Rebuild for Re-issue Fender Tweed Bassmans

The Fender has been re-issuing the 5F8A 4X 10 Tweed Bassman for quite some time now and it's one of Fender better amps but it does not sound that much like a original Bassman. It is brighter and harsher sounding and the overdrive is not the same. The originals are warm, touch sensitive and smooth sounding clean with a throaty and musical overdrive. This is why they are so loved. There are number of reasons for this and fortunately it can be rebuilt to sound much smoother, and warmer like a 50's Bassman.

Here's are the major issues with the reissues:

1. Voltages: The reissues run the power tube are about 485VDC but an original would be 440 to 415 VDC. Higher voltages make the amp cleaner and harder sounding.

2. Filter Caps: Low quality filter caps (the big grey ones) make the amp sound bad when cranked.

3. Bias Adjustment: Some of the early re-issues do not have adjustable bias so the tubes cannot be correctly biased.

4. Tubes: The re-issue comes with 6L6GCs instead of 5881 making it brighter, cleaner and harder sounding. It also uses a 12AX7 where there should be a 12AY7. It makes the amp harder sounding.

6. Speaker Wiring: The speakers are wired like a modern amp rather than to play forward the way a real Bassman is. When wired forward the low end is more apparent.

7. Output Transformer: The re-issue output transformer is more like a Blackface or Sliverface Bassman transformer.

8. PCB board Constuction: Is less reliable, less serviceable and increases the parasitic capacitance on board making the sound duller and less lively.

But we can fix it!

Complete Rebuild: $1,475 plus return shipping

⦁   Amp hand-wired just like my custom amps and like my version of the 4X10 Bassman the CPC-40T.
⦁   All parts are upgraded with better caps, a new transformer set, and other quality parts to get an authentic Bassman sound
⦁   5881's are used in place of the 6L6GCs for a more vintage Bassman sound
⦁   Voltages are dropped to vintage correct levels
⦁   12AY7 is used in the first position
⦁   Speakers are wired to play forwards or instructions are given on how to rewire them

Options:

Cathode Bias mod: this will give the amp a warmer more compressed tone ala Tweed Deluxe and allow the power tubes to be switched without biasing. You would now be able to use 6V6s for 20W as well as any of the 6L6 types for 35W.
Lacquering of the cab. Fender basically colors the tweed and calls the lacquering done. We can add protection and enhance the looks by adding a few more coats of lacquer. Add $50

Get yours modded today and I guarantee you will be glad did! Contact me to arrange sending in your amp. We will fully test your tubes . The price may increase slightly if you need additional tubes. You can either send the whole combo or just the chassis. If you send just the chassis, I will instruct you on how to rearrange the speaker wires so the amp plays forward.

Use the contact form, email me at carlscustomamps@gmail.com or call 575-640-6833 to get started today!

Note: Please pack well when sending your amp in. If the packaging is not sufficient to meet FedEx’s insurance requirements will repack and charge you for the packing materials.

Customer Comments:

“Dear Carl,

I just wanted to let you know that the Bassman got to me safe and sound! Thank you so much for your time and excellent work and customer service.

The amp sounds just awesome out of the box! I was amazed at how much better the whole amp sounded, especially in the low end. The Bassman can now sonically handle, everything that I give it with volume and dynamic playing. Wow! You did such a great job Carl!!

I know the speakers have to break in, but man, it just sounds so strong and sweet. I can not thank you enough.

Sincerely,

John Thomas M.

Zythum Studios”

"Hi Carl!

We tested the amp! And it's sounding sooooo good and soooo nice!

Thank you! It was a great improvement!!! I'm really happy with that. Both the Bassman and Champ(customer purchased the Classic Tweed Champ)!!! Killer combo!!

My friend was amazed of how it sounded good!

Thanks!!"

Lucas