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WEM | AMPLIFIERS | DOMINATOR BASS MKI

WEM Dominator Bass MK1

15w five tube bass amplifier

WEM Dominator Bass MK1

The WEM Dominator Bass MK1 bass amp was WEMs bass version of the Dominator MKIII tube amp, first available in 1972. Both were 15 watt amps, electronically identical, but the Bass had a 15" Celestion speaker (G15M, 55 Hz, 16 ohms), as used by Marshall and other British amp manufacturers.

The valves are 3 x 12AX7 preamp, and 2 x EL84 power tubes, perfect for an overdriven sound at low volumes. Despite the intended bass use, these may be more widely used as guitar amplifiers. All the same, it is a nice bass amp for a grittier retro bass sound. Check out the sound clips below.

The WEM Dominator bass had a July 1972 UK list price of £64.50 (with the Dominator mk. III at £52.50)

Bell guitar catalog, 1974/75 featuring the WEM Dominator

The Dominator bass Mark I, Dominator Mark III, and Power Musette Mark II as shown in the 1974 Bell catalog. All three models use the same basic circuitry but quite different speaker configurations. The Mark III, "capable of handling any instrument or mike" had a 12" speaker, whilst the Power Musette had a "special twin-cone speaker" and was designed for keyboard and accordion. All three amps were fitted in a 20" x 20" x 8" cabinet.

Although probably not powerful enough for gigging with louder bands, the WEM Dominator is a fine recording amp; famously durable, and easy to find in working order at a reasonable price.

WEM Dominator Bass MK1
WEM logo
WEM Dominator Bass MK1 back view
WEM Dominator Bass MK1 serial number

WEM Dominator Bass video clips

1973 Fender Musicmaster bass / 1973 WEM Dominator Bass MK 1 - Short Version (short version, 4m 31s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 1973 Fender Musicmaster bass, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

The WEM Dominator bass is a superb sounding British tube amp from Watkins.. it's got plenty of bass, and growls beautifully when volume gets past about half way. A wide tonal palette with plenty of useable sounds. Paired here with a 1973 Fender Musicmaster; a cool 30 1/2" scale bass, at the time inexpensive, but with the usual Fender build quality and a quick easy playing feel. This one is fitted with flats, but the WEM gives plenty of treble with the controls positioned accordingly. Watch the long version of this video in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area, to hear a bit more of this bass / amp under different settings.

Recorded here with a Heil PR-40 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

1963 Vox Bassmaster / 1973 WEM Dominator Bass mk1 (3m 59s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 1963 Vox Bassmaster, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

The WEM Dominator bass amp is a British 15w tube amp with a 15" Celestion G15M speaker. And it gets plenty dirty! Always my first choice for some snarly overdriven bass. The Vox Bassmaster is a cool little guitar, and as can be heard here quite capable of laying down some tones! It's very, very, playable, the Vox V1 pickups are pretty sweet, and the combination of short scale and thin neck make this one of the easiest playing basses ever made!

Recorded here with an Electrovoice RE-20 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

1973 Fender Musicmaster bass / 1973 WEM Dominator Bass MK 1 - vintage guitar demo, long version (long version, 9m 46s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 1973 Fender Musicmaster bass, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

Long version of this video with extra bass settings. This is a great bass/amp combination with a tone all of its own. Compare this video with the others on this site - ie with the bass DI'd and through an early 1960s Ampeg Portaflex B15.

Recorded here with a Heil PR-40 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

1969 Gibson Melody Maker Double / WEM Dominator bass MK1 (5m 16s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 1969 Gibson Melody Maker D, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

This is a wonderful late 1960s dual pickup Gibson Melody Maker D (pots date to December 1968 / January 1969). It's one of those guitars that you just can't put down! And it sounds great through this 15w WEM. The Dominator bass is technically a bass amp, but is basically the same as the guitar version, save for a bigger 15" speaker cone. Played first at a lower volume, and then ramped up for some lovely distorted valve tones.

Recorded here with an Electrovoice RE-20 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

Early 1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass / 1972 WEM Dominator Bass mk1 (short version, 3m 07s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 197X Shaftesbury 3263, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

This is a pretty cool looking bass, and one that plays pretty nicely too. Made by Eko for Rose Morris (UK Rickenbacker distributor) from the very late 1960s. Short scale, and (thanks to the Eko build and components) quite similar to the late 60s Italian Vox guitars. I normally use flatwound strings, but it's demo'd here with some gnarly old roundwounds. They needed changing, but I wanted to document the sound. Played through an early 1970s WEM Dominator bass mk1. Brilliant amp for fuzzy / gritty sounds. Check out the companion video through a 1964 Ampeg B15 to hear it a little (but not a lot) cleaner

There is a longer version of this video in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area here.

