DATE :
Saturday, August 16, 2025
1959 Fender Tremolux: The Ultimate Tweed Era Tremolo Pioneer
1959 Fender Tremolux: The Ultimate Tweed Era Tremolo Pioneer
The 1959 Fender Tremolux stands as one of the most historically significant and sonically exceptional amplifiers of the golden tweed era. This extraordinary amplifier represents the pinnacle of Leo Fender's innovative tremolo design, featuring the revolutionary 5G9 circuit that would influence generations of Fender amplifiers to come. For collectors and players seeking the perfect balance of clean headroom, rich tremolo character, and unmistakable tweed tone, the 1959 Tremolux remains an unparalleled treasure.
What makes the 1959 Tremolux special:
Features the groundbreaking 5G9 circuit - Fender's last and most sophisticated tweed-era design
First Fender amplifier to combine fixed bias with 6V6 tubes for enhanced stability
Incorporates advanced "long-tailed pair" phase inverter borrowed from the legendary Bassman
Built during the final year of narrow-panel tweed production before the transition to brown tolex
Represents Fender's first successful integration of professional-grade tremolo circuitry
Estimated production of only 400-700 units, making it one of the rarest tweed amplifiers
Historical Context: The Revolutionary 5G9 Circuit
The year 1959 marked a crucial transition period for Fender amplifiers. While most manufacturers were still struggling with basic amplifier design, Leo Fender was pushing the boundaries of what was possible in a mid-powered combo amplifier. The 5G9 Tremolux introduced several revolutionary features that wouldn't appear in other Fender models until the blackface era of the 1960s.
Fender's innovative approach in 1959: The 5G9 circuit borrowed extensively from the revered 5F6-A Bassman, incorporating its sophisticated power section into a more manageable 18-watt package. This represents the only time during the tweed era that Fender applied such advanced circuitry to a 6V6-powered amplifier. The fixed bias design eliminated the potential instability issues found in earlier cathode-biased tremolo circuits, while the long-tailed pair phase inverter provided superior balance and headroom.
Artist adoption and influence: During 1959, blues and country musicians were discovering that the Tremolux offered something unique - the warmth and character of tweed combined with unprecedented clean headroom for its power rating. This made it particularly appealing to players who needed pristine cleans for tremolo effects while retaining the ability to achieve singing sustain when pushed. Notable players of the era appreciated how the larger cabinet provided enhanced bass response compared to standard Deluxe amplifiers.
Why collectors seek the 1959 specifically: The 1959 Tremolux represents the final year of narrow-panel tweed production and the culmination of Fender's tweed-era innovation. Unlike the earlier 5E9-A models, the 1959 5G9 circuit offered significantly more stability and professional-grade performance. This year also featured exceptional build quality, with hand-selected components and meticulous assembly by Fender's most experienced technicians in Fullerton, California.
Detailed Identification Guide
Identifying an authentic 1959 Fender Tremolux requires careful examination of multiple components, as these amplifiers are among the most sought-after and therefore most frequently replicated vintage amps.
Serial Number Ranges 1959 Tremolux amplifiers typically feature serial numbers ranging from approximately 02200 to 02800, though production numbers varied. Serial numbers like 02391 and 02739 have been documented for October 1959 and March 1960 production respectively. The serial number appears stamped into the chassis, typically on the back panel.
Tube Chart Dating The most reliable identifier is the tube chart date code stamped inside the cabinet. Fender was still using up the old 5E9-A-marked tube charts and to our knowledge, no one has actually seen a 5G9 Tremolux with a properly marked tube chart. Authentic 1959 examples show tube charts marked "5E9-A" with date codes like "JB" (February 1960) or "JC" (March 1960).
