Fender Celebrates 30 Years of the Hot Rod Deluxe with Anniversary Edition

Fender has released a limited-edition Hot Rod Deluxe amplifier to commemorate its 30th anniversary. The Hot Rod Deluxe, a popular choice for guitarists seeking classic Fender tones and a versatile pedal platform, receives aesthetic upgrades and circuit refinements.

A Legacy of Tone

The Hot Rod Deluxe has been a mainstay for guitarists for three decades, known for its clean Fender sound, overdrive channel and suitability for use with a wide range of effects pedals. The 30th Anniversary edition builds upon this legacy with a focus on both sound, and appearance.

Vintage Aesthetics and Modern Refinements

The anniversary model features a western-style textured vinyl covering and a vintage ‘50s-style grille cloth, reminiscent of the 30th Anniversary Blues Junior IV released last year. Additional aesthetic touches include an anniversary badge and a vintage leather handle. Beyond the visual updates, Fender has made several circuit modifications.

Upgraded Components

Fender has replaced the original 12” Celestion A-type speaker with a G12M-65 Creamback speaker. The Creamback is a ceramic speaker known for its “vocal” midrange and association with classic rock tones. The preamp circuit has been refined to deliver increased overdriven note definition, and the spring reverb has been modified for a smoother sound. These changes, previously implemented in the Blues Junior, aim to enhance the amplifier’s performance.

Versatility and Features

The Hot Rod Deluxe offers three channels – Normal, Drive, and More Drive – and a three-band EQ for tonal shaping. Controls include Volume, Drive, Master, Reverb, and Presence, along with a Bright switch. The amplifier is designed to function effectively as a “pedalboard platform,” offering ample clean headroom and an effects loop for time-sensitive effects like modulation and delay. It utilizes three 12AX7 tubes in the preamp section and a pair of 6L6 tubes in the power section, delivering 40 watts of power.

Pricing and Availability

The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe 30th Anniversary Edition is priced at £1,269.00 (approximately $1,299 USD) and is available now. More details can be found on the Fender website.