Virtually Mint 1966 Fender 6G15 Reverb Unit.......It Quit Reverbing :)

[@UncleDoug]

Giant Table 'o' Contents: 0:00 Open Box 1:05 Examine 6G15 2:48 Open gifts with Mitzy the Shop Cat 4:38 Resume Examination of 6G15 15:10 Read Owner's Letter 17:20 Begin Disassembly 27:08 Schematic Review 36:50 Begin to Replace & Conceal Filter Caps 39:40 Test Tank Transducer Continuity 44:05 Resume Filter Cap Replacement 49:20 Test Reverb Driver Transformer 52:15 Test all Tubes 55:25 Test Reverb Cables 59:20 Install 3-Wire Power Cord and Rectifier Diodes 1:02:12 Test Original Gibbs Tank vs New MOD Tank 1:07:42 Mitzy Seeks Attention (You know how girls are ;) 1:08:30 Transplant New Transducers 1:18:20 Test Repaired Gibbs Tank (6K6 vs 6V6) 1:22:54 Final Audio Demo 1:35:03 Farewell Messages

[@GabrielVelasco]

I've never seen anyone do that with capacitors. What a great idea.

[@robnic52]

Another charming, delightful video, thanks Doug. Did you find the fault that stopped the reverberations reverberating or was the old tank just unsatisfactory?

[@UncleDoug]

@@robnic52 Thanks, Rob. As I said in the video, I believe the transducers lose their magnetism over time.

[@UncleDoug]

@@GabrielVelasco Glad you liked it, Gabe :)

[@patriottothecore6215]

Love the high-tech glue applicator - remember, there is no such thing as a free lunch (or in this case a free steak dinner) 😂😂. I was surprised you didn’t change the cardboard electrolytics in the main circuit. I assume they were ok?

[@TheTrueVoiceOfReason]

I must say, I like the way the Gibbs performs.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing your opinion with us, TV ;)

[@TheTrueVoiceOfReason]

@@UncleDoug well, I've always been on a different wavelength than most. Keeps the world interesting. And thank you for all your content. Your teaching is top notch (are you still teaching or retired?) as is your wit and wry humor. Plus your big 'Ole heart for the animals. Rusty lives on in your older vids while Jack and Ollie continue on the fine musical performances, and it'll be interesting to see how Mitzie (I did hear her name right, didn't i?) contributes ro the demonstrations other than checking out the bench. I come from a long line of teachers, and I can tell that your students were lucky to have you. Thanks again.

[@UncleDoug]

@@TheTrueVoiceOfReason Thanks so much for your kind words TV. While teaching, I always encouraged original thinking. Let's face it, conventional wisdom never invented much of anything :)

[@jamesmusicproducts]

...yeah...ditto - the replacement was WAY harsh. And partnered with the 6V6? Yee-ouch!

[@UncleDoug]

@@jamesmusicproducts Thanks for sharing your opinion with us, D.

[@charlesberquist985]

I am a retired electonics teacher and have been working on tube amps and building Fender copied reverb units for ever, I have learned so much from you. You are a very good teacher. Thanks so much for all the lessons you have created. Boy, would I like to find a 1966 reverb in that condition!😃

[@y00h0011]

Indeed. Uncle Doug is The Professor. Being tardy (twice) requires an offering of quality beef jerky. Falling asleep in class requires a side of beef!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Charles. Thanks for sharing :)

[@daleburrell6273]

...if you've been at it "forever"- you must have an AWFUL lot of experience-(?)

[@UncleDoug]

@@daleburrell6273 I'm not sure what this is referring to, Dale.

[@daleburrell6273]

@@UncleDoug I was responding to Charles Berquist's post.

[@adambradley3284]

Uncle Doug you are a legend and still so humble. I can't believe you would clean your fingerprints off the metalwork. A hundred years from now when these fully restored Jewels are opened up by enthusiasts like you, they will be combing the chassis for evidence that Uncle Doug may once have graced these shores, just as you look for traces of a bygone era. Please leave at least one fingerprint. You too are a treasure according to at least 128000 people.

