Is the Vibro-King custom class A?

[Milliken]

Is the Vibro-King custom a class A design?

I'm kinda looking for more clean headroom than a super but more character than a twin reverb. I really like the way the VK breaks up when you crank it up but I want the cleans of a twin available as well. I also like the built in 3 knob reverb feature to tame the typical fender washy single knob verb. I'm also considering building the "Allen Old Flame" which is a 40 watt super clone with 3 knob reverb dwell etc. Thanks for any help.

- Tom

[FFTT]

Nope A/B push pull adjustable fixed bias.

http://www.schematicheaven.com/fende...ing_manual.pdf

The output tubes (5881/6L6WGC) are arranged in a push-pull configuration that will produce sixty (60)
watts into two (2)Ω.
BIAS PROCEDURE: The bias, measured at pin 5 of V7 or V8 should be set to –46Vdc. However, the
Bias need not be measured to be accurately set. To set the Bias without removing the chassis, set the
Volume knob between 1-1/2 to 2. (The Bias control is located on the under side of the chassis, next to the
power cable.) Adjust the Bias so the amp produces the maximum Hiss. Strum a full chord and let ring.
Now, turn the Bias control back just to the point that the sound of the guitar loses warmth and sustain.
Then increase it slightly. This will ensure minimum crossover distortion and the best sound.

[Milliken]

Thanks for the link. So it is A/B. That's what I'm looking for. Still wondering how close it is to the AB763 circuits in sound. All the VK clips I can ever find on youtube etc. are much more of a gritty clean than I am used to hearing from a blackface twin reverb. Wonderful grit though. Just wondering if it is really a "one trick" pony that only does the gritty blues thing.

[FFTT]

I'm partial to the Black Face and early Silver Face Super Reverbs and Vibrolux Reverbs.

I think the guys who like the VK, like it because it does break up earlier
and it does have the full 3 knob reverb circuit.

It's also hand wired, so at least any good tech can tweak it and keep it going for'
you for many years to come.

It's just such a tough call with so many originals coming on the market every week.

[Milliken]

Originally Posted by FFTT

I think the guys who like the VK, like it because it does break up earlier.

That's kinda why I suspected it might be class A. It's a higher wattage but has less headroom. That's kind of weird or ironic when thinking about fender amp designs.

I'll never buy another pcb amp for professional use.....especially one made by Fender USA. I have a Bruno UG30 (Boutique AC30) and a Cowtipper 90 head (Boutique twin reverb) at my home project studio.

However, I was at a party last night and ripped the hell out of some guitar through a Fender Frontman 2x12. ($300 crap fender amp)

I think I am gonna go with the Allen Old Flame (super reverb clone). It also has some other cool features plus configuration options for head, 2x10, or 1x12 etc.

[FFTT]

Honestly for me, that's been my biggest beef with Fender,
that they created these great legacy circuits, but didn't think
to offer the same chassis in a head cab with switchable
output impedence.

I would also look at VVT Amps out of Waldorf Md.

They know their Fender circuits and build for working players.

If you don't care about Reverb or Tremelo and want headroom,
look at the Reeves Custom 50 and Custom 100

[Milliken]

Agreed. The fender classic sound keeps you coming back though or looking for clones. Hiwatt is another awesome beast and those look like nice clones. Those both look like great amp companies. Thanks for the recommendations. Check out Bruno's site and listen to some clips if you haven't already. He really does make some nice amps but they are a bit pricey. I'm really becoming an amp addict. I want them all.

[FFTT]

Category 5 is another builder you gotta check out.

Category 5 Amplification :: Custom Hand Made Boutique Amplifiers for Guitar

He has some very cool fine builds.

I'm aware the Brunos have some great offerings.