1955 Fender Champ 5E1

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1955 Fender Champ 5E1

Fender's first "narrow panel" Champ variant, the 5E1 model made its debut in 1955 replacing the "wide panel" 5C1, commonly called the Champ 600. These first narrow panel 5E1 Champs are unique in that they feature the same smaller size box of the 600/5C1, which is an inch shorter and 1.5 inches narrower than the 5F1 Champs that were introduced about a year later. The shift to a larger cabinet in 1956 also allowed for the 5E1 Champ's 6" speaker to be swapped for an 8" as the model transitioned to the 5F1 circuit.

A nice example of an early narrow panel tweed amp, this 1955 Fender Champ is a largely original amplifier with an attractive patina and excellent tone. With its original tweed, circuit, and transformers, this 5E1 Champ has a lot going for it. The original baffle, with its grill cloth attached, has been removed from the amp and replaced by a reproduction baffle with an 8” speaker installed. The original baffle is currently outfitted with a replacement 6" and could easily be reinstalled; however, the 8” Weber speaker that is currently installed sounds rather spectacular. The handle is a reproduction part, and the handle bracket screws have been replaced.

This amplifier comes with its original 6" speaker which is non-functional, a modern 6” speaker that is mounted to the original baffle (with original grill cloth), and its replacement baffle with 8” Weber ceramic speaker.
1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1
  • 1955 Fender Champ 5E1

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