[@UncleDoug]

Wow, thanks so much, Adam. We are blushing :) Although I don't sign my repair work, I do provide confirmation of origin on each of my handbuilt amps. God willing, maybe some day it will be noticed by a future generation.

[@jacobdowler1]

Was blessed to see a vague hint our beloved Uncle Doug in the reflection of the input jack cord. GOBBLESS!

[@UncleDoug]

That may have been the body double I use for reflective situations ;)

[@jacobdowler1]

@@UncleDoug 😆

[@jacobdowler1]

@@UncleDoug Good man Doug. ill always watch your videos!

[@UncleDoug]

@@jacobdowler1 Thanks, Jake :)

[@suomi35]

Your capacitor stuffing idea has progressed from a damn fine idea to just perfect. Great video, as always!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, S :)

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

I am glad I opened YT this morning. Work can wait until I have seen this beauty

[@UncleDoug]

Hope you enjoy it, Richard.

[@preiter20]

A mid-week video from Uncle Doug! This Fender is is a gem.

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoy it, Paul.

[@donbutler8760]

I had one of these in the early 70’s. I wish I had kept it…I bought it from a friend for $45.00 It was clean like this one ! Worked great with my brown Princeton that I ran into a 100 watt Vox and into a 2x12 Cerwin Vega G32 cabinet!

[@UncleDoug]

Sounds like a wonderful possession, Don. We've all let good items go.....darn it !!!

[@stauffrt2]

I think Jack has been secretly wood-shedding. His chops are sounding sweet. (You’re the man Uncle D!).

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, S2. I'll tell him :)

[@davidshutt2273]

I love the "no see 'em" rebuild. Yer a crafty guy, Uncle D.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, David :)

[@Projacked1]

Woah, those custom cabinet tilts......! Pure art Uncle D!

[@UncleDoug]

Available at fine amp-repair stores from coast to coast :)

[@PerryCodes]

I got a good laugh from this :)

[@UncleDoug]

@@PerryCodes Glad to hear it, Jason :)

[@timothyb1559]

Outstanding! I guess the mystery of what happened to Lupe's missing can of tuna fish that she brought in to work for lunch has finally been solved. Thank you, UD, for everything!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks !! Glad you enjoyed it, Tim :)

[@timluke4039]

Hey Doug! I Did it! I Done A TAD-Vibroverb Kit with a DIY Speaker Cap. Without you this would not be happend. Your Speaker-Cap Sieries inspiered me to do it. Its working and Sounds great. In this Forum is a Report and Pictures! Thank you for your Help! Your Biasing Videos are great. Greatings from Germany

[@UncleDoug]

That's great news, Tim. Congratulations on a very successful project.......one of many, I'm sure :)

[@jeremymtc]

Thank you for being our Uncle, Doug. Way beyond the merely educational, your videos and projects are always fun, interesting, and full of warmth and good humor. And cats.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FM. Glad you enjoy our little productions :)

[@daleburrell6273]

...THAT'S THE TRUTH-(!)

[@allanpennington]

Seeing the date on the note you put on the re-stuffed caps shows when you did this video and the time taken since to edit and produce it for airing on KZbin. Clearly this takes time, effort and dedication to your viewers and that sir is much appreciated.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for noticing and commenting, Allan. A video of this length is quite a demanding project.

[@daleburrell6273]

...you summed it up pretty well-(!)

[@scottsempeck3422]

Great hearing reverb on Jack & Ollie's demo - most of their post-repair demonstrations are clean and with vibrato. I use reverb on my Fender amps about 85% of the time and vibrato only about 5%, so this was definitely a rare treat. Eedee says hello to the kitties!🐾

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Scott. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards to ED.

[@richreid7098]

My opinion is that uncle Doug makes great videos. I always enjoy them.

[@UncleDoug]

That's one opinion I can strongly support, Rich. Thanks !!

