1961 Fender Tremolux 6G9 – EL84s, Ultra Rare, One-Owner

For your consideration, Garrett Park Guitars presents this 1961 Fender Tremolux 6G9.

With an estimated production run of only 220 units, the 6G9 circuit Tremolux is arguably the rarest production amplifier in Fender history. This short-lived unicorn represents a fascinating, brief moment in 1961 when Leo Fender experimented with an EL84 power section before rapidly pivoting to the 6L6 we typically associate with the Fender Sound.

EL84 power tubes infuse the clarity one would expect from an FEIC amp with a gorgeous, complex British-style chime and an athletic midrange punch. Because Fender pushed these tubes with an exceptionally high plate voltage (around 400V), the 6G9 delivers a highly unique paradox: thick, harmonic midrange overdrive paired with a fast, tight bass response. This tonal footprint is perfectly complemented by its ported tone ring, another of Leo's experiments, designed to lend his piggyback line greater low-end authority.  

This example, a one-owner from Cleveland, is an investment-grade amp. It presents in excellent condition, showing well below-average wear for its age. Apart from an modern grounded line cord for safe operation, it is otherwise completely original throughout—including its Schumacher transformers.

The crown jewel of this piece is its intact, albeit heavily faded, original tube chart. Serving as a stark historical testament to the rushed, experimental nature of this design, the chart is a hasty, factory-typed mimeograph sheet rather than the professionally printed paper labels found on most Fender models of the era. This minor detail is the ultimate "smoking gun" for discerning collectors, proving its status as a true first-run jewel.

Specifications

All components original

Model & Year

• Model: Fender Tremolux
• Year of manufacture: 1961
• Chassis Serial Number: 00371
• Circuit: 6G9
• Output Power: ~20W
• Weight: 56lbs 12oz (Head: 24lbs 12oz / Cabinet: 32lbs)

Tubes

• Power: EL84 x 2
• Preamp: 12AX7 x 2
• Tremolo / Phase Inverter: 12AX7 x 2
• Rectifier: GZ34

Transformers & Choke

• Power: Schumacher 125P6A (606116)
• Output: Schumacher 45217 (606-117)
• Choke: Schumacher 125C1A (606107)

Cabinet

• Material: Pine with plywood baffle
• Covering: Blonde Tolex
• Grill Cloth: Oxblood
• Handle: Original rubber
• Speaker: Oxford 10k5R-1- 10" with ported tone ring
• Line Cord: Modern 3-prong
• Tube Chart: Original mimeographed chart intact, but illegible due to fading 

Condition: Excellent

• Cosmetic: Excellent with below-average wear; missing knurled thumbscrews to secure the head for tilt-back
• Structural: Excellent with no breaks or repairs
• Accessories: Modern speaker cable