1979 Dumble Overdrive Special OD-100 – Combo amplifier

1979 Dumble Overdrive Special OD-100 – Combo Amplifier

We proudly present one of the world’s most coveted guitar amplifiers — an original 1979 Dumble Overdrive Special OD-100, handcrafted in Santa Cruz, California, USA.

The Legacy of Dumble Amplifiers

Dumble amplifiers, built by Howard Alexander Dumble in California, are among the most prized and collectible tube amps on the market. Due to their extremely limited production, each amplifier is unique and valued individually.

Initially, Howard Dumble focused on modifying Fender Tweed and Blackface-era amplifiers, such as the Deluxe and Super Reverb models. This is why the Overdrive Special circuitry from the 1970s is largely based on early Fender schematics. In the 1990s, the design evolved closer to Marshall-style specifications, incorporating EL34 tubes in the power section instead of the earlier 6L6 tubes.

Today, these amps are highly sought after worldwide, especially following Howard Dumble’s passing in 2022. Among professional musicians and collectors, Dumble amps are renowned for their exceptional tone, versatility, and reliability in both studio and live settings.

Condition & Originality

This early 1979 Dumble Overdrive Special OD-100 combo (Serial number: 0054) is in perfect working order and delivers a truly exceptional sound — a rare and authentic piece of Dumble history.

The amplifier remains in excellent original condition with minor natural aging visible on the front, back, and sides. The circuitry is fully original, including all transformers. The speaker is the original Electro-Voice EVM12L, personally selected by Howard Dumble.

Notable features of this vintage amp include:

• The ability to switch between the normal and overdrive channels via the original Dumble footswitch.

• An original front-panel boost switch, rather than a footswitch like later models.

• Clean and well-maintained chassis with chrome control plate, intact original black lettering, and stock knobs.

• Comes complete with its original footswitch.

This amplifier was recently serviced and thoroughly inspected by the official Dumble Amplification Preservation Society, receiving a clean bill of health and is ready for many more years of faithful service.

Provenance & Certification

This exceptional amplifier is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Drew Berlin, one of the world’s leading and most respected experts on Dumble amplifiers.

To keep it as original as possible you need a stepdown transformer. We have these in stock and can be purchased through Guitar Hunter: Toroidy Step-Down Transformer 230V/110V – 200VA