[@matthewf1979]

Beautiful example of a vintage tank! Immaculate! Perfect explanation of the circuit and how it works. I remember watching the videos on your 6G15 build a few years ago and the video on El Paso Tube Amps. Mitzi is such a cutie! She’s probably the sweetest feral I’ve ever seen. My feral is a sweet boy to me and only me when we’re inside the house. All bets are off when he’s outside!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very nice comments, Matt. That EPTA video was way back before I had my own channel. Mitzy sends her regards to you both :)

[@bullthrush]

Beautiful reverb unit. Sounds great with either tube but the 6V6 does inspire waxing up the old surfboard. Thank you for taking time to record the process.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input Andrew :)

[@vintagetubeamplifiers]

Today is a very good day. Thanks Uncle Doug!😀

[@UncleDoug]

I hope you enjoyed our little production, VTA :)

[@tomstiel7576]

Still the undisputed,,,at least by me,,,king of vintage amp repair,,,You are the GOLD standard in my book Uncle Doug,,,,,Love the shop kitty !!!! God Bless you and yours !!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....thanks so much from all of us, Tom :)

[@jamiemorgan4146]

Tom, I’m with you. If I need any of my amps worked on, they’ll go to Uncle Doug. I’ve watched him work on amps and such for years. He knows his electronics, he’s real, makes sense and down to earth. Thanks 🙏🏻Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

@@jamiemorgan4146 Thanks for the very supportive comments, Jamie :)

[@dannymarks988]

Rebuilding the filter caps with a note included, gluing down the last nibble of the tube chart, cats are happy, everybody wins! Fav sound 6K6 with all controls 12 o'clock. Very Nice.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Danny :)

[@peterflynn850]

Cosmic timing Uncle Doug! I am just starting a Mojotone kit build of the 6G15. Nice to be able to have an Uncle Doug tour of a mint specimen. Thanks a bunch! Regarding the C.S.A. Test label on the power amp, this is likely to be a Canadian Standards Association test mark. This is not the common label used though, which is a large C with stylized S and A inscribed inside of the C.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad for the good timing, Peter. Best of luck with your project.

[@petefun-ten]

The CSA logo was omnipresent on electronics sold north of the 49th en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CSA_Group

[@hestheMaster]

For a stray cat like Mitzy I think you have gotten a new best friend. Best time to solder is when she takes a nap BTW. Really nice Fender Reverb unit given the excellent repairs needed to get her up and working like new. Thanks so much for showing how you get it right the first time using logical steps.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, HM :)

[@highpath4776]

@@UncleDoug We know we have so much trouble with long-tailed pair. !

[@UncleDoug]

@@highpath4776 Especially when the tails are furry.

[@duanerogers5391]

It never hurts to include the test and troubleshooting. It keeps it fresh in our minds. Keep up the good work and I hope you and your family stay healthy and safe!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Duane :)

[@fredberthiaume6883]

Thanks that reverb sounds so good. Got to give Fender credit they got it right.

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, Fred. Thanks :)

[@GaitaPonto]

This reverb is two months older than myself. Great job as always Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, GP :)

[@jaytee8188]

Woohoo… ‘Phenomenal’ MUST be at an even higher than ‘Blockbuster’, an new Uncle Doug video just makes the day even better, thanks Uncle Doug. 👍

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, JT. High praise indeed :)

[@jaytee8188]

@@UncleDoug Not at all, certainly very well earned and deserved on your part. Anything hot rod related in the pipeline?

[@UncleDoug]

@@jaytee8188 Thanks, JT. It's too hot to do much work on the cars, but I'm hunting for a nice '32 roadster to fix up.

[@jaytee8188]

@@UncleDoug Yes I guessed that would slow things down a bit. Aren’t you (we) always on the look out for a nice 32 roadster. I hope a good one comes your way in the near future.

[@UncleDoug]

@@jaytee8188 Thanks :)

[@GL64]

Love it. I have a home-build 6G15 and as a frequent user of excessive drippy surf reverb, these units are unbeatable.

[@UncleDoug]

Couldn't agree more, GL :)

[@marlobreding7402]

This made me hear Apache in my head one of the best reverb songs.

