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Post subject: Blues Jr. NOS vs. Vintage Reissue '65 Princeton Reverb
Posted: Tue Aug 24, 2010 6:07 pm
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I am searching for the ultimate Fender amp for blues to use in my home. I currently have a Blues Jr. NOS. While there are a lot of things that I like about this amp, I am not blown away by it. I do like having a gain knob, but don't care for the reverb. Would the '65 Princeton Reverb reissue be a better choice?

How do these two amps compare in quality, sound and reliability? With the Princeton, I would be giving up the gain knob, of course, but considered using a tube screamer and/or an OCD pedal to compensate for this.

Also, what is the thought about cranking up the volume of the amp and backing off the volume on the guitar to make up for not having a gain knob?

I am really serious about music and I want to have the best.

Thank you for your help.


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Posted: Tue Aug 24, 2010 6:30 pm
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The PRRI's reverb is an all-tube affair whereas the BJr's is designed around ICs and op-amps. As well, the Princeton has a more "organic" tone when break-up is reached, primarily due to the saturation characteristics of the 6V6 output tubes -- it's warmer and less dramatic than the fizzy high-gain drive typical of 6BQ5/EL84 platforms like the BJr. If you favor a vintage blues tone over multi-stage gain, the Princeton Reverb will not disappoint.

As for reliability, there are some anecdotal reports of cabinet buzz and microphonic tubes with the new PRRI. I haven't heard this phenomena personally (my PR is an original from 1965) but many folks report having to exchange these amps, sometimes less than a week after purchase. Both amps utilize PCB's but there are no "here-today-obsolete-tomorrow" components used in the PR's chassis. For that reason alone, I give it the reliability nod over the BJr.

Best of luck, HTH

Arjay

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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 6:29 pm
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Thanks for the input. I was leaning toward the Princeton, if for nothing else, it is American made. I also considered the '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue, but felt that it would be too loud for home use. Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.


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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 6:59 pm
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Both the PRRI and DRRI are fine amps but the Deluxe Reverb will sound monstrous volume-wise in comparison to the Princeton. It's fully capable for routine pro gig work -- the PRRI, somewhat less so (without miking it through a PA/SR system, especially with a "rude" drummer). My DRRI has served me well onstage in many saloons and clubs.

HTH

Arjay

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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 7:37 pm
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I agree with Arjay. DRRI hands down. It will blow away anything in the Hot Rod Series in tone, build quality and reliability.

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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 8:13 pm
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Just for clarification, wouldn't the DRRI be too loud for home use? I was leaning toward the PRRI because the amp will be used primaily for in home enjoyment.

However, I want to have the best.

Thanks again for all the helpful input.


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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 8:56 pm
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Well Hoss it just depends upon how "big" your home is now, doesn't it?

:mrgreen:

For a suburban dwelling in a typical tract development, I'd put my money on the Princeton.

But keep this in mind: It makes more economic sense to grow into an amp than it does to grow out of one.

HTH

Arjay

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"Here's why reliability is job one: A great sounding amp that breaks down goes from being a favorite piece of gear to a useless piece of crap in less time than it takes to read this sentence." -- BRUCE ZINKY


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Posted: Wed Aug 25, 2010 9:37 pm
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Didn't notice you posted here as well... as mentioned in the other thread, I would still go with the DRRI. If you plan to turn it up, whether it's the PRRI or DRRI, both will be loud, specially in an apartment. If you live in a house it's not really an issue IMO. I play through my DRRI with the volume at 6 or 7 and non of my neighbors have complained yet :) I keep the vol on my guitars around 5 or 6 and if I wanted it dirtier I turn it all the way up.

The DRRI will get you some of the best Blues tones ever, even at lower volumes, with a tube screamer it'll still sound heavenly. Nothing wrong with the PRRI at all, but for me the DRRI takes it to the next level, you'll never get tired of that tone!


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