Standel 82J15 Tube-Hybrid

The rare Standel Custom tube/solid state hybrids of the early 60s are considered among the finest guitar and pedal steel amplifiers ever made and have been our most requested models to reissue. These cult classics had epoxied electronics which were impossible to repair and their inner circuits a mystery. After reverse engineering several originals in our collection, and pouring over schematics in our archives, we’re proud to bring back these venerated models after 60 years.

The Custom Hybrid Series are the most powerful amplifiers we offer, with an all-tube power section (w/ tube phase inverter and optional tube rectifier) and germanium transistor preamp. With up to 50-watts, studio quiet operation, edge-lighted dial, and our signature “slant back” cabinet design, the Custom Hybrid Series amps are tailor-made for those seeking gutsy, angelic tones, either as a guitar pedal platform, or for pedal steel guitar, for all musical styles.

Made in the USA.

Background:

The hybrids were popularized by jazz legend Wes Montgomery, country giants Grady Martin, Leon Rhodes and Buddy Emmons, among others. They were the pinnacle of Standel tube design melded with vintage solid-state tech, yielding rich, tube warmth, robust lows, a magical midrange (thanks to the special “Contour” control, featured here), sparkling highs and extended clean headroom from their all-tube counterparts. When pushed they deliver fat, punchy overdriven tones as well.

Models:

There are 2 Custom Hybrid models from which to choose. Both are great for capturing those classic tones and love all pedals, even fuzz and distortion, and especially reverbs and delays.

The 82J15 is a 1×15” 50-watt 6L6GC and 12ax7 driven combo, made for high-volume pedal steel and guitar, with heavy-duty transformers. Covered in tan tolex with oxblood grill and steel reinforced real leather handle, with a Jensen style Warehouse G15Q. Price: $2,899.00.

The 52J12 is a 1×12” 40-watt, 5881 and 12ax7 driven combo, made for guitar and medium volume pedal steel. Covered in tan tolex with oxblood grill and steel reinforced real leather handle, with a Jensen style Mojotone Anthem speaker. Price: $2,749.00

Custom Hybrid Series Features:

All-tube power section (2 power tubes, 12ax7 tube phase inverter),solid-state preamp.
Edge-Lighted Dial with original fonts
2 separate channels – 1 Normal and 1 Bright.
Full Tone Stack: Shared Treble, Bass, & Contour (Midrange).
No epoxied “modules” as in the originals; Bob Crooks’ original pre-amp design is mounted on a small USA made PCB card which can easily be serviced; the remainder is hand wired on tag strips, as original.
Convertible Rectifier Socket: install a solid-state rectifier plug for max headroom, or a GZ34 for more tube compression & natural break-up (a solid state rectifier plug comes standard).
Internal bias pot and bias test points for quick power tube swaps.
Handcrafted poplar and birch cabinets with true vintage specs, covered in thick tolex. Trimmed in “Brite dip” aluminum trim, with chrome lower bumpers. Covers available: see link below
90-day full warranty (30-day factory warranty on tubes and speaker).

Note: Historically, Jensen speakers came standard in Standels, with a JBL option, a tradition we continue today. A Jensen style speaker gives the most versatility, warmth and texture to your amplifier. A JBL D130(F) gives the amp a loud, uncolored sound, and a distinctive twang, great for country and surf.

*** – If you have an original hybrid or solid state in need of a module, please visit our Tech page.

Options:
JBL D130(F) with warranty for 82J15 (as available): $325
Custom colors: $100 (4-5 week lead time as custom color cabs are built to order).
Install your own tested 8-ohm speaker: deduct $129 from the 82J15 and $59 from the 52J12 (we recommend purchasing with speaker, to assure your amplifier functions as intended).
Add Naugahyde Covering: $200
Add Original Standel Stock Aluminum Trim Band around cabinet: $75 for 1, $125 for 2.

For covers, visit: amplifiercovers.com