What's the deal with red knob Fender amps???

[theavondon]

The Red Knob Dual Showman is basically the same as the Fender Reissue Model T.

So there's that.

I always try to snag one on the super cheap but haven't done so successfully yet.

From what I recall, they actually directly put the reissue circuit into the late 90s "Twin Amp" combo.

I got a London 185 for next to nothing a lil while ago, and I second Rfurtkamp's statement. It's stupid loud.

[hudpucker]

Some of the earlier tube models had very thin PCBs on which the traces sometimes lifted. Clearly, not a good thing. Add in the heat generated by PCB-mounted tube sockets and and it's not exactly a recipe for longevity/reliability.

Regarding the tube models...they are what they are - Fender's first attempt at mass producing tube amps using PCBs instead of hand-wiring. They...uh...got better at it over the years. That said, if you like how one sounds and it's been properly maintained (and the price is right) then go for it.

I agree that the SS models are better than the tube models (less heat = better longevity). The Pro 185 is a particularly underrated amp, IMO.

Signed,

Most definitely not a Bloooooze Lawyer.

[D.o.S.]

The Red Knob Dual Showman is basically the same as the Fender Reissue Model T.

So there's that.

I always try to snag one on the super cheap but haven't done so successfully yet.

From what I recall, they actually directly put the reissue circuit into the late 90s "Twin Amp" combo.

I got a London 185 for next to nothing a lil while ago, and I second Rfurtkamp's statement. It's stupid loud.

Oh shit son where you been hiding

[rfurtkamp]

Yea, the earliest problem amps should have died by now.

Just leave it on for a while, if it doesn't crackle or motorboat after a bit, you're probably AOK.