1963 Gibson GA-19 RVT Falcon Skip Simmons serviced
No Sales Tax For Customers Outside Of California.
This Gibson GA-19 RVT sat around the shop for quite a while, waiting for an opportunity to drag it down to Skip Simmon's place so he could apply the mods that he frequently discusses on the Truth About Vintage Amps podcast.
The Falcon was long maligned, and justly so. Gibson built the amp with a sort of a governor in the circuit, limiting the ability for the amp to get into the output stage distortion that we all love. Skip defeated this, and the amp really opened up. It now rivals the best amps in the shop, and it includes some killer reverb and tremolo that other amps sounding like it do not have. The work performed on the amp represents a big savings for you if you're considering grabbing an untouched version and sending it to Skip or another tech for the work - to the tune of $300 plus shipping, etc.
The amp initially arrived here with a terrible replacement speaker. I added a Jensen C12R from 1969. It was reconed recently by Speaker Repair Pros.
The handle is missing the plastic insert. Replacements are available out there on the interwebs. The back panel has a small hole in it - likely a former speaker output jack.
Transformers are original, tubes have been tested, including a new set of JJ power tubes and a host of vintage (probably GE made) preamp tubes.
The amp sounds amazing, runs quiet and strong, and is poised to be one of the best investments in your tonal arsenal.
The grille has been spray painted.
I agree with this ChatGPT generated description of the amp:
The Gibson GA-19 RVT Falcon is a cherished vintage amplifier known for its rich tone and classic aesthetic. Originally introduced in the early 1960s, it was one of the first amplifiers to feature onboard reverb, a groundbreaking addition at the time. This amp is equipped with a 12-inch Jensen speaker, delivering 12-16 watts of output, making it ideal for both recording and intimate live performances.
The GA-19 RVT combines sweet, warm cleans with the ability to achieve gritty, responsive overdrive by simply adjusting the guitar's volume knob. Its lush tube-driven spring reverb and bias-modulated tremolo add a dimension of depth and atmosphere to your sound, making it a favorite among players who appreciate vintage sonic character. The reverb operates on a parallel circuit, allowing unique tonal versatility, such as creating a fully wet reverb signal separate from the main guitar volume.
This amp's circuitry and construction draw comparisons to the Fender 5E3 Deluxe, but with the added appeal of Gibson's unique tone-shaping features. Its lightweight cabinet, vintage styling, and thoughtful design, like the monitor out jack for signal routing, make it a standout among vintage amplifiers. Original components, like the Gibbs reverb tank and RCA tubes, further enhance its desirability. With appropriate professional maintenance, including upgraded grounding and necessary cap replacements, this amp is a reliable and evocative choice for enthusiasts of vintage gear.
For players and collectors, the GA-19 RVT Falcon represents a piece of amplifier history, offering both practicality and a distinctive sonic palette for studio and stage use
Case/Cover?: No
Color: Black
Dimensions: W22" x H18-1/8" x D10-1/2"
Weight: 27 bs
Watts: 14 Watts
Date: 1963
Where is Date Noted?: Serial #
Speaker 1 Brand: Jensen C12R (non original 1969)
Speaker 1 Size: 12"
Speaker Code: See Pics
Speaker 1 Cone: Reconed
Power Transformer Brand/Codes: See Pics
Output Transformer Brand/Codes: See Pics
Extension Speaker Out? No
Reverb or other effects?: Reverb, Tremolo
Rectifier Tube: 5U4
Rectifier Tube Brand: TAD
Power Tubes: 2 x 6V6
Power Tube Brand: JJ
Preamp Tubes: 6EU7, 6EU7, 7199, 6EU7
Preamp Tube Brand: Likely vintage GE tubes
Filter Caps: Replaced
Pedal: Original
Pots/Codes: Original
Tolex/Tweed: Original
Grille: Original
Knobs: Original
Handle: Broken/Original
Power Cord: 3 Prong
Notes:
Shipping policy:
When you purchase this item you are hereby agreeing to this shipping policy. We remove tubes from amps that could be damaged in shipping. We remove the chassis from some amps so that the large transformers don't damage a chassis or cabinet. We remove heavy speakers from some amps so they don't damage baffles. These cases result in multiple box shipments, and they require the buyer to do some assembly on delivery. We do this because we have experienced shipping issues in the past, and this is our prevention measure. Shipments will require signature on delivery, no exceptions. If there is damage, the buyer must retain all packing materials intact and picture them immediately and send them to sales@maharsvintageguitars.com. Less than 1% of our shipments are damaged in transit, and we are committed to making sure your item arrives safely, but we are taking these additional measures to make sure you are happy with your purchase.
Buyer to pay prior to shipment via Paypal, wire transfer, credit card or other electronic means. Payment must clear before shipping. Certified checks and trades are accepted, however checks must clear before we will ship and trades must be received here and evaluated prior to shipment of our item.
All orders ship within three business days of the receipt of an order, usually faster. Tracking information will be automatically forwarded to all buyers. Buyers must retain all shipping materials in the event a return is necessary.
Returns accepted if the purchaser responds within 48 hours of receipt of an item and there is a discrepancy relating to the condition or originality of an item. Returns are not accepted for items that do not meet the needs or sonic tastes of clients due to the subjective nature, unless such concern is stated prior to the purchase. Any return for reasons other than incorrect advertising of condition or originality on the part of Mahar's Vintage Guitars shall be the responsibility of the buyer, which shall result in the buyer paying all shipping costs (to and from) their location.