Fender '57 Custom Deluxe 1x12" 12-watt Tube Combo Amp

95
GEARANK

95 out of 100. Incorporating 150+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$2,400
Fender '57 Custom Deluxe 1x12" 12-watt Tube Combo Amp

Specifications

  • Power Rating: 12-Watts
  • Preamp Tube(s): 1 x 12AY7, 1 x 12AX7
  • Poweramp Tube(s): 2 x 6V6 Power tubes, 1 x 5Y3 Rectifier
  • Speaker: 1x12" 8 ohm Eminence Special design Alnico speaker
  • Cabinet: Open
  • Controls: 2 x Volume, 1 x Tone
  • Input(s): 2 x 1/4" (instrument), 2 x 1/4" (mic)
  • Output(s): 2 x 1/4" (including internal speaker)
  • Weight: 26 lbs.
On October 18 2021 we announced the results of our annual analysis of guitar amp brands - Fender ranked #9.

Overview

Countless digital multi effects have this specific amplifier in their line up but nothing can replace the original '57 Custom Deluxe in all its tweed glory.

This 1x12" amplifier is the stuff of legends being a modern recreation is made in the USA and still retains all the tone of the original.

While most amps have a clean tone that's just it: a clean tone; the '57 Custom Deluxe's tones range from pristine but touch-sensitive clean to smoky and gritty overdrive when cranked.

For Blues, Country, Bluegrass and other classic rock sounds, the only "competition" would be boutique amplifiers - which are usually variations on this amplifier anyway!

The cabinet is finished in classic "blonde tweed", completing the vintage look.

If you are one of those that wished you could travel back in time, snatch one of these for retail and come back to today, the '57 Custom Deluxe is your time capsule.

Hands On Reports

Website Source *Rating Value
Music Radar Nick Guppy 90/100
Audiofanzine iamqman 80/100
Audiofanzine Berzin 80/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Gearank Recommendation

The '57 Custom Deluxe appeared on our recommended list for Low Watt Combo Tube Amps from July 2021 until February 2022.

Although this was previously on our recommended list there are now more highly rated options available which you can see in our guides to The Best Small / Low Watt Tube Amps and The Best Tube Amps for Guitar.

About the Author

Raphael PulgarRaphael Pulgar

I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.