Fender Vibrolux Reverb AA864 1965 Owned by Clarence White, Black

It's not often we receive an amplifier with such prestige in American music history. This 1965 Vibrolux Reverb was owned by Clarence White and played on tour with the Byrds during the 60s and 70s. There is white stenciling on the side indicating its provenance, along with Clarence's name on the top. Clarence was a versatile player, known for his flatpicking prowess with the Kentucky Colonels, but his transition to the electric side of things helped pioneer a sound that is still used today. The accompanying guitar, now owned by Marty Stuart, is known as the first B-Bender in existence, having been developed by Clarence and bandmate Gene Parsons.

While amplifiers often go unnoticed sitting at the back of the stage, it should be noted this AA864 Vibrolux has a great and distinctive sound. The speakers are rare Eminence Alnico models from 1967, the first year of production. It provides a great mix of Blackface fidelity and a midrange "squawk," making it a perfect pairing with the B-Bender Telecaster. Internally, the amp is mostly original, with replaced electrolytic caps and plate resistors swapped for carbon film types. The rest remains original, including the "Blue Molded" Ajax coupling caps. See circuit pics for further details.

This amp was purchased directly from Gene Parsons, who bought it from Clarence in the 70s. As a fellow Byrds bandmate and a legend in his own right, Gene’s ownership only adds to the history of this legendary Fender amplifier. Included is a signed letter from Gene, detailing how he acquired the amp and the recordings it was likely used on, including Sweetheart of the Rodeo!