Fender 6G15 Tube Reverb Unit Effect (1961)

Fender  6G15 Tube Reverb Unit Effect (1961)
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Item # 12435
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Fender 6G15 Tube Model Reverb Unit Effect (1961), made in Fullerton, California, serial # R-0639, Brown Tolex finish.

This is a practically pristine, very early example of the classic Fender Reverb, the indispensable link in the surf guitar signal chain. This is Fender's first stand-alone effect unit, introduced in 1961. The circuit is somewhat different than the on-board reverb associated with later "black panel" amps (like the Twin Reverb) in that the effect is tighter (less pre-delay) and can be driven harder, producing interesting overdriven textures.

The unit features a simple layout with three controls; mix, dwell and tone. The "mix" controls the amount of the effect mixed with the dry signal, while the "dwell" controls the amount of signal sent to the tank. Higher dwell settings yield more effect strength, compression and, in a way, duration. Cranked, the control drives the tank and circuit into saturation and reverb overdrive can be heard, even under a clean guitar tone. The "tone" control controls the effect brightness, as expected. The unit also has a "mute" lever in the rear of the cabinet for locking down the tank. This unit was indispensable in the early 1960s and is still a go-to source for unique sounds today.
 
Height is 11 in. (27.9 cm.), 19 in. (48.3 cm.) width, and 7 1/2 in. (19 cm.) deep.

This Reverb unit is a very early model with brown Tolex and wheat/light grille cloth; the serial number is just over 500. The tube chart has no visible assembly stamp but the serial number dates to 1961. The brown Tolex is in practically pristine condition with hardly any notable wear; even the corners are unscathed! The faceplate is in good condition with all the stenciled lettering intact, although a few minor spots of corrosion and pitting. The only part that looks replaced is the handle, which appears to be a high-grade reproduction. The unit retains its original Fender-branded cover and what appears to be the original footswitch as well.

Electrically, the unit is nicely original. The tank is the original Accutronics-made part, numbered 6182. The power, output and reverb transformers read 68319A, 606-113 and 606-120, dating the latter two to the 13th and 20th week of 1961, respectively. The unit has otherwise received routine maintenance, including replacement of all electrolytic capacitors, a grounded 3-prong power cord and cleaning of all jack, sockets and pots.

This is a fantastic sounding unit that takes the classic fender reverb effect significantly beyond what's found on-board most amplifiers, a lovely piece in truly spectacular shape to boot! Excellent Condition.