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

[@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 👍

[@Scratch_Monsters_Golf]

@@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@Mesa-t6i]

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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@davidbrown-bh7it]

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

[@AskZac]

Welcome!!

[@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.

[@regandunn4850]

Yes I know I did I still love playing some religious songs every now and then

[@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 :-)

[@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!

[@Leslie-m9p]

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.

[@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 !

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@Rogijimbex]

I've had several Fender amps over the years. Always silver face models (Two Twins, Vibrolux, Princeton). Never had a black face. I now own a '68 Deluxe Reverb reissue that I think is magnificent. Watching this made me think how cool a replacement Vintage 30 speaker would be...then said 'really? this amplifier sounds terrific already." I rarely play at a mic'd volume over 2.5 - still get tremendous response and sustain with the effects I use with it. Then overall volume is controlled at the mixer. Very nice. No split eardrums yet great sound. Thank you for your caution regarding the deafening volumes used by so many players. I enjoyed this discussion. Thank you.

[@AskZac]

The 68 already has a nice Celestion in it stock

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!"

[@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.

[@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.

[@bobhewitt5047]

I’ve owned and played my ‘65 Deluxe Reverb for 40 years - bought it for £70 from a jazz player who wanted a Polytone ... he didn’t like the break up when the Fender went above 5!!! I’ve been lucky to own some incredible amps over the years - but nothing beats the Deluxe Reverb. I’ll never part with mine - it’s on it’s 3rd speaker (WGS) all I need is my Fender Esquire or Stratocaster and this old amp. Thanks Zac ... for your work on VG and this great channel on YT.

[@AskZac]

you are so welcome!!

[@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..

[@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.

[@kevins3453]

Great story! Loved hearing the background and journey to finding "your" amp. I've always been intrigued by the Deluxe Reverb and might have to search one out to explore. I had a Twin Reverb years ago, but it was a monster that could tear people's faces off if I wasn't careful, so I sold it. Appreciate the tone tips/mods, too.

[@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.

[@b.rodclark7349]

My 1st tube amp is a 60-watt '84 Carvin X-60C that was 15yrs old when i bought it from a local pawnshop 21yrs ago on Valentine's day. I use a pair of Sylvania 6L6GC's (from a '77 Peavey Mace constantly rotating pairs every six months) and three 12AX7 preamp tubes currently w/JJ's. It has a single 12-inch Celestion G12M70 that's perfect for handling the highs of the push-pull volume. It takes my Boss Blues Driver & DOD Overdrive Plus pedals good but i prefer running my guitars directly into the amp or as I call it, 'straight-no-chaser' and both Teles benefit almost more than the rest.

[@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. 😉

[@gben2457]

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

[@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).

[@uncletoby1]

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

[@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.

[@sidvicioux]

i've played since 1973. i did the amp journey like everyone else. i and everyone i know came back to the deluxe as the pinnacle of amps. my favs are the brownies.

[@CritterElectronics]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@anthonywittrock914]

Love this. I got my silver face Deluxe 44 years ago for $100 from a friend who for whatever reason didn’t care for it. I’ve loved it ever since and it has loved me back

[@AskZac]

Very nice!

[@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!

[@scooterblu]

Hi Zac. I am the second owner of a 1965 Fender Deluxe (non-Reverb model). It was actually in a closet, unused for 38 years, when I bought it in 2005. It sounds absolutely gorgeous. I also pulled the original speaker and recently installed a Celestion Alnico Ruby speaker. With the volume on 4 to 5, I think it sounds best. Just wondered if there is any difference in the circuits and have you ever compared the two.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@MascarasMil]

Looking to buy my first deluxe reverb and stumbled on your channel. I appreciate your input and knowledge! Thank you brother.

[@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!

[@martydibergi5228]

Great video I still own my 1964 no logo DR and about 20 years ago bought a matchless sc30 after meeting the Hellecasters and JJ telling me the Matchless is one of the greatest sounding amps. Still smiling still loving guitar. Oh yeah had to buy all the fender Hellecaster signature models. Still own them. JJ probably best electric guitar player on the planet. My 2 cents thanks

[@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.

[@leftymadrid]

Excellent information. There are a ton of good amps nowadays, but the sound of a Deluxe Reverb Fender Amp for certain types of music is very special. Having said that, after looking at the prices of those Fender amps, I just couldn't afford them nowadays! I had two fender amps in the past but sold them after moving to a different country with 220v electricity... When I was ready to buy an amp I tried a bunch of amps at the music shops, and really was surprised at how picky I had become with the sound of an amp. I just couldn't find ANYTHING!!! Finally I came across an amp that the price and quality actually came together!! BLACKSTAR tube amps sounded fantastic!! And I would tend to agree about an amp with a 12"speaker with a single coil fender is a very nice sound. So I purchased one for a home studio. I can say that the sound is excellent and I'm very pleased to say the least... Thx for the great talking, very easy to listen to, and not boring at all :-)

[@Alien-Angel-333]

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

[@AskZac]

I appreciate that!

