Vintage Fender Vibroverb 'Export Model' 40W Combo Amplifier - Blackface - USA 1964

Here is a Fender Vibroverb, one of the most sought-after and historically significant blackface-era amplifiers ever produced. Built during a short production window between 1963 and mid-1964, with fewer than 1,500 units made, this example is the rare export version, of which only approximately 300 were produced, making it an exceptionally scarce piece of Fender history.

The Vibroverb holds a special place in amplifier design as Fender’s first production model to feature built-in spring reverb, setting the benchmark for countless amplifiers that followed. Delivering around 40 watts of tube power through a single 15-inch Jensen C15 speaker, it offers a bold, full-range voice with strong clean headroom, clear top end, and a wide, open low-frequency response. The single 15-inch format gives the amp a broader, more spacious feel compared to smaller speaker configurations, making it particularly well suited to surf, blues, rock, and beyond.

This example retains its original Jensen C15 speaker, an important tonal distinction from later JBL-equipped versions. While JBL speakers were favoured by some players for their efficiency and brightness, the Jensen delivers a warmer, more balanced response with smoother highs and a more classic vintage character, avoiding the sharper edge often associated with aluminium-cone designs.

The onboard tremolo is deep, warm, and highly musical, complementing the lush spring reverb that defines the Vibroverb’s sound. Both functions are fully operational via the included footswitch. As with many Fender amplifiers of the era, the term “vibrato” was historically used to describe what is technically a tremolo effect, adding to the model’s vintage charm.

Tonally, the Vibroverb captures an unmistakable early-’60s character—clear, dynamic, and rich with harmonic depth. It pairs exceptionally well with single-coil guitars, delivering that instantly recognisable vintage Fender voice with clarity and responsiveness. With ample headroom and a strong pedal platform, it remains highly usable in modern playing contexts while retaining its original sonic identity.

Specifications:

Year: 1964
Country: USA
Model: Fender Vibroverb
Speaker: Jensen C15N
Channels: Not specified
Controls: Not specified
Serial Number: A01732
Pot Codes: 6350 (50th week 1963)
Power Transformer: Export model 
Choke: 606-4-02 
Transformers: Mercury Magnetics output and reverb transformers
Capacitors: New filter caps; some coupling caps replaced with Sozo and Jupiter
Resistors: Some replaced in power section where required