WATKINS WESTMINSTER c1963

Watkins Westminster valve (tube) amp for sale in very good cosmetic condition.

Serviced and sounding great – these Westminsters are superb recording amps. All-original internally aside from minor out of spec components changed in service.

It has a full complement of original Mullard valves (one replacement NOS Mullard ECL82 fitted), original Elac alnico speaker and a great tremolo circuit.

Dating from around 1963, this model Westminster has long been my go-to amp in the studio: often outclassing vastly more expensive – but admittedly better-looking – vintage Fender, Vox and Marshall amps from the same era.

Don’t be fooled by this amp’s staid looks – sonically it’s a beauty. Close your eyes and listen – the sound is unmistakably that of a quality handbuilt vintage valve amp – rich, warm, huge tones with great break-up when pushed hard. This little 10w amp has all the right components brought together in one of Charlie Watkins best amp designs.

It sounds fabulous, is a joy to play through and an absolute revelation when recording, sounding bigger and more expensive than it’s diminutive stature suggests. In short, a belter of an amp that’s not so loud that you can’t use it for great tone at home – delivering sweet creamy valve tones at living room levels.

There are two inputs and controls for Volume, Tone and Tremolo Speed (the Tremolo control has an on/off pot).

In very good cosmetic condition – scuffs to the case, gold metal grille is clean with a couple of minor dings, the control panel is excellent (click on the photos to zoom in and see many more detailed shots).

It is a UK 240v model and will require a step-up transformer for use in Canada and USA. We can supply high quality UK-made transformers if required.