're quite welcome, Brian. We really appreciate it :)

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

I was watching your old Fender Twin from Hell video (the ass-kicker) when I got the notification for this, another big old Fender. Happy days! I'm just waiting for incoming funds before pulling the trigger on a '66 Blackface Champ that needs a little TLC, that I'm going to do myself, thanks to your videos, Doug. I ended up doing the US Navy's NEETS course on electrical engineering, and have got myself a basic lab setup, although I still want a 'scope. Anyway, I just wanted to give due props to the maker of some of the most educational content on KZbin, cheers, Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Gerry. Best of luck with your Champ project.

[@anthonyderosa5181]

Doug, I just want to thank you for posting some of the best instructional videos on KZbin. Your series on building a Fender style cabinet from scratch and applying the Tolex/Non-Tolex covering is second to none. I have studied many others and your's is the best. Keep safe my friend, wishing you and your's the best .Peace.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Anthony. Likewise on the good wishes.

[@MrPnew1]

Great to see that you ended up getting the resto job on this classic amp Uncle Doug, no one else would do it justice. I bet that Jack & Ollie are excited too

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Pedro. They were indeed :)

[@susanjoy1969]

Another gem saved from the junk pile by the Master, Uncle Doug. I just love how you explain technical jargon and best practices so well...you never insult your audience and take a natural assumption we don't know. Example, how to properly wire the AC to the heaters with such twist and care to "drop them down," while elaborating that the DC wires laying around the chassis aren't as susceptible. I wish I had an electronics course instructor as patient and well-vocalized as you. Please keep the videos coming, we all appreciate them.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very nice comments, HP. It's great to hear that you enjoy our videos. We will ;)

[@bradleyleben7785]

Because sometimes words don’t do it justice.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@J_____C]

I, can't tell you how grateful I am that I found the guitar community on KZbin. It led to me buying my first guitar, first amp, and first tube amp. It's about 90% of a Marshall circuit from what I understand. A Laney Cub 12R with a spring reverb. I knew I was supposed to be a musician from a fairly early age. I just never went for it because I was strung out on drugs from 15 to 30 years old. It took me another 7 or 8 years to realize the things I liked. Hobbies, etc... And since I actually had money in my pocket instead of drugs up my nose, I could buy guitars and amps and pedals and tools and things to build pedals and amps and guitars lol. So glad I got clean. I wouldn't be playing today if I hadn't. I just wish I had started early in life. I'm sure I'd be an, incredible player now. Oh well. I'm having fun again and that's all I care about. After the death of my daughter and only child in 2014, there was no more joy. Playing guitar is the first time I've experienced genuine joy since the death of my child. I'll never quit playing. I'll never sell my gear. Never. I feel like my life depends on it. Same goes for my dogs. They're a huge part of why I'm still here and haven't checked out. So I won't ever be without a dog for the rest of my life. They are that important to my well-being. Just like my guitars.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....Thanks for sharing this with us, JC. Congratulations on regaining control of your life and focusing on the best things in life: like good music and dogs ;)

[@LiLi-or2gm]

The resistor color code mnemonic I learned many years ago: "Bad booze rots our young guts but vodka goes well." 0-Bad- Black 1-Booze-Brown 2-Rots- Red 3-Our- Orange 4-Young- Yellow 5-Guts- Green 6-But- Blue 7-Vodka- Violet 8-Goes- Gold 9-Well- White

[@motooilermotooiler9597]

BBLL - Bloody Brilliant Li Li :)

[@ronniewall1481]

Ok I remember it but don't remember why. Weird drinking game.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, LiLi :)

[@demagmusic]

Ours was a bit less Politically correct Way Back When. " Bad Boys Rape Our Young Girls, But Violet Gives Willingly."

[@madDadMusic]

@@demagmusic behind victory garden walls

[@alanrussell6678]

Early Sunday morning. Family still in their beds. A cup of coffee and an Uncle Doug video to watch. Can it get any better?

[@aspromusic410]

Thanks for your insights, easy descriptions and most of all the demystifying electronic circuits on the whole. for us simple minds.

[@superamp2724]

That amp sounded awesome....as did that car's engine. Zowie

[@andrewreynolds2647]

WOW that amp has a soul, sounds fab the sound takes me back to the days of my youth 60s 70s, Great job uncle Doug and thank you so much for sharing your incredible knowledge, great sounds.Cheers. Andy.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Andy.

[@smasica]

Dang, what a sweet sounding amp. As the late Robin Williams famously said, "Sell my clothes Marlene. I think I've died and gone to Heaven."