[@UncleDoug]

Yep :)

[@fiddlix]

This hits right in my formative years. I was surrounded by tubes with my father and my uncle into ham radio and tube electronics. I learned so much through osmosis back then. Lol

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, David :)

[@Vladtheimpaler5211]

You are the best uncle Doug! Appreciate you and all you do

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Rich :)

[@matambale]

Appreciate the note placement in the dog house. More than you might know. Thanks, Uncle Doug.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad you're happy, M :)

[@Curtislow2]

I remember that Rexall Stores had Tube testers in most locations. Went many of trips with my Dad to test our TV tubes.

[@UncleDoug]

Me too.....a happy childhood memory :)

[@Curtislow2]

@@UncleDoug THX for the tip trip!

[@jamiemorgan4146]

LOL ... Great memories of going with my late Dad to Rexall to check out tubes!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@joeyoungs8426]

Up here in Michigan it was our Cunningham’s Drug Stores with those giant tube tester consoles in their vestibule. I was mighty young but it seems to me those consoles were about as big as a compact car. Maybe it was my single digit age that made them look so huge.

[@UncleDoug]

@@joeyoungs8426 As I recall, they really were rather large, Joe.....and filled with new tubes :)

[@salossi]

Hey Doug, About the phase: Fender obviously went for a cathode follower in the dry-path to keep the input-phase matched to the output-phase. The phase during the wet-chain is irrelevant, as it also depends on the way, the transformer is connected. Also the reverb tank will pretty much mess up the phase in the wet-path. About re-stuffing caps: I was just about to mention here, that you should leave a sticker inside the doghouse, to prevent the next technician from instantly removing those restuffed caps again - and booom - you did 👍 I absolutely like the way, you restuffed the hall-tank, and preserved, what could be preserved from the original hammond-unit. By the way: I never expected the difference being so massive, due to the weakening of the alnicos inside the reverb-transducers! That is really important knowledge, and I will doublecheck the sound of those halltanks the next time, I will service old fender reverb amps! Thanks for all your help, out here in youtube-land!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Sal. We're glad the videos are clear and helpful :)

[@skullheadwater9839]

Hello Uncle Doug, great to see a video from you today. I always enjoy your knowledge and humor.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, SHW.

[@bluesman97]

Uncle Doug, You never disappoint. Thank You for all you do.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, BM. Thanks !!!

[@deplinenoise]

Great video as always. I’m always struck by how simple design can work really well. The bent sheet metal, the rough foam. There is a lot of beauty in simple, straight forward design. Also becomes easy to fix.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Andreas :)

[@elluisito000]

Back in the day I did a rather primitive opamp based reverb unit, this video brings reverberating memories of a previous life. Thanks uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Luis.

[@markcunningham6086]

Always learn stuff from you, uncle Doug.....😊

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, Mark.

[@mauricerogerson5825]

Hey Uncle Doug! You must have spent some time practicing because I noticed your chops are greatly improved. Thanks for the in depth education on the inner workings of Fender reverb units. I had one back in the late 1960s that was tan and orange colored, that came with the tweed Tremolux my mom bought for me. It stopped reverbing, too, so I asked my friend to look at it and see if he could fix it, but never saw it again (sigh). After that, I traded the Tremolux in on a Gibson solid state 100W head. If only I'd known then what I know now.

[@UncleDoug]

All praise goes to Ollie & Jack, Maurice. So glad the videos are helpful. We've all made mistakes with vintage gear......but the two you mentioned might be near the top of the list ;)

[@w.rustylane5650]

Nice reverb unit. Glad you got it going again. Didn't know that Fender made a stand alone reverb unit. Now I want one! W Rusty Lane K9POW in eastern Tennessee

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Rusty :)

[@Dutchamp]

Once again Uncle Doug you done it. What a nice restauration on that very nice original Fender. Clever way to replace those magnets, shame the holders are made of plastic hopefully they will holdup as long as the original magnets. And I like the humor wich you make your videos so lovely to watch. Take care.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very nice comments, WW.

[@andrewvenable7422]

Carry on wayward Uncle Doug! That reverb unit sounds great!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Andrew :)

[@ralphj4012]

Educational and entertaining (especially the cabinet tilts, I await the ebay listing). I believe CSA is Canadian Standards Association.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Ralph.

