1964 Fender Bandmaster 40-Watt 2-Channel 2x12" Piggyback Guitar Amp

If you're searching for a vintage amplifier that delivers iconic Fender tone, look no further! Here’s your chance to own a 1964 Fender Bandmaster, a highly sought-after piece of music history. This classic amp is all original, fully functional, and comes with the renowned Altec 12" 417-8H Series II speakers.

Key Features:

• Model: 1964 Fender Bandmaster (AB763 Circuit)
• Condition: Excellent working condition / Very good cosmetic condition. Few marks on the tolex, but wasn't in a smoking environment.
• Speakers: Altec 417-8H Series II 12" speakers
• Power Supply: Recently upgraded to a 3-prong power cord for improved safety
• Lamps: All lamps tested and functioning properly. Lifetime MIJ / RCA power tubes

The Fender Bandmaster has long been revered for its powerful, pristine clean tone and its ability to deliver smooth overdrive when pushed. Originally designed as a professional, gigging amplifier in the early 60s, the Bandmaster has become a cornerstone of vintage Fender amplifiers. This 1964 model, with its AB763 circuit, is widely considered one of the most iconic amplifiers in Fender’s history.

The AB763 offers a slightly warmer and more natural overdrive with plenty of headroom, making it incredibly versatile for a range of genres, from blues and rock to surf and early jazz. It has become a favorite among guitarists who seek that quintessential Fender clean sound but with a little more room for pushing the amp into subtle, musical distortion.

The AB763 circuit, introduced in 1963, was the evolution of Fender’s earlier designs and is known for its sparkling, dynamic clean tones, smooth breakup at higher volumes, and well-balanced frequency response. It features a dual 6L6 power section, pushing around 40 watts of power, which makes it perfect for large venues or studio work, while still delivering that classic Fender chime and glassy reverb.

The Altec 417-8H Series II speakers are some of the most revered and sought-after speakers in the world of vintage guitar amplification. Known for their exceptional clarity, wide frequency response, and warm tonal character, these speakers offer a full-range sound that stands out even at high volumes. They are particularly favored for their ability to reproduce complex harmonics and dynamic range without harshness, which makes them ideal for the nuanced tones of the Bandmaster amp.

Artists who have used Altec speakers in their rigs include:

• Jimi Hendrix – Hendrix famously used Altec-loaded cabinets for much of his live sound, contributing to his raw, soulful tone.
• The Doors – Their larger-than-life sound benefited from the power and warmth of Altec speakers, which were often used onstage during their peak years.
• Neil Young – Known for his preference for vintage tone, Neil Young often incorporated Altec 417-8H speakers into his live rigs for their rich, warm sound.
• Randy Rhoads – The legendary Randy Rhoads, best known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, often used Altec speakers in his rigs to achieve the huge, dynamic sound heard on classic albums like Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. His use of Altec-loaded cabinets played a key role in shaping his powerful, cutting tone.

The Altec 417-8H speakers give this Bandmaster a smooth yet punchy response, with a perfect balance of low-end warmth, mids that sit beautifully in the mix, and sparkling high-end without harshness. This setup is perfect for players looking for that vintage vibe with a modern clarity that cuts through the mix.

A Little History of the Bandmaster:

The Fender Bandmaster was introduced in 1955 as a higher-power version of the Fender Deluxe. Initially aimed at larger venues and more demanding gigs, it quickly became a popular choice for professional guitarists, offering a combination of volume, clarity, and flexibility that made it ideal for rock ‘n’ roll, jazz, and beyond. Over the years, the Bandmaster went through several revisions, with the AB763 circuit emerging as one of the most desirable.

This 1964 model is part of the blackface era, which spanned from 1963 to 1967. The blackface amps are prized for their bright, crisp sound, which laid the foundation for many of the tones heard in classic rock and pop music of the era. The Bandmaster specifically gained a reputation for its ability to deliver both clean, shimmering tones and gritty overdrive when pushed, making it perfect for a wide range of musical styles.

Whether you're looking to add a legendary amp to your collection, take it on stage, or capture that timeless Fender tone in the studio, this amp will not disappoint.

Quick & fully-insured shipping as always. Personal delivery can also be discussed for this Amp.

Transport to Europe and the UK can be arranged