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.