Recorded here with a Shure SM57 (left channel) and a Heil PR-40 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

Early 1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass / 1972 WEM Dominator Bass mk1 (long version, 8m 50s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 197X Shaftesbury 3263, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

This is a pretty cool looking bass, and one that plays pretty nicely too. Made by Eko for Rose Morris (UK Rickenbacker distributor) from the very late 1960s. Short scale, and (thanks to the Eko build and components) quite similar to the late 60s Italian Vox guitars. I normally use flatwound strings, but it's demo'd here with some gnarly old roundwounds. They needed changing, but I wanted to document the sound. Played through an early 1970s WEM Dominator bass mk1. Brilliant amp for fuzzy / gritty sounds. Check out the companion video through a 1964 Ampeg B15 to hear it a little (but not a lot) cleaner

Recorded here with a Heil PR-40 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

1966 Gibson EB-0 Bass / WEM Dominator Bass mk1 (5m 34s)

Find out more about these instruments here: 1966 Gibson EB-0, 1973 WEM Dominator Bass Mk 1

This is a really nice bass - a late 1965/early 1966 Gibson EB0 - single pickup, with that classic FAT Gibson bass tone. The WEM Dominator is harder to date - probably early to mid 1970s. All-valve, with superb clean tones, but super gainy when pushed. This is a really cool combination with a huge range of useable sounds. Watch the vid.. it goes from a relatively 'middy' honk when played at the bridge with a pick - to total mud when played at the neck with the tone down - and to extreme fuzz with the amp driven hard

This bass is fitted with Labella Deep Talkin' flatwound strings (short scale) set 760FL-S. Great great strings (although expensive!)

Recorded here with an Electrovoice RE-20 (left channel) and a Shure SM57 (right channel), through a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface - highly recommended gear!

1966 Hagstrom Coronado IV197X WEM Clubman MK 8

1966 Hagstrom Coronado IV / 197X WEM Clubman MK 8

Amp settings are: Channel 1, Volume 5, Treble 5, Bass, without the 'Bright' mode activated - unless otherwise specified. Recorded with a Shure SM57 microphone, into an M-audio mobile pre USB interface. The WEM Dominator Bass amplifier gets growly, even at lower volumes, particularly when played hard.

Bridge pickup

Tone selector on 'H' (switch 4). Fingerstyle.
Tone selector on 'L' (switch 3). Fingerstyle.
A more extreme amplifier setting; both treble and bass upped to 10/10. Guitar tone selector on 'H' (switch 4). Fingerstyle.

Neck pickup

Tone selector on 'L' (switch 3). Played fingerstyle.

Both pickups

Tone selector on 'H' (switch 4). Fingerstyle.
Still with the brighter tone setting; 'H' (switch 4), but played with a pick

1966 Gibson EB-0197X WEM Clubman MK 8

1966 Gibson EB-0 / 197X WEM Clubman MK 8

Recorded with a Shure SM57 microphone, into an M-audio mobile pre USB interface. Amp settings are: Channel 1, Volume 5, Treble 5, Bass 5, without the 'Bright' mode activated - unless otherwise specified. The WEM Dominator Bass amplifier is very responsive to playing style. At middle volumes it can go from clean to overdriven depending on how hard you play.

Volume 10/10, tone 10/10. Significant distortion, even with the amp at just 50% volume, especially, as here when played hard, with a pick.
Volume 10/10, tone 10/10. Fingerstyle, but still digging in for the overtones.
Amp in 'Bright' mode. Volume 10/10, tone 10/10. Played with a pick.

1961 Gibson EB3197X WEM Clubman MK 8

1961 Gibson EB3 / 197X WEM Clubman MK 8

Recorded with a Shure SM57 microphone, into an M-audio mobile pre USB interface.

Pos 1 - neck pickup only with tone choke

volume 10, tone 10. Amp: volume 5, bass 4, treble 5. Fingerstyle.

Pos 2 - bridge pickup only

volumes 10, tones 10. Amp: volume 5, bass 4, treble 5. Fingerstyle.

Pos 3 - both pickups in parallel

Volume 10, tone 10. Amp: volume 5, bass 4, treble 5. Fingerstyle.

