Description
A different kind of Vape! Fender Vaporizer 2×10” 12-watt tube amp with Reverb and original foot switch, $499!
The Fender Vaporizer is a 12-watt, all-tube guitar amplifier introduced as part of Fender’s “Pawn Shop” series in 2014. The amp is designed to evoke a vintage, retro-futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s, while delivering a classic Fender tube tone. With its simplistic controls and unique look, the Vaporizer is ideal for players seeking vintage tones in a compact, portable package.
Key Features
- 12-watt all-tube amp
- Two 10-inch special-design Vaporizer speakers
- 2 x 12AX7 preamp tubes, 2 x 6BQ5/EL84 power tubes
- Single channel with volume, tone, and reverb controls
- Built-in spring reverb with “Vaporizer” footswitch for reverb defeat
- Two inputs (high and low gain)
- Cool retro “Vaporizer” design with distinctive “rocket” switches
- Available in vibrant colors like Rocket Red, Surf Green, and Slate Blue
Sound Profile
The Vaporizer delivers a classic Fender clean tone with plenty of headroom for sparkling highs and full-bodied lows. When pushed to higher volumes, the amp breaks up into a rich, overdriven sound with a warm, organic tube saturation. The spring reverb adds a lush, atmospheric quality that enhances the amp’s versatility, making it suitable for surf, blues, and classic rock tones. Its relatively low wattage allows for natural tube breakup at manageable volumes, ideal for home use and small gigs.
Applications
The Fender Vaporizer is well-suited for players looking for classic vintage tones in genres like surf rock, blues, indie, and garage rock. Its compact size and portability make it perfect for practice, small venue gigs, or recording sessions. The low wattage ensures the amp can achieve natural tube saturation without excessive volume, while the built-in reverb adds depth to both clean and overdriven tones.
Build Quality and Aesthetic
The Vaporizer is known for its retro design, featuring vibrant color options and a unique rocket-themed aesthetic. The sturdy cabinet houses two 10-inch speakers, and the amp’s control layout is simple and easy to use. The distinctive design elements, such as the vaporizer-style switches, give it a vintage vibe, making it stand out visually as much as sonically. Fender’s build quality ensures the amp can withstand regular gigging and transportation.
Country of Manufacture
China
Collectibility and Market Value
The Fender Vaporizer, while not as widely available today, has become a collectible piece due to its unique design and association with Fender’s “Pawn Shop” series. Its retro aesthetic and solid tube performance have made it popular among collectors and players looking for a distinctive amp with a vintage vibe. The Vaporizer’s value has remained stable in the used market, and its limited production run contributes to its desirability among enthusiasts seeking a unique, character-filled amplifier.
