1960's Kalamazoo Model 1 5-Watt Tube 1x10 Combo

Fair condition. Functions as it should and sounds AMAZING. Natural breakup as you turn up the volume. Missing one knob. Missing fuse but still activates and works. Exterior is rough but structurally sound. See pics. Appears to be all original. 

The Kalamazoo Model 1 is a vintage tube guitar amplifier produced in the 1960s by Gibson under its budget Kalamazoo brand. Designed as an affordable alternative to Fender's Champ, it delivers approximately 5 watts of power through a single EL84 power tube, making it ideal for low-volume practice, recording, or bedroom playing. 

It features a simple, minimalist design with one channel, two inputs, and basic volume and tone controls—the tone knob also functions as the power switch.  The amp houses a 10-inch speaker, often a CTS or Alnico type, contributing to its warm, vintage tube tone and pleasant breakup when driven.  It was originally built with a 2-prong power cord, though many units have since been upgraded to 3-prong grounded cords for safety.

The Model 1 was built with cost-saving materials, including a particle board cabinet covered in black tolex, which contributes to its lightweight feel.  While durable for its time, the construction shows its age in surviving units, often with loose corners or worn finishes. Despite its budget origins, the amp is praised for its surprisingly full and rich tone, especially when overdriven.

With a circuit inspired by the Fender Champ, the Kalamazoo Model 1 produces a warm, gritty tone with natural tube saturation. It lacks reverb or tremolo, focusing purely on raw, analog sound. When cranked, it breaks up into a smooth, bluesy overdrive—ideal for garage rock, indie, or vintage-style recordings. Many modern guitarists, including Blake Mills, have used these amps for their studio tone.

Though once considered disposable, the Kalamazoo Model 1 has gained cult status among tube amp enthusiasts. Units from the mid-to-late 1960s are now sought after, with prices ranging from $400 to $600+, depending on condition and modifications.  Some listings exceed $1,000 for rare or pristine examples.

Since 1979, we at Mom's Music have worked hard to make the Louisville, KY music scene something special.  Now, we’re working hard to share what makes us great with the world.  We take pride in our care and attention to detail regarding every instrument and musician that comes through the store, and every instrument we receive gets a thorough inspection and setup when it arrives in our shop and prior to shipment.
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