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks, TM :)

[@yqwgjsg]

I worked in electronics for over 40 years and even knowing how those components work, it still seems like magic to control, block, resist, and direct the current flow and come out with such a beautiful sound. We used to call this FM. Great work and I appreciate your attention to detail. Who will know? You will know and the next guy will know.

[@dogbarley7178]

Hi Doug, I’ve got a theme song for your Nash Rambler. “Beep Beep” the 1958 offering by The Playmates. Great vid as always!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, DB. The perfect tune :)

[@tom7601]

While driving in my Cadillac... :-)

[@UncleDoug]

@@tom7601 "Beep....beep"

[@tom7601]

Uncle Doug: His horn went Beep, Beep, Beep...

[@Tonetwisters]

"Hey buddy, how do you get this amp ... out of second gear????!!"

[@fongy200]

My birthday the 6th March. Only just noticed the date after watching 3 times. The Knowledge i have gleaned off of you Doug has been invaluable. Thanks UD.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, CF. Thanks for watching :)

[@goodun2974]

Look how neat the interior wiring of a pre-CBS amp is; then compare it to a CBS era Fender amp.

[@jothanankrogh]

These older cloth-wire amps have quite a few wire runs hidden underneath the circuit board, the later ones have all the wire runs on top the board, instantly messier, plus the circuits got more complex.

[@goodun2974]

@@jothanankrogh , I've "black-faced" some silverface Fenders, so I'm aware of the jumpers under the boards, the increasing complexity of the circuits, and so on. Adding tremolo and/or reverb certainly increased the mess under the hood! Still, the build quality of the CBS-era amps devolved pretty quickly compared to their predecessors.

[@jothanankrogh]

@@goodun2974 my biggest problem with the CBS methods seems to be the wax coatings causing conductivity of the boards. In the preamp areas, conductivity between the plate resistor eyelets and the nearby tone stack capacitors eyelets, causing DC to show up on the volume and tone pots, lotta noise.

[@goodun2974]

@@jothanankrogh , that's the one major failing of Fender amps ---- they should have used phenolic boards, especially the type with turret posts. PS, I don't know what kind of wax they used, but I do know that beeswax is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture. I don't know if that also applies to paraffin wax.

[@davecooper5951]

Electronics, Music and 'Rods.....Great combination. Nice work on the Bassman - I'm learning all the while (UK).

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Dave. Keep up the good work.

[@boctok55]

If you ever make t-shirts, you should have an image of a schematic and a tube with the caption "I Dig Doug". I'd buy at least three. Just a suggestion.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, B55. We'll keep that in mind :)

[@J_____C]

Deoxit > other stuff. I learned this directly. Had a scratchy pot and didn't want to spend a ton on Deoxit so I bought some electronics cleaner from the auto parts store. Nope. No change. Still had a scratchy pot. Over a year later, I finally decided to buy a can of Deoxit. Sprayed the pot, worked it a few times and it was completely quiet. No more scratchy. That's all I needed to see to understand why Deoxit is better and costs more than the $3 can at the Auto Parts Store. Being an automotive tech & mechanic like you, Uncle Doug, I should've known that there was a reason Deoxit is 5x the price and why everyone praises it. It's a tool that works. In the automotive field, when you have a tool that makes the job that much easier, you buy it and don't worry about the cost. I should've known. I'll know next time. Kind of like the StewMac Z-file fret crowning file. I paid $92 for it but it's going to allow me to do $2100 worth of work to my 7 guitars. Being able to level & crown the frets myself is going to save me sooooo much money. Thankfully most of my guitars were leveled and crowned at the factory so there's only a couple of frets on each one that need dressing. Enough that I could do them 1 by 1 instead of a full level and dress and save some height on my frets by not filing them all down when only 2 need work.

[@UncleDoug]

I agree that Deoxit is a very effective chemical, J. My only complaint is the aerosol delivery system is inefficient, tends to leak and fail, and wastes a lot of expensive product. I also agree that quality tools often facilitate quality work.

[@CaalamusTube]

"Drunk Chimpanzees" :P

[@UncleDoug]

"We all know they're out there" ........Red Rider

[@CaalamusTube]

@@UncleDoug the Juarez bit gave me a chuckle as well :P

[@graxjpg]

This is as good as it gets! The highest level of repair on the highest level of amps... this is like fine art! Thanks uncle Doug for this literally wonderful video!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Grant :)

[@howardrose8481]

Not exactly stock? You have redefined understatement.

