VALCO 8436 Montgomery Ward Guitar Amplifier Supro Tube TUBE1966

( Brand: Valco ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 8436 ), ( Part Type: Guitar Amplifier Tube ), ( Amplifier Type: Guitar ), ( Suitable For: Electric Guitar ), ( Amplifier Technology: Tube )

Review VALCO Montgomery Ward Vintage Guitar Amplifier Supro Style

Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Guitar Amplifier - A Supro Tube Amp from 1966

The Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Guitar Amplifier is a vintage gem from the golden age of guitar amplification, hailing from the year 1966. This amplifier, which was originally sold through Montgomery Ward under the Supro brand, is a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship of the past.

This amplifier boasts a classic and timeless design, with a rugged cabinet finished in a vintage tweed covering. The chassis is filled with six 6V6 power tubes and four 12AX7 preamp tubes, delivering a total power output of approximately 20 watts. With its four input jack, this amplifier is perfect for both practicing and performing, allowing multiple musicians to plug in and play.

The Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Guitar Amplifier offers a wide range of versatile tones. Its tone stack circuit provides a rich and warm sound, with the ability to achieve crisp and bright tones when desired. The amplifier also features a built-in reverb effect, adding depth and complexity to your playing.

The controls on this amplifier are simple yet effective, with volume, treble, middle, and bass knobs allowing you to shape your sound. The amplifier also includes a power switch and a standby switch, which can be used to preserve the tubes when not in use.

The Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Guitar Amplifier is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a connection to the past and a reminder of the rich history of guitar amplification. Its warm and rich tones, classic design, and vintage look make it a must-have for any guitar player, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out.

This amplifier is not only a functional piece of equipment, but also a collector's item. With its unique history and classic design, the Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Guitar Amplifier is a true treasure for any guitar enthusiast. Whether you're looking to add to your collection or to find a reliable and authentic amplifier for your music, this vintage Supro tube amp from 1966 is an excellent choice.

A Detailed Analysis of the Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward Tube Amplifier (1966 Model)

The Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward tube amplifier, produced in 1966, is a vintage guitar amplifier that has gained popularity among guitar enthusiasts. In this analysis, we will discuss the pros and cons of investing in this amplifier to help you make an informed decision.

1. Authentic Tube Sound: The Valco 8436 uses preamp and power tubes, providing a warm, rich, and authentic tube sound that modern solid-state amplifiers cannot replicate.

2. Affordability: Compared to some high-end vintage tube amplifiers, the Valco 8436 is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious musicians.

3. Versatile: This amplifier can handle various guitar types, including electric, acoustic-electric, and bass guitars. It also offers multiple input channels, allowing for different sound configurations.

1. Limited Power: With a power output of only 12 watts, the Valco 8436 may not be suitable for large venues or gigs where a more powerful amplifier is required.

2. Maintenance: Tube amplifiers require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This may include replacement of tubes, bias adjustments, and transformer alignment.

3. Size and Weight: This vintage amplifier is larger and heavier than modern combo amplifiers, which can be a disadvantage for musicians who need to transport their gear frequently.

The Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward tube amplifier (1966 model) offers a unique and authentic tube sound, versatility, and affordability. However, it has some limitations, such as limited power, maintenance requirements, and size/weight. If you are looking for a vintage tube amplifier with a warm and rich tone and are willing to invest in its maintenance, the Valco 8436 could be an excellent choice for your musical endeavors.

If you are a guitar player seeking the classic tube sound, enjoy the challenge of maintaining vintage equipment, and can accommodate the size and weight, the Valco 8436 Montgomery Ward tube amplifier (1966 model) is a worthwhile investment. Alternatively, you might consider a more modern tube amplifier with increased power output if you require a louder sound for larger performances. Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons and determine if this amplifier aligns with your musical needs and budget.

Details:

This listing is for a vintage 1966 Montgomery Ward model 8436 vacuum tube guitar amplifier. Manufactured by Valco in Chicago, this unit shares the same circuitry and construction quality as contemporary Supro Airline model's. Technical Specifications: Brand: Montgomery Ward. Tube Layout: 6V6GT Power, 6SJ7 Preamps, 6X5GT Rectifier.

