Supro 1696TN (1961)

1961 Supro 1696TN 1x15 combo just into the shop!

This early '61 Supro 1696TN represents an evolution of sorts of the Coronado model that was famously associated with Jimmy Page. With a similar tube-rectified power section putting out approximately 25 watts via cathode-biased 6L6/5881 tubes, this twin channel amp was about as full-featured as you'd find from Supro in the early part of the decade. The major difference between this amp and the Coronado is the speaker configuration, with the 1696TN using a single 15" speaker as opposed to the twin 10" speakers found in the Coronado.

Designed with guitar and accordion in mind, both channels utilize a fairly simple Volume-Tone control setup with separate voicing toggle switches used to manipulate EQ and input gain, respectively. The beautiful tremolo circuit features Speed and Intensity controls and is also footswitchable.

Though rated for about 25 watts on paper, the cathode-biased power section yields a more harmonically rich and chewier response as opposed to a tighter, cleaner output found in push-pull fixed bias circuits that would come later on in the 1960s. Still, the 1696TN has impressive low/medium volume headroom with plenty of control to dial your tone to taste. Once you get the volume turned up, however, the true character of these early Supros comes out. Barking and rich tube overdrive with excellent dynamic response and particularly satisfying midrange grind works wonders in the world of Alt Country, Roots/Americana, Blues, and Folk Rock. It's even got enough grit and gain to work well in heavier applications (think Queens of the Stone Age) with. the right guitar.

Stan Day has gone through this survivor with grace and patience, cleaning up a rust-riddled chassis enough to make sure all of the mechanical connections were safe and tidy. He installed a 1965 CTS 15" alnico speaker in place of an absolutely torched Jensen P15P, which works and sounds great! A couple of fresh preamp tubes and an intensity potentiometer got the amp running as it should.

We love the sound of these old Chicago-made tube amps, and we think you will too!

**Please Note: All vintage amplifiers - regardless of service history - contain electronic components that will eventually require replacement or repair. This is often unpredictable and should be expected as a vintage amplifier owner. We are not responsible for additional service upon receipt. We also do not guarantee tube life.**