Pos 4 - neck pickup only

Volume 10, tone 10. Clean amp: volume 3, bass 4, treble 5. Played fingerstyle.
Volume 10, tone 10. Amp: volume 5, bass 4, treble 5. Played fingerstyle.
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WEM Dominator amps for sale

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Wem Power Bass Amp. Control Er15

Wem Power Bass Amp. Control Er15

Huntsville, Alabama, 358**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$795

Wem Power Bass control er15 amp. Mid 60's mfg. In storage since 69. The amp is in excellent playing condition, the cabinet fair condition. It's still wired to European 220v and is played through a step up transformer here in the US. The transformer is included. All original except 1 replaced knob
... more
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80s WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO TUBE AMP - made in ENGLAND

80's WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO TUBE AMP - made in ENGLAND

Köln, 50***, GERMANY

€599

80's WEM Dominator 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England:
+ 25 watts
+ all tubes
+ NO SPEAKER INCLUDED (cut for a 15 ")
... more
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80s WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England

80's WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England

Köln, 50***, GERMANY

€599

80's WEM Dominator 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England:
+ 25 watts
+ all tubes
+ NO SPEAKER INCLUDED (cut for a 15 ")
... more
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extremely rare blue / cream 1961 mk2 watkins wem copycat

extremely rare blue / cream 1961 mk2 watkins wem copycat

Redcar, TS11***, UNITED KINGDOM

£466

Crafted to cater to the electric guitar aficionado, this extremely rare 1961 MK2 Watkins WEM copycat cabinet presents a distinctive blue and cream colour scheme that is sure to stand out. Its vintage aesthetics are matched by a robust build quality, making it a solid choice for musicians who value both style and substance The cabinet's origins can be traced back to the reputable WEM brand, known for their quality amplifiers, indicating that this piece is not just a collector's item but also a ... more
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Wem control ER 30 valve amp

Wem control ER 30 valve amp

Glasgow, G42***, UNITED KINGDOM

£415

1960's Wem controll ER 30 all valve amp - VERY rare- .it used !o have an external cable with jack out socket - they were made that way - I recently got it serviced and a jack out socket placed on the back of the amp- 30w all valve- will work fine with a 16w cab- fully functional and recently serviced at Studio electrionics Glasgow-
... more
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80s WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO TUBE AMP - made in ENGLAND

80's WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO TUBE AMP - made in ENGLAND

Köln, 50***, GERMANY

€599

80's WEM Dominator 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England:
+ 25 watts
+ all tubes
+ NO SPEAKER INCLUDED (cut for a 15 ")
... more
eBay logo
80s WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England

80's WEM DOMINATOR 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England

Köln, 50***, GERMANY

€599

80's WEM Dominator 25 MK II COMBO -- made in England:
+ 25 watts
+ all tubes
+ NO SPEAKER INCLUDED (cut for a 15 ")
... more
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WEM Westminster 15 Amplifier

WEM Westminster 15 Amplifier

South Shields, NE34***, UNITED KINGDOM

£363

This is a vintage WEM Westminster 15 Amplifier from the 1970s
Very good condition for its age. Has been in storage for approx 15 years but was serviced just before then.
These amps are still being used by top bands for gigs and recordings, real vintage valve sound!
(The WEM logo badge needs securing on properly, I??m not good at stuff like that )
Pick up only. NE England.... more
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WEM Dominator 25 Valve Amp head

WEM Dominator 25 Valve Amp head

Middlesbrough, TS7***, UNITED KINGDOM

£209

1978 Wem Dominator 25 converted to head from combo for reduced weight and increased portability. Head weighs about 12 1 / 2 kilos. 2 x el84 power amp 3 x 12ax7 preamp, gives classic British tone at it's best when combined with G25m (greenback). Normal channel and Bright channels so with an AB / Y box you can go switch between them. Reliable and fuss free.... more
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Vintage Watkins Westminster Tremolo Valve Amplifier

Vintage Watkins Westminster Tremolo Valve Amplifier

Farnborough, GU14***, UNITED KINGDOM

£750

Rare Watkins amplifier in good working order. Has evidently had some work done previously, unsure when or if serviced. Used. Some marks, fair condition for its age. See all photos for overall condition. With foot switch. Mains lead will need plug fitting. With cover. Collection preferable.
... more
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WEM PA 40 Amplifier & 2 Speakers WITH 2X10 IN EACH CAB

WEM PA 40 Amplifier & 2 Speakers WITH 2X10 IN EACH CAB

Carlisle, CA10***, UNITED KINGDOM

£461

This WEM PA 40 amplifier and speaker set is the perfect addition to any musician's collection. With two speakers and two channels, it's suitable for a range of Vocals , guitars including acoustic, acoustic electric, and electric. The head amplifier type provides a versatile and powerful sound, while the WEM product line ensures high quality and reliability. Ideal for small to medium-sized gigs, this amplifier and speaker set is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast. Whether you're a beginner or ... more
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WEM Watkins Westminster Amplifier

WEM Watkins Westminster Amplifier

Farnborough, GU14***, UNITED KINGDOM

£150

Working order on inputs & controls. Fine output. Used, some marks, controls may need a bit of a clean & lamps holder loose. Bag has tear in side. Please see all photos for overall condition
Big & heavy, collection preferable but can post if necessary.
... more
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Vintage 1970s WEM Watkins Dominator Bass MK1 1x15 Valve Guitar Amplifier Combo