[@michaellegere2248]

Bad Ass man!!!!! You just helped to demystify the last 40 yrs of my life. 👍👍👍👍

[@UncleDoug]

That was our goal, Michael :)

[@carlmontney7916]

B ad B oys R ape O ur Y oung G irls B ut V iolet G ives W illingly ( G et S ome N ow) Some things you always remember. Plus a 50 watt Bassman is one of the best guitar amps Fender built.

[@geraldschrader8511]

That was the same non-PC resistor code that my high school electronics class teacher taught me in the early 1970's!

[@UncleDoug]

Boy, this mnemonic would go over well at a feminist's convention ;) Thanks, Carl.

[@carlmontney7916]

@@UncleDoug yeah times were a lot different when I was taught that. I think they even still taught home economics and shop classes too.

[@jcool0122]

Your videos are a much needed and very educational distraction. I work in a grocery store in ground zero (Seattle area) and I can use all the educational distraction i can get.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jeremy. Stay healthy !!

[@cdh79]

"It's a reflection of the care you took, while working on the amp circuit".. thanks for doing it this way! a few years back, i've seen a documentary about the Aston Martin one-77 and they have highest quality standards even at spots that you would never see (most likely not even a mechanic), but they claimed that only this reflects the overall quality and craftsmanship that the buyers deserve.. i think you have the same understanding of what's "quality work"

[@UncleDoug]

I hope so, CD. I think that the process is every bit as important as the result.

[@cdh79]

@@UncleDoug i wish everybody was like this! Then we'd still have electronics that last 50 years or more, and are still repairable, unlike a lot of devices today that are built to last until the warranty is over to ensure recurring revenue for the manufacturer..

[@UncleDoug]

@@cdh79 Thanks, CD. Agreed :)

[@jlucasound]

@36:00 That has to be your biggest fan. Wow. That is a treasure trove. Michael Duffy. (I hope my spelling is correct). You are a Hero! God Bless You.

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, JL. Our viewers are quite kind and generous :)

[@jjiacobucci]

The audio demonstration was awesome ! I listened to it three time in a row. The composition was some of my favorites ! Learning lots. Thank you so much, Doug !

[@UncleDoug]

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

[@alexdeleon7135]

"Drunken chimpanzees"? LOL! I spit out my tea when you said that. This resurrection was enlightening. I knew there were differences when Fender began using solid state rectification; but not to the extent you demonstrated. It now makes sense, tonally. Despite the improved input integrity. I did search my parts boxes for the requested items, but it proved fruitless. The switch to the normal channel toward the end of the audio test woke my ears completely. The tone was vintage sparkle, and reminded me of my old Bandmaster. A million thanks for sharing this renaissance of the Blonde Bass Man. Enjoy what's left of the weekend, dear uncle.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Alex. You do the same :)

[@Brightred11]

These videos are getting me through isolation. Watching a master work is so peaceful.

[@UncleDoug]

That's good to hear, Don. We're here for you :) Be sure to subscribe to get new video alerts.

[@JuusoHoo]

wonderfully done. thanks for this story!

[@aaronedwards1239]

Your attention to detail is second to none! Digging through all the different versions of the schematics to find improvements is something most repair techs (in any field) just don't do. Outstanding work!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Aaron :)

[@TheRoiderien]

Hi Uncle Doug. I want to tell you about a little trick that's almost always used when connecting a potentiometer like a rheostat, i.e., when you use only the wiper and one end of the pot, as you did when installing the bias-adjust pot. The trick is to directly short the unused end of the pot to the wiper with a short piece of wire. If you think about it for a bit, you'll realize that under normal operation, it doesn't change anything. However, in the case where the wiper loses contact, either momentarily or permanently, with the resistive strip, instead of the resistance going to infinity, it goes to the full value of the pot. Sometimes, this difference in behavior can save a circuit from damage, and sometimes it just makes the pot quieter if the pot is a bit dirty. This is just a little, zero-cost bit of sophistication in circuit design.

