Lightweight iteration sheds almost 15lbs off the original, and comes loaded with Fender's Tone Master technology in a bid to deliver a like-for-like tonal recreation of its predecessor
(Image credit: Fender)
Fender has announced the latest addition to its Tone Master range of modeling amps: the Tone Master Princeton Reverb combo amp, which aims to cram the iconic amp’s vintage tones into a digital, lightweight package.
First debuted in 2019, the Tone Master range set its sights on bringing together traditional tube tones and modern modeling technology, vowing to deliver classic Fender sounds at a fraction of the weight and with some contemporary features to boot.
Using Fender’s Tone Master technology, the new Princeton Reverb promises to be a like-for-like tonal recreation of its ancestral tube-loaded alternative, and ditches the tubes in favor of DSP modeling.
To achieve this goal, an identical control layout is utilized, featuring two instrument inputs and parameters for Volume, Treble and Bass, as well as onboard Reverb and Tremolo effects dictated by Speed and Intensity controls.
The effects can also be toggled via a separate Fender footswitch, which comes with the Tone Master Princeton Combo.
Under the hood, though, it’s a completely different beast. The DSP modeling process is aided by a 10” Jensen C10R speaker, as well as a rear panel output selector that flicks between full power and five additional attenuated settings.
It's worth noting the Jensen speaker used features a heavier ceramic magnet, as opposed to the neodymium magnets found in existing Tone Master amp speakers.
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The rear also has room for a balanced XLR line output and Cab Sim switch, which has two IR cabinet simulations options and works alongside a ground switch and balanced line output.
Elsewhere, there’s a USB port for firmware upgrades and a power jewel light that illuminates in different colors depending on if the amp is in normal operation, warm-up or mute/silent mode.
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(Image credit: Fender via Andertons)
(Image credit: Fender via Andertons)
Of course, part of the appeal of the Tone Master range is its ability to shed some serious weight from the originals, and the new Princeton Reverb is no exception to the rule: with a shipping weight of 20lbs, it arrives almost 15lbs lighter than its predecessor.
Not only is it said to be a perfect tonal recreation of the original, it also looks the part as well. The molded handle with nickel-plated caps is joined by a black chassis and silver grille, as well as the original Princeton logo.
Matt is a Senior Staff Writer, writing for Guitar World, Guitarist and Total Guitar. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 16 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt records for a number of UK-based bands and songwriters as a session musician.