Vintage 1970s WEM Watkins Dominator Bass MK1 1x15 Valve Guitar Amplifier Combo

glasgow, West Dunbartonshire, G81***, UNITED KINGDOM

£105

Please see photos for condition
All appears to be working ok
The cloth in the front is sagging
Collection is by Pick up only
... more
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Wem Dominator Mk 2

Wem Dominator Mk 2

Stoke-on-Trent, ST10***, UNITED KINGDOM

£313

The Wem Dominator Mk 2 is a 15W guitar amplifier with a classic design featuring a single speaker and two channels, making it suitable for use with electric guitars. Manufactured in the United Kingdom, this amplifier utilizes vacuum tube technology to deliver that warm and vintage guitar sound. With the well-known WEM brand behind it, the Dominator Mk 2 is a reliable option for musicians looking for a quality amplifier for their electric guitar setup
This amplifier has had some woodworm that... more
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WEM Dominator Bass 25

WEM Dominator Bass 25

Fraserburgh, AB43***, UNITED KINGDOM

£261

From 1970s a magnificent wem dominator bass 25
Although its a bass model i have used it to gig and its not a bass amp it sounds like a normal dominator it just has a 15" speaker instead of 12"
Lovely sound, will get breakup at low volumes. These dominators were used by noel gallagher in oasis
Collection only or i could deliver to certain places between aberdeenshire and central belt due to my travels. Message me to find out.... more
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WEM ER40  Amplifier + 2 original speakers

WEM ER40 Amplifier + 2 original speakers

Carlisle, CA1***, UNITED KINGDOM

£313

WEM ER 40 PA system, including a keyboard, guitar and bass amplifier, and 2 original speakers. The amplifier is 2 channel, with 2 inputs per channel, treble boost, 40 Watt. The speakers are also 40 watt, 12 ohms with 12" drivers. Great, clear sound. Classic 70's rigg.... more
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Wem Dominator 45 AP Combo Amp

Wem Dominator 45 AP Combo Amp

London, E5***, UNITED KINGDOM

£491

This is a rare Combo amp by WEM, that can be used for guitar or bass, or other instruments. I have only used it with guitar. A telecaster or Strat sound awesome through it as does a Les Paul The 15 inch speaker gives your sound a clarity and body. This is a loud amp with big character. The 'bright' switch will give funky players shimmer and sparkle. Rock guitarists will love its grit and headroom that will find it's place in the mix even with loud drummer or bass This amp is in good used ... more
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WEM PA100 AMP  FAULTY

WEM PA100 AMP FAULTY

Honiton, EX14***, UNITED KINGDOM

£27

Powers up but has a hum on outputs when plugged in to a speaker, location Honiton (devon)... more
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4 Ohm ELAC UK  Alnico 2 x  loud Speaker 5W Selmer Watkins WEM guitar Valve amp

4 Ohm ELAC UK Alnico 2 x loud Speaker 5W Selmer Watkins WEM guitar Valve amp

Brancaster, Norfolk, PE31***, UNITED KINGDOM

£152

This pair of Celestion Alnico loud speakers is a greataddition to any guitarist's collection. With a basket / rim size of 205mm x 127mmand a maximum short term / peak power handling of 18 watt, these speakers aresuitable for a variety of guitars including cigar box guitars, lap and pedalsteel guitars, resonator guitars, acoustic electric guitars, bass guitars, electric guitars, and travel guitars. The speakers are compatible with brandssuch as Jensen, Celestion, Goodmans, and Elac, and are wired... more
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Vintage 1970s WEM Elac 2x10 w /  Tweeter PA Amplifier Cabinets EMPTY *Ex Graphite*

Vintage 1970s WEM Elac 2x10 w / Tweeter PA Amplifier Cabinets EMPTY *Ex Graphite*

Heanor, DE75***, UNITED KINGDOM

£395

Vintage 1970s WEM Elac 2x10 w / Tweeter PA Amplifier Cabinets EMPTY *Ex Graphite
I am so excited to offer this pair of cabinets for sale. These were originally owned by British Rustic-Folk band Graphite, who stencilled their band name to the rear, and then were sold on to a small studio where they'd been for many years, unused. They're what I believe to be one of only a handful of custom made PA cabinets. I've not seen another set of 2x10 PA columns, with the added Celestion T1360 tweeters.... more
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Find more WEM Dominator amps for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co

There are 2 comments on this article so far. Add your comment

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Tim Hicks Comment left 15th August 2014 18:06:40 reply
I have a WEM Dominator Bass Mark 1 and it is a great guitar amp. As a bass amp the Celestion G15M flaps a little with high output modern pickups but gives a nice vintage sound with my old Hofner Senator bass. As a guitar am it is quite amazing with a gorgeous break up from 50% volume. The speaker is a key part of the sound as it is in effect a 15" version of the Celestion Greenback. Its a shame Celestion dont still make them. The amp is a little more noisy than modern amps but I can live with that for the great sounds.
oldmanblues Comment left 29th September 2012 00:12:02 reply
This brings back some memories. Great dirty bass sound coming from that WEM amp. I had a friend (now sadly departed) who used this bass model for lead guitar and it sounded wonderful. It was definately a great all-round guitar and bass amp, and solid as a rock. Not so good for cleaner sounds, but for rocking out...