[@brucepickess8097]

Yes it is the Canadian Standards Association. Safety testing authority. Similar to UL and BSI etc.

[@JanLarsenFredriksen]

Thank you once again! Another great video from our favourite uncle. A comment about the dates and numbers on the transformers: 606 is Woodward-Schumacher manufactor code/UL-code So 606-5-13 would be Scumacher from week 13 of 1965 and 606-6-02 Schumacher 2nd week of 1966. Maybe I misunderstood what you said in the video (around 38 min) and I assume you know this very well. Just my 2c and thank you once again.

[@UncleDoug]

You're right. Jan. 606 is Schumacher. Thanks for your helpful input.

[@MichaelSmith-rn1qw]

Great to see another Uncle Doug video! With respect to the transformer codes, 606 is the EIA code for Woodward-Schumacher, and 5 - 13 would indicate the 13th week of 1965.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the info, Michael.

[@joemcgraw5529]

very nice Amp impeccable shape!!! very nice repair as always Uncle Doug ,reverb tank stopped working on my Ampeg VT 22V4 100w amp it was completly serviced of any issues10 years ago and was working so probably same problem as here my amp may have 10 hours of use since ,thanks for all of your very valuable videos !!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Joe.

[@goodun2974]

Just be aware that Ampegs use a capacitor driven circuit for the reverb tank and so the standard tank that works an a Fender won't work in an Ampeg. Somewhere on line you should be able to find a chart that will tell you the numbers for the correct reverb tank to order.

[@thenameless3271]

Breaking news: StewMac to introduce new patent-pending 6G15 cabinet tilts Love the videos and wisdom Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Those patent-infringing dogs !!! Thanks, TN :)

[@nickbruni8041]

U.D. , I always have admired Your choice of songs and licks at test time . It’s almost like “name that tune “ 🤘🏼 Rock on & kruise on Brother Man

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, U.D. (nice initials)....will do :)

[@fichambawelby2632]

Hey Doug! Welcome back again, and happy summer! Thanks for the long gift, of course!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, FW. I hope you enjoyed it :)

[@fichambawelby2632]

@@UncleDoug I do!

[@Slugg-O]

Very nice as always, and as usual I learned something new. I really enjoy the level of detail you add to your repairs and wish I had thought of drilling through the end caps when I performed a cap job on my 65 Pro Reverb. Thank you again.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Randy. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@brianveestrom6784]

Thanks Uncle Doug. Thoroughly enjoyable. In regards to the diodes, the best kill is sometimes overkill.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Brian :)

[@TCoulby]

Great video as always Uncle Doug! As a Canadian, I am used to seeing CSA stamped on electrical devices. From the web: {"CSA" is the Canadian Standards Association, and is a testing service akin to UL in the U.S.} Hope this helps...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Tom :)

[@Darla_Lo]

Thank you, Uncle Doug! I always watch and never comment, for quite a few years now. Your videos are deliciously entertaining, informative, educational, personable, and funny. Thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

Wow....thanks for the very nice comments, Darrel :)

[@geoffbarber2860]

Hi Doug, I had a spring reverb in my workshop recently with extremely low output and I couldn't find anything wrong with DC continuity of the input or output circuits or mechanical construction of the unit, apart from noticing both springs looked a little dusty. After removing the spring and carefully soaking in general washing up liquid and allowing to air dry, the reverb "sprang" into life. Never seen this before and one for the old grey matter.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, Geoff. I'll keep this hint in mind for the future.

[@RJ-bn5uw]

6G-15's just what I need , my variable AFU-69's never locked in place correctly . Looks like Mitzy has good timing , she might handle the percussion end of things . TVM UD , A joy as always .

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, RJ :)

[@ManMartin]

This amp + rev + guitar + paws is killer🤟

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you liked it, MM :)

[@arismith9938]

hey uncle doug! i beileive csa test stands for canadian standards association test transformer...watching you for couple years now! you got me building my own amps!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the info, Ari. That's great to hear. Keep up the good work.