[@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…

[@jayingle2407]

I think Leo nailed it with about everything he did

[@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!

[@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

[@billhodgesguitar]

Thanks Zac. I have ran across lots of tube fender amps over the years but never played through a deluxe reverb. I am fixing up my old gibson ga 18 that I got I. The 70's. I just put a different speaker in it and the sound is amazing for a 14 watt tube amp. I also love the sound of 6V6 tube's. Chet played through a duluxe reverb for a lot of years.

[@Michiganflyfishing]

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

[@AskZac]

Thanks, Al

[@thomasrose7713]

Well, I’m into Binge land I have been going through your videos from a few years ago and really enjoying catching up. I had so many on my saved view later list and it’s later now.😂 really enjoyed the discussion of some of the mods and differences in the deluxe. Really appreciate the benefit of all of your testing and experience really love your channel.

[@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

[@michaelallen1402]

Hey Zac! Man I appreciate your videos. I am 53 years old and I'm getting ready to buy what will hopefully be my last amplifier, LOL.I really rely on these KZbin videos and so many of them are very disappointing. I truly believe that you have the best thing going on here and I'm really blown away regarding how you come across as talking to us and not at us. I have been playing professionally for too many years to count and while I haven't had the success and don't quite have the resume of a pro like yourself, your videos make me feel like we're actually having a conversation and you're talking to me as if I were on the same level as you are. I just subscribed to your channel and just wanted you to know that I really, really appreciate you. The deluxe reverb is a seriously awesome amplifier and it's one that I am definitely considering!

[@AskZac]

Thank you for the kind words, Michael. I strive to keep it conversational.

[@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!

[@grahamhaynes4284]

Thanks Zac. A very nice personal presentation on a great amp.......and you're not trying to sell anything!

[@AskZac]

Just trying to share my love for that amp

[@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.

[@Richard_Lush]

Ah I’m in agreement. It was my first “ good amp” and I ended up selling it years later. Got it in the mid 70s. It was amazing and still regret selling it. Fantastic. The boost pedal took it to another level.

[@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 👍

[@mjt5576]

It's tough to argue against the Deluxe Reverb. Back in the 90's my band played small blues clubs and my only equipment was an ES-335 and a 1967 Deluxe Reverb. It sounded great clean at a lower volume and when I cranked it, the natural tube overdrive always seemed to be at the perfect volume. Loud enough to get over the band without making anyone's ears bleed. And it's easy to lug around. Light as a feather. A great workhorse amp.

[@AskZac]

Absolutely. I just wish I had come around in the 90's when they were going for $400 used for a BF.

[@mjt5576]

@@AskZac I hear you. I think I paid $450 for mine and then my amp guy did a Blackface mod to it. I stupidly sold it a few years ago. But now I have a 1965 Princeton Reverb, which runs a close second to the Deluxe in my mind.

[@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.

[@mike1967sam]

Hey Zac I bought a 65 Princeton Reverb yesterday (July 27, 2020) and I tried out several amps at the store but The 65 Princeton has an unequaled clean...amazing!!!

[@goswo]

Purple Haze you are probably a happy camper, but one day check out Morgan PR12, it a killer “Princeton” :-)

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@ericsandmark7368]

I used to have a silver face early seventies Deluxe Reverb, l took out the original speaker, and put in a 12" Celestion, and man, that gave me a kick-ass mid-range sound, the bass tone was there, but not overpowering, and the treble tone was clear and bright, but not too shrill, especially when l used the neck pickup of my Telecaster. I didn't do any modifications to the wiring or the tubes (which were the Russian VLV's, very bright), so l agree with you, it's the perfect sound, for stage and especially for recording. Eventually, though, as we added another guitarist to the band, l ended up switching to a Blues Deluxe, but l still miss my original Deluxe, with its Celestion speaker! Rock on, Zac, l enjoy your KZbin videos, keep 'em coming, buddy!! 😉

[@Texasbluestunes]

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

[@cognoscenticycles4351]