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1971 Selmer guitar catalogue

1971 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1971 Selmer guitar catalogue showing the range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Gibson, Yamaha, Selmer, Hofner and Suzuki. 1960s Selmer had always placed Hofner at the front end of their catalogues, no doubt these were the better sellers - but into the 1970s Hofner were slipping somewhat and only appear at the tail end of this publication, pride of place going to Gibson, and to a lesser extent Yamaha. In fact this is the last Selmer catalogue to include the many Hofner hollow bodies (Committee, President, Senator etc) that had defined the companies output for so many years - to be replaced in the 1972 catalogue by generic solid body 'copies' of Gibson and Fender models. A number of new Gibson models are included for the first time: the SG-100 and SG-200 six string guitars and the SB-300 and SB-400 basses.

1968 Selmer guitar catalogue

1968 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1968/1969 Selmer guitar catalogue (printed July 1968), showing the entire range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Hofner, Gibson, Selmer and Giannini. Selmer were the exclusive United Kingdom distributors of Hofner and Gibson at the time, and this catalogue contains a total of 18 electric guitars, 7 bass guitars, 37 acoustics, and 2 Hawaiian guitars - all produced outside the UK and imported by Selmer, with UK prices included in guineas. This catalogue saw the (re-)introduction of the late sixties Gibson Les Paul Custom and Les Paul Standard (see page 69) and the short-lived Hofner Club 70. Other electric models include: HOFNER ELECTRICS: Committee, Verithin 66, Ambassador, President, Senator, Galaxie, HOFNER BASSES: Violin bass, Verithin bass, Senator bass, Professional bass GIBSON ELECTRICS: Barney Kessel, ES-330TD, ES-335TD, ES-345TD, ES-175D, ES-125CD, SG Standard, SG Junior, SG Special GIBSON BASSES: EB-0, EB-2, EB-3 - plus a LOT of acoustics branded Gibson, Hofner, Selmer and Giannini

1961 Hofner Colorama I

1961 Hofner Colorama IHofner Colorama was the name UK distributor Selmer gave to a series of solid and semi-solid guitars built by Hofner for distribution in the UK. The construction and specifications of the guitars varied over the period of production, but by 1961 it was a totally solid, double cutaway instrument, with a set neck, translucent cherry finish, six-in-a-row headstock, and Hofner Diamond logo pickups. Available as a single or dual pickup guitar, this sngle pickup version would have been sold in mainland Europe as the Hofner 161.

1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)

1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)Commodore was a brand applied to a series of guitars produced in Japan at the well-respected Matsumoku plant from the late 1960s to the mid 1970s - and sold primarily (perhaps exclusively?) in the United Kingdom. The models bearing the Commodore name were all guitars available from different distributors with different branding. Although there may have been some minor changes in appointments (specifically headstock branding) most had the same basic bodies, hardware and construction. Equivalent models to the Commodore N25 (and this is by no means an exhaustive list) include the Aria 5102T, Conrad 5102T(?), Electra 2221, Lyle 5102T, Ventura V-1001, Univox Coily - and most famously the Epiphone 5102T / Epiphone EA-250.

1960 Hofner Colorama II

1960 Hofner Colorama IIThe Hofner Colorama was the name given by Selmer to a series of solid (and semi-solid) body Hofner guitars distributed in the United Kingdom between 1958 and 1965. The Colorama name actually applied to some quite different guitars over the period, but in 1960 it was a very light, semi-solid, set necked guitar with one (Colorama I) or two (Colorama II, as seen here) Toaster pickups. Although an entry-level guitar, it was very well-built, and a fine playing guitar; certainly a step up (at least in terms of craftsmanship) from many of the Colorama guitars that would follow, and a good deal of the guitars available in Britain circa 1960.

