Your cart

Your cart is empty

1962 Gibson Bell Stereo 30, GA78RV

Regular price £3,250.00
Unit price
per

1962 Gibson Bell Stereo 30, GA78RV

Regular price £3,250.00
Unit price
per
 

Ask a Question:

1962 Gibson Bell Stereo 30, GA78RV

Description

Some say, one of the best sounding amps of all time. The perfect partner for a vintage Gibson ES 345 but can also run at 30 watts mono.
This one is in amazing shape and serviced in 2021.

It is completely original apart from a newer reverb tank and has untouched electronics. It has original Jensen Speakers which have been re-coned,
It is in wonderful collector grade condition, rare with these ‘salt and pepper’ models as the finish is delicate. It has a small nick in one side of the grille and a little wear on the bottom edges  - otherwise in mint condition with an immaculate control plate with complete wording to the controls. It is likely that the Gibson logo is not original as the Bell Stereo logo was cream and had gold writing.

The GA79-RV, like its other slant front siblings, is a true stereo all tube amplifier manufactured in the early to mid-1960's by Gibson. Independent channel inputs and controls feed into separate output transformers and respective 10 inch speakers. Four EL84 power tubes yield about 15 watts per side, or 30 watts in mono mode. Reverb completes the package. 

This amp is clothed in different coverings, depending on the year of manufacture. The initial examples from 1960-1 were tweed (more of a linen tweed, not like Fender's more grainy covering) or a salt-and-pepper grey. Speakers started with Jensen P10Q's in 1960-1, then transitioned to C10Q's in late 1961. CTS alnico and ceramics were used from 1964-7 when the amps were discontinued. Interestingly, the amps retained their top-loaded chrome chassis and plywood construction throughout the series, even though other Gibson amps changed panel designs and construction during this period. 

Sound-wise, the GA79 has a great tubey clean tone, which offers plenty of grind as you crank it. The twin speaker design and four EL84 power tubes are somewhat reminiscent of the venerable Vox AC30, but with a Gibson take. The reverb on these amps sounds great. These amps represent incredible value in the vintage market - much rarer than your typical Fender of the era, and  every bit as good sounding in it's own way. A fantastic example.

Recently viewed

Why Buy from ATB Guitars?

ATB Guitars has been trading since the '90s and we've sold thousands of guitars to date. We pride ourselves on our in-depth descriptions, detailed photography, honesty and transparency. We also accept no questions returns within 14 days so you can buy with confidence! Read more about our history below...

ATB Guitars Cheltenham

Visit our Showroom

Two Floors and over 250 guitars in stock!