Transformer Codes and Dating Original transformers are crucial for authentication:
Power Transformer: Marked "8160" - Triad specification correct for 5G9 circuit
Output Transformer: Schumacher codes like "606-943" (43rd week of 1959) or "606-949" (49th week of 1959)
Choke: Often unmarked but should be present - a key feature distinguishing 5G9 from earlier circuits
Component Dating Authentic 1959 Tremolux amplifiers feature:
Potentiometer Codes: CTS pots with codes like "137-950" through "137-959" indicating 1959 manufacture
Speaker Codes: Jensen P12Q speakers with codes like "220-952" (52nd week of 1959)
Capacitor Dates: Filter and coupling caps typically dated throughout 1959
Cabinet and Hardware Specifications
Cabinet Size: Uses the larger "Pro-sized" cabinet (22" wide × 20" tall × 10.5" deep)
Grille Cloth: Original wheat-colored cloth with horizontal weave pattern
Tweed Covering: Narrow-panel style with lacquered finish, darker than wide-panel era
Handle: Black leather handle with metal end caps
Corner Hardware: Metal corner protectors typical of narrow-panel era
Control Panel Layout The 1959 5G9 features five controls arranged left to right:
Microphone Volume
Instrument Volume
Tone
Tremolo Speed
Tremolo Depth
Two input jacks are positioned to the right of the controls, labeled "MICROPHONE" and "INSTRUMENT."
Detailed Physical Specifications
Understanding the precise specifications of the 1959 Tremolux helps authenticate examples and appreciate the engineering excellence Leo Fender achieved.
Power Output and Tube Complement The dual-6V6 power section yields around 15-18 watts of power, with the following tube configuration:
Power Tubes: Two 6V6GT tubes in fixed-bias configuration
Rectifier: 5U4GB tube rectifier for enhanced voltage stability
Preamp Tubes: Two 12AX7 tubes and one 12AY7 tube
Total Tubes: Six tubes (compared to five in earlier 5E9-A models)
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Cabinet Dimensions: 22" wide × 20" tall × 10.5" deep
Weight Range: Approximately 38-42 pounds (depending on transformer specifications)
Speaker Configuration: Single 12" Jensen P12Q alnico speaker
Circuit Specifications The 5G9 circuit represents Fender's most advanced tweed-era design:
Phase Inverter: Long-tailed pair (differential) design borrowed from Bassman
Bias Type: Fixed bias with negative voltage supply (unique among tweed 6V6 amps)
Filtering: Features choke-filtered power supply with "can capacitors" mounted under chassis
Tremolo Type: Bias-vary tremolo modulating the output tube bias voltage
Electronic Components
Output Transformer: Schumacher specification designed for 6V6 push-pull operation
Power Transformer: High-voltage design supporting fixed bias operation
Choke: Present in filtering stage (absent from earlier cathode-biased models)
Filter Capacitors: Multiple-section electrolytic can mounted under chassis
Speaker Specifications The modest-sized 12" Jensen P12Q speaker in the oversized tall cabinet of the Pro (designed to fit a 15" speaker) has a similar low-end enhancing effect, providing enhanced bass response and acoustic projection compared to standard combo cabinets.
Tonal Characteristics: The 5G9 Sound
The 1959 Tremolux occupies a unique position in the Fender amplifier lineup, offering tonal characteristics that bridge the gap between the smaller Deluxe and the larger Bassman.
