Description
A rare vintage 1954 Premier Model 88 tube amp. The 88 was Premier's flagship model, and carried a hefty price tag. Consequently, very few of these amps were manufactured, and original examples are extremely hard to come by. This model was an incredibly unique amplifier for its era. It was one of the first amplifiers ever to utilize a head/cabinet format, separating amp electronics from the speaker unit. Additionally, the amp featured a unique tone shaping circuit, with organ-style switches acting as band-pass filters when engaged.
This particular example is in great shape and original where it counts. Speakers, transformers, and cosmetics are intact and original. In servicing, all power supply filter, coupling, and oscillator capacitors have been replaced--as well as the addition of a modern, grounded power cord. There are some blemishes in the covering, and a couple welds on the metal grill have come undone.
Sound-wise the amp features a wonderful clean tone, augmented by a beautiful tremolo. When pushed into heavy overdrive, the tweeters can get a bit harsh, so we would recommend disconnecting the tweeters if you plan on regularly cranking up. Additionally, at higher tremolo intensities, a bit of DC thump can be heard. Quirks aside, this a fantastic-sounding and beautifly-constructed amplifier that would be at home in any high-end amp collection. It has been cleaned, serviced, and tested. It is fully functional and sounds amazing.
Overview
-Serial #: 853051
-Power Output: 25 Watts
-Tubes: 5U4, 6L6 (2), 12AU7 (3), 12AX7 (3), 6AU6
-Controls: Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass | Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass, Reverb, Speed, Intensity
-Dimensions: 28.5'' x 21'' x 11"
-Weight: 58 lbs
Cosmetics (see phtotos)
-original Tolex
-original grillcloth
-original handles (1 is coming apart)
-2 broken welds on grill
-includes orginal slip cover
Electronics
-original speakers: 15" Jensen P15P & 2 Jensen Tweeters
-original transformers
-most capacitors replaced
-replacement grounded power cord
