Gibson GA-90 High Fidelity Model Tube Amplifier (1956), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, "Buffalo Grain" fabric finish.
The GA-90 was Gibson's top-of-the-line amplifier in 1956,listing at $325.00 in that year's catalog. Introduced in 1953, at the time it was the first amp in existence with such a lavish complement of speakers (six 8" -Fender's 4X10" Bassman having started the trend) and a major advance on previous Gibsons. This amp was intended for use with guitar, accordion, microphones and especially Gibson's new Electric Bass, which had a big dark sound and was notoriously hard on speaker cones! The tightly-engineered GA-90 offers the dark midrangey hi-fi sound Gibson favored, and has a slower breakup curve than most 50's amps.
When pushed, this amp snarls in a particularly authentic 1950's sounding way but does not slide into the screaming overdrive characteristic of many Fender or Chicago-made models-that was considered an undesirable inconvenience at the time! There are two discreet channels, each with volume, bass and treble controls; the mic/accordion channel offers a high/low gain option. Output is around 25 Watts. The preamp section is mounted above the speakers, with the power amp on the bottom-another Gibson innovation. A cool find in a period Gibson and a uniquely voiced vintage amp, especially suited to period or modern musical styles where tonal clarity is a concern.
Height is 21 in. (53.3 cm.), 25 1/4 in. (64.1 cm.) width, and 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm.) deep. A lovely and beautifully preserved amp; appears unaltered except for two recently replaced power tubes. Otherwise all original components including knobs, speakers, electronics and even the 2-prong cord. Covering has some small dings and a several small (1/2" or less) tears at the bottom corners and edges but not a lot of wear overall. A superb example! Overall Excellent Condition.
