Dumb Question, maybe.... (Versatone amps)

[R D Maynard]

I have a Versatone amp that belonged to Frank Marrocco, an accordionist who played on several Beach Boys records - "Pet Sounds" is one. I wonder, since Carol Kaye played a Versatone and was on many of the Beach Boys' records, if there's a connection? Maybe he was inspired to buy the amp based on her recommendation or vice-versa, or perhaps he bought it from her.

There is very little info to be found regarding these amps and I'm always looking for more.

 

[JimmyM]

I have no info to add, but accordion players often used bass amps back then. Not many people know that the B-15 was also released as the A-15. Exact same amp, but the A-15 was marketed to accordion players so they could have their very own accordion amp and not have to lower themselves to using a bass amp. I'll bet the accordion player turned Carol onto them, though. She was using a Fender amp on Pet Sounds. Plus she's not the most gear savvy person on earth. She knows what works for her but that's about it.

 

[MARICOPAA]

It is my understanding (and I may very well be wrong) that Ms. Kaye was approached by the man in charge of marketing the Versatone amp line and nudged in the direction of his bass amplifier. His name was Bob Hall. Could be she found Bob Hall or was connected with him after learning of the existence of the amp from the accordion player for the Beach Boys.