THE PHILLY 20 & Philly 20+

When I started repairing amps in Philadelphia the majority of the amps that came into my shop were of the 60’s cAliForNiaN variety (fender black/silver panel). I learned through repairing these amps, and subsequently, they became my standard from which to judge every other amp.

But I had my complaints ---- I wanted these amps to distort earlier or with less hesitation. But more gain comes with drawbacks, and can throw off the whole “recipe”. Where to turn things down, or crank things up in respect to gain, or how much bass to cut/pass – it takes a lot of trial and error.

I have been designing, prototyping, building, selling, and subsequently rebuilding some version of this amp circuit since 2013. I’ve added tubes, channels, switches, and controls, and have taken many out. I’ve tweaked almost every value from the original circuits and have made some drastic changes. The result?

A revoiced, harmonically-rich version of the amp series I cut my teeth on.

This simple, yet versatile amplifier features:

·       F&T / Sprague electrolytic & SOZO / Mallory coupling capacitors

·       Mercury Magnetics transformers (Made in the USA)

·       A variable mids/gain boost (HARMONICS control)

·       terminal-strip (closest to actual point-to-point wiring possible) construction

·       cathode-biased power tubes for both easier replacement & less reluctance to overdrive

·       “more than necessary” power ratings on all resistors

·       optional all-tube spring reverb (+$150)

·       footswitchable boost (or reverb)

·       Studio Slips padded cover & footswitch included

Pricing:

PHILLY 20 HEAD: $2,150

PHILLY 20+ HEAD: $2,200

PHILLY 20 COMBO (w/ Weber ceramic speaker): $2,350

PHILLY 20+ COMBO (w/ Weber ceramic speaker): $2,400

HOW TO ORDER? Send an email to info@RootbeerAudio.com /// A 50% deposit (PayPal or Venmo) is required to start the build. The remaining 50% balance (+ shipping) is due upon completion. You can also check to see what's available on REVERB or at Dipinto Guitars.