What is it?

Nestled chronologically between the lo-fi tweed originals and higher-headroom black-panel series was a short period of lesser-known brown-covered Fender amps spanning from '59 to '63.

Sonic attributes

These amps had unique sonic attributes distinct from any other period of the company's history with more bold headroom than tweeds yet less scooped midrange than later black-and-silver-panel series.

Why it matters

The brown amps achieved a thick overdrive and had a mid character unique to themselves, making them desirable for players seeking vintage tones.

Modern revival

Fender reissued its super-rare brown-panel 2x10 Vibroverb in the '90s, but this new '62 Deluxe uses 6G3 circuit with two 6V6 tubes pushing 20 watts through a single 12-inch Celestion driver.

Tone characteristics

The tube-biased tremolo circuit produces a subtle organic throbbing modulation that requires two well-matched power tubes for strongest effect.

Sound performance

The amp achieves a condensed sound reminiscent of classic US studio guitar tones from Steely Dan to The Jacksons with clear midrange and controlled highs.

Specs

Price: $1,699 | Origin: USA | Type: All-tube combo | Tubes: 2x 6V6, 3x 12AX7, 1x GZ34 | Output: 20W.

Build quality

Features period-correct Nubtex covering, wheat grille cloth, solid pine cabinet, and a minimal control set for this four-input two-channel circuit.

Tone benefits

The amp delivers rich midrange for blues and rock, with a vintage tube-biased tremolo that works well with classic pickups and adds clarity at higher gain levels.

Verdict

Fender's '62 Deluxe Amp is a tidy little gig-and-studio combo with the tone of a rarified era for players of all skill levels.

“A tidy little gig-and-studio combo with the tone of a rarified era. It will likely appeal just as much to players who have their technique and instruments dialled in as to less experienced students of the instrument. In either case, glorious sepia-coloured sound awaits.”