Question about vintage Gibson amps

[Easto]

I was wondering why I'm always seeing circa 1950's Gibson amps on eBay and the prices seem too low to believe. First, I understand that it may just be a amp that does not work but... sometimes there a some very good looking amps with great descriptions going for $200 - $300 range. Is it just that they don't sound that good or possibly that Fender has the Vintage market pretty much wrapped up? Were the Gibson amps from this era just crap? If you can enlighten me on this subject I would appreciate it.

[boingoman]

My faves from this era (personally) are the GA-20s. This amp sounds great when driven to the edge, if it is in good shape. It has more of a blues/ rock and roll overdrive to it.

They have a generally more mellow tone than Fenders, and sometimes actually have better build quality. Jazz players seem to like them a lot.

And yes, part of it is the sexiness of the vintage Fender market. The prices are ridiculous, sometimes.

It's like Ford Mustang vs. Olds 442. Up until recenly, you could get a really nice 442 for a song, compared to a Mustang.

These amps can be great values, if you like the tone. Sometimes they need a bunch of work, but that is true of any vintage amp.

If you Google "vintage gibson amp", you can get some info on different models.

[fitterbkw]

Hi,
I play a 1964 GA-8T, & love the sound when its cranked. fitter

[Easto]

Thanks for the input guys.

My preference leans towards low volumes and clear as a bell tube heaven.

[boingoman]

I do not think a Gibson would disappoint you.

[dragonworks]

i never met a gibson amp i liked. I bought one of their lab L6s new when they came out, what a piece of shit.