Fender have announced a new line of Eric Clapton Signature Amplifiers. The new line currently features three tweed models: the EC Vibro-Champ, the EC Tremolux, and the EC Twinolux. All three models are hand-made in Fender’s Corona, CA manufacturing plant.
The EC Vibro-Champ model is based on the late ’50s model Champ and puts out 5 watts of power. It has an 8-inch speaker and 6V6 output tubes. Also included is a power attenuator so you can adjust the output power.
The EC Tremolux model is based on the late ’50s Deluxe amps and puts out about 12 watts of power. It has a 12-inch speaker and 6V6 output tubes. With the Tremolux model, you can disconnect the internal speakers and use an external speaker cabinet. Like the Vibro-Champ, the Tremolux model also features a power attenuator.
The EC Twinolux model is based the late ’50s Twin amps and puts out about 40 watts of power. It has two 12-inch speakers and 6L6 output tubes. Like the other two models, the Twinolux features a power attenuator; additionally, you can turn off one speaker to lower the output volume further.
This is a short video of Buddy Guy testing out the new Twinolux model:
The Twinolux would be my pick of these models. Fenders produce beautiful clean tones and the attenuator feature is cool for playing in various size venues. That said, the street price at $2999 isn’t cheap. The new Mesa Boogie RA-100 Royal Atlantic 2×12″ Guitar Combo with a power soak is reasonable by comparison. Unfortunately, I haven’t tested either amp.
I prefer front mounted knobs because they are easier to adjust on stage. The Twinolux’s controls are located in back like my practice amp, which is a Peavey Classic 30. Currently, for live performances, I play through a Mesa Express 5:50 mounted atop a Mesa extension cab – the perfect height for stage.
Hmm…I get great tone…so why do I constantly shop around? G.A.S is the correct answer of course.
Yeah, that’s a pretty steep price. I haven’t tried the RA-100 either, but I really like my TA-15, so I would expect the RA-100 would be just a more robust version of it. If you end up trying either one of the models that you mention, please let us know about it.
Interesting… the last I heard John Suhr ghost builds all EC’s guitars and amps I wonder if he’ll actually use these now?
From the video it sounds like it has good projection. I’ll have to try one of them out the next time I go to the music store.
Compared to the price i would say Tiny Terror with its 15 watts, would give a better payoff. Well good post btw.
Darmelan
Vintageandrare.com