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Explains the origin, legacy, and tonal qualities of the '57 Custom Deluxe amp.
Covers the Standby Switch, Fuse, Power Switch, and Power Jewel functions.
Explains the Tone, Instrument Volume, and Microphone Volume controls.
Describes the Instrument and Microphone input jacks and their characteristics.
Details the Power Cord, Rectifier Tube, and Preamp Tubes.
Explains the Internal Speaker Jack and Extension Speaker Jack usage and precautions.
The Fender '57 Custom Deluxe amplifier is a meticulously crafted, all-tube, hand-wired recreation of the classic 1950s 5E3 Deluxe design, renowned for its rich, touch-sensitive overdrive and harmonically complex clean tones. This medium-powered amp, delivering approximately 12 watts of clean output, is designed to be easily pushed into warm, compressed distortion, making it ideal for blues, western, and rockabilly styles, as well as a versatile platform for modern pedalboard enthusiasts. Its construction features premium components, including custom transformers, a cathode bias circuit, and reverse-engineered '50s vintage "Yellow" tone capacitors that contribute to its nuanced tonal magic. The finger-joined solid pine cabinet, finished with lacquered tweed covering, further enhances its authentic vintage appeal and sonic characteristics.
The amplifier's control panel is intuitively laid out for ease of use. The STANDBY SWITCH is a crucial feature for extending tube life. When powering on the amp, it's recommended to leave this switch in the STANDBY position for the first 60 seconds after turning on the POWER SWITCH to allow the tubes to warm up properly. Similarly, during short breaks in playing, setting the switch to STANDBY helps prolong tube life and avoids the warmup delay when resuming play. The POWER SWITCH itself controls the main power to the amplifier; both it and the STANDBY switch must be engaged for audible output. A glowing POWER JEWEL indicates when the amplifier is on.
Tonal shaping is managed by the TONE knob, which adjusts the amplifier's overall tonal characteristics, allowing users to dial in their preferred sound. The amplifier features separate volume controls for its two distinct input sections: INSTRUMENT VOLUME and MICROPHONE VOLUME. The INSTRUMENT VOLUME knob controls the level for both instrument inputs, while the MICROPHONE VOLUME knob adjusts the level for both microphone inputs.
The input section offers versatility for various instruments and playing styles. The INSTRUMENT INPUTS provide greater treble response compared to the microphone inputs. Input 2 within this section has a lower sensitivity (-6dB), which is beneficial for achieving cleaner response with high-output or pre-amplified instruments, and for producing a darker tone. When both instrument inputs are used simultaneously, their sensitivities are identical. The MICROPHONE INPUTS were historically used for both microphones and guitars in the 1950s, offering a distinctive alternative guitar tone. Similar to the instrument inputs, Input 2 of the microphone section also features lower sensitivity (-6dB) for cleaner response with high-output or pre-amplified instruments and for a darker tone. When both microphone inputs are used concurrently, their sensitivities are identical. This dual-input design allows for simultaneous use of guitars and microphones, or for experimenting with different tonal nuances by choosing between the instrument and microphone input characteristics.
Maintenance features include the FUSE, which provides essential electrical over-current protection. In the event of a blown fuse, it must be replaced with one of the exact type and rating specified on the fuse holder, and only when the power is disconnected. This ensures the safety and longevity of the amplifier's internal circuitry.
The rear panel of the amplifier provides access to critical connections and components. The POWER CORD connects to a grounded outlet, and it's imperative to match the voltage and frequency specifications noted on the amplifier information label, located inside the cabinet. The amplifier's tube complement includes a RECTIFIER TUBE (a single 5Y3), which converts AC voltage from the power transformer into DC voltage for the power and preamp tubes. This tube should only be replaced with an identical rectifier tube. The POWER TUBES consist of a dual pair of 6V6GC tubes, which drive the power section of the amplifier. These should be replaced with identical power tubes or those of comparable rating and quality.
The PREAMP TUBES drive the preamp section and include one high-gain 12AX7 and one 12AY7 tube, the latter providing an original-era lower-gain tone. These should also be replaced with identical preamp tubes or those of comparable rating and quality. For those seeking a more modern, higher-gain tone, a second 12AX7 tube can be substituted for the 12AY7.
Speaker connectivity is managed by the INTERNAL SPEAKER JACK and the EXTENSION SPEAKER JACK. The internal speaker connects to the INTERNAL SPEAKER JACK. An external 8-ohm speaker, rated at a minimum of 12 watts, can be used instead of the internal speaker by connecting it to this jack, which requires disconnecting the internal speaker. It is crucial that any single external speaker used with this jack is rated at 8 ohms; using a speaker with a different rating can damage the amplifier. The EXTENSION SPEAKER JACK is specifically for use with two external speakers, which must be rated at 16 ohms each (and a minimum of 12 watts each) to achieve an acceptable combined rating of 8 ohms. Using two external speakers with ratings other than 16 ohms each can damage the amplifier. It is important to note that the internal speaker and an external speaker should not be used simultaneously with either jack. An 8-ohm speaker must always be connected to the Internal Speaker Jack when the power is on to prevent damage to the amplifier.
Overall, the '57 Custom Deluxe is a faithful and robust amplifier designed for both authentic vintage tone and modern versatility, with user-friendly controls and clear maintenance guidelines to ensure its performance and longevity.
General| Wattage | 12 Watts |
|---|---|
| Power Tubes | 2 x 6V6 |
| Rectifier Tube | 1 x 5Y3 |
| Controls | Volume, Tone |
| Cabinet Material | Solid Pine |
| Covering | Lacquered Tweed |
| Type | Tube |
| Speaker | One 12" |
| Channels | One |
| Preamp Tubes | 12AX7 |
| Dimensions | 42.5 x 50.8 x 24.1 cm |
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