Wayne Reno's tube amplifier projects
Fender Deluxe Reverb Rebuild
A deep dive into rebuilding a Deluxe Reverb Reissue around the AB763 tradition.
Modern modeling amps can produce remarkable sounds. So why spend time with tubes, transformers, point-to-point wiring and circuits designed decades ago? For me, the answer is that a tube amplifier is also an invitation to understand how the sound is made. This site documents that hands-on journey—from the design decisions to the finished amplifier, with the photographs, measurements, listening tests and discoveries along the way.
Stock DRRI printed circuit board and a rebuilt chassis
Two ways in
See the story or explore it
Short on time? Watch the overview. Want the details? Follow the chapters, just as the project unfolded.
Quick video overview
Deluxe Reverb Tube Amp Rebuild Project
This NotebookLM-created video provides a concise tour of the project and its story.
In a local preview, click the image above to watch on YouTube. On the live website, the video will play here on the page.
The Deluxe Reverb project
Explore the chapters
Introduction
Why I undertook the rebuild, what changed, and what I hoped to learn.
Begin the story → 02Rebuild Discussions
The ideas and conversations that shaped the project.
Read chapter → 03Visiting Mikey
A look at the builder and the work behind the rebuild.
Read chapter → 04Design
Circuit choices, amp comparisons and the thinking behind the modifications.
Explore design → 05More Design Details
A closer look at the technical decisions and implementation.
Continue → 06Comparing the Amps
Comparisons between the original and rebuilt amplifier.
Compare → 07The Build
The construction begins: boards, wiring, chassis work and assembly.
View the build → 08The Build — Part 2
The next stage of the construction and wiring.
Continue → 09The Build — Part 3
More construction details and photographs.
Continue → 10The Build — Part 4
Finishing the build and bringing the amplifier together.
Continue → 11Bias Test Points
How the rebuild makes bias measurement easier and more accessible.
Explore → 12Mercury Magnetics
The transformers and component choices used in the project.
Explore components → 13Builder Visits
People and experiences connected with the amplifier project.
Read the stories → 14Sounds
Listen to recordings of the amplifier in action.
Listen →Beyond the amplifiers
Original Music
I've also recorded original songs. Here are six selections from my YouTube channel. Click any thumbnail to listen on YouTube.
▶Reggae World by Wayne Reno
Watch on YouTube →
▶Frogtown, Geronimo Joe by Wayne Reno
Watch on YouTube →
▶Quantum Fluctuation in the Andromeda Hinterlands by Wayne Reno
Watch on YouTube →
▶Return to Joy by Wayne Reno
Watch on YouTube →
▶Rat Attack by Wayne Reno
Watch on YouTube →
▶Dark Star Tonight - Crystal City Band
Watch on YouTube →From the original site: “Sometimes old technology is superior technology.”
That idea still captures why this project is here. The psychedelic original design has been retired, but the spirit of the site remains.