Why The Fender Deluxe Reverb Is The Best Guitar Amp Ever - ASK ZAC EP 17

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I first played through a mid 60's Deluxe Reverb amp as a 13-year-old in South Texas in 1986. It took me over 24 years of wandering, but I finally came back to the Deluxe Reverb in 2010, and have been happy ever since. In this Ask Zac, I take you on my wandering through the tonal amp desert, that finally got me back to the venerable Deluxe Reverb, and also give some nitty-gritty info on how I set my amps, which tubes I use, and what type of speaker I prefer.
RESOURCE:
Here is a good description of important vs less important tube slots on Fender amps
www.kcanostubes.com/content/f...
#askzac #guitartech #telecaster

[@fivewattworld]

Great stuff Zac. You never disappoint man!

[@AskZac]

Thank you, Keith

[@LUCKYB.]

@@AskZac Zak. You know of my cousin outta Dixon Tn CW .. singer writer Mike Shipley ? Forest Lee Jr. Just got done with a custom Tele he Built. I opted for a triple pickup with the 5 way switching like the strat . But it got a 3 way lol Do you know much if any about this Guy Forest Lee ?

[@marksc1929]

..hard to top a good Deluxe Reverb....while I love and own a 60s Pro Reverb ...I've always had my eye on a 2x10 Vibro-verb ..... cheers 👍

[@Bamagolfandguitar]

@@LUCKYB. I’m sure Zac knows Forrest. He’s kind of known around town as the Bender guy. His Teles are great if you’re after a good Tele with a B or G Bender, or one with both. If I wanted one built, it would be by him or Joe Glaser. Seems to be a nice guy, too, based on the emails I’ve exchanged with him.

[@guppybill]

Howdy Kieth. I run in to you almost everywhere I go, KZbin wise. FWW rocks! But you know that already.

[@dubshockmedia1110]

Man, i just love your low key, unpretentious style. This was just what i needed. Thanks.

[@bobframe1949]

Agree. And given his experience, he has total cred.

[@AskZac]

Thanks to you both! I try to keep it fun, and like we are having a conversation. Then we have the comments to have fun on.

[@Jason-nq2il]

Listening to calm, cool, down-to-earth folks talk about music has been a mental lifesaver for me these last couple weeks. God bless ya, Zac.

[@AskZac]

God bless you, Jason

[@frankdardano3182]

Why couldn't we have teachers like you in the 50s and 60s? We didn't need internet ,just an attitude like yours.its really refreshing,and unique. That is why everybody says how much they really like your demeanor. I am a big fan.Its hard to find video as good as yours! Keep it up!

[@lancefry9279]

I discovered the deluxe reverb when I was in my teens at a blues jam. Had to have one. Finally got one and every time I try something else, I just go right back to the Deluxe. For me, it’s the perfect amp.

[@AskZac]

Yes!

[@smelltheglove2038]

I recently got a drip edge vibro-lux. To me, it’s the perfect amp. I love fenders reverb and vibrato effects. Fender makes the best amps, period.

[@Theweeze100]

So many of us learned to play in church. It was one of the first places where you got to hang out and jam on other Musicians’s equipment.

[@bmoraga01]

Zak, I was riveted to your video. So much of this mirrored my own tonal journey, right down to the Fender Vibrolux beginning to the Celestion speaker swaps. Amazing! Thanks for posting.

[@llamont2336]

Videos like this are what sells equipment imo. I’m new to this channel but Zac’s guitar knowledge is both unassuming and impressive. Great content!

[@AskZac]

Thank you

[@69telecasterplayer]

I love your vids! I also fell in love with telecasters when I was beginning at 14. My first elect was a Harmony. Eventually mom and dad got me a 69 Thinline. Still play it. I learned to play in an AG church! Back in the 60s and 70s. Yes, we really rocked!

[@NewPraetorianBlues]

I finally got my first tube amp a few days ago - a floor model Deluxe Reverb from GC. My life has been changed, and I can't exaggerate enough how big of a confidence boost these tones are. So much more dimension than a solid state amp, and the low end is otherworldly.

[@garykaasa6997]

Zac. Thanks. I ‘ve missed my Deluxe ever since I Sold it in 1985. Found one today I great shape & no feel I must go back to get it.

[@surfneptune]

I agree! Holy cow. I found a 1964 Deluxe Reverb years ago, and ended up putting a Vintage 30 in mine too. The clean is amazing and the perfect size for the gigs I do. Well done.

