Guild 66-J Model Tube Amplifier (1963), made in Hoboken, NJ, serial # 2511, grey tolex finish.
During the mid-50s, when the amp market was still a relatively open field (though Fender was very much in the lead) Guild shot for the moon with the flagship of their 'Masteramp' series. Their 'Double Twin' featured high quality Jensen speakers and even switchable tweeters (taking cues from the hi-fi market, not unlike Gibson as well at the time). By the early '60s Fender had became the juggernaut of professional guitar amplification; most competing companies fell behind or focused on more affordable renditions of Leo's circuits of the era. Guild was no exception; amplifiers were only a small part of their business and even their best efforts are largely forgotten now.
This model 66-J was likely intended to compete with Fender's late 50s/early 60s Tremolux, sharing a very similar topology, overall format and features but listing at $165.00, just over half the cost! It features two channels, one labeled 'instruments' and the other 'guitar-accordion'. The accordion-friendly markings are something of a New York area quirk shared with Ampeg and Premier. Each channel has two inputs, the Instrument channel offering a 'bright' and 'normal' options. Each has an independent volume control, sharing treble and bass knobs as well as strength and speed for the tremolo which has a dedicated footswitch jack. The front panel also features an external speaker output, a somewhat unusual provision in 1963. The combination of inputs gives the 66-J an incredible level of versatility for both studio and gigging work.
Assembled in the Guild Guitar factory in Hoboken, New Jersey, this amp bears the serial number 2511, handwritten along with the model number on a chassis sticker with the Guild logo and guarantee of quality workmanship. Guild amps are often overlooked in the 21st Century but are very well built, high quality and often great sounding units still available at a fraction of the cost of their Fender equivalents.
Height is 17 1/2 in. (44.4 cm.), 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm.) width, and 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm.) in depth at deepest point.
Cosmetically, this amp is fabulously well preserved for its age. The fairly thin black covering is immaculate, even the corners and edges show minimal wear. The control panel is clean as well with only minor spot marks and all lettering remains clear, crisp, and clean. The metal front panel badge featuring the brand logo is unblemished and undinged, the grille cloth is taut and clean with no signs of tearing or fraying and the 50's mod-style handle is original without any cracks or fading. For an amplifier built nearly 75 years ago, its level of preservation is truly remarkable!
Electrically, this amp is wholly original. The dual 6V6 power tubes yield roughly 18-20W, driving an original 12" Jensen Concert C12R speaker bearing the code 220-337, dating the speaker to the 37th week of 1963. The Magnavox power and output transformers both appear to be original. The amp has otherwise received our typical maintenance and servicing, which includes replacement of all electrolytic capacitors, the installations of a custom-built adapter for the obsolete can capacitor, cleaning of all sockets, pots and jacks, a grounded 3-prong power cord and power tubes biased to spec.
This is a spectacular example of an obscure but wonderful amp, offering sweet, chimey cleans with a nice growl when pushed. Excellent Condition.