After owning several lovely vintage Blackface Fenders I came to the same conclusion that the Blackface Deluxe Reverb was the best overall sounding amp. I owned a 66 Super Reverb, a 65 & 66 Vibrolux Reverb and two different Deluxes, a 68 and a 66. It took me awhile to dial in the 66 Deluxe. All NOS glass, tried several different speakers and completely fell in love with the Celestial Blue Alnico re-issue. Eric Clapton's amp tech sold me one and told me I'd find it much too bright for about 6 months and after it was broken in I'd probably love it. He was correct! I also changed a few things inside to dial in a tone that worked with my strat. That process took several years until I was completely happy. I drove my amp tech crazy with endless experimentation until it was perfect. In the end I was totally content with my sound. I do think that NOS RCA or similar quality 6V6's are a necessary component of the sound. Here's why. I read an article by Gerald Weber of Kendrick amps in Texas and he pointed out that in a Deluxe Reverb circuit that the power tubes are actually working at a higher plate voltage than they should be according to the RCA Tube Manual. That's part of the reason those amps have the teeth and cut so well. That also has a tendency to wear out power tubes quicker than normal. I also thought that JD Simo's set up with a Tele and the Blackface Deluxe sounded great. He's really left that behind these days. Anyways, thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Blackface Deluxe. Aspen Pitman of Groove Tubes also said his desert island amp was a Deluxe Reverb.

[@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.

[@stephenvogel9930]

Still have my 1965 Deluxe reverb give to me by my parents way back then from Sam Ash in NYC. Still is rocking

[@TheBlaggers-uv7vc]

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

[@AskZac]

Sweet!

[@colinwallace5286]

A sax-playing friend has a Deluxe Reverb he got new in ‘66 to use as a small room amp for his Fender Rhodes and a quickie PA. One tube changed, lived its life in a custom padded cover. He lets me and other drooling guitarists use it when we play together. It’s a revelation when you only know the 80’s peavey. Nothing against Peavey. My little backstage plus 1-10 punches way above its price and class, perfect for budget-limited teens, but that Fender is something else.

[@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!

[@jschwam1307]

I had the ‘68 deluxe reissue with a Celestion for a while and enjoyed it. Then I got the Tonemaster Blonde edition, and absolutely fell in love with it. Something about the Celestion Neo Creamback speaker makes all the difference in the world. The ability to attenuate it, well, that just takes it to the next level on my opinion. Now I’ve purchased the Twin Blonde with the same speakers in the back, and although it sounds different, it still sounds glorious! Great video!

[@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!!

[@Tonetwisters]

Recently put in a Celestion 90 watt Black Shadow in my '77 Deluxe Reverb. WOW! What a sound!

[@richnewman]

Prefer the Twin Reverb. I currently have the '68 reissue and I think it's the single best amp Fender has ever made, thanks to the Bassman channel.

[@cass2771]

Rich Newman Yes! I have a 68 CD-R, and head for the Custom (Bassman) channel each time. Really happy with this amp.

[@richardgullison9980]

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

[@Badhands55]

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

[@ocduff]

I found a minty ‘65 Deluxe NON-Reverb last summer with original tubes and cover. Has a lot more mids and honk than any DR I remember. The Vibrato channel is mellower, however, which is nice for a Les Paul. I may try a V30 in it - have had good luck with Celestion Blues to tame highs but oddly this one doesn’t have highs to tame. Original Oxford sounds just right. You were lucky to hear these amps so early on. I was at least 20 before I heard a vintage amp, and it was an early Ac30 that as you noted, kinda had me baffled why anyone raved about them. Always enjoy your videos. That is one clean DR.

[@AskZac]

The non verb version actually sounds a bit fatter, and has more headroom. They are different sounding anilmals. love them both. Thanks OC!!

[@fivewattworld]

What do you think of a Tonemaster as a back up for the your vintage BF? What's your opinion on those?

[@AskZac]

Keith, I have actually thought about selling the 67, and getting one. But have not had the chance to check one out. When this blows over, I am going to contact the Fender office here, and see if I can borrow one.

[@jensenbell]

Keith and Zac. I got a tonemaster for a client. He plays clean tones only. He's very happy about the light weight. But be aware, as soon as you introduce any dirt whether on the amp or with pedals, let's just say you'll notice that it's not the same, and depending on your ear and needs, might not feel it's worth trying to chase the fixes necessary to get that inspiring feel and grit. Now that might just be me and my clients, and I'd love to hear what you guys find. But listen for that? Wishing you health and safety.

[@soofitnsexy]

@@AskZac dont waste your time...not even close!!

[@joecrites]

This channel is so great. Thanks a bunch.

[@TravisPhillips22]

What’s a new amp that nails that DR sound? Have you tried out that new “Tone Master”? I own a 67 Bassman with a 2x12 and probably don’t need another fender... but I want one now lol!!

[@AskZac]

I want to try the Tonemaster. Fender is going to let me borrow one after this settles down.

[@TravisPhillips22]

@@AskZac awaiting the review!! I would love to hear that vs your #1!!!

[@beauruutz]

Thanks Zac, great video! I've got a Deluxe Reverb Head with a Fender 2x12 open back 'piggy back' cab with V30's and it sounds great. Just like Zac said, it tightens up the low end and give a nice mid push with smoother and less harsh highs. I definitely will try the bright cap bypass on my Deluxe too, never thought of doing that!