Magnatone Super 59 MK II

Aptly described by its makers as “an American amp with a British accent,” the Super Fifty-Nine MK II has as much to do with classic English amplifiers as it does with the legendary “Mags” built in America during the ’50s and ’60s. Whatever its ancestry, however, this is one stunning combo. Aesthetically, the Super Fifty-Nine is quite dapper with its elegant Black Levant covering, made of 100-percent cotton book-binding material, and silver grille with white piping—while the illuminated lettering on the front panel (using nine incandescent bulbs) provides additional pizzazz. Inside this hand-wired beauty are topnotch components and a pair of TAD EL34s serving up 45 watts via a Class AB push/pull configuration. The overall workmanship is solid, tidy, and meticulous.

The Super Fifty-Nine MK II is a tremendous amplifier. It embodies some key characteristics of storied amps originating on both sides of the Big Pond, while at the same time bringing something fresh and exciting to the party. This new generation of Magnatones was developed with input from Billy Gibbons and other 6-string luminaries, and one was recently spotted nestled in Jeff Beck’s live rig.

Excellent condition. Lightly played, one small tear in the tolex.