[@AskZac]

Well done to you!

[@SuperBatiskaf]

I did bit different modification on my DRRI 65. Replaced Jensen C12K speaker to Jensen C12Q - the top harsh was gone, and the presence increased a bit. And finally I just shorted out the C10 bright cap through the switch, the switch located on rear panel of the amp. It sounds amazing, the SRV tone and many other things. But please remember that shortage cap can shift the pot's characteristics, the amp starting breakup from vol on 4.

[@timaddison707]

Looking forward to this one... I think we all go on similar journey's Zac, I bought a US made Fender Strat, then convinced myself that there was something better out there, I needed humbuckers, a carved top, a better heel joint, a compound radius... Over 20+ years I've been through pretty much everything and there are some fine instruments out there each with their own pros/cons but really there wasn't much wrong with the Strat in the first place and nothing beats that middle/bridge pickup position :-)

[@AskZac]

The tone hunt keeps us all looking for ways to improve

[@warnistt]

@@AskZac and trading gear Cant afford to keep one and get the new. Hence the ''one that got away '' stories :-)

[@robertn8423]

You have to be the most calm, easy going, serene, knowledgeable KZbin presenter in explaining many various musical topics, guitars and amps. Watching your videos is relaxing and informative. Yep, I have a DRRI 2005 w/ 12" Jensen, great amp, I always go back to it, so I found your presentation quite interesting. Thanks.

[@AskZac]

Thanks! 😃

[@dogbreath203]

Very well said 8423!

[@sboy1955]

Enjoyed this. Even though I'm pretty much all modeling now, I still love the pure tube tones. I still haven't sold my oldest tube amp but it doesn't get out of the studio at all any more. Thx!

[@gregwolodkin4524]

I do love my '67 deluxe reverb, but since I picked up a 2x10" tweed super I find myself choosing that more often than not. Love hearing the history of your quest for tone, thanks for sharing!

[@darrellm3410]

I bought a 65 reissue and it's my only amp I use. The reverb and tremolo is fantastic. Just add a TS9 and DD3.

[@rigorhead01]

A tube screamer, delay, and DRRi. What more do you need? I run the same rig, but with a different delay.

[@runrabbitrun4342]

Really glad i came across youre channel, Enjoyed the video, enjoyed the story Thanks... Looking forward to checking out the older vids and watching the next to come.Peace!!

[@charleswallace5818]

I remember being like 5 or 6 and listening to my pawpaw play his silver face deluxe. I have been hooked on that sound every since. It is still my dream amp

[@AskZac]

It ain’t bad

[@stephenblanton9695]

I've had a '65 for 25 years. It's been my go-to more often than not. I put a Kendrick Black Frame speaker in it very early on. Tightened up the low end significantly. It really allows the amp to 'speak'. I've also tweaked my capacitance values in the power supply for more low end control. It remains my #1 gig amp and also the one most recorded here at my studio. Guitar players can get giddy when a nice Deluxe Reverb is available. :) I've been running JJ's in there for years. They're dependable, long lasting, and they sound good. Preamp tubes are a mishmash of Soviet and Sino...mostly Soviet. I also have a '75 I obtained more recently that's required some work. I do most of it myself. It's become my experimentation platform for tubes, signal caps, etc. I have a pair of the new Tung Sols in at present. I like 'em. Gotta keep an eye on plate voltages in a Deluxe Reverb!

[@j.rozman7016]

I have Tone King Imperial MK II and replaced stock speaker with Celestion Alnico Ruby..amazing result!! Really great blackface/tweed tones in one amp!! Really like your channel! 🤘🎸

[@lastofthe4horsemen279]

Celestion speakers are the best.

[@llwonder]

I’m still deciding if I want to buy a fender or an imperial. The imperial is very cool and can even get into some light Marshall territory. The imperial also has an attenuator. If I bought the fender deluxe, I’d also have to buy the TK iron man Ii attenuator. I might just trade in my Vox to help fund the imperial. We shall see

[@lazvt8469]

I threw a CreamBack in mine...better for sure.

[@scottpeterson9609]

Spending the past two plus weeks in the house has given me plenty of time to discover new things on You Tube. Really enjoy watching your stuff, both your playing style and your speaking style. Tons of information and such an easygoing manner. Thanks Zac.....

[@AskZac]

You are so welcome

[@paulwarren8936]

I had been chasing this sound for 30 years and finally found it when bought my 65 reissue a few years ago. This will always be my amp of choice.

