The Fender Deluxe “5E3” remains the most coveted amp Fender ever produced. Having been used by the likes of Neil Young, these amps have become a staple for studios, session musicians and collectors alike.

Having been produced from '55-60, the magical 5E3 circuit is renowned for having a subtle ghost in the machine, where both volumes impact the volume and tone of whichever input you are plugged into. Different combinations of the three knobs yield a limitless spectrum of usable tone.

This 5E3 dates to early 1957 and is the cleanest and most original example that has ever come through our doors. The tweed is in remarkable condition for its age, with only a small, taped over tear in the lower front. Some light wear throughout is present, only hinting at its true age. The handle is original and is in great shape - still functional. The faceplate is equally clean, free of scratches and mirror-like, with a nearly perfect condition screen print. The rear of the cabinet reveals a completely intact tube chart. The original Jensen P12Q is present, dates to 1956, and sounds excellent. The back panel has never been removed before its arrival here, and features the presence of a strip of the infamous asbestos fabric heat shield. Commonly seen in tweed deluxe's of the era, we have left it as is for now, undisturbed.

Inside the chassis reveals a completely untouched set of electronics, including orange Astron capacitors. The original gray, two-prong power cord is also present. This 5E3 was wired, like many others, by Lily and her signature is completely intact. The tubeset currently installed is a very fine mix of GE ,Sylvania, and Groove tubes. The original RCA/GE tubeset that came with the amp, along with a few other spare Mullard and Telefunken preamp tubes is included in the sale. We have not tested the spare tubes for functionality, but they are important relics - rarely seen with amplifiers this old.

Also included with the amp is the original tan fabric “Victoria Luggage Co” cover, which is in near perfect condition. Some discoloration is present, only on the inside of the cover. A printed copy of the schematic, spare fuse (in an envelope tacked on the inside of the cabinet), and a magazine article about the 5E3 complete the nice collection of extras included in the sale.

The number of 5E3’s in the world is few, and the number of untouched, original examples is dwindling as the years go by. This is an incredible piece for the right collector, and is one that not only looks - but also sounds simply astounding even still in its 68 year lifetime.

Tube chart stamp: D-03609

Tubeset:
GE 5Y3
GE 6V6
GE 6V6
Sylvania 12AX7
Groove Tubes 12AY7

Original tubes:
RCA 5Y3
RCA 6V6
RCA 6V6
GE 12AY7

Extras:
Mullard 12AX7
Telefunken 12AX7
Amperex 12AX7A