1971 Epiphone 1820 bass (ET-280)

1971 Epiphone 1820 (ET-280) bassBy the end of the 1960s, a decision had been made to move Epiphone guitar production from the USA (at the Kalamazoo plant where Gibson guitars were made), to Matsumoto in Japan, creating a line of guitars and basses significantly less expensive than the USA-built models (actually less than half the price). The Matsumoku factory had been producing guitars for export for some time, but the 1820 bass (alongside a number of guitar models and the 5120 electric acoustic bass) were the first Epiphone models to be made there. These new Epiphones were based on existing Matsumoku guitars, sharing body shapes, and hardware, but the Epiphone line was somewhat upgraded, with inlaid logos and a 2x2 peghead configuration. Over the course of the 70s, the Japanese output improved dramatically, and in many ways these early 70s models are a low point for the brand. Having said this, there are a lot worse guitars out there, and as well as being historically important, the 1820 bass can certainly provide the goods when required.

1981 Gibson Marauder

1981 Gibson MarauderProduction of Bill Lawrence's Gibson Marauder began in 1974, with production peaking in 1978. But by 1980 the model was officially discontinued, though very small numbers slipped out as late as spring 1981. Over 7000 examples shipped between 1974 and 1979, and although no totals are available for 1980 and 1981, it is unlikely production reached three figures in either of these years. These final Marauders were all assembled at the Gibson Nashville plant, and had some nice features not available through the later years of production, such as a rosewood fretboard, and in this case, an opaque 'Devil Red' finish. It's a great looking and fine playing guitar!

1971 'Pick Epiphone' Catalog

1971 Pick Epiphone catalogWhen Epiphone production moved from Kalamazoo to the Matsumoku plant in Japan, a whole new range of electric, flattop and classic acoustic guitars was launched. Between late 1970 and 1972 the new models were launched and refined. This 'folder' catalog contains various inserts released over these years detailing four electric six-strings (ET-270, ET-275, ET-278, and thinline EA-250), three bass guitars (ET-280, ET-285, and thinline EA-260), three folk/steel acoustics, four jumbo flattop acoustics, two 12-string jumbos, four classic acoustics, and a banjo.

1981 'Gibson Specials' Pre-Owners Manual

1981 Gibson Specials Pre-Owners Manual'Gibson Specials' was part of the June 1981 pre-owners manual series, but unlike the other folders contained a mish-mash of different guitars: limited editions, test marketing and close outs. "You will find the unusual, the brand-new, and the bargain within this folder". End of line 70s guitars like the Marauder, S-1, and L-6S Custom mixed in with brand new models the The V, The Explorer and the Flying V Bass.
It was the largest folder in the series, with 24 inserts, (19 guitars and 5 basses): Guitars: 335-S Standard, Melody Maker Double, Marauder, L-6S Custom, S-1, RD Artist, Firebird, Firebird II, Flying V, Flying V-II, The V, Explorer, Explorer II, The Explorer, The "SG" Standard, Les Paul Artist, Les Paul Artisan, ES-335 Heritage, ES-175/CC Basses: Grabber, G-3, L-9S, RD Artist Bass, Flying V Bass

1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass

1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bassRose-Morris were selling Shaftesbury-branded Rickenbacker copy instruments from the late 1960s right through the 1970s. The 3263 bass was one of the first models, (alongside the 3261 six string and 3262 twelve string) available from late 1968 until about 1974. The earliest incarnation was a set neck bass, produced very briefly in Japan. But production quickly moved to Italy. This bolt-on neck example was built by Eko, in Recanati, using the same hardware and pickups as fitted to Eko, and Vox basses built around the same time. It's certainly a fine looking bass, and not a bad player either.

1961 Hohner Zambesi

1961 Hohner ZambesiThis very early, and pretty rare British-built guitar is branded Hohner London. Hohner were, of course, a German company, better known for their harmonicas and accordions, but they were keenly expanding into guitars at the birth of the 1960s. This model, along with the Hohner Amazon and (particularly) the Hohner Holborn, bear some similarity with Vox guitars of the same period; furniture manufacturer Stuart Darkins constructed bodies and necks for both brands, with Fenton Weill assembling them using their hardware and pickups. These guitars do have some hardware peculiarities, and they are not the most adjustable of instruments, but they actually play very nicely, being solidly built out of some very nice woods. Check out the video on this page.

1963 Vox Super Ace

1963 Vox Super AceThe Vox Super Ace was a mid-priced British solid body electric guitar, produced by JMI at their factory in Dartford, Kent. It was broadly modelled on the Fender Stratocaster, and a sibling model to the dual-pickup Vox Ace. Both the Ace, and Super Ace (along with several other models), were redesigned in 1963 with a new body shape, headstock style, and pickup layout - only increasing the resemblance to the aforementioned Fender. The Super Ace had a 1963 price tag of £47 5S. It's a pretty nice playing guitar with some lovely sounds - check out the videos on this page, and in the Vintage Guitar and Bass supporting members area

1966 Vox New Escort

1966 Vox New EscortThe Vox New Escort was Vox's version of the Fender Telecaster, at a time when American guitars were out of reach for most British musicians. It was made by JMI in England, for the British market, and unlike the majority of other models, didn't have an Italian-made equivalent. But the New Escort wasn't a slavish Fender copy, adding Vox's stylish teardrop headstock to the tele-style body, with a stop tailpiece and two Vox V2 single coil pickups. And it's a pretty substantial, and nice playing guitar, with a very comfortable neck. Check out the images, specifications, and watch a video of it in action. There is also extra content in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area.