[@stratmagic6893]

When I was almost 16 in 1970 I got a blonde tele new for $170 from Manny's in NYC and then I found a 1964 or 65 Vibrolux used for $100.That combination sent me on a journey I am so grateful for.What a sound.

[@AskZac]

That is an incredible rig!

[@iansnyder274]

Like John Hiatt sang " I like country music, I like mandolins, but right now I need a Telecaster through a Vibrolux turned up to ten!"

[@mojorisin369]

Zac, you’re a great story-teller; easy-going & always interesting - love listening to your videos!

[@AskZac]

I appreciate that!

[@smokingtarheel3003]

Great video. Those are the greatest amps ever. Just perfect. Thanks for sharing your story about how you came back to that sound. All the best!

[@larryn1875]

I've had a few and I'm going back! Thanks for the excellent, informative video.

[@motorbikeray]

I'm a "Five Watt World" subscriber and Keith's channel brought me to you. Glad to have found you and to subscribe to your channel.

[@seanmarshallmusic]

I had an experience almost identical to yours. Played PCB reissues for years until I walked into a bar and heard the best tone ever. Upon further investigation, it was a '66 BFDR. Damn, what a tone. Unfortunately, I can't afford BF vintage for now, but I did find a nice '72 Vibrolux on the super cheap, and a Carr Sportsman for smaller headroom. Not a bad coral if I do say so, but still one day I plan to sell em both for a real DR. Thanks Zac.

[@musicalSFCat]

Very cool story, regarding your experience with the Fender Blackface Deluxe. LOVE the vintage Blackface Fender Vibro-Lux amps too. Still miss my '64 Vibro-Lux had sold many years ago.

[@nyawnyaw12345]

I Love my DRRI it does everything I want it to do and more, my fix for the midrange issue without mods is using a j rocket archer as an always on pedal(preamp), it pushes the mids and rolls off the highs(treble control) With the gain all the way down the pedal is very clean which is great but I usually set it on the edge of break up it, this really works for me I wouldn't go back, I tried using a GE7, turning the treble and bass down and turning the amp up but I wasn't really feeling it. Thanks for this video there's no doubt its the best amp. 😉

[@jenniferwhitewolf3784]

'66 Vibrolux Reverb, 2x10" Mine has one Oxford, one Jensen. These were usually delivered with both alike, but the original owner had the dealer mix them up to get the lows of one and the highs of the other.. 2 years later I bought it... 2nd owner, since 1969. If I were to by a 2nd amp, not sure if it would be a Deluxe Reverb, or a Pro Reverb.. they each have a lot to offer.

[@jacobbrown1690]

i have both the vibrolux with twin jensen alnico speakers and the deluxe reverb with alinco jensen. they are different. i like them both.

[@rmannlefty1]

Cool stuff! My brother (rhythm guitar) uses a DRRI while I (lead guitar) prefer my Princeton. Mine is a PRRI special run with a 12" celestion greenback, and a beefier output transformer. It works out great at our band's volume since the extra headroom from his Deluxe is perfect for cleans and takes pedals well, while my Princeton has to push just that little bit harder and gets a little hairy and compressed. Great channel, very folksy!

[@Waynard888]

This was a really nice story, I enjoyed your history with amps and how much you've learned. Fender Amps started it all. Subbed, thanks

[@AskZac]

Thank you!

[@reinaldogarcia5953]

Zac, I followed your advise on swapping the speaker and installed a Celestion Vintage 30 on my DRRI and all I can say is Wow! I wish I had done that before. Thanks for your great videos!!

[@AskZac]

Nice work!

[@rheologuy]

Really enjoyed your story, thanks. I have a '65 Deluxe Reverb blackface just like yours-- got it from a friend 30 years ago. Love it with my Gibson Les Paul. It was in a local shop for repair some months ago when Phil Keaggy saw it there and offered $3000 for it. I passed on it. True story-- he lives near Akron, Ohio where I am.

[@davidbrown-bh7it]

I’ve had a 65 Deluxe Reverb for years. The only amp I’ll never sell! Thanks for sharing!

[@AskZac]

Welcome!!

[@ronelliott7262]

Thanks Zac! I’m On my second DRRI and absolutely love it. I’m about to start looking for the Celestion Vintage 30 and take it in to my amp guy for the clip job as well. Thanks again and keep em coming!

[@AskZac]

Just note that the V30 has 4 mounting holes, and some Deluxe amps have 8 bolts. You may want to look at an Eminence of Warehouse V30 copy with 8 holes.

