Fender Vibrosonic versus Steel King

Garry S.Pugh · Post by **Garry S.Pugh** » 7 Feb 2006 11:40 am

I have early 70's Vibrosonic amp, with the original orange JBL 15" speaker made for Fender. It's a great amp but it seems to get heavier each year, I don't understand that

I have heard a lot about the Steel King and it sounds like a good amp. Does anyone have a feel for a comparison of the 2 amps. I realize this is a pretty subjective subject but I would be interested in anyone's opinion. Thanks

Mike Archer · Post by **Mike Archer** » 7 Feb 2006 1:41 pm

i have had the vibrosonic amp
mine was about 81 model its with out a doubt a great amp both for steel and guitar
it is a bit heavy in fact way to much for me
i now have a fender steel king this is
the best sounding steel amp i have ever played through it to is a little heavy but well worth it and it has some nice bells and
whisiles on it too good tone right off the bat....its a 9 out of 10 easy

Tim Harr · Post by **Tim Harr** » 8 Feb 2006 10:31 am

Garry, Hey! The Vibrosonic is a different sound than the Steel King.

IMHO, the Steel King is a very solid amp. It has a very nice warmth and gain.

They each have their own unique qualities.

I like the Steel King...and it is lighter...

Tim

Jud Thomas · Post by **Jud Thomas** » 8 Feb 2006 6:46 pm

I used to have a '73 Vibrosonic with the big orange PS15 speaker. Man that thing is heavy! It sounds really nice and warm. I liked it, but man that old circuitry requires constant maintenance and it ain't cheap! I ended up trading it for a Steel King and I couldn't be happier. The sound is really good. There's more flexibility as far as shaping the sound, but it still sounds like a Fender.
Sometimes I miss the Vibrosonic for its character, but overall I'm really happy with the Steel King.
Just my $0.02.
Jud

Frank Parish · Post by **Frank Parish** » 10 Feb 2006 6:06 pm

What about a newer Vibrasonic? Say maybe a late 90's model? anyone have any experience with these late models?