Looking for an amp that takes you back to the late-’60s silver panel style? Then check out the Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb. This amp combines the best of vintage and modern features, giving you a great sounding and visually appealing amp.Table of Contents
Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb Manual
Pros & Cons of Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb
Buyer’s Guide
The common amplifier formats
When you’re looking for your next amplifier, the first thing you need to decide is what format you want. The three most common formats are combo amps, head and cabinet setups, and modeling amps. Combo amps are all-in-one units that include both the amplifier and speaker in one chassis.
Head and cabinet setups consist of two pieces – a head unit that contains the amplifier, and a separate speaker cabinet. Modeling amps recreate the sound of classic tube amplifiers by using computerized processing.
The amplifier types
Once you’ve decided on the format, you need to choose the right type of amplifier for your needs. The four most common types of amplifiers are solid state, tube, hybrid, and modeling. Solid-state amplifiers use semiconductor devices called transistors to electronically amplify the signal. Tube amplifiers use vacuum tubes to amplify the signal. Unlike typical amplifiers that rely on either transistors or tubes, hybrid amplifiers use a combination of both. And modeling amplifiers use digital processing to model the sound of classic tube amplifiers. [1]
Tube amplifiers
A tube amplifier is essential for anyone aspiring to create classic sound. Tube amplifiers have been used by some of the most legendary guitarists in history, and they are known for their warm, rich sound. They are also known for being somewhat finicky, and they require more maintenance than other types of amplifiers. But if you’re willing to put in the extra work, a tube amplifier will give you the classic sound that you’re looking for.
There are two main types of tube amplifiers – preamp tubes and power tubes. Preamp tubes are responsible for amplifying the signal before it reaches the power stage. Power tubes are responsible for amplifying the signal after it passes through the preamp stage. Most tube amplifiers use a combination of both preamp and power tubes.
The number of tubes in an amplifier is referred to as the “tube count.” The most common tube counts are 2, 4, and 6. The higher the tube count, the more power the amplifier will have. However, more powerful amplifiers also tend to be more expensive.
If you’re looking for a classic sound, then you need a tube amplifier. But if you’re looking for something more versatile, then you might want to consider a modeling amplifier.
Solid State
Solid state amplifiers are the most popular type of amplifier on the market. They are known for being rugged and reliable, and they require very little maintenance. Solid state amplifiers are also much cheaper than tube amplifiers, making them a good option for budget-minded guitarists.
Solid state amplifiers use transistors to amplify the signal. Transistors are more efficient than tubes, and they don’t require as much power to operate. However, some guitarists feel that solid state amplifiers lack the warm, “ organic” sound of tube amplifiers.
Hybrid amplifiers
Hybrid amplifiers are a relatively new type of amplifier, and they offer the best of both worlds – the warm sound of a tube amplifier and the reliability of a solid state amplifier.
The most common type of hybrid amplifier is the tube preamp/solid state power amp combo. These amplifiers use a tube preamp stage to add warmth and character to the sound, and a solid state power amp stage to deliver clean, reliable power.
If you’re looking for an amplifier that delivers classic sound without the hassle of maintenance, then a hybrid amplifier is a good option for you.
Modeler/Profiler
Modeler/profiler amplifiers are the newest type of amplifier on the market. These amplifiers use digital processing to model the sound of classic tube amplifiers.
Modeler/profiler amplifiers offer a wide range of sounds, and they are much easier to use than traditional tube amplifiers. Most modeler/profiler amplifiers come with a wide range of built-in presets, so you can get the sound you’re looking for without having to fiddle with the controls.
If you’re looking for an amplifier that is easy to use and offers a wide range of sounds, then a modeler/profiler amplifier is a good option for you.
Pedal (amp in a box)
Amp-in-a-box pedals are designed to give you the sound of a tube amplifier without the need for an actual amplifier. These pedals use a combination of digital processing and analog circuitry to reproduce the sound of classic tube amplifiers.
Amp-in-a-box pedals are very convenient, and they can be used with any type of amplifier. However, some guitarists feel that these pedals lack the warmth and character of a true tube amplifier.
If you’re looking for a convenient way to get the sound of a tube amplifier without actually owning one, then an amp-in-a-box pedal is a good option for you. [2]
Rackmount
Rackmount amplifiers are designed for use in a professional recording studio. These amplifiers offer the highest level of sound quality and flexibility, but they are also the most expensive type of amplifier on the market.
Rackmount amplifiers usually come in two parts – a preamp and a power amp. The preamp houses the electronic components responsible for amplifying the signal before it reaches the power amp. After the preamp stage, the power amp takes over to amplify the signal.
If you’re looking for the best possible sound quality, then a rackmount amplifier is a good option for you. However, if you’re on a budget, then you might want to consider a different type of amplifier.
