We’re back with episode 148 of the Truth About Vintage Amps: Jason survives a month in Peru; the schematics of acupuncture; speaker break-in; and more!
Topics discussed:
:00 Jason goes to Peru, Skip gets the new Fretboard Journal
11:40 What’s on Skip’s Bench: A roasted Tweed Harvard
13:38 Spotted on eBay: Packard Bell teaching tool / working schematic
16:33 A 1952 Champion 600 with a 1952 Telecaster
19:14 Skip doesn’t hang out with Jack White
24:42: Our sponsors: Amplified Parts now has new MOD vintage amp kits; Grez Guitars; and Emerald City Guitars (check out the Showman they currently have for sale, pictured above!)
31:53 Barry & The Remains; what should I do with this Bell 2122C integrated mono tube amp? slow-cooker chicken breasts with salsa; Radio Shack Minimus 7 speakers
42:00 Congrats to listener Marcus, Master of Public Health from Harvard!
43:04 Non-polarized electrolytics
46:08 Alternatives to 6V6s
48:10 Acupuncture point charts vs tube amp schematics
51:21 Deciding on a good speaker; mir a poux
1:03:25 Modding a Harmony 420
1:08:18 DIY cooling fan tips Mouser part numbers: Mouser #490-CFM-4010-13-22, FAN AXIAL 40X10.6MM 12VDC; Mouser #576-01500322H, Fuse Holder ACS INLINE FUSE HOLDER; Mouser #709-APV8-12, Meanwell 8W, 12V, 0.67A power supply
1:11:32 What should I plug a Fender Bass VI into?
1:14:42 Getting a good tone out of a master volume Silverface Fenders? Hal’s Grub Steak BBQ sauce?
1:20:36 Pedal steel through JBL D130Fs, breaking-in speakers
1:27:06 Replacing the red module in a 1969 Standel solid state amp; vinegar, syrup and seltzer shooters
1:31:39 Movie recommendation: Steven Spielberg’s 1971 film ‘Duel’
Recorded May 30, 2025.
Want amp tech Skip Simmons’ advice on your DIY guitar amp projects? Join us by sending your voice memo or written questions to podcast@fretboardjournal.com! Include a photo, too.
Hosted by amp tech Skip Simmons and co-hosted/produced by Jason Verlinde of the Fretboard Journal.
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Photo: Emerald City Guitars
The post The Truth About Vintage Amps, Ep. 148 first appeared on Fretboard Journal.
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