Gibson GA-79 Multi-Purpose 1960 Tweed

This is a vintage 1960 Gibson GA-79 "Multi-Purpose" stereo amplifier. With the introduction of some of Gibson's stereo guitars like the ES-345 and ES-355, Gibson had the bright idea to make a stereo amplifier - and not just one with a stereo input - but employing two independent amplifiers in a single housing.

This particular one, with serial #160031, is from the first batch produced before it became the GA-79RVT with added reverb in 1961. It features 4 mono jacks, and 1 stereo jack, splitting the signal to one side or the other. Each side is powered by a pair of 6BQ5/EL84 tubes and share a super elegant and deep tremolo. These amps were also marketed for stereophonic home listening and included a set of phono input jacks.

Its speakers are non original, but a power and tone-appropriate pair of Jensen C10P from 1967. It has a couple replaced capacitors, including its updated filter caps, which keep the amp hum free and quiet. Its tubes are mostly vintage RCA and Westinghouse. Its lacquered tweed tolex has scuffs, scratches, and discolorations, and its badge is missing some letters, but overall it is in great shape for a 60 year old amp. It also sounds absolutely incredible!

Please feel free to ask any questions or call us for an in-hand description, or come give it a play in-store here in Peekskill, NY. We're just an hour north of Manhattan!