Functional condition: The amplifier powers on and passes audio signal from the input to speaker. Model: 8436 55 JDR. Manufacturer: Valco Chicago, IL. Cosmetic condition: Cabinet: The original textured beige Rolex shows wear consistent with age See images.

Controls: Volume, Tone. Vintage Sylvan/RCA Tubes installed. Tubes: Heater filaments engage and tubes reach operating temperature properly. Year of Manufacture: 1966 Verified by EIA codes 285618 on speaker and 285610 output transformer.

Components: Internal point-to-point wiring appears largely original. Both Volume and Tone potentiates function affect the signal. This is a standard characteristic of un restored vintage electronics and indicates that routine replacement filter capacitors recap required for studio-quiet performance. Grill Cloth: Intact with no major tears.

part #: 8436 prices

• $129.00-$699.95

specifications guitoamps:

• brand: Valco
• mpn: 8436
• part type: Guitar Amplifier Tube
• amplifier type: Guitar
• suitable for: Electric Guitar
• amplifier technology: Tube

offer guitoamps:

• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• started: January 10, 2026
• sold: 0
• best offers: True

shipping guitoamps:

• carrier: USPS
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• cost: $80.62
• type: Calculated
• class: Standard
• transit: 5-12 Days

seller guitoamps:

• rating: 98.5%
• # reviews: 907
• city: Katy, Texas

returns guitoamps:

• paid by: Seller
• time: 30 Days
• method: Money back
• policy: Returns Accepted

payments guitoamps:

• other
• wallet: Apple-pay
• credit card: Diners-club

general guitoamps:

• Musical Instruments Gear > Guitars Basses > Guitar Amplifiers
• condition: Used

Valco 8436 Is Similar To:

• Supro Valco Made 1696tn 1960 Tube Amp Guitar Or Accordion Amplifier P15p Jensen Cond As Is (46.7% similar) This sounds fantastic. The shipping size of this is approx. This was built for accordion guitar it is an awesome I can say sure a sounds great thru this. I have owned many Valco made amps they always worked excellent for me. This is a Valco made supro brand 1696TN amp. I tested the tubes...(July 7th, 2024)
• Supro 1616t Vtg 1960 S Valco Chicago 51 Model Guitar Tube Amplifier Tremolo 5w (41.3% similar) The supro Valco Chicago 51 1616T is a true gem for collectors and musicians alike, with its unique sound history. Can capacitors has been replaced with nos model. Incredible recording amp. Has a VG foot switch I don't believe original. With its classic design and powerful 20W output...(August 5th, 2024)
• Birch 8008135 Vintage 1950 S Valco Bard Amplifier Green And White Brand Electric Sound (38% similar) See images for more specifics. The measures 19 wide by 9 deep and 16 tall. This is an estate sale find that was purchased because it clearly very old and in great cosmetic condition. Open to any information you might be able share on it. I am not an expert in amplifiers. Recommended that...(September 2nd, 2024)
• Supro 1610e Rare Vintage 1957 Valco Comet Tweed Guitar Tube Amplifier (41.1% similar) Shipping is ups ground. Please see photos for details and condition. Item is in used condition, untested and un restored...(October 4th, 2024)
• Airline 62-9022a Valco 1960s 5w Tube Combo 6v6 Serviced modded (27.3% similar) Stock, this is very similar to a fender champ, although with much less gain and darker voicing. The tone control is very interactive with the gain as well. The is quiet in operation with little hum. It has been updated to a 3 prong power cable, and the circuit gone through slightly modified...(December 30th, 2024)
• Gretsch 6161 Valco Oval Speaker Set With Tweeter 1959 Guitar Speakers (38.1% similar) Let me know if anyone knows how to re attach the terminal leads correctly, they are date code 285928. The cones have become detached and I am not aware of a way to repair them. I know it is probably possible. These speakers are super hard to find especially a matched set. Unfortunately...(June 24th, 2025)
• Gretsch 6150 Valco Early 1960s Guitar Amplifier Very Good Condition (43.8% similar) 2 prong cord should probably be updated to amplifier sounds fantastic. Early 1960 S greats 6150T amplifier made by Valco. Grille cloth in good condition. Missing greats emblem. Serial # 001106...(January 28th, 2026)