Amp Refinery
Refining classic amp circuits for real-world players... like you.
Sound clips and demos coming soon
Refining classic amp circuits for real-world players... like you.
Sound clips and demos coming soon
I built my 5E3 Tweed Deluxe over 25 years ago from a Mission kit. It was an incredible project—and a great introduction to amp building.
Unfortunately, I hated it.
It was loud, flubby, grainy-sounding, and unpredictable -- I was clearly missing something... or possibly even doing something wrong. Bottom line, it didn't sound or feel the way I wanted it to.
Over the years, I kept coming back to it:
Fixing wiring mistakes
Experimenting with circuit tweaks, component values, and material types
Swapping speakers and tubes
Using attenuators to manage volume
Comparing it directly to vintage tweeds and modern boutique builds
Exploring new ideas from the amazing forums across the web dedicated to the 5E3.
Eventually, something clicked.
By making a series of small but intentional changes, I ended up with an amp that still has that Tweed Deluxe character... but behaves in a more usable, musical way:
Tighter, more controlled low end (no flub)
Smoother, more musical breakup (less grain/swirl)
Consistent response at higher volumes
I’ve played my refined amp side-by-side with original Tweeds, including a 1959 5E3, a 1959 Harvard, and other vintage-style amps like the famous Martin branded Rowe-Dearmond R15. Based on feedback from fellow players (and my own ears), my Tweed holds its own, and works incredibly well in a variety of real-world playing situations (think big and small stages, studios, and rehearsal rooms -- indoor and outdoor).
Many people love the stock 5E3... and for good reason --It's a classic design. I was seeking something more refined and useful, and I suspect others are as well. Listen to my sound clips - if that's what you are chasing, you have found a sympathetic set of ears.
This isn’t about changing what a 5E3 is—it’s about making it behave better.
I'll be documenting:
The exact circuit changes that made the difference for me
Specific component values and types I used
Speaker choices and how they affect the result
Videos of a Refined amp, and comparisons so you can judge for yourself
Everything will be shared openly - I benefited from a LOT of freely offered wisdom out here, and you should as well.
For those who want to skip the trial-and-error on the 5E3 journey, I’ll also be offering carefully selected parts based on what actually worked in my amp... including some unique components with a bit of history behind them.
If you are chasing a more refined tweed sound, you're in the right place. More soon!
Amp Refinery