[@joeysaucier1]

This is the first time I've seen one of your vids and it was great! Love the information.

[@CritterElectronics]

That’s a good quote , I’m basic terms ‘If your wearing ear plugs your doing it wrong.’ Dynamics. Only way to play.

[@michaelreis8266]

I agree with everything you've said and I've never owned a Deluxe, lol! I have a silverface Vibrolux that owns me and I hope it doesn't get bored 👍

[@AskZac]

Let’s hope it doesn’t

[@kriskramer5683]

I’m currently running a blackstar ht club 40 vintage pro it has the vintage 30 which is why I got it. I’ve had it for 7 years now. Over the past week I’ve been blown away by the sound of the 68 deluxe reverb silver face reissue. That is the tone I’ve been searching for and I hope to pull the trigger on one this year.

[@stratplayr6997]

Great video, Zac! I have had a similar tone journey like you. Went through a number of different amps over the years before finally getting my vintage '64 DR and it is the sound I've been wanting. Great tip on the V30 speaker, I've got a Weber F150 in mine. Funny that I'm considering getting another DR, at least for backup, same as you do for gigs. Love your videos, keep up the great work!

[@hennesseysays]

how do you like the F150 ( what spec btw)?

[@user-bx7hf3lp8n]

I have both a ‘65 Deluxe Reverb (reissue) that is 22 watts, as well as the ‘64 Custom Deluxe Reverb (hand wired) that is 20 watts (like the Deluxe Reverb II manufactured during the Riviera period). I prefer the sound of the 20 watt amp, plus it has reverb and tremolo in both channels. It has been my favorite amp.

[@dial9sdial9s22]

Hey! Love this video. I've been playing and gigging my deluxe reverb for about 10 years. I even put a vintage 30 in it years ago!It survived a bad fire with me. Its truly blackfaced now! Best amp ever! Read once it's the most recorded amp ever as well. Great video! Thanks

[@endoalley680]

Vintage 30 works great in a D, Reverb.

[@69telecasterplayer]

I learned how to play in an AG church too. My mom was the pianist and marked the chords on one of the hymn books to help me get started. Lots of playing. Great way to learn how to play with others.

[@professorredpill3436]

Every now and then a real class act emerges onto the scene that both knows what they are talking about, articulates it well yet remains humble, Zac is one of those rare few. Very appreciative of the time and content you take the time to share and also thanks for the input on amps you provided. From Bangkok... Cheers

[@AskZac]

Thank you

[@craigthomson3621]

At the beginning of the video, when you said the Fender Deluxe Reverb was the ultimate guitar combo amp ever, your dog walked out the room! I have a ‘65 DRRI but no dog (though the neighbours cat is a frequent visitor).

[@Michiganflyfishing]

Love the channel Zac!! Thank you for the amazing content!

[@AskZac]

Thanks, Al

[@earlycuyler8719]

I have an emenince Texas heat in my deluxe with rca tubes. I modified the reverb to both channels and use an EH 12ax7 in the v1. This gives me a tweed type tone on the normal channel and a blackface tone in the vibrato channel. I use three pedals, a tube screamer, an analog delay and a keeley compressor. This gives me everything I need to play any type of music I need.

[@uncletoby1]

Not a huge technical understanding of amp components but I already want a Deluxe and this is an outstanding, informative video!

[@brianwood7237]

As always Zac great topic to dive into. I was lucky enough have my friends fathers 64 Deluxe to mess around with when I was younger before I could really understand just how good of an amp a blackface Deluxe Reverb really is ... you make a good case...AC15 is my fave these days...with a tele

[@richardgullison9980]

Zac does great interviews even when he`s interviewing himself. He`s the best: intelligent, informative, in-depth interviews/reviews

[@gben2457]

I love my hand wired 5E3. It's warm and sounds great with single coils and humbuckers. The clean tone is amazing.

[@camknorre3382]

It was this video that convinced me to buy a Fender Custom '64 Deluxe Reverb, as it had all the changes Zac mentioned, and it is magic!

[@johnduffy8746]

i got the exact same one and its my go to amp now!

[@diegoaguayo5707]

Almost 3k 😬

[@camknorre3382]

@@diegoaguayo5707 for me it was worth the additional money compared to the '65 reissue.

