Description

I’ve done dumber things with $250! 70s Silvertone Solid State 40! Made in Canada, 40-watt 1×12″ solid state combo with EQ and Tremolo. Missing light cover and one knob. $249!

The Silvertone Solid State 40 is a vintage guitar amplifier from the 1960s and 1970s, produced under the Silvertone brand by Sears, Roebuck and Co. Known for its affordability and distinctive tone, the Solid State 40 is part of a range of amplifiers that were popular among beginner and intermediate musicians. Despite its solid-state design, it offers a warm, vintage sound that has made it a collectible item among vintage amp enthusiasts.

Key Features:

Amplification and Power:

  • Power Output: Approximately 40 watts, suitable for practice, small gigs, and recording.
  • Solid-State Design: Utilizes transistor-based circuitry, offering a reliable and low-maintenance alternative to tube amplifiers.

Channels and Controls:

  • Single Channel: Typically features a single channel with basic controls for easy operation.
  • EQ Controls: Basic tone controls, often including bass and treble knobs, for simple yet effective tone shaping.
  • Volume Control: Single volume knob to adjust the overall output level.

Built-In Effects:

  • Tremolo: Many Silvertone amplifiers feature a built-in tremolo effect with adjustable speed and intensity controls.

Speaker Configuration: 1×12″

Sound Characteristics:

  • Warm and Vintage Tone: Despite being a solid-state amplifier, the Solid State 40 is known for its warm, vintage sound that is characteristic of many Silvertone amplifiers from the era.
  • Distinctive Reverb and Tremolo: The built-in effects provide classic reverb and tremolo sounds, adding to the amp’s vintage appeal.
  • Crunchy Overdrive: When pushed, the amp can produce a crunchy, overdriven tone that is well-suited for rock and blues.

Applications:

  • Practice: Ideal for home practice due to its manageable power output and straightforward controls.
  • Recording: Suitable for studio recording, offering a unique vintage sound that can add character to recordings.
  • Small Gigs: Adequate for small performances, providing enough volume and presence for intimate venues.

Notable Features:

  • Approximately 40 watts of solid-state power
  • Single channel with basic tone and volume controls
  • Built-in reverb and tremolo effects (on some models)
  • Equipped with one or more vintage speakers
  • Classic Silvertone aesthetics and sound

Notable Users:

  • Chris Shiflett (Foo Fighters): Chris Shiflett, the lead guitarist of the Foo Fighters, is known for using various Vox amps in his setup. While he primarily uses the AC30 on stage, he has been seen using smaller Vox models like the AC4 for studio work and practice.
  • Jeff Tweedy (Wilco): Jeff Tweedy of Wilco has been known to use a variety of Vox amplifiers, including the AC4 series, for its rich, classic tones during recording sessions.
  • Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek): Sean Watkins, the guitarist for the progressive bluegrass band Nickel Creek, has used the Vox AC4 for its articulate sound and manageable volume in both live and studio settings.

The vintage Silvertone Solid State 40 amplifier is a charming piece of musical history, offering a distinctive warm tone and classic built-in effects. While it may not match the tonal complexity of tube amplifiers, its reliability, unique sound, and vintage appeal make it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s collection. Whether used for practice, recording, or small gigs, the Solid State 40 provides a nostalgic and characterful sound that continues to resonate with musicians and collectors alike.

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