1981 Fender Bassman 70 (6L6GCx2)

[Standalone]

I haven't had a tube bass amp since selling off my little SB12 a few years back.

I picked up this rig today, complete with amp cover, grounded plug, nice JJ power tubes from its original owner who purchased new in 1981.

I even got to demo it, all warmed up and ready, with his G&L Tribute. The amp seemed pretty loud when I demoed it, the cab seemed to be the limiting factor. Tonight I tried it with my 4 ohm Carvin 18" and my Bag End Stack.

Most of the posts I read seemed to indicate that it was too weak for big gigs and I kind of agree after trying it with my Carvin. Sounds great, it's going to hang out in the studio mostly for guitar.

 

[Standalone]

Just played it with my main bass, the 850. I think the Bassman just didn't like the active pickups of my 885. This is more like it. It really opens up and gets loud while still staying mostly clean. The dirt is there when wide open. I'll post again when I bring up my Bag Ends and run those. If I had a blues gig tomorrow, this would get the call.

 

[TinIndian]

I've been thinking about those Bassman 70's or 135's. I have a number of gig's where a lower power tube amp would be just the thing.

Nice score! Congrats!

 

[Standalone]

I've been thinking about those Bassman 70's or 135's. I have a number of gig's where a lower power tube amp would be just the thing.

Nice score! Congrats!

Seems to me that's just the place for this amp. Love hearing the "Fender cleans" harmonic content as I play.

 

[G-Dog]

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I haven't had a tube bass amp since selling off my little SB12 a few years back.

I picked up this rig today, complete with amp cover, grounded plug, nice JJ power tubes from its original owner who purchased new in 1981.

I even got to demo it, all warmed up and ready, with his G&L Tribute. The amp seemed pretty loud when I demoed it, the cab seemed to be the limiting factor. Tonight I tried it with my 4 ohm Carvin 18" and my Bag End Stack.

Most of the posts I read seemed to indicate that it was too weak for big gigs and I kind of agree after trying it with my Carvin. Sounds great, it's going to hang out in the studio mostly for guitar.

That's a beauty, @Standalone. Please go to the Fender Bassman Club and show it off. We have a deep appreciation for such vintage gear there.
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