The 1964 Guild Thunder 1 T1-12 is a vintage tube combo built for warm, touch-sensitive tone in a compact, no-fuss format. Handcrafted in Hoboken, NJ, this amp delivers approximately 12 to 15 watts of Class A power through a pair of 6GW8 tubes, an EZ81 rectifier, and a 12″ CTS speaker—making it ideal for low-to-mid volume sessions, studio tracking, or mic’d live use.
Unlike later models with built-in reverb, this T1-12 sticks to the essentials: Bright and Normal inputs, a simple Volume and Tone control layout, and a lush tube-driven tremolo circuit that adds just the right movement without complicating the signal path. The sound is glassy and clear at lower volumes, with natural compression and grit as you push the amp—perfect for vintage blues, roots rock, and edge-of-breakup cleans.
Wrapped in black tolex with a silver/black grille and housed in a semi-open back cabinet, it delivers a classic visual profile to match its tone. Weighing in at just ~32 lb, this amp is lightweight, portable, and full of character. This example is 100% functional and shows moderate cosmetic wear consistent with its age—but sounds as bold and musical as ever. See photos for full condition. The cabinet feels very solid, tight and structurally sound. There is no extraneous noise, or issues with any of the controls, jacks or other parts. All caps are at original spec value, in good shape. The tubes test perfectly, and the bias has been adjusted properly. A few extra screws were added to the chassis to better support the chassis. Solderless speaker connects were added, as well as modified 3-prong power cord.
If you’re looking for authentic ’60s tone with tremolo flavor and zero fluff, the Guild Thunder 1 T1-12 is the real deal!
Model: Guild Thunder 1 T1-12
Power Output: ~12–15 watts (Class A, cathode-biased)
Power Tubes: 2 × 6GW8 (ECL86)
Preamp Tubes: 1 × 6SL7, 1 × 6SN7
Rectifier Tube: EZ81
Reverb: No
Tremolo: Yes, tube-driven
Speaker: 1 × 12″ CTS Speaker
Inputs: Bright and Normal
Controls: Volume, Tone
Cabinet: Semi-open back combo
Covering: Black tolex with silver/black grille cloth
Dimensions: Approx. 20″ W × 18″ H × 9.5″ D
Weight: ~32 lb
Condition: 100% functional, moderate cosmetic wear consistent with age, light restoration
Made In: USA (Hoboken, NJ)
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.