The EH-185 was Gibson’s top-of-the line amp during the first epoch of electrification. It partnered the EH-185 Hawaiian lap-steel guitar, but was also frequently the amp of choice alongside pre-war Electric Spanish guitars. Charlie Christian played through an EH-185 in his later years, and this amp can be seen in photos of his live performances from the year or two before his death. After wartime shortages halted production, it was discontinued, and wasn’t brought back into production after the war.

This EH-185 is an early example, with the faceplate still stamped “EH-150”. This amp was originally going to replace the EH-150 amp in the catalog, but Gibson ended up giving it a unique model number. It features a futuristic design that is unlike anything else of its time. The electronics are housed in a detachable head, which is connected to the field coil speaker via a very long umbilical cord. The upper grille cloth in the cabinet doubles as a vent for the tube circuitry when the amp is mounted in the cabinet - and an extra bass port when it is detached.

Delivering plenty of volume at 20 watts, the EH-185 would be a perfect partner for any electric spanish guitar. The two band EQ allows for plenty of tone shaping options, and an especially nice bass boost from the bass knob. Gibson would later abandon this two band EQ system on their later amps in favor of a single tone control, which is a shame because it sounds excellent. The greater surprise comes when you crank it up and attack it with some resoundingly post-war chops, via a biting solidbody. This amp can sing extremely sweetly (especially on the ‘Mic’ input) with a tone that goes far beyond vintage blues and swing to sit well in the mix for indie, grunge, alt-rock, and so many other contemporary styles.

Cosmetically this example is in fantastic condition for its age, showing only expected wear to its handle & corners, and light wear to its lacquered tweed tolex. The two front leather corners are torn, as seen in the photos. Latches and Lift-off hinges function as they should. There is very mild rust to its input washers. Beautiful faceplate with cool engraved lettering, all in excellent condition.

The inside of the amp reveals a completely untouched set of electronics. Early Sprague “Atoms” capacitors, hand painted carbon comp resistors, Triad transformers, and many original RCA Radiotron tubes are present and still functioning. The 5U4 and 6L6 pair are replaced, with very appropriate older GE and Sylvania tubes. One of the output tubes is unmarked, with 6L6 carved into the side. The original striped tweed, two-prong, power cord is present and is wrapped in electrical tape at one end.

This is an incredible piece for the jazz or rock guitarist, and would be an excellent and versatile studio amp, with plenty of collector value. These amps are a rare sight - and are almost never seen in original condition. This amp still plays great and has many more years to give, despite being 85 years old. It will surely be swinging and rocking into the next century!

Tubeset:
GE 5U4
Sylvania 6L6
6L6 (label worn off, 6L6 carved into side)
RCA Radiotron 6N7
RCA Radiotron 6J7
RCA Radiotron 6J7
RCA Radiotron 6J7