Fender Excelsior 13-Watt Tube Combo Amplifier – Modified, Original Speaker

This is the original Fender Excelsior, a 13-watt, all-tube combo guitar amplifier released in 2012 as part of Fender’s unique Pawn Shop Series. It retains its original 15-inch speaker and features several useful modifications that improve its tone-shaping flexibility and versatility.

Modifications & Upgrades

1. Tremolo Depth Control (R15 Mod)
Modified the R15 circuit to add a dedicated tremolo depth control using a 1M audio-taper potentiometer. This replaces the fixed stock setting with adjustable control over tremolo intensity. The knob is discreetly installed on the back of the amplifier; see photos.

2. Variable Bright/Dark Tone Control
Replaced the original two-position bright/dark slider switch with a 500k potentiometer. Instead of choosing between two fixed settings, you can now sweep continuously between brighter and darker tones for more precise tonal control. See Photo

3. Speaker Input Jack
Added an input jack to the speaker wiring for convenient speaker swaps or connection to a compatible external speaker cabinet. See Photo

4. JJ Power Tube Upgrade
Replaced the original Chinese-made power tubes with JJ tubes. The preamp tubes appear to be original. See Photo

Condition & Pickup/Shipping

From my personal collection. Kept in a smoke-free, pet-free home and never gigged.

Available for shipping or free local pickup in the greater Los Angeles / San Gabriel Valley area.

Please contact me with any questions before purchasing so we can coordinate shipping or local pickup.

Official Specifications & Features

• Power Output: 13 watts
• Tube Configuration: Two 6V6 power tubes and two 12AX7 preamp tubes
• Speaker: Single 15-inch Fender Special Design speaker (original)
• Inputs: Dedicated guitar, microphone, and accordion inputs
• Controls: Volume, tremolo speed/on-off, and tone controls
• Cabinet Dimensions: Approximately 21" H × 19.5" W × 9" D

Sound & Appearance

Tone: The Excelsior is known for its raw, swampy, midrange-focused character, with a vintage-inspired sound. At lower volume settings, it can deliver warm, clear tones; turn it up for thicker, more saturated tube-amp response.

Aesthetics: Part of Fender’s distinctive Pawn Shop Series, the Excelsior features a retro design inspired by vintage electronics, textured brown covering, an unusual “E” grille, and a crossed-swords badge.

A distinctive vintage-style Fender tube combo with practical modifications, an upgraded set of power tubes, and its original 15-inch speaker.