Amp sims
Amp sims are software programs that allow you to model the sound of classic tube amplifiers. These programs are very convenient, and they offer a wide range of sounds.
Amp sims are a good option for guitarists who want the flexibility of a digital amplifier without sacrificing sound quality. However, some guitarists feel that amp sims lack the warmth and character of a true tube amplifier.
The amplifier sections
Now that we’ve gone over the different types of amplifiers, let’s take a closer look at the amplifier itself. An amplifier has two main sections – the preamp and the power amp. [4]
Preamp
The preamp is responsible for boosting the signal before it reaches the power amp. The preamp stage is where most of the amplification takes place.
Most amplifiers have gain control, which allows you to adjust the amount of signal that is being amplified. The gain control is usually located on the front panel of the amplifier.
In addition to the gain control, most preamps also have EQ controls. These controls allow you to boost or cut specific frequencies, which can help shape the sound of your guitar.
Some preamps also have a boost or drive circuits. These circuits add distortion to the signal, and they are usually activated by a switch on the front panel of the amplifier.
Poweramp
The power amp is responsible for amplifying the signal after it passes through the preamp stage. The power amp stage is where the sound is “colored” and where distortions are added.
Some power amps have a master volume control, which allows you to adjust the level of the signal that is being sent to the speakers. This control can be very helpful when you want to keep the volume down during a live performance.
In addition to the master volume control, most power amps also have a speaker impedance switch.
Most power amps also have a standby switch. This switch allows you to turn off the amplifier without unplugging it from the wall. This can be helpful if you’re not using the amplifier at the moment and you want to save energy.
All about tubes
The Custom Deluxe Reverb uses all-tube circuitry, which gives it a warm and organic sound. Tubes are electronic components that amplify the signal by passing it through a heated filament.
Tubes are often described as “warm” sounding because they add harmonic distortion to the signal. This distortion gives the sound of the amplifier a unique character that is different from solid-state amplifiers.
What happens if my bias is off?
Bias is a term that describes the amount of current that flows through the power tubes. Most amplifiers have a bias control, which allows you to adjust the amount of current that flows through the tubes.
If the bias is set too low, the tubes will not be able to amplify the signal properly and the sound will be distorted. If the bias is set too high, the tubes will overheat and eventually fail.
It’s important to note that changing the bias can have a drastic effect on the sound of your amplifier. If you’re not sure how to adjust the bias, it’s best to leave it at the factory setting or take it to a qualified technician.
Amp classes
Amplifiers are usually classified by their power output. The lower the power output, the more “touch sensitive” the amplifier will be. This means that the amplifier will respond to your picking dynamics and playing style.
The Custom Deluxe Reverb has an output of 22 watts, which is considered to be “medium” power. This allows the amplifier to function properly at high volumes.
If you’re looking for an amplifier that is more “touch sensitive”, you might want to consider a lower-powered model. If you’re looking for an amplifier that can handle higher volumes without breaking up, you might want to consider a higher-powered model.
Amplifier channels
The Custom Deluxe Reverb has two channels, which are switchable by a switch on the front panel of the amplifier.
Channel 1 is the “normal” channel and it offers a clean sound. Channel 2 is the “vibrato” channel and it offers a slightly distorted sound.
Both channels have their own volume controls, which allows you to adjust the output level of each channel independently.
The Custom Deluxe Reverb also features a “bright” switch, which can be engaged on either channel. This adds high-frequency content to the signal, which can help to cut through the mix when playing with other instruments.
The effects loop
The effects loop is a feature that allows you to connect your guitar amplifier to external effects devices. These devices can be things like delay pedals, reverb pedals, or modulation pedals.
The effects loop consists of two jacks: the “send” jack and the “return” jack. The send jack sends the signal from your amplifier to the effects device. The return jack brings the signal back into the amplifier.
Speakers and speaker cabs
The Custom Deluxe Reverb comes equipped with a single 12” speaker. This speaker is mounted in an enclosed cabinet, which helps to protect it from damage.
The speaker cab can be swapped out for another speaker cab, as long as it has the same size and type of speaker.
Speaker cabs come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The most common size is the “1×12”, which means that it has one 12” speaker. Speaker cabs can also have multiple speakers, such as the “2×12” or the “4×12”.
Wattage
The wattage of an amplifier is a measure of its power output. The higher the wattage, the louder the amplifier will be. Most amplifiers are rated by their “peak” power output. This is the maximum amount of power that the amplifier can produce for a short period of time.
The Custom Deluxe Reverb is rated at 22 watts peak power. This means that it can produce up to 22 watts of power for a short period of time. However, it’s important to note that the average power output will be much lower than this.
