Frenzel FM5E3 Deluxe Plus "custom"

As all Frenzel amps, this one was built to order. Upgraded OT to include an ohm selector for output, line out, and steel cage frame also. The timeframe from order to receive was just about 5 weeks, not bad for a custom amp. One big plus about this model is, like the THD Bivalve, you can use any octet type power tubes without biasing, allowing you to try all sorts of different combos. This one currently is running 2 EH 6L6.

It has one channel with two different inputs, the F (fender) input and M (Marshall) input. You could effectively make this a channel switcher with an A/B/Y switch.

Each input has it's own gain control with a shared EQ, presence (pull for edge/boost), and master volume. These all work together real well so while there's not many knobs, there's lots of tweaking that can be done to make things surprisingly versatile.

Rated at 25w, and this varies depending on which power tubes you use, it can get loud but the gain controls allow you to get good crunch at bedroom levels.

The two inputs really do a good job of offering their respective tones. The F input brings a crystalline clean tone to the table. When the gain is turned up you can find anything from blues to a greasy rock tone. Neil Young tones abound when the gain and master are dimed playing through my LP.

The M input is a brighter, crunchier gain structure, closer to a JTM than a plexi. This amp can go anywhere from Hendrixian blues/rock to AC/DC with a twist of the master. Add a boost to the front for more modern tones. No flub in this amp anywhere.

I found an easy way to adjust tones on the fly is to set the shared eq in near the middle for most controls, then adjust brightness using the presence.

This amp is very quiet as far as noise is concerned. No buzz, just a slight hum to tell you it's on. It's also very pick sensitive. You can pick light for light overdrive, then dig in for good crunch.

The tones are full and rich for both channels, there's no brittle sounds even if you look for it. The epitome of tube tone.

I'm very confident in this amp. I'd never play out without replacement tubes or a back up, but if I were taking one amp to a small gig or recording session that asks for these classic tones it's the first thing I reach for. Not just for the tones, but it's a tiny package, smaller overall than an Epi Valve Jr.

Jim Frenzel is as hands on as anyone I've dealt with. He answers email quickly and thoroughly, and is thoughtful about options, asking you if there's any doubt. He gave me a time frame on my order date, and it was delivered almost to the day (a few days early actually). This is how all business should be done.

I've been playing for over 15years, both with bands and alone. My other amps include a Tech21 TM60 (my previous amp for these tones and now the backup) and a Randall RM100 (for the heavy, high gain stuff). I play through a Burny LP, Ibby RG570, Fender Telecaster, and Reverend Club King 290.

I really like how this amp can actually cover both fender and marshall bases, from the lower gain standpoint anyway. I'd have to have a JTM and a princeton to do what this one head does alone. I considered a silverface princeton prior to buying this, but considering what those are selling for I couldn't swing it.

I do wish I had opted for an effects loop, but it's completely an afterthought. For what I use this amp for it's not all that needed.

My amp is the Frenzel FM5E3 I listed "custom" only because I had Jim take out the rotary on-off-standby switch and replace it with (2) toggles. Also I had a vintage style jewel lamp installed instead of the stock light. Other than that it's the same as the others. I'm not going to get into all the features as others have done a great job and all the specs,etc...are very well detailed on the Frenzel website. I will tell you this amp is bar none the best amp I have ever owned! It has all the tone of my favarote vintage amps with none of the shortcomings!

I am currently using a Ernie Ball Musicman Axis S.S. with P-90"s straight into the amp. Will probably add a treble-full booster pedal,and also like an overdrive and wah. I can only describe the sound IMHO as "BEST MARSHALL/BEST FENDER". Please note this amp is not a high gainer! If you tune down 100 steps with a dropped "D" etc... this amp may not be for you! BUT.......if you Know "TONE" This amp CAN NOT BE BEAT! Just Think Very clean thru AC-DC.

Haven't had it long enough to give an honest reveiw but I can say it is a very quality build! Point to point wiring with top notch components. It does not get any better than this folks!

Jim is the absolute best! I have never in my 25+ years of playing, obtaining gear,etc... dealt with anyone this.......Well for a lack of better words "Nice". He has always returned my e-mails very quickly and has been VERY PATIENT with my constant changes of mind on custom options,etc...You will not find better customer support anywhere! I have dealt with alot of the "BIG" companies throughout my adult life and none come anywhere close!

I have been playing guitar for 25+ years now,and am nowhere as good as I should be...ha!ha! I have played in numerous bands from the 70's-present. I have been on a tone quest for most of this time and have owned Fender, Marshall,Soldano,Orange,Vox,peavey,Dr.Z,Gibson,etc..etc...etc...So...believe me I know good tone! This company is the "REAL DEAL" You will not find better tone,quality build,and customer service at ANY PRICE! My only regret is that I didn't meet Mr. Frenzel back in "79"! Would have saved me ALOT of $$$$ and heartache! ha!ha!