Here‘s a unique one! This early Crestline era GA-30RVT has some undeniable mojo- with a bit of a different tube array; 7591s in the power section, and 6EU7s in the preamp. There is no 0A2 on this particular amp, and it can be retubed easily and cheaply if the need ever arises. It has the earlier tone stack, with the “bass cut” style tone control. Further adding to its cool factor is the combination of 10” and 12” speakers, a bold decision by Gibson that sets it apart from Fenders and Ampegs of the era.
This one has been serviced to include new electrolytic filter caps, a new MOD reverb tank, and replacement MCM speakers. It sounds quite nice and the high watt speakers help give it a bit of extra headroom; something welcome in this amp which decidedly wants to be on the cleaner side. These amps are known for their wet and complex reverb, as well as deep and lush bias wiggle tremolo - both of which sound great on this example.
It has seen couple of minor cosmetic modifications to include a cool vintage “refrigerator” handle, and some tabs folded from under the chassis to provide extra support for the control panel. The upper back panel is not present, however all of the original transformers are. There are an array of vintage USA tubes, including RCA 7591s, albeit from slightly different eras, as well as RCA and Sylvania 6EU7s. The original hardwired footswitch is present, and functions as it should. There are some minor tears to the tolex in corners, as well as a bit of staining to the grillcloth; however it looks quite cool and retro as a Gibson from this vintage should. This would make a fantastic amp for the surf rock crowd, and it takes pedals well. It’s on the lighter side for an amp of its size, and would travel well.
Don’t miss out on this cool piece of Gibson history!