Description
A vintage Ampeg Model 835 Bassamp head conversion. Unfortunately, the original 1x15 combo cabinet is long gone, but the original owner built a cool, home-made head box to give the amp a second chance at life.
Ampeg's first foray into building bass amps, the 835 is the precursor to the iconic B-15N Portaflex. This example originally shipped with English EL37 power tubes. These tubes are out of production, and NOS examples are uber-expensive. Thankfully, the ubiquitous EL34 is pin-compatible and nearly identical, electrically. We've subbed in a new set of EL34s, though the origianl Brimar EL37s will be included with the amp. Additionally, the power supply has been recapped, and the amp has been fitted with a modern, grounded power cord for safety.
Sound-wise, the amp offers a big, all-tube bass tone for low volume playing. At 25-ish watts, it's not going to bring down the walls, but it will work well for recording with an efficient cabinet. In order to keep the bottom end tight, this circuit uses A LOT of negative feedback. While great for clean playing, the high level of NFB results in a very harsh overdrive tone. If you plan on cranking this amp for guitar use, the negative feedback should be reduced by a qualified tech.
All in all, this amp is a cool piece of history that will be great for low volume practice or recording. It has been cleaned and serviced. It is fully functional and sounds great.
Overview
-Serial #: 121P
-Power Output: approximately 25 watts
-Tubes: 5U4, OC3, EL34 (2), 6SN7, 6SL7 (2)
-Controls: Volume, Volume, Treble, Bass
-Dimensions: 17.5'' x 16'' x 8''
-Weight: 23 lbs
Cosmetics (see photos)
-replacement head cabinet
-replacement handle
Electronics
-original transformers
-several replaced resistors and caps
-substitute EL34 power tubes (original EL37 tubes included)
-replacement grounded power cord
