Benson Tall Bird All Tube Reverb info wanted

[LegendaryCheddar]

Hi everyone,

I’m desperately seeking schematic, chassis photos and any information on the Benson Tall Bird reverb unit. It’s not dissimilar to the classic 6g15 fender, but clearly coveted. I’d like to make a clone! If anyone knows anything about them/has one/is willing to share info please can you do so here?

Many thanks!

[LegendaryCheddar]

So far using this thread: https://www.guitarscanada.com/threads/b ... rb.293707/

And the pictures included, I’ve made this so far:

IMG_0628.jpeg

Anything that’s glaring? Not sure if this unit has a choke, I can’t find any useful chassis pics online.. And the power supply is a mystery, I can only make out one filter cap at 100uf/250v, which I reckon is the reservoir. This means the HT secondary won’t be too high after full wave rectification. Im assuming after the rectifier it’s dropped to like 200v ish, so that first cap is safe.

Definitely has DC heaters, pin 9 is grounded on everything and there’s a rectifier before the supply makes it to pin 4/5 on v2.

My assumption for a power transformer is like that of the Hammond 261D6 (for 240v primaries, I live in the UK..)

And regarding the reverb tank: it appears to not use a reverb transformer, just driven by the 2nd triode of the 12au7…so any advice on the appropriate tank would be appreciated.

Many thanks!

[didit]

Hello --

A lingering fine principle here on TAG is to avoid dipping too deeply into the designs of current production gear. That's a unique bit of their portfolio that has, to my recall, seen pretty limited discussion. There are several threads on Benson's amplifiers you can search out including direct contributions from Chris Benson himself. Suggest we keep it that way.

..

[LegendaryCheddar]

Sure, of course.

Its no longer being built and I cant find any for sale...

That said I understand theyre still in business.

[Bretly]

https://reverb.com/item/88390162-benson ... t=88390162

[nuke]

Yeah, there are a few used ones for sale.

I really dig that tolex they used. It's the closest thing I've seen to what's on my older Silvertone 1484 amp. Not the same, but sure has a similar look.

[Aaron]

Here’s reverb unit I traced a few years back.

Aaron