[@demagmusic]

That PCB inside looks gorgeous, the neat arrangement of all the caps is fantastic.. What a well designed beast. And what a fantastic re-build!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Demag :)

[@gregmenacho7667]

Uncle Doug, I would like to sincerely thank you for creating this fantastic channel. You are a fountain of knowledge, a generous and gifted teacher and a welcome respite for me during the past year. You see, last may my lovely wife was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer and she is sadly in stage 4 with that cancer. I've had to quit my job as a zookeeper, which I loved, to take care of her and she goes through surgeries and chemo.I'm glad to do it, but it's hard in many ways. I play guitar when I feel inspired, but about the only thing that I have enjoyed lately, has been learning how to repair and build tube amps.You. are responsible for the majority of that enjoyment, interest and the confidence that comes with the knowledge of knowing that I'm learning from the best. Sorry for the long and personal note. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you for this wonderful note, Greg, and for your very kind comments. If our efforts have provided you inspiration and distraction during this difficult period, we are sincerely glad.....and we wish you and your wife the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep us informed of her progress, and by all means, please continue to watch and enjoy our channel.

[@gregmenacho7667]

@@UncleDoug It's an honor to hear from you. Thank you so much for your words of support and kind wishes.. Our next step in her cancer treatment is to go to San Diego for another surgery and HIPEC chemo treatment. The cancer is so rare that there are no specialists in Northern California. When we return, and when I have some free tlme, I look forward to finishing my first full amp build, a 59 tweed style 4 x 10 Bassman. Then I'd like to go over/restore my old Marshall JMP. Until then, I will have a week or two while we're in the hospital to binge watch the remainder of your fine videos. Best regards and keep up the great work.

[@UncleDoug]

@@gregmenacho7667 Thanks for the update, Greg. I and our entire YT family send our best wishes to you and your wife for a speedy and complete recovery. Hopefully you will both be home soon, and you can resume working on your Bassman project.

[@SimAlex20000]

incredible find & great video. my introduction to the entire Bassman "thing" was thru a cheap clone called the MIG-50. i took it into a room, turned it up to 8, and was just floored. i'm a bassman guy ever since. incredible amps

[@r.w.7470]

Just an awesome in depth look at a great restoration...thanks!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, RW.

[@Bob-ir2bj]

Well done sir. I think I'll install a head rest on my computer chair before I watch the Rambler cruise again. Thanks Doug, love it.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for joining us on the video and ride along, Bob.

[@mt-nv4jd]

17:00 Doug explains why to do your work neatly. I had an electrical upgrade to a house I bought, and all the switch plates, etc had all the screw heads oriented the same way, throughout the house. Nice touch.

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, indeed. The appearance of your work is as important as its quality.

[@highvoltagebeaver6640]

Great restore! I never thought about putting the fuse after the power switch. Typical electrical install would be to put the overcurrent device prior to any switches, but OC devices typically have a means of disconnect. The little fuse holder could definitely give someone a jolt if they tried to put a fuse in with it plugged in. The Nash is amazing!

[@UncleDoug]

It makes sense to me, HVB. Thanks for seeing the logic :)

[@waynemarc77]

Thanks Again Uncle Doug. I learn so much from you. LOVE Jack !

[@davidsigglekow1349]

When all is said and done! It’s great that you have an opportunity to play through these” legendary” amplifiers. Great work sir!

[@UncleDoug]

I agree, David. Thanks !!

[@Tonetwisters]

I might have said this somewhere else on this post. But I remember watching the bass player for a group called, The Classics (forerunner to the Classic IV, of "Spooky" fame) get up on his 1961 or '62 Bassman and do the twist, as my brother climbed aboard his 1960 Fender Pro and the lead guitar player jumped up on top of whatever Fender amp he was playing ... These amps were made to rock! My '62 Bandmaster is still sounding like Heaven in a blonde tolex box!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, TT :)

[@zohinyfohyer4400]

Thanx for your wonderful videos Uncle Doug.

[@glenproctor1999]

You can understand why top guitarists seek out old Bassman amps. That is an awesome tone. Great work Doug and such a pleasure to watch.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you kindly, Glen :)

[@michaelsutliffe5714]

Thank you, Uncle Doug, for a veritable encyclopedia of valuable information in this video.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Michael :)

[@wallpapermusique]

Oh my...talk about a time machine. I had the same amp for several years in the mid 70's but I let it get away. I also had a 1960 Rambler American in the mid-late 60's. It had no horsepower...instead it had flowerpower....a racing stripe made from stick on vinyl flowers. That one went to the junk after I hit a street sign, fire hydrant and a tree...in that order. Cheers, great video!!

[@UncleDoug]

Ah, the reckless days of our youth. At least you can remember how the accident occurred. I generally couldn't :)

[@robb5984]

My ears seems to be drawn to the Fender 6G circuits, with this one being my favorite. I've been watching and re-watching your vids and have learned a ton. Thanks so much for doing these. The content is invaluable, and I'm truly grateful for all you've done on this channel.

