The 1964 Ampeg Reverberocket R-12-R is one of the earliest American guitar amplifiers to feature built-in spring reverb, making it a landmark model in amp history. Handwired in Linden, New Jersey, this 18-watt, all-tube 1×12 combo helped define the lush, ambient clean tones of the early ’60s — and served as Ampeg’s answer to the surf-drenched sound of Fender’s blackface era.
Powered by a pair of 7591 tubes, a 5Y3 rectifier, and a complement of octal preamp tubes (6SL7 and 6SN7), the Reverberocket delivers warm, harmonically rich cleans, with early breakup that stays smooth and touch-sensitive. Its tube-driven reverb (controlled via the “Dimension” knob) and lush bias-vary tremolo are thick, musical, and less clinical than their Fender counterparts. Think looser, moodier, and rounder, with more midrange personality and slightly less high-end snap.
Artists like Mike Wanchic (John Mellencamp), Walter Becker (Steely Dan), and even Bruce Springsteen have been spotted using Reverberockets in studio and small-stage setups — proof of their value in real-world tone chasing. While Fender amps like the Princeton Reverb or Deluxe Reverb from the same era offer bright, scooped cleans with a fast, glassy response, the Reverberocket leans darker and thicker. It’s a “jazz club meets surf lounge” kind of amp — ideal for players who want vintage vibe with more body and less icepick.
This particular 1964 R-12-R example is 100% functional and sports its original blue diamond tolex and Jensen speaker. It’s a phenomenal amp for studio work, blues, indie, jazz, or anyone looking to step outside the usual Fender lane and tap into a cult classic with character. The overall condition is EXCELLENT - showing age appropriate wear, but remains very clean in appearance, and 100% flawless in terms of functionality.
Model: Ampeg Reverberocket R‑12‑R (1964)
Power Tubes: 2 × 7591
Preamp Tubes: 2 × 6SL7 & 2 × 6SN7
Rectifier Tube: 5Y3
Power Output: ~18 W RMS (some sources show 20 W peak, ~15 W triode mode)
Controls: Volume, Tone, Dimension (reverb), Speed, Intensity (tremolo)
Reverb (Echo): Tube-driven with “Dimension” control
Tremolo: Tube-driven (bias-vary) with Speed & Intensity knobs
Speaker: 1 × 12″ Jensen C12R (or similar Jensen Special Design)
Cabinet: 1×12 semi-open (top-rear controls)
Inputs: Dual inputs (Bright/Normal)
Dimensions: Approx. 20.75″ W × 18″ H × 9″ D
Weight: ~45 lb (some report ~30 lb depending on version)
Covering: Blue “Diamond” vinyl / Navy check tolex
Year: 1964 (R12R-B production range 1963–1964)
Made In: USA
The instrument shown in the photos is of the actual instrument offered for sale! We'll double-inspect and play-test, professionally pack with care, and ship this instrument within 1 business day, and most cases, the same day if the order is placed by 3pm EST.