Description
Burns Orbit Two “All Transistor” 2 x 10 combo amp, 1964
Just back from a service at the Tone Lab by Tim Occleshaw..
Here is what he said about the amp:
'This amp can be reliably dated to 1964 from the capacitor date codes inside – all early 1964.
It pre-dates the widespread use of silicon transistors for audio applications, so it is powered by germanium (Ge) transistors, just like vintage Rangemasters, Tone Benders and Fuzz Faces. The output transistors are a pair of Mullard OC35 transistors, and the preamp comprises mostly Newmarket (NKT) and Mullard transistors. These were among the highest quality components of the day.
Ge transistors generally produce a warmer and more ‘organic’ tone than their silicon counterparts, which is why Ge transistors are sought after for boutique fuzz pedals and the like. Production ceased decades ago so only used or NOS ones can be obtained, often at high prices. They can be inherently a little noisy (leakage current), so, just like an old Rangemaster, this amp has some noise. The guitar signal is, of course, much louder, so the signal to noise ratio seems fine.
The original transformers are fine and the original speakers – a pair of 8 ohm Burns Orbital 10” running in parallel – are also fine.
The Orbit Two ‘Vibrato’ (Tremolo) is a bias wiggle tremolo similar to many early Fender designs, except using a Germanium transistor instead of a valve. The range and depth are good and there’s no unwanted noise (thump or tick associated with some vintage valve tremolos).
The Burns Amplifier catalogue rates the Orbit Two at 40 watts ‘British Rating’ (RMS). I measured it at 42 watts RMS.'
Further information can be found here
A real piece of English amp building history. #1195.
Made in England..handle is sadly broken..