[@UncleDoug]

You're quite welcome, Rob. Thanks for the nice comments.

[@fullwaverecked]

What a Swiss Army Tone Knife Monster of a Beast! Me and my buddy Sam Adams will ride the storm out. You out did yourself on this one. Primo. Sometimes I get sobered up and tuned up mixed up... And our buddy David is a good egg ;)

[@UncleDoug]

It really does respond more to its tone controls than most amps I have seen. Very versatile !!

[@fullwaverecked]

@@UncleDoug Amen.

[@arvidstorli2501]

I worked as a professional service man for many years, repaired all kind of home electronics. But the soldering iron has been cold for many years. Until I watched your videos and was inspired to plug it in again. To fix some amplifiers for a friend and so on. I even bought an oscilloscope, variac and some other nice to have stuff. And you know, it was fun again. The big difference is that I don't do it to pay the bills this time, but as a hobby. That's how it started many years ago, the circle is complete. Thank you so much :) Ps ,, Can I send you the invoice for that oscilloscope :D Best regards from Norway :)

[@UncleDoug]

That's great news, Arvid. It's good that you're back in amp repair, but as a hobby......no pressure, just the simple pleasure of overcoming circuit issues and making these old jewels play again like when they were new :)

[@WhippJunior]

You’re a master Uncle D. I have an unmolested ‘64 and a ‘67 (both black tolex) that looks like The Tazmanian Devil was let loose inside. Just need the time. Great job my friend.

[@UncleDoug]

Jack got excited at the mention of his favorite creature.....the Tasmanian Devil. He's available if the critter reappears :) Thanks, WJ.

[@scottlyles9490]

Dearest Uncle Doug, You are amazing. Thank You!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Scott ;)

[@stephencouch2489]

So glad to see a lovely blonde Bassman come back from the dead!!! Always enjoy your videos Uncle Doug. A while back you answered some questions I had about stripping paint off of my 62 Bassman head. Your advice was very useful and much appreciated. The amp looks and sounds great and am so glad your were able to help another Bassman get back to their former glory! All the best.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Stephen. I'm glad the advice was helpful.

[@efenderbls]

Thanks uncle Doug I was having old school Fender circuit withdrawals, I just started watching the vid time to get back.

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoy it, Eric.

[@Archtop6038]

I did a similar rebuild on a 59 tweed bassman '5f6-A, except I left it fixed bias. Got a beautiful cabinet from Rodgers Amplifiers before he retired. Great sounding amp. Say hey to Jack for me.

[@UncleDoug]

It's still fixed bias, Atop, it's just adjustable ;) Thanks !!!

[@jeffbenson6102]

Thanks for another hit of the good stuff to feed my addiction, I wish I had been to that garage sale!

[@UncleDoug]

I think a lot of us wish that, Jeff. Maybe it's better that we weren't all there at the same time ;)

[@woodhonky3890]

dc bias wire disconnected, bad tube socket, bad power and standby switches, stuck pots, one filter cap lead broken off. Good thing this amp found it's way to you, Uncle Doug or it probably would have found it's way to a dumpster. Great save and update mods! The torque twist on that little rambler was impressive also.

[@50gary]

What a find, a lucky (and astute) buyer! Go ahead and tell the price, I am always happy when someone finds a gem at an unlikely place. A friend found a original Fender Tweed Concert amp on the curb! A got a $25.00 1964 Gibson RVT at a yard sale worked fine, original owner. Edit: this is now the end of the video, great job UD. If I ever find another old classic amp like this one, I'll send it to you providing you find it worthy, it's like a never ending scavenger hunt. It would have been nice to have seen the missing Bassman cabinet but there are several companies making perfect reproduction enclosures. What a keeper.

[@UncleDoug]

Let's say it was between 0 and $100 ;)

[@countryhamop4580]

Thanks for the comments on tube heater wiring. I'll be building a home brew stereo amp- nothing special, just a little 10WPC with 6AQ5s since I had a pair of CVP1s. I knew to twist the wires, but kits that I had built over the years had me tucking them down by the chassis.

[@UncleDoug]

Good luck with your project, CH. Do the filament wires like I showed you......it's the best way.

[@Bullittbl]

So glad to see that you are the one to restore this beautiful amp. Only the best will do. Good job!

[@areyouserious3092]

You sir are the Bob Ross of electronics. Absolutely brilliant.

[@UncleDoug]

High praise indeed, AS. Thanks !!!