[@JasminBellavance_Music]

I like the Eminence Cannabis Rex speaker in my DRR. But I've not tried the V30...And I only use the Normal channel with a Strymon Flint, so no bright cap. Good video 👍

[@frankadams4586]

With you all the way Zac. My tonal journey was similar to yours. Hard to believe I played through two Super Reverbs for a few years there - way too loud. I discovered the DRRI in '98 and bought two of them. A few years after that, I found a '66 that needed some work - it actually didn't turn on when I bought it. After getting it up and running, it's been a mainstay and I use for almost every gig I do. I do use the DRRI when I don't feel great about taking my vintage amp out. Thanks for this video. Great stuff!

[@bryanfreeland4014]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. I saw JD Simo at Robert's about 10 or 12 years ago, and I was totally blown away by his chops and his tone! Tele - Cable - Deluxe! No mic, No effects. I now have a Princeton with a 12" speaker, and it always sounds great!

[@AskZac]

Sweet!

[@chrislestermusic]

I couldn’t agree more about the Deluxe. I love my ‘65 and with my pedalboard I can play everything from Johnny Cash to Journey.

[@AskZac]

They are incredibly versatile!

[@craigchristy3953]

All great points.. love the Deluxe, love the added headroom of the vibrolux, transitioning now to Mesa 5:25, which has beautiful cleans and a bunch of that other stuff.. with tone controls that are very very versatile, Check it out. Great insight, thank you.

[@Texasbluestunes]

Great video Zac! Vintage Fender allllll the way! I have a 66’ Pro Reverb, drip edge 67’ Super Reverb, and a 64’ Vibroverb clone I made.

[@robertwilliams1770]

ZAC Thanks for your time and hard work may God Bless you and your family stay safe I love your show and its been a true blessing

[@MontyCantsin5]

Now I feel like I need a Deluxe Reverb! I've been on the lookout for a small-ish Fender amp for a while but I'm not sure what to get. I did have a blackface Twin but I couldn't get on with the scooped sound of that amp at all. Sounded pretty bad with an overdrive too...just flat and totally lacking bite. I'm glad you mentioned the lack of mids on blackface amps and tips for modifying that specific discrepancy. I think the best amp I've heard recently is the Suhr Hedgehog. The mids sound incredible. I'd like something similar in a smaller format.

[@AskZac]

You know what I am going to say. Deluxe!!!!

[@Theweeze100]

I found a Fender Super Sonic 22 for a song. I must admit I am in the process of mod-ing it to sound a little more like a deluxe reverb. I’m really an acoustic guitarist and bass player, so it will meet my needs just fine.

[@kyrandell3290]

Wonderful show Zac. Really enjoyed the back story as it's one we all share to one degree or another. Loads of helpful information as usual based on your experience and shared knowledge which is informed, reliable and greatly appreciated. Look forward to next weeks' show - SAME ZAC TIME, SAME ZAC CHANNEL!

[@johnmacaulay452]

I just listened to a great conversation like it was just me and a friend. Thanks so much. Its so refreshing to hear an honest option on something without a sales pitch to buy something. I play rthym guitar in a small band were I live and currently play an Ac10 (caveat I suck but have have a lot of fun doing it LOL). Going to check out the deluxe next time I'm in the city.

[@MrMd5555]

I got a black face deluxe reverb ri based almost entirely on my new addiction to this channel! I love the amp but haven't had time to clip the bright cap yet due to my crazy work schedule so I'm looking forward to that. Loved the "tonal journey" story, this is my 3rd time watching this video when things get slow at work. Thanks for sharing all this valuable knowledge with us zac!

[@lastofthe4horsemen279]

Ha I do the same love my DRRI

[@wildcardiowa1994]

used a DRRI for many years, my fav feature is how easy it is to get a great tone and light weight

[@AskZac]

Absolutely

[@hkguitar1984]

+1 on the "light weight", as I get older I agree "Size Does Matter".

[@jacobbrown1690]

only 37 pounds on the alinco jensen version compared to a twin at over 80 pounds

[@reverbdeluxe]

Remember the year Musician's Friend moved warehouses and had a little trouble. They sent out coupons to apologize. Got a reissue deluxe reverb for $689. They were $849 at the time. Ordered on Wednesday the price went up $100 bucks to $949 on a Monday. Now $1099. Best deal I've ever gotten. Served me well but now I'm wanting the handwired version.

[@reverbdeluxe]

It will be my next gear purchase for sure!