[@1finchdog]

Another great video learning experience Uncle Doug! Thanks for sharing your time with us out here in KZbin Land!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Mike :)

[@drrobert2120]

Excellent video ....I prefer 6V6 although the 6K6 was great .The 6V6 was like that extra dash of hot sauce just to spice it up ! Thanks for the continuing education. 👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Doc. I agree :)

[@RadioDeadAir]

I have one from about the same era and it's fantastic. I could have built my own, but it just wouldn't have been the same. I run it through a home built 59 Bassman clone by way of an FX loop and a Dumblelator, and it's the best sounding reverb unit you could hope to own.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, RDA :)

[@geemac7267]

Very comprehensive overview, Doug. Thanks for taking us along!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, GM :)

[@Byron_Blue]

Very nice Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Byron :)

[@rmg471]

Always great to see Uncle Doug uploading a new video. What a treat!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ryan :)

[@cowasakiElectronics]

Wow that reverb unit is stunning, museum quality! The last Fender valve amp across by bench for repair was a 1978 twin reverb. It was the polar opposite! Some rotten wood, rusty chassis, damp board which was conducting, all pots seized, all sockets rusty and knackered, two tubes had broken centre pins, all pre amp tubes are a little soft then the usual service items with several carbon resistors failed, new power caps needed etc. It wasn’t worth fixing! A shame but I did get the old enclosure and chassis to build a highly modded deluxe reverb.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, CE. That sounds like some of the Silvertone amps I received several years ago.

[@YeatzeeGuitar]

Wow, fascinating video. The mod tank sounds like every modern reissue fender reverb, that is not very springy or vintage sounding. The vintage tank sounds 100% better imo, exactly how the spring tank should sound. Bright, clangy.... surfy 🏄‍♂

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, YZG :)

[@leelossi1257]

beautiful job again! love your special humor......you sure have a passion for your work

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Lee :)

[@MrCayoCoco]

Smashing vid with great Canadian content !! I was recently given and repaired a Hot Cabs PA head that had been dropped. The reverb tank came free from the springs, and two of the input circuit boards disconnected. Now I just need some speakers.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks Mr. CC. Good luck with your project.

[@joereedmusic9853]

The Gibbs tank provides more of the reverb and tone quality I'm use to hearing from Fender reverbs. I think it adds less depth than the MOD tank, but the Gibbs is the classic Fender sound.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Joe.

[@ernestschultz5065]

I'm always impressed by the lengths Uncle Doug goes to to preserve at least the appearance of the originality of amps or in this case a reverb unit.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ernest. Regular capacitor replacement has gotten redundant and boring......now I enjoy the more "artistic" concealed re-capping :)

[@GabrielVelasco]

Wow! Definitely the ultimate spring reverb. Digital spring reverbs are coming close, but they just don't have the same feel and responsiveness.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Gabe. Thanks :)

[@jutukka]

That's absolutely true. During this unfortunate covid time I have built and modded several spring reverb featured vintage and modern amps and compared several vintage and modern reverb tanks and as well compared them all with all sorts of digital effects and computer plug-ins. Vintage amps and reverb tanks still are the best and most natural choice IMHO. I don't know how long, but for example a real tube amp always sounds like a tube amp because it, bloody hell, is a f-ing tube amp and not an emulator, if it is even close to decent condition. And a spring reverb tank in good condition usually always sounds like a spring reverb tank because it is a reverb tank, not a plug-in.

[@GabrielVelasco]

@@jutukka Yes. And the thing that's difficult to explain to non players or players who have little or no experience with tubes and springs is the "feel" or "responsiveness." If you go purely by the sound in a mix, you might be tricked, but sometimes the most important thing about a real analogue is how it responds to your playing, how it responds to being played soft or loud, or with a quick attack, or with single-coils vs. humbuckers. A good player can learn to control the amount of distortion or "boing" by how hard he plays, or which pickup he selects, or the volume control on his guitar. Some true spring reverb tanks can be overdriven just like the front end of a tube amp and a good player can learn how to "play" those things in real time. That feel, responsiveness, and feedback still can't be emulated very well. I'm talking about the communication you're getting from the amp, not the "howling" feedback, although that's important too.

