Not surprisingly, we find ourselves with yet another classic from the genius stable of Fender. The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe is a classic amp that has been around, in some shape or form for over 15 years.
Now this version has a few little things different about it. Without a doubt, striaght up you notice the updated new top panel, changed pot tapers, new speakers, and a new overdrive that they say is much tighter. But for most, it is the same old Hot Rod Deluxe with a 2010 skin – but that really is no problem, as there is no need to fix something that isn’t broken!
The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe is not an amp jam packed full of features, it never has been, however it is a great option for the more versatile players who like to create their own sound on top of a solid platform, adding pedals and different effects to create their own unique sound. This is one of the major features that continues to bring back many musicians to the Hot Rod Deluxe.
It is fairly adaptive with its second input, and the normal channel has a bright switch which adds an extra presence and cut-through if that is your thing.
As mentioned, this amp really comes into its own when you begin to layer alternative sounds on top of it. You can get whole new tones when trying out a whole array of different effects pedals, and as a result, you end up with an amplifier that is more diverse than most of its competition. Fender obviously believe that for this series of amp, they want the player to be the creator of the sound, not the amp, and with this in mind, they have certainly delivered.
Like all good Fender amps, you can rely on it. It is a rare event when a Fender amp lets you down, and the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe is no exception. The level of complexity and quality that Fender go through will always deliver a great product, however couple this with the out-of-the-box thinking in delivering an amp that lets you create the sound, this really is an outstanding rig.
If it is more your style to create something either new or uniquely you, then this amp couple with your massive collection of effects pedals means the world is your oyster!
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