[@MusicNut-t3y]

Once had the opportunity to play through a stereo rig of two black face Deluxes at a benefit, I get goosebumps remembering the tone, and it wasn’t overly loud, just full and present…

[@tomburahz4141]

Great story.. I ended up on with the 68 modified RI. I’m moving to the Iridium but can’t see myself ever selling my 68. It really has everything you need just by itself, although I use an attenuator to push it a little but keep the volume down. When you hear the sound that you hear in your head with it, your like, yes, that’s it..done.

[@larrylambert2727]

Rick Hayes at Vintage Sound makes a wonderful Deluxe style amp with all these issues worked out and he actually voices the first channel as a Brownface Deluxe, so you get best of both. Has a mid control and a dwell control for the reverb. You can also self bias it for 6L6s if desired. It's all point to point and very solidly made. My favorite amp.

[@jonnyrocktone9020]

Hey Larry, is this the VSA Vintage 22 amp you are referring to? Any special mod or add-on you did? Or all come this way as standard? I’ve heard these amps and they are fantastic. Heavily considering myself. Cheers!

[@larrylambert2727]

@@jonnyrocktone9020 Mine is stock from Rick, but he can do all kinds of tweak if requested. The V22 comes most commonly with the 64 blackface tone in the typical vibrato side and is voiced as a brownface deluxe in the first side. I use a switcher to go between the two and have about the best clean and drive tone a blackguard player could ever hope for. I've also seen a higher gain blackface voice in the first channel if you don't like the brownface sag. Having a mid and dwell control is also great. It's the Deluxe platform perfected in my book.

[@endoalley680]

I have one of those with a Vintage 30 in it. Tried a Tone Tubby alnico and Tone Tubby ceramic too. A vintage Jenson P12N can be a good sounding speaker too.

[@rafaelpretto292]

I have a Brownface Deluxe hardwired clone with Jensen Alnico speakers and, yeah it sounds like a Marshall Plexi in combo style. Great amp with early breakup. You may want the best of both worlds, a Deluxe Blackface + Deluxe Brownface together in stereo!

[@ninoldar]

I love Deluxe Reverb amps! I am still hooked on my 1965 Blackface Princeton Reverb which I modded many years ago by putting in a 12" Celestion Creamback, a bigger output transformer from Allen Amplification and a Mid control in the back of the chassis. I often play with a pal who has a 60's Blackface Deluxe and we have A/B'd those amps and they sound very close. He also has a vintage PR and that's his fave as well.

[@markreilly7052]

I have a Princeton that I put a 12" Creamback in. I also have a special edition '68 CDR with a Creamback. They are both great. I love playing with a Deluxe live, but the Princeton with an electronic drum kit was really, really nice. Can't say which I like better.

[@gribb5967]

Nice video. I found my Silverface deluxe in a pawn shop for about $100. (Some genius had cut it down to just a head!) I eventualy got around to building a pine cab kit for it and redoing the grill. I put a 12" Kendrick "green" speaker in it. Everything you say is exactly true. Many many amps have come and gone since, and this is the keeper for sure. Perfect recording amp and plenty loud for any gigs I do.

[@rennpart]

That’s a great story man, thanks for keeping us all entertained in quarantine.

[@rennpart]

Follow up 1 year later. I bought a 65 deluxe reverb from the original owners daughter off Reverb and it blows the doors off every other vintage amp I’ve tried. I will admit the only shortcoming is the trem!

[@TheBlaggers-uv7vc]

Blackface deluxe reverbs. Love ‘em. I too have two. My faves.

[@AskZac]

Sweet!

[@paulngardner]

Great video, I landed here from 5 watt world. I've had a number of amps and been on a journey for 'the sound' and feel like I'm almost there! - loving the ride..

[@jeffreyduncan989]

I will always be a fender guy at heart… I’ve owned a lot of vintage amps but as I’ve developed my own style I’ve ended up feeling most at home on Mesa boogie amps. I own a lonestar and an electro dyne amp and love them. I like how you said it’s the perfect amp for you. I think every player will gravitate towards whatever makes them feel at home and that’s the intangible. You know you’ve found the right amp when you stop looking at amps.

[@Texasbluestunes]

Reggie Young. Legend and hero. If he had it, it must be good.

[@revrandfaze]

Great review Zac! I can appreciate your story. I also play in Church. I play in the C.O.G.I.C. I been playing in it for 29 years. I been through so many amps its insane. My main amp has been the Fender Vibro King. I had several of them throughout the years. I also had Marshalls and a bunch of Dr. Z amps as well. I currently have the fender deluxe Reverb as my main gigging amp mine is the 65 deluxe in whine red with the Italian Jenson speaker that Sweetwater sells exclusively. I got a great deal on one used at GuitarCenter. I have to agree with you its the perfect amp. Its lightweight yet still cuts through the mix and the clean as well as overdriven tones are great. The reverb is also lush sounding. Plus you have the option of that other channel if you want to get into more blues tones its real fat sounding almost like a bassman tone. Its a great amp.

