Martin Model 112 Tube Amplifier, made by DeArmond (1960)

 Martin Model 112 Tube Amplifier, made by DeArmond (1960)
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Item # 9703
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Martin Model 112 Model Tube Amplifier, made by DeArmond (1960), made in Toledo, Ohio, serial # ML-9185, black tolex covering finish.
 
Height is 16 in. (40.6 cm.), 20 in. (50.8 cm.) width, and 9 3/4 in. (24.8 cm.) deep.

This very rare and spectacular-sounding Martin-branded amp was actually made by DeArmond/Rowe industries, famous for the DeArmond pickups that electrified thousands of guitars in the 1950s and '60s, as well as one of the earliest lines of effects. All DeArmond amps are comparatively rare and have become a tone connoisseur's choice over the last decade, some of the most sought after "non-Fender" amps of the period.

The Martin 112 is equivalent to the DeArmond R15, the larger sibling of the popular R5 and R5T. It was a worthy competitor to the most popular amp in the 15 Watt weight-class, the Fender Deluxe. The amp sports a tube complement of two 12AX7 preamp tubes, two 6V6 power tubes and one 5Y3 rectifier. The original Jensen P12R speaker is long gone, and has been replaced by one of our favorite Jensen Alnico reproductions; the Weber 12A125. The power transformer is coded 549942 (42nd week of 1959) and the output transformer is coded 549941 (41st week of 1959), both made by Midwest Coil & Transformer, indicating assembly sometime in late-1959 or early-1960.

The control panel features four inputs into two channels with independent volume controls and a tone control. This amp shows noticeable wear outside but is internally excellent, fully serviced with a cap job and cleaning of all sockets, pots, and jacks, and the addition of a three-prong grounded cord. Externally it is nicely original with some medium wear to the black tolex including what look like a couple cigarette burns. The "Martin 112" logo is missing from the grille cloth and there is some notable corrosion to the faceplate and metal knob inserts. The handle has been replaced and the jewel-light is the Fender-style lens.

This DeArmond has a truly wonderful sound that goes from a sparkle to subtle snarl to screaming overdrive with just a turn of the volume knob. The sound is somewhat mid-scooped compared to other amps from this era, reminiscent of later 60's blackpanel amps and the low-end is big and full for an amp this size. Both this Martin version and its DeArmond sister are much desired amps now, a perfect combination or portability and superb tone, with a sweetly overdriven crunch when desired. Overall Very Good + Condition.