WORKING CONDITION: Excellent - What was a great-sounding amp inherently is now a stellar and very rich and versatile Howard Alexander Dumble masterpiece. The reverb control does not function because the circuit was modified to the overdrive. Otherwise, each input and all of the controls are working properly, including the Tremolo, which the "Intensity" control has been relocated to the rear panel. The amp is very quiet and can go from legendary Dumble punchy 3-D clean to a little "hair" on it, all the way to absolute bonkers fuzz. One of the most versatile Fender amps we've ever heard. All very musical and inspiring. 

PHYSICAL CONDITION: Very Good - This vintage Vibrolux has been modified by the great Howard Dumble for his friend Dennis Herring. The exterior shows some signs of aging and a little wear and tear on the tolex but otherwise very clean. Note that the original "Dymo" labels that Howard put on the front of the amp were changed by the owner to more contemporary labels not so long ago. 

Cosmetically, there are a few minor scuffs and dings around the amp's chassis and a stencil of "D. Herring" on the top.

INVENTORY #54481

BRAND: Fender / Dumble

MODEL: Vibrolux Reverb 

FUNCTION: Tube Guitar Combo Amplifier 

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: This listing is for a 1978 Dumble Modified Fender Vibrolux Reverb 2x10" Tube Combo Amplifier originally owned by session guitarist turned producer Dennis Herring

The guitar amplifier before you is far more than a modified Fender Vibrolux; it has undergone a profound transformation at the hands of the illustrious amp wizard, Howard Alexander Dumble. To say that Dumble merely modified this amp would be a gross understatement. This masterpiece must be experienced firsthand to truly appreciate its essence. Those acquainted with the renowned Dumble sound have attested that this amplifier not only delivers the expected qualities found in his amps but surpasses them. When pushed to its limits, it unveils a previously unheard-of distortion/fuzz-like element, perhaps a product of Dumble's playful experimentation. Without a doubt, this amp elicits excitement!

One of the many captivating features is the ingenious six-way rotary switch. As you click through each position from left to right, from one to six, it progressively enriches every aspect—providing more bite, edge, presence, punch, girth, depth, 3-D space, overdrive, and touch sensitivity. Upon reaching positions five and six, it grants the lucky player the infinite sustain and captivating musical feedback they have been searching for all their life. Truly, the sensations it evokes must be experienced to be believed! (See the video at around the 2:45 mark and listen as they switch through six positions and watch as the player reacts to hitting that sustain at the five and six positions!)

While Dumble amps now command prices well beyond $200,000 and continue to climb, this particular amp offers what may be the last opportunity for an "economical" entry into Dumble's world. Its price remains well below the current trend, providing a chance to partake in his legacy before it's too late. 

The amp is available to demo for anyone who wants to visit our location in North Hollywood. Bring your guitar of choice or use the variety of ones we have on hand. Trades-ins are welcome, let us know what you have in mind. 

DUMBLE MODS:

  • The Vibrato Channel 2 Input is now a 6-position stepped rotary knob for gain/presence/frequency/touch-Sensitivity control
  • The Vibrato Channel Volume is now a push-pull Overdrive engage and Preamp Control. (Rotate knob for more or less distortion)
  • The Vibrato "Intensity" knob is now a Master Volume.
  • The Vibrato "Intensity" control has now been relocated to the back panel of the amp. 
  • Reverb control is disengaged in favor of the preamp/master volume circuit. 

SPECS:

  • Serial #A830351
  • Finish/Color: Black 
  • Weight: 52.05 lbs 
  • Watts: 40
  • Ohms: 4
  • Tube Config: Electro-Harmonix 5U4GBEH, 2x Winged "C" 6L6GC, General Electric 12AT7, Gold Aero 12AX7A, 3x ARS 12AX7A, 12AT7
  • Speaker Size: 10" 
  • Speaker Type: Celestion Vintage 10 G10 
  • Effects:  Vibrato Active/ Reverb Disabled

ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 

  • Original Fender 1978 stock speakers  
  • Footswitch 

UNPACKAGED WEIGHT: 64.25 lbs.

UNPACKAGED DIMENSIONS: 24.75" x 25" x 13"

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Listed9 months ago
ConditionVery Good (Used)
Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • Fender Vibrolux Reverb
Finish
  • Silverface
Year
  • 1978

Product safety information may be available here.

Techno Empire

Glendale, CA, United States
Sales:13,695
Joined Reverb:2014

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