[@AskZac]

Thank you, and that red Deluxe sounds really cool. I love the Vibe-King, just too much amp for me.

[@BluegillGreg]

The music at Church of God in Christ (Seattle WA and Bridgeport CT) has blown me away. They've also fed a lot of hungry children breakfast before school. Just want to say thanks.

[@oldskool_boxing9306]

@fastguitar Vibro King hands down no comparison. I wish I still had mine. I gigged it for 20 plus years in the C.O.G.I.C its just way to much amp for the small church Im in now. I have a Marshall studio combo and a Dr. Z Z-28 now and I use a fryette Power station 2 with them I gig my Z-28 most of the time.

[@oldskool_boxing9306]

I am hoping Fender comes out with a tone master version of the Vibro King like they did with the super reverb. If they do I will be all over it.

[@chriskerrick1452]

Hello Zac, Thank you for sharing your knowledge on this amp. I have just purchased one. I really love the sound I am now looking to change my speaker to try it out Thanks Chris

[@AskZac]

Enjoy!

[@VintageRadius]

Hey Zac, I really appreciate that you shared your personal opinion on perceived shortcomings and modification ideas to get to what you wanted out of the Deluxe. Not many do this. While there are no right answers that will work for everyone, I love hearing that type of insight from trusted sources and find it valuable and interesting to get ideas going. Would love to see some more dedicated videos on classic amps if you feel inclined to go there. Selfishly, id be interested to know what you think of the Princeton Reverb and any changes you would make to suit your preferences on tone, frequencies, etc. I use mine for home practice and recording and am always thinking about what speakers or other improvements to make. Cheers, James

[@AskZac]

I have tried and sold 7 Princetons. I have not tried one with a 12" yet though.

[@jayingle2407]

I think Leo nailed it with about everything he did

[@timhintz]

Love Deluxe Reverb's and wondering your thoughts on the Fender Re-Issues including the 64 Custom Deluxe.

[@AskZac]

I love the reissues. Have not played the handwired one, but heard great things.

[@__bam]

First of all, really great video. I bought a 65 DRRI about a year and a half ago and love it. Its the first real amp I have ever owned and I love it. I just hate I didn't buy it years ago as it has inspired me to play far more than I ever had. I have just recently been reading about the bright cap clip and now probably gonna do it myself, maybe unsolder it so I can put it back easier if I want. Also adjusted the bias up (24.5mA or so) just a from the factory setting (mine was at 19mA) which seems to let it break up a little sooner although still fairly subtle with volume around 4. I've been on the fence for the couple months or so about which speaker to upgrade to but just bought and installed the Weber 12F150 to replace the factory Jensen. Can't tell just yet how I am going to like it as it still needs some "break-in" time. If I don't like it I now know which speaker to go with. Now after all that rambling, back to what my original question was. Have you adjusted the bias at all on yours and if so how much? what are your thought?? Leave it alone?? Fiddle with it?? Is there a particular mA setting that is considered optimal?

[@grif900]

Greetings Zac. I loved this talk. You have steered me to where I think I have come to the final decision to build a Deluxe Reverb amp. Thank you for the nitty and the gritty on this thing as I had also previously dismissed this model at 22 Watts as a "practice amp"; I had no idea how much of the music that I love was recorded with one of these. A few years ago I dug my 1966 Fender Super Reverb Amp out of storage and chased the mice out of it; tore the thing completely A-part and rebuilt it from the bottom up. The result is utterly stunning; and at about 42 Watts (tube selection and Biasing) into 4 10" 8 ohm speakers it is a tone MONSTER and irresponsibly LOUD! I mean, I love it ;but my neighbors don't seem to love me as much anymore ;p. I have been fixing broken tube amps ever since. All Fender, all pretty damaged, mostly PCB models due to heat issues and even fixed a solid state unit. So now it looks like A MojoTone DeLuxe Reverb is the next thing that I need to do. Until I I can pony up for a real one. Thank you !

[@JavaoftheLava]

Always thought the base sound of the DR was really "springy". I love it

[@crazycat1345]

I had a deluxe reverb but it distorted to much after you get passed 3 on the volume. I tried the clean channel but there is no reverb on it so I went to a peavey delta blues amp with a 15 inch speaker, which sounded exactly like the fender but deeper and the clean channel has a reverb.

