Tube Amplifier Service

Because of the variables involved, only general pricing can be discussed on a website. Each tube amp has its own design layout which can require more or less time compared to other amplifiers.

Bench Fee $120

High voltages present in tube amplifiers mean they cannot be powered on and diagnosed as part of the intake. The Bench Fee is the minimum charge for all tube amplifier services and does not imply issues will be resolved within the allotted time although, it may be possible.

Depending on the amplifier design, it may take all of the Bench Fee just get inside and see what might be wrong. Any previous work done to the amp may complicate the current realities, especially if “modded” or altered by a previous tech. If some adventurous soul did something they were not qualified to do, the price may go up drastically or, the work might be declined.

I will do everything I can to help you, but there may be times I decline work after taking an amplifier in. I will also decline any requests which permanently alter a vintage amplifier or, any request that disregards safety.

Basic services within the bench fee might include:

  • Cleaning potentiometers

  • Replacing an input jack

  • Cleaning tube sockets

  • Replacing preamp tubes (parts not included)

  • Replacing power tubes (parts not included)

  • Fixed adjustable bias adjustments

The Bench Fee is non-refundable.

Filter Caps $120 (and up)

Electrolytic capacitors in tube amplifiers filter out ripple current in the power section of the amplifier among other jobs in various circuits. Over time, these capacitors wear out and need to be replaced.

How often should they be replaced?

There are different opinions on this, but every ten years it is a good idea. Any signs of bulging or leaking capacitors should justify replacing them. The specific IC brand of cap on most modern Fender amps should be replaced as part of basic servicing.

Collectors may obsess about keeping an old amp original but, relying on worn out filter capacitors may ruin more than just a capacitor. At that point, dreams of keeping the original go up in a puff of smoke.

Price does not include parts and any associated shipping costs for parts.

Fender Blues Juniors $120 and Up

Every Blues Junior to leave a Fender factory has bias issues. The EL 84’s are running in conditions exceeding their ability to dissipate heat. Over time this will damage the traces holding the tube sockets in place as well as damage the tubes.

Because of inherent design issues, the tube socket printed circuit board (PCB) may end up damaged to such a degree an after market replacement is recommended.

There are a variety of repairs, upgrades and modifications which could be considered and many are detailed in the Custom & Mods section of this website.

Fender Hot Rod Series $120 and Up

Perhaps the most widely used guitar amplifier in history. The Hot Rod Deluxe and DeVille are true work horse amplifiers. Like the Blues Junior, they do have well known issues that lead to problems at some point.

Replacing the Illinois filter capacitors and various resistors are the most common preventative maintenance items you can do. Once inside and dropping the circuit board replacing the plastic input jack is a fine idea.

Price does not include parts or any associated shipping costs for parts.