Ever wondered how to truly unlock the magic of your ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb? Whether you’re chasing vintage tones or aiming to tailor your sound, understanding this classic amp’s settings can make all the difference.
With so many options and unique features, dialing in your perfect sound can seem daunting. That’s why we’ve crafted this guide—to demystify the process and help you get the most out of your amp.
We’ll walk you through essential steps, offer practical tips, and share insights to help you find your signature tone with confidence.
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What Is the Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb?
The Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb is a modern reissue of one of Fender’s most beloved mid-sized tube amplifiers. Designed for players who crave classic American tone, this 22-watt combo amp combines vintage looks and iconic reverb and tremolo effects with player-friendly modern updates—earning it a loyal following among gigging musicians and studio guitarists alike.
Main Features in a Nutshell
- All-tube amplifier for authentic vintage sound
- 22 watts of power—great for clubs, small venues, and recording
- Single 12-inch Celestion G12V-70 speaker for rich, detailed audio
- Two channels: Vintage and Custom, each with unique tonal options
- Onboard spring reverb and tube-driven tremolo
- Handsome silver faceplate and classic Fender styling
Let’s break down what makes the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb special, how to get the most from it, and some tips if you’re considering adding one to your rig.
Why Choose the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb?
1. Classic Tone with Modern Enhancements
The ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb is inspired by Fender’s legendary late ‘60s “silverface” amps, cherished for their sparkling cleans and smooth overdrive. This reissue preserves the touch-sensitive response that made the original a favorite among pros, with a few valuable upgrades for today’s players.
Key Benefits:
- Authentic American Clean Sound: The punchy, glassy tone is perfect for blues, country, rock, surf, and indie styles.
- Pedal-Friendly Design: The “Custom” channel features a modified tone circuit, allowing effects pedals to shine.
- Moderate Power Level: 22 watts is enough for live gigs, yet quiet enough for home or studio use.
2. Two Distinctive Channels
Vintage Channel:
– Based closely on the original 1968 Deluxe Reverb circuit.
– Retains the mellow, clean headroom and brilliant response.
Custom Channel:
– Offers a “Bassman-style” tone stack for fuller mids and lows.
– Well-suited for overdrive pedals and modern effects.
– Larger input headroom to handle humbucker pickups.
Both channels share the luscious spring reverb and authentic tube tremolo, thanks to the innovative circuit design.
3. Portability and Size
Weighing in at around 42 lbs, the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb remains highly portable—ideal for musicians on the move. Its 1×12” speaker configuration keeps it compact, making it a strong choice for rehearsal spaces, home studios, and stage backlines alike.
How to Get the Best Out of Your ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb
Getting amazing sounds from this amp is straightforward. Here’s how to maximize its potential:
Step-by-Step Setup
- Choose the Right Channel:
- For classic, sparkly clean tones, plug into the Vintage channel.
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For fatter tones and better pedal integration, try the Custom channel.
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Set Your Controls:
- Start with all tone knobs (Treble, Bass, Middle) at noon (12 o’clock).
- Adjust Volume to taste; these amps break up and overdrive as the volume climbs.
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Dial in Reverb and Tremolo as needed. More reverb creates a surfy, spacious sound, while subtle tremolo adds vintage charm.
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Use Pedals Wisely:
- Overdrives, fuzzes, and delays work beautifully in front of both channels.
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The Custom channel offers enhanced clarity with pedals.
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Experiment with Guitar Types:
- Single-coil guitars (like Stratocasters and Telecasters) accentuate the amp’s chime.
- Humbuckers bring out warmth and fuller overdrive at lower volumes.
Practical Use Cases
- Live Performance: Powerful enough for club gigs, and can be mic’d for bigger venues.
- Recording: The balanced tone sits well in mixes, with inimitable vintage character.
- Home Practice: Low-wattage output means you can get tube breakup at manageable volumes.
Practical Tips, Advice, and Best Practices
Making the Most of Your Deluxe Reverb
- Let It Warm Up: Give the tubes at least 1-2 minutes to warm up before playing at full volume for best tone and amp life.
- Volume Sweet Spot: For classic breakup, edge the volume up to around 4-6—just as the amp starts to “cook.”
- Reverb in Moderation: The built-in spring reverb is lush. Use it sparingly in ensemble settings to avoid drowning your signal.
- Tremolo for Texture: The optical tremolo can add great movement without dominating your sound.
- Explore Both Channels: Don’t overlook the Custom Channel even if you’re a vintage enthusiast; it’s fantastic for modern pedals and aggressive tones.
Amp Placement and Speaker Considerations
- Elevation: Raise the amp off the floor on a chair or stand for better projection.
