Fender Bassman 5F6-A 1960

The Fender Bassman was introduced in 1952 as a 26-watt tube amplifier with a single 15-inch speaker, designed specifically to power the then-new Precision Bass. It quickly proved popular not only with bassists, but also with guitarists for its warm, dynamic tone and natural compression. In 1954, the design was revised to the iconic 4x10-inch configuration, making the Bassman one of the most influential guitar amplifiers ever.

Its combination of wide frequency response, rich harmonic saturation, and responsive dynamics laid the foundation for countless amplifier designs, from Marshall to modern boutique gear. Early Bassman models, with their tweed-covered cabinets and simple but effective circuit designs, remain sought after by musicians and collectors to this day.

The narrow panel tweed 4x10" Bassman went through several circuit variations over its five years in production, starting with the model 5D6 in late 1954 and culminating in what many consider to be one of the greatest guitar amplifiers of all time, the model 5F6-A. This was the final iteration in the original tweed Bassman series and featured an added mid control and 4 inputs. It was this model’s circuit that was copied in London in 1962 by Jim Marshall and Ken Bran as the basis for the first Marshall guitar amplifiers.

This Fender Bassman has a tube chart with the serial number JL BM00146, which indicates a year of manufacture of 1960. With this year in mind, it is only natural that an amplifier that was used on the road would have accumulated some wear and tear, and the Bassman has several replaced parts. Starting with the exterior trim, as the amplifier has what is known as a re-tweed, and the logo and the handle and its holders were also replaced by new ones.

The transformers are also not original, and the capacitors, wiring of the speakers and the tubes have also been replaced. The back panels are thinner than the original models, and these have also been provided with a new tweed covering. Of the four Jensen speakers, two P10Rs date from 1955 and one from 1959, while the fourth speaker is difficult to date due to the wear.

Nevertheless, this Bassman is a powerful amplifier with an incredibly beautiful sound!

Comes with a cover and transformer.