Benson Bellringer 1x12 Combo 2024, Aunt Gertie

The Benson Bellringer is an interesting take on the company's Chimera circuit, with the addition of a power-scaling feature that allows you to adjust the output from 35 watts down to just 1 watt. Using a 6L6 tube as a variable voltage regulator, the circuit introduces some of the sag and saturation you'd expect from a cranked amp, but at more manageable volumes. The amp itself is powered by a pair of EL34 tubes, offering plenty of headroom and a rich, full-bodied sound. It also features a reverb circuit based on Benson's Tall Bird, with a wide range from subtle ambience to a more pronounced, lush reverb.

Bensons are known for excellent construction, with point-to-point wiring on terminal strips rather than traditional circuit boards. Overall, this is a well-made amplifier with some thoughtful features that set it apart from more traditional designs. This example is in excellent condition, showing only minor signs of previous wear.