[@UncleDoug]

@@jutukka Well said, Jutukka :)

[@highpath4776]

@@jutukka Looks like from another comment washing old springs in a bit of dish wash liquid gets off dust (and greases from atmosphere) which allows the metal to move again with less hindrance and become tighter

[@matambale]

Note to viewers - be SURE to check out Uncle Doug's series on Tube Reverb (especially "Tube Reverb, Part 2: Transducers, Tanks, Tone, and Signal Mixing")

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, M :)

[@arthurvandelay7677]

I can't believe you don't have a set of dental picks in your toolbox, Uncle.They're great for things like those little springs in the tank. Another great video, thanks! Also - the 6V6 output is too hot.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, Art.

[@bluemule3891]

Big D, another gem, thanks and may all your tubes be marked Leslie 🤣 C-3 & 147, the kings of rock Blue Mule

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, BM.

[@jeff901]

All of us watching your videos are captive nuts! In a good way.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jeff. I hope no one bolted due to the length of the video ;)

[@jeff901]

@@UncleDoug If they did, screw 'em!

[@UncleDoug]

@@jeff901 I think Allenhead Phillips was one of them.

[@jeff901]

@@UncleDoug i hear he was quite a Craftsman.

[@williambock1821]

Really cool! The Ao35 sounds great,too! I built an 18 watt lite out of one with all new components and even a new output transformer but there are still more tonal similarities between the two than one would expect.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, William :)

[@goodun2974]

At 1:11:10, congrats, Doug, you made a spring-hook tool. The father of the guy I work for in my day job managed a spring- manufacturing company and so at work we have a whole bin full of various shaped spring-hook tools. Eventually I'll send you a grab-bag of parts and such, and I'll have to include an assortment of spring-hook tools for you. These usually have a hook shaped like a ? question mark on the very end, almost like a shepherd's crook (if I remember correctly there was a character in a Hanna-Barbera cartoon who used to get yanked offstage with a shepherd's crook. My head is chock-full of half-remembered flotsam and jetsam from the distant, misty time of my youth ).

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, GU :)

[@highpath4776]

Was it Mr Jinks ?

[@UncleDoug]

@@highpath4776 Who got yanked off stage ? Could be, I guess.

[@wlrIII]

Thank you, sir. Another interesting, thoughtful video. I was really surprised how different the two tanks sounded. I wouldn't have thought there would be that much difference. Fascinating stuff as usual.

[@sootikins]

Well, it's a comparison between a brand new tank and a 56 year old tank. Magnets can degrade over time. The old tank probably sounded a whole lot better when new than it does now.

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Sooti. I have heard some glorious Gibbs tanks in early Gibson amps.

[@acooper8910]

38:00 - I may be having a senior moment (possibly precipitated by some hi grade Cuban rum), but I think TR1 refers to the power transformer, not the choke? You might correct this later on in the show, but I haven't got all the way thru yet. Anyway, as ever, an inspiring video once again causing me to start trawling for parts for something I didn't know I wanted to build😀.

[@UncleDoug]

Good catch, AC. Thanks for pointing that out.

[@poormanselectronicsbench2021]

@ 56:18 - If you ever need to get a more accurate low resistance reading on your DMM ( and a lot have this feature), short together whatever test leads you are using, then push the "REL" or "DELTA" ( It may look like a triangle) button on your meter, and your meter will calibrate to your zero to your test leads resistance. As far as those "free steak dinners" , you can walk away with a pretty good meal, if you are willing to commit some time ( they often let you bring a spouse or SO too), and give them a junk e-mail account and a GV phone number to call. As a retired telcom tech, they knew we would have a pension fund to manage, so, I took advantage of some local offerings, and never gave them a dime in return. Part of the "management fee" for existing members funds the dinners of prospective new victi....errr.. customers.I have even got some good info on things to manage my decisions better too, so it wasn't a total waste, and most restaurants they picked were quality local places here as well.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for both tips PMEB.....we appreciate your input.

