[Harp-L] Princeton Reverb Reissue

["John F. Potts" <hvyj@xxxxxxx>]

Paul,
	
	I've got one and i like it a lot. Supposedly, Big Walter Horton used  
one of these. It sounds much louder than its rated 15 watts. It has a  
deeper sound than a Blues Junior and is lower gain (which i consider  
to be a good thing).  I prefer a 10 inch speaker for harp, anyway.   
Among other things, i happen to believe 10s don't get as shrill as  
12s do when played at volume through hot tubes and I prefer the  
tonality of 10s.  To my ear they sound tighter,  have more punch and  
better texture and are more responsive for harmonica playing through  
a cupped mic. In my experience, 12s do NOT necessarily sound deeper  
or darker than 10s for harp. The Princeton has one 10.  I used to  
have an original Princeton Reverb and the re-issue is reasonably  
comparable.  The reverb is really rich--much deeper than a Blues  
Junior.  i was thrilled when Fender decided to reissue this amp and i  
immediately sold my Blues Junior to get one.
	
	The stock tubes sound slightly harsh (probably okay for guitar), so  
one of these days I'll probably replace them with JJs for a slightly  
smoother tone.  But, tube swaps are neither necessary nor recommended  
with this amp.  I plan to put a set of tilt back legs on it, too  
(Fender is now making a set of 14" tilt back legs which would be  
just  the right size). But the amp is good to go right out of the box  
and IMHO needs no modifications for playability with harmonica.  Btw,  
the amp comes with a very nice cover that is made from a canvas like  
fabric--not vinyl.

	It's a terrific little amp.  Very portable and easy to carry, but  
has a BIG sound. It also works very well with effects, if you're into  
that. I sort of wish it had a mid range control, though.  But i sold  
my Blues Junior (which does have a midrange control) in order to get  
it.  For larger gigs it would need to be mic'd, but for smaller rooms  
it's fine. i play into the 2d input to reduce feedback potential.   
It's not my only amp, but I recommend it highly. It's expensive, and  
different players' financial circumstances may vary, but I think  you  
get what you pay for.  Great amp for harmonica!

	Hope this helps.  if you have any more specific questions, let me know.
		
	JP