1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin' Care

1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin CareCatalog scan. The 1969 Fender Lovin' Care catalog consisted of 48 pages of electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, steel guitars, acoustic guitars, banjos and keyboards. Like the previous catalog, this featured the company's guitars in a variety of interesting settings around California, from the Whiskey-A-Go-Go, to the Hollywood Bowl. Several instruments were making their first appearance amongst it's pages: the Telecaster bass, Montego and LTD jazz guitars, and the Redondo acoustic. It was the final catalog appearance, however, of the Electric XII, Bass V, Duo-Sonic, Coronado I and Coronado Bass I.

1973 Eko Ranger Folk

1973 Eko Ranger FolkThe Eko Ranger series of guitars was incredibly popular in the second half of the 1960s and through the 1970s, selling in very large numbers. The Ranger Folk was 1 1/4" smaller, and 1" shallower than the Ranger VI and XII - and with a narrower waist. Not a bad guitar; a little quiet, but pretty playable. These were great value in 1973, and because they sold so many, they are easy to find and excellent value today.

1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitar

1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitarThe Symphonic bass was built in the UK, by Vox parent company JMI. It was the Vox equivalent to the Fender Precision bass, and was one of the most expensive Vox guitars produced. It was actually a great playing bass, rather similar to the Precision in feel and sound, but was probably just too expensive compared to an actual Fender and consequently sold poorly. When Vox hit financial problems in 1968, unsold guitars and basses were passed on to Dallas Arbiter, who briefly sold the excess Symphonic bass stock as model 4537. This bass, although with a neck date of February 1966, was most likely one of the unsold Vox guitars sold on by Dallas Arbiter. Check out the bass, and the two video demos through 1960s Ampeg and WEM amplifiers.

1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog

1968 Shaftesbury catalogThe 1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog was just four pages long, and contained four guitar models: the six string Barney Kessel-style 3264; and three Rickenbacker-styled semi-acoustic models: the six-string 3261, the twelve string 3262 and the 3263 bass. Shaftesbury was the house-brand of major UK distributor Rose-Morris, and seems to have been launched as a response to the company's loss of it's distribution deal with Rickenbacker. The guitars were mid-priced, and built in (initially) Japan, and later Italy, by Eko

1970 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns Celebrated Classics' catalog

1970 Rose_Morris catalog1970 Rose-Morris catalog, dated April 1970. It featured 6 electric guitars, 32 acoustic guitars, 3 basses and 1 steel guitar. It contains the following instruments, over 20 pages: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3262, 3264, 3265, 3400; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Colorado, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12; Aria 1674, 1675, 1676, 1679, 1680, 1695, 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk; Rose-Morris 15-11, Kansas, Georgian, Florida; Suzuki 1663, 1664, 1665, 3054, 3055, 3060; Tatay 1713, 1714, 1715; Peerless 3052; Steel guitar: Aria 3425

1971 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns' catalog

1971 Rose_Morris catalogThe sixteen-page 1971 Rose-Morris catalog featured electric guitars by Rose-Morris' own brand, Shaftesbury, and budget brand Top Twenty; aswell as acoustics by Eko, Aria, and for the first time Ovation. The catalog contains the following instruments: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3264, 3265, 3400, 3402; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Ovation: Balladeer, 12 String, Glen Campbell, Glen Campbell 12 string; Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12, Colorado, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Studio 'L'; Rose-Morris Florida; Aria 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk

1972 Fender Precision bass

1972 Fender PrecisionA detailed look at an early 1970s Fender Precision bass guitar in custom black finish, with rosewood fretboard. 1972 list price, $307.50. The Fender Precision had been shipping since at least very early 1952 - with just one re-design circa 1957. This example, then, shows a model already two decades old, but barely changed since the '57 revamp. Fender got it right first time around, and although there are numerous minor cosmetic differences, the essence of this bass is effectively the same as it was in '52: a simple, single pickup instrument with a GREAT sound. Check out the demo video through an old Ampeg B15. It's no wonder this is the bass that everybody wants!

1967 Vox Stroller

1967 Vox StrollerThe Vox Stroller was the brand's entry level electric solid body guitar, fitted with just one pickup and a fixed tailpiece. Although aimed at student guitarists, it wasn't a terrible instrument, but did lack somewhat in adjustability, having no accessible truss rod and only a floating rosewood bridge. But this example is actually quite an improvement on earlier versions, with a standard 1/4" jack and a solid mahogany body. 1967 price £18 2s. JMI ceased UK guitar production in late '67, and combined with decreasing demand for the Stroller, this surely must be one of the last examples shipped.