[@ix-Xafra]

'61 was a mighty fine year. Thanks for sharing your endeavours with us once again, Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

The pleasure was ours, Vinny.

[@phillipyannone3195]

Thank you for another wonderful video and you are such a good teacher. The Desoto Fire Flite is coming along nicely. It's going in for a custom "sewer pipe exhaust" next week.

[@TripleThreat2405]

Uncle Doug, thank you for posting this video. I’ve owned a 6g6 with matching 2X12” cabinet for 40 years. I’m the 3rd owner and knew the original owner. I gigged with it for about 7 years in the 80s and it spent a lot of time on “drunken chimpanzee’s” benches. Finally had it restored by a competent tech in 2002 but it’s had little use since then and spent its happy retirement in climate controlled storage. Fired it up recently and noticed a hiss. Doesn’t seem to affect the tone. Anything you or other techs suggest would be appreciated.

[@UncleDoug]

Hiss is more typical of SS gear, Dan. I wonder if a carbon comp resistor is acting up. You can get a can of freezing spray and spray one component at a time, listening for a change in the noise.

[@jorgemellooliveira9611]

Um ótimo saturday para o Sr. Mestre thanks Sul do Brasil

[@IPushHard]

Looks and sounds GLORIOUS! ...and I second what T Rob said below. Thanks for sharing this rare build.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, IPH :)

[@hallanvaara6106]

Another gem from Uncle Doug! Leo Fender knew that there are us bass players and then there are normal musicians.

[@UncleDoug]

"Normal" is in quotes, H. Thanks !!!

[@BCTGuitarPlayer]

Great presentation! One thing I don’t understand is the bass and presence pots: if they were in such bad shape that you had to loosen them up with a torch, why not just replace them? They’re 60 years old, and liable to failure down the road, anyway. It seems like such a minimal expense, considering the overall expense of the amp restoration. Thanks Black "Jack" peering from his cats house. Nothing's too good for our viewers. Gotta love this man’s rye sense of humor👍

[@UncleDoug]

Different people have different approaches, Butler. I tend to be a "restorer" not a "replacer". I can see merits to both methods, but simply prefer mine. So far, no complaints.....I'm happy to say.

[@Strumbum01]

I could watch these videos all day long sir. Thank you!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear that, S.

[@curtisphilumalee1447]

Late to the video, just catching up with YT. Outstanding video. Got that chassis singing. Its nice to see you showing some love for these 61 Bassmans. I have two in my possession that are original down to the tubes. One of them is the 17 off the line but I don't have the cabinet. The other one is a June baby and its a complete set. The cabinets came with a single 12 oxford speaker mounted on a projection ring. (Tone Ring) You talk about sound quality, Leo was on to something special there, to bad they got away from it. Thanks for the download. Maybe someday I will have them updated.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Curtis. Thanks for sharing.....you have two great amps !!

[@pyroman6000]

Jack and Ollie aren't the only ones champing at the bit for the sound check!! I would be, too! Personally, I'd have to go all Johan Segeborn on it, plug in a Les or SG, turn it all the way up, and go to town. He does just that with an OG '59 tweed Bassman on video here somewhere- and it sounded so incredible, I got more excited than the night I lost my virginity.

[@jonobuckley3215]

I hope you are keeping yourself safe during these difficult times. Stuck at home myself revisiting some of your old work. Excellent stuff. Keep the videos coming. Kind regards.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jono. We will :)

[@markrhine5809]

Dear Uncle Doug, Just another fine job on this vintage amplifier, sounds so good through my headphones, what a great job... You are one of a kind, keep these videos coming.... sounds so good, I could listen for hours...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Mark :) Will do.

[@charleslambiase5670]

And must add yes quality of the craftsmanship is very important myself as well since by the day as I call it my hobby is a mechanic working on old excavating machines and forklifts detail to detail down to wiring and those capacitors look fantastic....

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Charles :)

[@markiew6355]

This was the first video i watched last week. Now subscribed, I have watched about 10 of your videos during the last few days. Great to see a true pro working with care and precision. The dry humor, and pet involvement, takes it from a 9.5 level to a solid 10. Better than regular TV these days.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Markie. Welcome to our channel.

[@keithcarter9396]

Another great resurrection, you treat these old gems with appropriate reverence. Much respect for your work and entertaining dialogue.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Keith :)

[@edwardhannigan6324]

Another educational and informative video on a great find..Luck guy..! My head is exploding with all the lessons..Ed..U.K..😊

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed the video, Ed.