FENDER BLUES JUNIOR IV

The iconic choice.

RRP: $1,149

Type: All-Tube

Speakers: 12-inch Celestion A-type Output: 15 watts

No. of channels: One Tubes: Three 12AX7, two EL84

Weight: 14 kilos PROS

• It’s a Blues Junior

• Can do more than just blues

• 15 watts is just enough for most settings

CONS

• Not capable of ‘modern’ tones

The Fender Blues Junior has been one of the most iconic small combo amps of the last few decades, and to be honest, we can understand why. The amp we’re talking about here is the most recent version, so let’s see what Fender has going on under the hood here.

One speaker, one channel – the Blues Junior

IV is truly simple and straightforward to use, and with that simplicity comes great joy. This mark IV variant adds both modified preamp circuitry and a smoother sounding spring reverb – delivering that timeless Fender tone that we all know and love. The 12-inch A-type Celestion is well balanced and sweet sounding, delivering crisp highs, a full, warm bass response and laid back midrange. It sounds delightful.

Now, it’s not a 100-watter like some of the amps we’ve seen so far, but don’t be fooled by the lower output. This thing can get loud, and do it very tastefully too. Either ride the input and master volume controls and set it as clean as you can, or dime the input volume, engage the ‘fat’ switch and bathe in the harmonic glow of those ECC83’s. Your call – but it’ll sound pretty good either way.