Clean Tone Profile The 5G9 Tremolux sounds somewhat like a Bassman in a lower-output/1×12″ package. At low to medium volumes it has the relative tightness, liveliness, and fidelity to punch out the twang. The clean tones feature:
Enhanced Headroom: Significantly more clean volume than 5E3 Deluxe due to fixed bias and choke filtering
Improved Bass Response: The larger cabinet and choke filtering provide fuller, more extended low frequencies
Crystalline Highs: The long-tailed pair phase inverter maintains excellent balance and clarity
Dynamic Response: Excellent touch sensitivity and pick attack articulation
Overdrive Characteristics When it starts to break up at noon or beyond, it has a bold, well-defined growl, without quite the brown, compressed implosion of a cranked 5E3 Deluxe. The overdrive qualities include:
Controlled Breakup: More predictable and musical distortion onset than cathode-biased amps
Harmonic Complexity: Rich even-order harmonics typical of 6V6 tubes in fixed bias
Sustain Characteristics: Enhanced sustain without excessive compression
Note Definition: Individual notes remain distinct even at higher gain levels
Tremolo Circuit Excellence The bias-vary tremolo circuit in the 5G9 represents Fender's most sophisticated tremolo design of the tweed era:
Tremolo Depth: Rich, throbbing modulation that affects both volume and tone
Speed Range: Wide range of tremolo speeds from subtle pulse to rapid chop
Harmonic Content: The bias modulation creates complex harmonic interactions
Stability: Fixed bias eliminates the potential tube instability of earlier tremolo circuits
Comparison to Other Models The 5G9 Tremolux offers distinct advantages over related amplifiers:
Versus 5E3 Deluxe: More headroom, better bass response, superior tremolo stability
Versus 5F6-A Bassman: More manageable volume, enhanced midrange focus, built-in tremolo
Versus Later Blackface Models: Warmer, more compressed tweed character with vintage tremolo warmth
Common Issues & Modifications
When evaluating a 1959 Tremolux, understanding typical problems and modifications helps assess both authenticity and condition.
Typical Age-Related Issues
Electrolytic Capacitor Failure: Original filter capacitors typically require replacement after 65+ years
Tube Socket Degradation: Phenolic tube sockets may develop poor connections requiring cleaning or replacement
Potentiometer Problems: Carbon composition pots often become scratchy or intermittent
Transformer Core Noise: Original transformers may develop mechanical noise from core lamination movement
Speaker Reconing: Jensen P12Q speakers frequently require professional reconing due to age
Common Modifications That Affect Value
Output Transformer Replacement: Often necessary but significantly impacts collector value
Speaker Upgrades: Period-incorrect speakers reduce authenticity and value
Three-Prong Power Cord: Safety modification that's generally accepted but affects originality
Bias Supply Modifications: Some technicians modify the bias circuit for easier tube matching
Tremolo Speed Modification: Common modification to slow down the tremolo speed range
Warning Signs of Counterfeits or Misrepresentation
Incorrect Tube Chart: Beware of amps with "5G9" tube charts - no authentic examples are known
Wrong Cabinet Size: 5G9 models should always be in Pro-sized cabinets, not Deluxe-sized
Cathode Bias Conversion: Some sellers convert 5E9-A amps and misrepresent them as 5G9 models
Component Value Changes: Incorrect resistor or capacitor values indicate circuit modifications
Refinished Tweed: Be suspicious of tweed that appears too clean or evenly colored
Professional Evaluation Recommendations Given the complexity and value of 1959 Tremolux amplifiers, professional authentication is strongly recommended. Key evaluation points include:
Circuit Analysis: Verify correct 5G9 component values and layout
Transformer Authentication: Confirm original transformer codes and specifications
Component Dating: Cross-reference all dated components for consistency
Construction Details: Examine solder joints, wire types, and assembly techniques
Why Players and Collectors Value the 1959 Tremolux
The 1959 Fender Tremolux has achieved legendary status among both players and collectors for compelling reasons that extend beyond mere rarity.