The Custom Deluxe Reverb has plenty of headroom to work with when playing at high volumes. If you’re looking for an amplifier that can handle even higher volumes, you might want to consider a higher-powered model. [5]
Speaker sizes
Speaker sizes can vary in amplifiers, and the size of the speaker usually depends on the wattage of the amplifier. For instance, a smaller amplifier might have a 4″ speaker, while a larger amplifier might have a 12″ speaker. Some amplifiers even have multiple speakers, such as a 2×12″ configuration. Generally speaking, the larger the speaker, the more wattage it can handle. This is because a larger speaker can move more air and create more volume.
Ohms
An amplifier’s ohm rating indicates how much resistance the amplifier will offer to an electric current. This is important because it helps you to match the right amplifier with the right speaker cabinet.
If the ohm rating of the amplifier is lower than the ohm rating of the speaker cabinet, then the amplifier will struggle to power the cabinet. This can cause damage to both the amplifier and the speaker cabinet.
It’s important to match the correct ohm rating for both your amplifier and your speaker cabinet. Fender recommends using an 8-ohm speaker cabinet with their 22-watt amplifiers, and a 16-ohm speaker cabinet with their 40-watt amplifiers.
Cabinet types
The type of speaker cabinet you use will have a big impact on the sound of your amplifier. The most common type of speaker cabinet is the “combo”, which is a cabinet that contains both the amplifier and the speaker.
Combo cabinets are ideal for players who prefer an uncomplicated setup. They’re lightweight and self-contained, so they can easily be transported.
The other type of speaker cabinet is the “head and cab” configuration. This is where the amplifier head is separate from the speaker cabinet. This allows you to mix and match different amplifiers and speaker cabinets to create your own unique sound.
Head and cab configurations are popular among professional players who have the resources to build their own dream rig.
Speaker configurations
The number of speakers in a speaker cabinet will have an impact on the sound of the amplifier. A single speaker configuration is the most common, and it’s what you’ll find in most combo amplifiers.
A single speaker configuration is great for players who want a simple setup. It’s also easy to transport, since everything is self-contained.
The other type of speaker configuration is the “multi-speaker” configuration. This is where the amplifier has multiple speakers, such as a 2×12″ or 4×12″ configuration. Multi-speaker setups are more common among those who want a louder, more robust sound from their amp.
Multi-speaker configurations are also popular among players who want to be able to mix and match different amplifier and speaker combinations. This allows you to create your unique sound.
Amplifiers for different instruments
The type of instrument you play will have an impact on the amplifier you need. For instance, a guitar player will need a different amplifier than a bass player.
Guitar players generally need an amplifier that has plenty of headroom to accommodate the wide range of frequencies that a guitar can produce. Bass players generally need an amplifier with more low-end power to reproduce the deep frequencies of a bass.
If you’re not sure what type of amplifier you need, it’s always best to consult with an expert. They can help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect amp for your needs.
FAQ
Are guitar amps mono or stereo?
Most guitar amps are mono, meaning they have one speaker. Some amps are stereo, meaning they have two speakers. Stereo amps are more expensive and less common than mono amps. [6]
How important is an amplifier?
An amplifier is important because it takes the signal from your instrument and makes it louder. Without an amplifier, your instrument would be very quiet.
Do amplifiers make a difference?
Amplifiers can make a big difference in the sound of your instrument. The right amplifier can make your sound bigger, fuller, and more powerful.
Are more expensive amps better?
More expensive amps are not necessarily better than less expensive amps. It’s important to choose an amplifier that fits your needs and budget.
What is a 1 channel amp?
A 1 channel amp is an amplifier with one channel. This means that it can only amplify one signal at a time. Most amps have two or more channels so they can amplify multiple signals at the same time.
How do you bridge an amp?
Bridging an amp means connecting two amplifiers together to create one bigger amplifier. This is usually done by connecting the positive terminal of one amp to the negative terminal of the other amp.
Related Video: Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb Amplifier Demo
Conclusion
All in all, the Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb is an excellent choice for players looking for a quality, vintage-sounding amplifier. It’s versatile enough to cover a wide range of genres and playing styles, and it’s built to last. If you’re looking for a classic Fender sound, this amp is definitely worth checking out. Thanks for reading our review of the Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb! We hope you found it helpful in your search for the perfect amplifier.
References:
- https://www.maximintegrated.com/en/design/technical-documents/tutorials/5/5590.html
- https://pedaltown.nl/en/10-fender-in-a-box-guitar-pedals
- https://www.pianodreamers.com/best-amp-simulators/
- https://higherhz.com/preamp-vs-power-amp-difference/
- https://www.crownaudio.com/how-much-amplifier-power
- https://musicianshq.com/are-guitar-amps-mono-or-stereo/