1954 Vintage Supro Valco 1x12 combo Spectator/Comet tube amplifier - $500 - (Iron Mountain, MI)
This vintage treasure could be a Supro Spectator (per schematic) although the design and cabinet are identical to amps branded as "Comet". I found no reference on any Comet being a 1x12 combo, though. Apparently there is no single definitive reference on National/ValCo/Supro equipment, or at least amplifiers, from this time period. The tube complement is: a 6SL7 at the input, a 5Y3 rectifier, and a 6V6 output tube. They all look like original RCAs from 1953, and the new owner of this amp may want to soon replace them. Stackpole pots inside the amp date to early 1953. The jewel light is intermittent - could be its housing, or it could be dirt. There's a bit of hum and noise when the amplifier is turned on and an instrument plugged in, however both instrument inputs were tested working, and the volume and tone controls work well, though I'd recommend one or two applications of DeOxit to the pots. Front logo long gone, if it ever had one. Serial number plate is still there (1954 according to date references). Note a QUAM 12A4 speaker with the amp's output transformer mounted on its frame. The speaker works; we didn't see any major tears or holes but with a speaker of this age in an amp in this condition, there may be surround wear or pinholes. Handle torn away. An old musty amp that needs a little love, and certainly a good exterior cleaning, but has a unique character and vibe that will reward restoration efforts. The cabinet measures 15 x 15 x 7.5". This amp matches up with a Supro Jet Airliner lap steel guitar w/tweed case (see our other listings), and I would consider a discount to a buyer who wants both, together. They both date to 1954 and serial numbers are within 200 of each other! We might be able to send both guitar and amp together in one large box, if you are in North America. If you are outside North America, and want both items, you might have to settle for two separate parcels. ?? See our other listings for more broadcast audio, radio, musical stuff! …
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From ebay.com - 1 month ago