- Speaker Swap: Although the stock Celestion G12V-70 is versatile, some players swap for vintage-voiced Jensen or Eminence speakers for subtle tonal shifts.
- Input Sensitivity: Lower input from single-coils versus higher output from humbuckers affects the breakup and headroom. Match to taste.
Maintenance and Longevity
- Tubes: Replace power and preamp tubes every 1-2 years if gigging frequently.
- Reverb Tank: Handle with care—spring tanks are delicate.
- Footswitch: Use the supplied footswitch for hands-free control over tremolo and reverb on stage.
- Cover It: Use an amp cover to protect from dust and moisture.
Understanding Costs – Buying and Shipping Advice
Pricing Overview
- Expect new Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb amps to retail between $1,200 and $1,400 in North America.
- Used prices vary from $850 to $1,100, depending on condition and age.
- Occasional limited editions or custom shop versions may command higher prices.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Buy Used: Save a substantial amount by looking for a gently used amp.
- Bundle Offers: Some stores offer packages including cables, covers, or footswitches.
- Check Warranty: New amps come with Fender’s warranty, adding peace of mind.
Shipping Considerations
- Due to the amp’s weight (about 42 lbs), shipping can be pricey—especially internationally.
- If buying online, confirm packaging quality to protect the tubes and chassis during transit.
- Local Pickup: If feasible, pick up the amp in person to avoid shipping damage and check condition firsthand.
Benefits and Potential Challenges
Top Benefits
- Signature Fender Clean: Perfect for a range of genres and styles.
- Iconic Effects: Tube-driven reverb and tremolo rarely sound this good.
- Flexibility: Vintage and Custom channels cater to different guitars and pedalboards.
- Manageable Power: Easily cranked for beautiful natural overdrive at comfortable volumes.
Common Challenges
- Weight: At over 40 lbs, it’s portable, but not ultra-light.
- No Effects Loop: Some modern players miss this feature when using modulation or delay pedals.
- Single Speaker: Some might prefer larger amps with 2×12 or 4×10 setups for broader sound dispersion.
- Volume for Breakup: To get that saturated tube drive, you need to turn up—the amp can still get loud.
Quick Comparison: ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb vs. Other Fender Amps
| Amp Model | Power | Speaker | Features | Intended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb | 22W | 1×12″ | Dual channel, reverb, tremolo, modified EQ | All-purpose, pedal-friendly |
| Vintage Deluxe Reverb Reissue | 22W | 1×12″ | Single channel, bright cap, vintage EQ | Purist vintage tones |
| ’65 Princeton Reverb | 12W | 1×10″ | Reverb, tremolo | Smaller gigs, recording |
| ’68 Custom Vibrolux Reverb | 35W | 2×10″ | More power, slightly larger | Louder gigs, more headroom |
In Summary
The Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb is a modern classic—faithful to its vintage heritage but updated for the demands of today’s performing and recording guitarist. From its legendary clean response and onboard effects to its flexible tone circuit and pedal-friendly design, this amp is a workhorse and a joy to play. Whether you’re a blues aficionado, a rock guitarist, or a session player, it’s an investment that pays off every time you plug in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb loud enough for live gigs?
Absolutely! Its 22-watt output can easily fill small to medium venues on its own. For larger shows, it’s common to mic the amp and run it through the PA system for more volume and stage coverage.
2. How does the ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb differ from the ‘65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue?
The ’68 Custom model sports a modified Custom channel that’s more pedal-friendly and has a “Bassman-style” EQ, making it a bit warmer and punchier. It also has silverface-style visuals and a Celestion speaker rather than the Jensen in the ‘65 model.
3. What pedals work best with this amp?
Most overdrive, fuzz, delay, and modulation pedals sound fantastic, especially in the Custom channel. The amp does not have an effects loop, so time-based and modulation effects are typically placed before the amp.
4. Does the amp require regular maintenance?
Yes. Tubes should be checked and replaced as needed (every 1-2 years for regular use). Keep the reverb tank protected, store the amp covered when not in use, and periodically check for any rattles or loose screws.
5. Can I use this amp at home without disturbing neighbors?
While it’s not a whisper-quiet bedroom amp, it can be enjoyed at lower volumes with the same tonal quality, especially if you set the volume lower. For authentic tube breakup at manageable levels, consider a quality attenuator or an overdrive pedal for similar saturation.
The Fender ’68 Custom Deluxe Reverb stands as a testament to Fender’s legacy and ongoing innovation. With a great blend of vintage soul and modern practicality, it’s a superb choice for any gigging or recording guitarist wanting that classic American sound with flexible, player-focused features.