Playing Characteristics Professional musicians prize the 1959 Tremolux for its unique combination of features:
Perfect Studio Volume: 18 watts provides ideal power for recording and club performances
Versatile Tremolo: The bias-vary tremolo works beautifully across all musical styles
Enhanced Headroom: Clean tones remain pristine at volumes where Deluxe amps begin distorting
Touch Sensitivity: Exceptional dynamic response rewards subtle playing techniques
Recording Excellence: The larger cabinet and choke filtering create a more "finished" recorded sound
Collector Appeal Factors Serious vintage amplifier collectors seek 1959 Tremolux examples for several reasons:
Historical Significance: Represents the culmination of tweed-era innovation
Engineering Excellence: Features advanced circuitry years ahead of competitors
Extreme Rarity: Limited production numbers ensure continued appreciation
Investment Potential: Values have shown consistent appreciation over decades
Crossover Appeal: Attracts both amp collectors and guitar collectors
Investment Potential and Market Outlook The 1959 Tremolux represents an exceptional investment opportunity:
Supply Constraints: No additional examples will ever be manufactured
Increasing Recognition: Growing awareness of the 5G9 circuit's significance
Baby Boomer Demand: Peak collecting demographic continues driving prices
International Interest: Global collectors compete for the few available examples
Restoration Market: Professional restoration services maintain and enhance values
Historical Significance in Music The 1959 Tremolux influenced the development of subsequent Fender amplifiers:
Blackface Deluxe Development: Many 5G9 features appeared in 1960s Deluxe and Deluxe Reverb models
Tremolo Evolution: The bias-vary tremolo became Fender's standard tremolo design
Fixed Bias Adoption: Demonstrated the superiority of fixed bias in smaller amplifiers
Cabinet Design: The larger cabinet concept influenced later combo amplifier designs
Selling Your 1959 Fender Tremolux
If you own a 1959 Fender Tremolux, you possess one of the most valuable and historically significant vintage amplifiers ever produced. Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing these exceptional instruments and offers several distinct advantages over other selling options.
Why Choose Edgewater Guitars
Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops for rare tweed amplifiers
Expert Authentication: Our team includes recognized experts in vintage Fender amplifier identification
Immediate Cash Offers: No waiting periods or consignment fees - we make offers within 24 hours
White-Glove Service: For high-value amplifiers like the 1959 Tremolux, we provide on-site evaluation
Discrete Transactions: We understand the sensitivity of high-value vintage equipment sales
Our Evaluation Process When you contact Edgewater Guitars about your 1959 Tremolux, we begin with:
Initial Documentation: Photos of serial numbers, tube charts, and overall condition
Circuit Verification: Confirmation of authentic 5G9 specifications and components
Transformer Authentication: Verification of original power and output transformers
Market Analysis: Current market research to ensure maximum fair value
Professional Appraisal: On-site inspection for high-value examples
Comparison to Other Selling Options Local Guitar Shops: Typically lack expertise in rare tweed amplifiers and offer 50-60% of market value Online Marketplaces: Involve significant time, effort, and risk with no guarantee of sale Auction Houses: Charge 20-25% commissions and provide no control over final pricing Private Sales: Require extensive marketing and involve security risks for valuable items
Ready to sell your vintage Fender amplifier? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation professional valuation at (440) 219-3607 or through our secure online quote system.
Related Resources
For additional information about your 1959 Fender Tremolux or other vintage Fender amplifiers, these resources provide valuable reference material:
Fender Amplifier Dating Guides
Authentication Resources
Market Information
Conclusion
The 1959 Fender Tremolux represents one of the most significant achievements in vintage amplifier design - a perfect synthesis of Leo Fender's innovative engineering and the golden era of American manufacturing. For collectors, the historical importance and extreme rarity make it an essential addition to any serious vintage Fender collection. For players, the exceptional tonal qualities and professional-grade tremolo provide an unmatched musical experience.
Whether you're researching the value of an inherited amplifier or considering adding a 1959 Tremolux to your collection, understanding its significance helps appreciate why these amplifiers command such respect and value in today's market.
Ready to sell your vintage Fender amplifier? Edgewater Guitars serves collectors and players throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments like the 1959 Tremolux and provide immediate cash offers that consistently exceed local shop valuations.
Contact us today at (440) 219-3607 for your free, professional evaluation, or visit our website to begin the process with our secure online quote system.
About the Author: This guide was prepared by the vintage amplifier specialists at Edgewater Guitars, recognized experts in Fender amplifier authentication and valuation with over 20 years of experience in the vintage equipment market. Our team includes certified technicians and collectors who specialize in tweed-era Fender amplifiers.
