The changes of 1961 brought with it a larger cabinet housing a 15" speaker and a 6EU7 preamp replacing the 12AU7 preamp. Interestingly, the 5879 pentode preamp channel remains along with the 6V6/5Y3 power section. This particular variant of the Century is unique only to the Epiphone line - Gibson did not have an equivalent version of this, which is very uncommon. Another glimpse into the ever-changing amplifier lineup coming out of Kalamazoo throughout the decade!

With the larger cabinet and Jensen C15R speaker, the amp breathes similarly to the large box Fender Tremolux - full, lively, and open sounding with clear trebles. The tube-driven tremolo is beautiful sounding, with a nice lushness commonly associated with this type of tremolo circuitry. Both channels are quite complementary of each other, with the 6EU7 bringing forth more low end and low mid content, and the 5879 bringing a brighter, chimier tone.

The amp was just serviced by Stan Day, which included a recap and basic cleaning of mechanical connections. The original power transformer was replaced some years ago with a proper Mojotone equivalent, but the output transformer remains original. The often missing but now highly prized Mahogany wedge footswitch is included as well.

There aren't many amps from this period that offer the versatility, tone, and configuration at this price point, which continues to prove why Epiphone/Gibson amplifiers are some of the best value going in vintage amps.