fender amps

By jumping the bass and normal channels on a black-panel Fender Bassman and applying some simple settings tweaks, you can achieve vintage-bass-tone bliss.

Learn how classic Fender amplifiers can be tweaked and retrofitted to give you smooth, vintage bass tones.

Those of you who have read my earlier columns know I am a diehard fan of the classic Fender tube amps, particularly the black- and silver-panel-era Fenders. They’re great tone platforms that can take you in many directions with various guitars and pedals, and they work just as well for harmonica, electric piano, and bass guitar due to their natural, straightforward tone. In this column, I’ll share my experiences and tips for running a bass through different Fender guitar amps.

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Rig Rundown: Deer Tick

The ragged rockers still love their Teles and Fender combos, but they've added a rare Gibson and ... a bouzouki!

Deer Tick was started by self-taught multi-instrumentalist John McCauley as a solo songwriting endeavor in 2004. The band’s instant, ear-perk appeal is McCauley’s wiry, craggy voice narrating personal hardship and loss. When you hear Deer Tick albums, the honesty that pours out of the speakers punches your gut and tears your heart.

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In our 13th year of the popular video series, we cataloged setups of a guitar god, Nashville session ace, audaciously charming Brit rockers, a slide master, and heavy-music-producing icon. Find out who topped this year's list!

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