Watkins Westminster
Watkins Westminster
Brand: Watkins/WEM
Sorry it's gone. We may have another in stock or on the way. Please enquire below (or check our weekly Gear Update for incoming rarities).
Dating from around 1963, this 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 restrained looks - sonically it's an absolute beauty. Close your eyes and listen - the sound is unmistakably that of a top 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 has a full complement of original Mullard valves, original 8” Elac speaker - and a great tremolo circuit complete with footswitch.
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The condition is fair - it has sustained woodworm damage (no longer active!) with holes visible mainly on the front and rear. It also has some other scuffs and signs of wear and age including one missing knob cap. It was given a thorough service about a year ago - all the failing/out of spec components were changed. I'm only selling it to make way for... another Westminster.
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HALLAM KITE
"Excellent equipment, wonderful service. I fully recommend Soundgas to anyone in the vintage gear market and I will definitely be a return customer. The gear itself was exactly as advertised and in great condition."
DAVID WRENCH
“I’ve bought a number of items from Soundgas recently, and have been really impressed with their service. It takes the stress out of buying vintage gear to know it’s been properly (and faithfully) serviced or restored. Their after-sales service has also been exemplary. Highly recommended.”
TOM JOHNSTON
Fantastic. From initial contact to the product landing at my door the service provided was outstanding. Safe and secure shipping, quality serviced product.
MATTHEW HERBERT
"Finally, a company that tracks down all those brilliant curiosities that bring so much character and personality to a studio."
JOSH LLOYD-WATSON & TOM MCFARLAND - JUNGLE
“Imagine the perfect eBay.... with everything you never knew you wanted… and you can rest assured that your vintage and rare wobbly sound device will turn up on time and in one piece and possibly in even better condition that when it left the workshop. Soundgas - literally amazing."