Another rare early 60s Epiphone amp has come into the shop, and this little 1x10 combo is arguably one of the best sleeper low wattage vintage tube combos you're going to find on the market.
This 1961 Epiphone EA-32T Challenger made its debut in 1961, sharing its DNA with Gibsons GA-18T Explorer amplifier. Built early enough in a transitional phase where it still features a 12AX7 preamp and 6V6 power section, it maintains much of what made the late 50s Gibson-made combos some of the most revered to date.
The Challenger was a very short-lived model for the Epiphone lineup in this iteration, seemingly phased out both in circuitry and design by the end of 1962 or early 1963. They seldom pop up on the market, generally due to their low production numbers relative to other amplifiers Gibson was cranking out during this period.
What makes this model so special is that it hits a bit of a sweet spot in terms of power, size, and functionality that makes it such a great option for both studio use and gigging. It delivers beautiful tube-driven tremolo along with classic tweed-like voicing that transitions into natural overdrive in a very dynamic and responsive way.
The amp was just recently serviced by Stan Day, who reconed the original Jensen P10R that had worn out from decades of use. Interestingly enough, the original Gibson-branded 12AX7 preamp tubes both remain. The original Mahogany wedge footswitch is also included, allowing for remote control over the tremolo.
If you're looking for an amp that can deliver Tweed tone at a great value, this Epiphone EA-32T is definitely up for the Challenge ;)
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