Gibson Falcon Amps, we told you they were coming last week. In a thrilling announcement ahead of NAMM 2024, Gibson has unveiled its revamped line of guitar amplifiers, introducing the Falcon 5 and Falcon 20. These tube amp combos, born from a collaboration with the legendary Randall Smith and his Mesa/Boogie team, are a modern nod to the iconic ‘60s Gibson designs.
Compact Power, Rich Tone: Introducing the Falcon 5 and Falcon 20
The Falcon series marks a striking balance between vintage aesthetics and contemporary functionality. The Falcon 5, a seven-watt wonder, is equipped with a 10-inch Jensen Blackbird 40 speaker. Its bigger counterpart, the Falcon 20, pushes a robust 12 watts through a 12-inch Jensen Blackbird. Both models feature power scaling, allowing players to adjust their output for various environments, from intimate home settings to live stages.
Design and Features: A Fusion of the Old and the New
Gibson’s commitment to quality and style is evident in the Falcon amps’ design. Housed in durable baltic birch cabinets with a sleek cream bronco vinyl finish, these amps exude a timeless appeal. The elegant oxblood grille cloth further accentuates their classic look. Moreover, both models come with tube-driven spring reverb, with the Falcon 20 boasting an additional foot-switchable tremolo.
Control and Customization at Your Fingertips
User-friendliness is key in the Falcon series. The polished steel control panel, adorned with an amber jewel light, offers easy access to various controls. The Falcon 20 features dials for Volume, Tone, and Reverb, along with Depth and Frequency for the tremolo. It also incorporates Mesa/Boogie’s innovative Multi-Watt technology, providing diverse power handling options.
The Falcon 5: Simplicity Meets Versatility
The Falcon 5, a Class A amplifier, mirrors its sibling’s features, sans the tremolo. It comes with a 6V6 power tube, which can be swapped for a 6L6 for extra power. The Falcon 20 also supports 6L6 tubes, increasing its maximum output to 15 watts.
Portability and Connectivity
Despite their robust features, both Falcon models boast impressive portability. The Falcon 20 weighs 31lbs, and the lighter Falcon 5 comes in at 26lbs. They also offer diverse connectivity options, including DI outputs and multiple speaker outputs.
Prices
Made in Petaluma, California, the Falcon amps offer premium quality at reasonable prices. The Falcon 5 is priced at $1,499, while the Falcon 20 is available for $1,799. Each comes with a slipcover, which is included in the price.
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