[@poormanselectronicsbench2021]

@@UncleDoug And thank you for producing and sharing such informative and entertaining restoral videos!

[@djentlover]

It's always a happy day when you upload. The Uncle Doug amp with that reverb unit is a match made in heaven, what a creamy sound! I really want that amp now. Also, really tasteful and pleasant guitar playing. Thank you

[@UncleDoug]

Wow.....thanks so much, DJ. I may list the amp for sale on my FB page: Uncle Doug's Vintage Amps.

[@paulh6591]

Gibbs is sharper and cleaner, Mod more spacious and hollow. I like the Gibbs.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for sharing, Paul.

[@tronics666]

CSA Group’s experienced team is known across North America and internationally for testing a broad spectrum of transformers. In business since about 1919.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for the info, X.

[@ant1sokolow]

This 6G15 is looking so much like new. In any other channel than Uncle Doug i would have thought of it being fake or rebuild/recabinet.. But the vintage amps Maharishi Doug said it's legit, so it can be taken for granted. After the now almost classic cap re-stuffing , we have this time the reverb tank transductor sub... I think it's even more difficult and nerve raking than stated. Another masterful and tasty repair, and educational video. I tend to prefer the 6V6 'overengined' version. I like that drippy, surf style fulsome reverb sounds. That's the use for such a bulky box ... I can't see the point of having that behemoth just for a nice subdued reverb. Nice to see you again Doug. Hasta la vista. Stay cool , a la sombra.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for all the very nice, supportive comments, Ant. I'm really glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@johnrusting9742]

Another great video! On the issue of the 6K6 vs 6V6, I would lean towards the original 6K6; the extra gain afforded by the 6V6 gave the sound an almost slightly over-driven quality that is not as pleasing to the ears. I wonder what the 6V6 configuration would sound like if fed the output of a hot single coil or humbucker? Perhaps not as pleasing and "Fendery" as us ancient tone hounds would come to expect. All in all, thanks again for a great video and learning experience.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your input, John. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@jamesbruno5896]

Lordy lordy lordy that is just immaculate! Thanks my favorite Uncle!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, James.

[@courier11sec]

Absolutely unreal the condition of this machine. Wow!

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, CS. It was a gem.

[@gavinw5469]

It's always a good day when there is a new Uncle Doug video!

[@UncleDoug]

We hope you enjoy it, Gavin.

[@williamwatson8766]

Another great video, thanks Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, William :)

[@reggiewallace260]

Thank you Uncle Doug. Once again a well done and interesting video.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Reggie :)

[@mikkabrightheart2268]

Sometimes I watch your videos while I'm working on stuff bc it helps me not get frustrated... Bc you keep a pretty level head even when the stuff you're working on seems difficult I may have commented that on a video in the past but I think it bears repeating if I have

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Mikka. There is some growling and cursing......off camera :)

[@rickbaker4571]

Thanks for bringing us along UD... hard to find the Dukes Originals (at least for me, here in SC). Enjoy! Great unit, and the aftermarket Fox units of the "similar" nature are great reverbs, as well. As for C. S. A. (see UL, only Canadian, back in the day) ...again, thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Rick.

[@fibberscloset498]

Boy, I can't wait to lay my hands on those custom 6G15 cabinet tilts. They will be making my life so much more comfortable. Price be damned.

[@UncleDoug]

I'm waiting for my next delivery of Ark shards from the eastern slope of Mt. Ararat, FC. Noah's signature (on each) will guarantee authenticity ;)

[@rohankhemraj]

Thanks for documenting this. What a clean example.

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Rohan.

[@antonix_81]

great video! this reverb unit sounds wonderful through your amp

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ant :)

[@han36solo]

That sounds fantastic Uncle Doug! Really enjoyed the vid and glad to see Mitzi excelling at shop cat duties!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Han. She really is a big help in the workshop :)

[@tomw9875]

Thanks Uncle Doug; what a beauty!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you enjoyed it, Tom.

[@slyfoxx2973]

It's always more fun when the back paws get into the mix.

[@UncleDoug]

That's what an old girlfriend told me ;)