Supro 1696RT Black Magick Reverb Combo

The Black Magic combo is perhaps the figurehead for Supro. An amp that is probably best known for the fact that Jimmy Page used it on earlier Led Zeppelin recordings (including parts of Stairway to Heaven). This 1696T version is the reissue of the exact model that Jimmy Page used back then. Though not handwired as in those days, it does follow the same exact schematic and technical concept.

The Black Magic combo is for those who are into traditional tube amps. The audiosignal is amplified entirely through an analog tube circuit of which the poweramp features a duet of 6973 tubes in class-A operation with a total output of approximitely 25 watts.
The dual channel pre-amp has separate volumes for channels 1 and 2 and a shared 2-band tone control (treble & bass). You can use those channels combined (input 1 + 2) for a fat, rich and wide range of tone. Specifically dailing in a mix of both pre-amp volumes creates a more or less distorted sound. The second input utilizes the second channel and is therefore perhaps less maneuverable, but not less characteristic! With an A/B switch you can also switch between the two inputs.
The Black Magic is somewhat reminiscent of a traditional Vox AC15 or 30 in its concept and setup. Because of the combined channels, the amp is actually somewhat limited, but by playing with the settings of the separate channel volumes and the master volume, a very characteristic sound is created that is absolutely versatile enough to play a wide range of traditional sounds. This amp can handle everything from warm clean tones to a creamy, classic rock sound. And significantly different from a traditional Vox, the sound is warmer, less aggressive and not as loud; perhaps the ultimate mix between a Vox and a Fender? A great aspect of the Black Magic is that it sounds very mature and fat at relatively low volume. In the studio this is a fantastic base amp!
This "Reverb" version of the Black Magic features an analog spring reverb. In addition, this combo is equipped with a very nice analog tremolo (12at7 tube buffered) for which speed and depth can be adjusted. With the optional footswitch, the reverb and tremolo can be switched remotely. The speaker is a 12 "Custom Supro BD12" speaker.

And finally, we have to state the obvious; what a beautiful amp this was in the 60's and still is with the unmistakable two-tone Black Rhino Hide tolex and silver speaker grill.

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