[@paulblanchet542]

Thanks for a great video! I have a DRRI and had it modded to some extent....Eminence Alessandro speaker and the 6L6 conversion, which gives more headroom and brings it closer to that "Twin" sound. Love it!

[@AskZac]

Nice

[@jessebfly]

Love these amps too. I’ve seen so many shows where stock 65 RIs are the back lines and the sound is incredible. I have a 68 SFRI I love.

[@AskZac]

Very cool!

[@DavidGatto]

There is nothing like the sweet crispy envelope of 2 6v6's pushed hard

[@robertsanders7061]

Agree 100%

[@Badhands55]

I came to the exact same conclusion- the deluxe reverb is the perfect amp

[@hearpalhere]

I can dig it. I've always loved Fender amps. A long time ago with my first band in college, we had the pleasure of recording our album in a proper little studio and the owner had a vintage Blackface Deluxe Reverb. It was awesome, I can definitely see why you love them. I also owned a Fender PA100 for a while and that was an incredible sound too. Very loud and super high head room. Interestingly enough, my friend owned the PA135 and that thing would overdrive at pretty reasonable volumes. I currently own a Hungarian amp called KOX and it's modeled after a Bassman (with reverb though). It's lovely for clean but to get any kind of drive, you have to crank it really loud. I think it'd be good to get a lower powered amp to get good sounds at home.

[@gregwilliams4201]

Thanks Zac really love your video I could talk tone and amps all day stay safe out there...

[@jakestadium]

For my money Princetons & Super Reverbs almost always edge out DR's especially when it comes to cleans. But Zac's particular DR does sound magical and glorious. One of the best I've heard.

[@richardwalley2862]

Church people have all the best gear they just don’t use it at church

[@philf915]

True true true

[@john-zw9rw]

Because ...God really digs music.......really digs great sounding instruments and Amps.....

[@freddymclain]

,,,,rockin' fer jesus.

[@tylerhaas6]

Like Mark Agnesi said: “Jesus would be rocking a Peavey classic 30 and a Mexican Strat” lol

[@areyoujelton]

@@tylerhaas6 Jesus would be in Guantanamo Bay for suspicion of terrorism.

[@JonathonMarshall12]

After listening to your video I sent my DR to have the bright cap clipped. I never used the Vibrato cannel as it sounded brittle. It now sounds superb. What a fantastic mod. I can now use the fab reverb and tremelo. Thanks so much for the heads up and the continuing stream of great videos. (It's the Ron Ellis pick ups which are next on the list).

[@AskZac]

Glad I could help!

[@MrGibsonguy335]

I have an old blackface Deluxe Reverb that has an Emince Red Coat-Red Fang alnico magnet speaker in it. It produces really rich sound and can even handle the wide range of a piano.

[@mikebjammin93]

I was nervous to buy my Deluxe as people would always tell me that it wasn't "loud enough" for playing with a band. I use mine with a full band with the volume on 4 and it is almost "too loud." Now that I have an amp stand 3 - 3.5 is my "gigging volume."

[@AskZac]

Perfect!!

[@timothycormier3494]

I’ve recently bought a 2019 telecaster American performer series. It comes with the newish I believe it’s called the grease bucket tone circuit. This guitar being my very first telecaster. I’m new to the tele bridge pickup and its shrill high end (I actually love it). But I find that if I roll off the volume and tone just a touch. Like I would do on my Gibson’s. It really smooth’s out the bite of the top end and really allows the guitar to sing. Which is a far cry from my younger days when I was a humbucker with a ton of gain and scooped mids. Hahha the eighties and nineties tone. Or lack of tone is actually kinda embarrassing now at almost 50. But hey! I was a kid and meggadeth was the king of the hill for me.

[@AskZac]

I just roll the tone back a bit when on the bridge pickup

[@afterstars]

Timothy Cormier I have the vintage blonde model. Love it

[@timothycormier3494]

afterstars yeah it really is a nice guitar.

[@andrewpearson1903]

I played a 67 Deluxe Reverb at a guitar show recently that had been modified like that, removing the external speaker jack and adding a midrange control knob in its place. It sounded great, and the tech said he liked the original Oxford speaker enough to keep it. Great clip.

[@deanflory4520]

I always wanted a fender hotrod de Ville ,I got a new one about 6 years ago, and love it,it has two 12s in it,great amp.