Fender Champ 5D1 Tube Amplifier (1955)

Fender  Champ 5D1 Tube Amplifier (1955)
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Item # 10017
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Fender Champ 5D1 Model Tube Amplifier (1955), made in Fullerton, California, serial # 8699, tweed fabric covering finish.
 
Height is 10 7/8 in. (27.6 cm.), 12 in. (30.5 cm.) width, and 7 1/4 in. (18.4 cm.) in depth at deepest point.

The classic "home" amp in any configuration, the Fender Champ is as simple as it gets but still remains one of the all-time great amplifier designs. The 5D1 iteration is the last older style Champ with the original back-mounted control panel, equipped with just a single volume knob. While generally they are not as loud or over saturated as later '50's examples, the 5D1's are famous for being equally toneful at a lower level.

This example has a tube chart code of "ED" designating assembly in April, 1955. It has a medium amount of wear for its age mostly to the rather fragile earlier lightly lacquered tweed covering. This shows some scuffing and minor wear mostly to the corners, but overall retains an attractive patina. The faceplate has a couple minor dings but nearly all the stenciled graphics remain intact. The original handle is also in very good shape and has many years of use ahead.

Electrically, this little Champ is fully original. The speaker is the original Permaflux 6L-1A and dated to the 12th week of 1955 (395-512) and the original cone still sounds fantastic. Both the output and power transformers are original and marked 189 and 7787, respectively. It was wired by Lupe whose masking tape signature marker is still stuck to the chassis. The amp has had routine maintenance performed, including a new grounded 3-prong power cord, cleaning of all pots, sockets and jacks, replacement of all electrolytic caps and biased to spec.

This lovely little amp is fine sounding and very tasteful until cranked, then it snarls away. This is a nice example overall, with some use but no abuse or ill-fated alteration. Excellent - Condition.