1963 Vox Clubman Bass (left handed)

1963 Vox Clubman Bass left handedA nice example of the Vox Clubman II bass, built by JMI in Dartford, Kent in 1963. This is a lightweight bass, short (30") scale and very easy to play. It is an early example, and as such has a thin black scratchplate and side mounted, coaxial output jack. JMI offered left handed examples of their solid body Vox guitars and basses at 10% premium. Production numbers are unclear, but left-handed examples rarely come up for sale

1977 Gibson ES Artist 'prototype'

1977 Gibson ES Artist prototypeNot to be confused with the Gibson ES Artist launched by Gibson in 1979; this ES Artist was an early model designed by the Gibson research and development team in Kalamazoo in 1977, the instruments themselves constructed by Gibson artist Chuck Burge. It was planned for launch as a high end semi acoustic with 335-style construction (central maple block) and innovative circuitry - but was pulled at the last minute, being deemed too expensive. Apparently, several examples were produced with varying specifications, though exactly how many actually left the Kalamazoo plant is unclear. Certainly two guitars were sold to LaVonne Music by Gibson in around 1980. Read more about the development of this guitar, with details from Chuck Burge and the story of it's sale to LaVonne music

1959 Hofner Committee

1959 Hofner CommitteeThe Hofner Committee was a truly beautiful guitar produced in Germany, primarily for the UK market. It was a large bodied (initially 17 1/2") guitar with a carved spruce top, available as an acoustic or electric guitar. By the early sixties the carved top was replaced with a laminate, and although still a very fine guitar, the earlier carved top examples, with frondose headstock (like the example shown here) are far more highly prized amongst musicians and vintage guitar collectors.

1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

1965 Gretsch Chet Atkins TennesseanThe Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, or model 6119 was Gretsch's best selling hollow body of the 1960s. This wonderfully faded example from 1965 was originally Dark Cherry Red, but has turned a mid-orange brown. The original color, however, can be seen underneath the pickup surrounds. 1965 specs: maple body, two-piece neck, Brazilian rosewood fretboard and Hi-Lo 'Tron single coil pickups. Nickel plated Gretsch Bigsby tailpiece.

1965 Gretsch 'For the Spectacular Sound of the Times' guitar and amp catalog

1965 Gretsch catalogThe 1965 Gretsch catalog, or catalog #32, featured 10 hollow body electric guitars, including the newly launched Gretsch Viking; four solid body electrics, including the Astro Jet - making it's only catalog appearance; just one bass, the single pickup PX6070; nine acoustics and 12 tube amplifiers. Pride of place went to the Chet Atkins Country Gentleman that adorned both the front and back covers. 24 pages, six of which are in full color.

Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret ends

Guitar Repair: fixing fret buzz and sharp fret endsLoose frets are especially problematic in certain old guitars, but are generally very easy to fix. You'll be amazed at the difference you can make with just a few tools, a bit of knowledge, and a little time. Fixing loose frets can eliminate fret buzz, remove sharp fret ends, and greatly improve the tone of any guitar. If your luthier bill will be greater than the value of your guitar, definitely time to have a go yourself!

1966 Hagstrom 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog (Merson USA)

1966 Hagstrom guitar catalogHagstrom guitars were distributed in the mid-1960s United States by Merson of USA. This eight page 'worlds fastest playing neck' catalog, printed in two-colors contained six solid body electrics, three solid body basses, two electric acoustic guitars, two electric acoustic basses and five acoustics.

1965 Hofner President

1965 Hofner PresidentThe President was produced by Hofner in Bubenreuth, Germany, specifically for Selmer, who distributed the brand in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and other commonwealth nations. The President was a hollow body electric acoustic, available as a full body or thinline, and with blonde or brunette finish. It was a great playing guitar that sold fairly well in the second half of the 1950s, throughout the 1960s, and into the very early 1970s. The example shown here is a full-body depth guitar in blonde - and as a 1965 guitar, one of the last to feature the rounded Venetian cutaway. From late 1965 until 1972, the President sported a sharp Florentine cut. Naturally, such an electric acoustic suggests jazz and blues, but many of the original British Hofner President players were part of the rock 'n roll, skiffle and beat scenes of the late 50s and early 60s.

1963 1964 Fender catalog

Fender 1963 catalogue"The Choice of Professional and Student Musicians Everywhere" This eight page catalogue was included as an insert in the 1963 annual "school music" issue of Downbeat magazine (September 1963). As well as keyboards and pedal steels, this catalog contains seven guitars, three basses and ten amplifiers - from student guitars such as the Musicmaster and Duotone to professional models like the new Jaguar.