Fender AB165 Bassman “Black Panel” Tube Amp head AB165 Mid-1960s

Fender AB165 Bassman “Black Panel” Tube Amp head AB165 Mid-1960s

Excellent Condition

$1,499.00

Fender AB165 Bassman “Black Panel” Tube Amp head “Just serviced in July ’26!

Circuit Designation: AB165

Date of manufacture: 1966

Origin: Fullerton, CA. USA

Wattage: 50 watts

Operational Condition: Fully-Functioning

Mods/Repairs: Amp was serviced professionally by a technician here in Chicago. A three prong grounded cable has been added. Some recapping, internal bias adjustment added and an easily reversible mod has been added to make the amp break up slightly earlier than usual and improve overall tone. This 60 year old amp is ready to go for another 60 years.

Cosmetic Condition: Very Good condition with that great “browning” of the original grill cloth, and some light dings/scratches in some spots. Overall condition will delight the player and collector alike. 8.5 out of 10 condition

Description: The Bassman is generally regarded as among the greatest guitar amps ever made and the “Black Panel” Bassman head is definitely deserving of that same praise. The 50 watts from the dual 6L6 tubes makes this a sort of “Goldilocks” power rating that you’ll find works onstage as well as in the studio and the rehearsal room. It does the unbeatable Fender clean sparkle when you want, or lean into it with a hotter output guitar or a boost pedal and you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic overdriven tone that is punchy and thick but remains articulate and clear. This particular example is healthy and in very good shape and will inspire you every time you plug in.