Fender '57 Mini Twin Amp

Most Liked Positive Review

Sturdy little amp for under $100

During an extraordinary bout of procrastination, I decided to add a pick-up to my ukulele. It is a cheapish Hilo uke (so cheap that Guitar Center doesn't like to admit they sell them), and I was prepared to throw down whatever cash was needed to see what sort of sounds I could get out of it. I had attached a K&K Hot Shot piezo pick-up just below the sound hole under the strings and then trotted off to my local Guitar Center to purchase an amp. I'd done a little research on-line and settled for the Fender '57 Mini Twin for a number of reasons, namely: looks, price, and size (in that order). Imagine my amusement when I walked into the store, asked for the Fender [Mini] Twin, and was shown to the full-sized amplifier. The sales rep's face was priceless when I told him I planned to hook it up to an ukulele. Then, I explained that he'd misunderstood me and I was looking for the smaller version. What did I expect from an amp that cost $50 and came in a plastic-and-cardboard sleeve? Not much. But the truth is, I'm quite surprised by how well it has performed. The retro styling, with the chicken-headed knobs and tweed covering, draws a lot of attention at gigs and it's small enough to stick -- cables and all -- into a backpack. A 9V battery powers the twin 2" speakers for a considerable period (I've yet to change it), and it accepts power from a 9V DC plug. The volume and tone is decent, as is the drive. It's not an amp for audiophiles, but its portability, looks, and price suits me fine for simply uking around.