FLASHBACK: 1964 Fender Princeton Reverb Blackface Amp

BACKGROUND

Made between 1947 and 1979, the “Woody” (as it was called for its uncovered wood cabinet) was originally a lower-line Fender amplifier with no controls and only 3-watts of power. In 1961, the amp received an overhaul of features and capabilities and became a much-coveted recording tool.

HOW IT WAS USED

Lawrence Katz (Mighty Mighty Bosstones guitarist) says, “There is something about the way it breaks up while retaining a chime. It never gets too mushy.” It is said that the Princeton is the MOST recorded amp. Adds Katz, “It’s got the grit of a Deluxe but the chime of a Twin.”

INTERESTING FEATURES

Its Tremolo and Reverb are much sought after. People say that having the reverb/tremolo circuit gives the amp a certain “special thing” whether engaged or not.

PROMINENT USERS

Ryan Adams loves it enough that it’s become a stage prop. And Mike Campbell from Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ sound was arguably designed from this amp.

MODERN EQUIVALENT

Fender has revived the line, so that tells you something about its popularity over the years.

LESSON LEARNED

Small amps pack a big punch.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Don Miggs is a singer/songwriter/producer and fronts the band miggs (Elm City/Capitol Records). His love affair with vintage instruments and gear only presents a problem when he’s awake. Find out more at miggsmusic.com, lalamansion.com, or his FM radio show, @miggsandswig.