Germino Classic 45™
A finely tuned replica of the JTM-45 using a custom wound version of the Radio Spares output transformer which has 6.6K, 8K, 9K and ultra-linear taps on the primary. The 6.6k primary is used as on early JTM-45's. This relatively high primary impedance works well with KT-66 and 6L6GC/5881 tube types. The Classic 45 with these tube types is rated at 40 watts.
The Classic 45 is a Bass circuit as were all early JTM era amplifiers. Early plexi tone control values are used consisting of a 56K slope resistor and 270pf capacitor. Filtering in the Classic 45 is low and combined with the high primary impedance of the R/S output transformer give the amp a soft feel. The Classic 45's power transformer is selectable for 120v, 200v, 220/230v and 240/250v operation. This power tranny features connections with solder tabs as the originals for period correct looks. The R/S output transformer is selectable for 4/8/16 ohm operation.
For 2010 the Classic 45 is using a new power transformer. Since original JTM-45 amps were built using various spec voltages, I am now offering our popular LV power tranny as used in Club 40 and Lead 55LV models. The LV power transformer delivers plate voltage at 410vdc with GZ-34 rectifier. Breakup is more organic and warmer, top end is smoother.
Each amp I personally hand build using the finest parts and materials. Spot welded aluminum chassis, PEC 2 watt mil spec potentiometers, heavy duty Carling switches, Ampenol and Cinch tube sockets, Cliff jacks, BCR and F&T electrolytic capacitors. Sozo “vintage mustard” coupling capacitors and carbon film resistors mounted on a hand drilled turret board complete the interior layout of components. Original diameter copper stranded wire is used for all wiring. Each amp is laid out and assembled as an original JTM-45 would be.
The Classic 45 faithfully replicates the tone of an original JTM-45, only better! This amp is a delight to play being as at home doing "Beano" era Clapton as it is replicating AC/DC to early ZZ Top. The Classic 45 goes from an amazing clean tone to the best crunchy overdriven sounds imaginable. Excellent bottom end, incredible frequency response and exceptional 3D balance are all there to enjoy. The Classic 45 takes pedals extremely well and is not overly compressed sounding.
Classic 45 is shipping with either TAD KT-66 or TAD 6L6WGC output valves and Mullard reissue 12AX7’s for 2010.
Available as head or 2 X 12 combo.
UPDATE: For 2010 a Style II 1 X 12 combo is available for the Classic 45LV model using a reissue G12H. This model is a 30 watt grab and go package with all the attributes that have made the Classic 45 the best original style JTM-45 being made today.
These product specifications apply to Germino models 2010 only, not earlier product.
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING The May 2009 issue of Premier Guitar lists the Germino Classic 45 in a round up of JTM 45-style amplifiers. Read the full article
"The amp not only excels in tone and feel, but also has allowed me to sell half my other amps...I have never had an amp that was so expressive, brought the passion in your heart to your fingers, and was transferred to the audience in tone." Harmony Central review
"If you're looking for an affordable boutique amp that can faithfully recreate the most vintage of all Marshall tones ... you'll have to look long and hard to find an amp that does it better than the Classic 45. Germino has done a great job of capturing that elusive and irresistible vintage Marshall magic. Well done! - Guitar Player Magazine (September 2004)
Read the full review (7.9MB PDF)
Color Options
All Germino amplifers are available in the following colors at no additional charge.
Speaker Options
Combo amps ship with Celestion Greenback reissue speakers standard. The combo can be fitted with Celestion Heritage G12-65 for an additional $150.
HOW TO BUY
Germino amplifiers are available exclusively through our network of dealers. To see a list of Germino dealers, please click here.
MP3 Audio Clips New audio clip by Emerson Swinford Steppin' Out - 1.49MB, 1:05 clip
Classic 45 audio clip 1 (Les Paul, 800KB, 0:51 runtime) Emerson Swinford playing a Les Paul through the Classic 45. Beautiful chime and grind.
Classic 45 audio clip 2 (Les Paul, 1.6MB, 1:45 runtime) Emerson Swinford running a Les Paul through various pickup positions and volume settings. Gentle fingerpicked passages to Cream-era Clapton riffs.
Classic 45 audio clip 3 (P90, 780KB, 0:50 runtime) Emerson Swinford running a P90 and guitar volume knob, taking the Classic 45 from clean to mean.
Classic 45 audio clip 4 (Strat, 1.42MB, 1:33 runtime) Emerson Swinford working the volume knob on a Strat through various pickup positions. Clean and dirty.
