News
A Guide to the Magnatone Master Collection
The Magnatone Master Collection takes its inspiration from the unmistakable sound of classic British tube amplification. From articulate cleans and distinctive chime to rich harmonic overdrive, these amplifiers are built around the response, character and power that have defined generations of guitar music.
While the Traditional Collection carries forward Magnatone’s American amplifier heritage and, on select models, true pitch-shifting vibrato, the Master Collection follows a different path. The focus is on British-inspired voicing, gain structure and the natural response of a tube amplifier. None of the Master Collection models include built-in vibrato or tremolo.
Three amplifiers make up the collection: the Baby M-80, Super Fifteen and Super Fifty-Nine M-80. Each is hand-built in the USA, with its own approach to power, gain and performance.
Here is what sets them apart.
Baby M-80
12 watts | 1×10″ | Dual 6AQ5/6005 | LO/HI Gain | Master Volume
The Baby M-80 brings the character of a British-inspired tube amplifier into a compact, portable format.
Its 12-watt power section uses a pair of NOS 6AQ5/6005 tubes, delivering a surprisingly full sound through a custom 10-inch Warehouse Guitar Speakers ceramic speaker. The result is an amplifier with plenty of punch, clear note definition and a responsive feel that goes well beyond its size.
Two selectable gain modes give the Baby M-80 its versatility. The LO setting provides a more open, cleaner response, while HI introduces additional gain for thicker overdrive and sustain. Gain and Master Volume controls allow players to shape the amplifier’s response without relying entirely on output volume.
A built-in effects loop makes it easy to incorporate external pedals, while the compact cabinet keeps the amplifier practical for recording, rehearsal and live performance.
Available as a 1×10″ combo or separate head with a matching 1×10″ speaker cabinet, the Baby M-80 delivers an impressive range of tones in one of the smallest packages in the Magnatone lineup.
Best for: Home, studio, rehearsal and players looking for British-inspired tube tone with selectable gain in a compact amplifier.
Super Fifteen
15 watts | 1×12″ | Dual EL84 | Class AB | High/Low Inputs
The Super Fifteen brings classic British chime and punch to a versatile 15-watt amplifier.
Powered by a push-pull pair of EL84 tubes, the Super Fifteen delivers articulate cleans, rich harmonics and natural overdrive. A custom 12-inch Magnatone ceramic speaker provides the presence and projection expected from a full-size guitar amplifier, while the compact design remains easy to transport.
Two independent inputs offer High and Low gain sensitivity, giving players a choice between a stronger input response and cleaner operation. Gain and Master Volume controls provide further flexibility, allowing the amplifier to move from clear, open tones to the distinctive crunch associated with British tube designs.
The Super Fifteen also includes several features that make it particularly useful beyond the stage.
A buffered effects loop accommodates external effects, while a speaker-compensated line output provides a direct connection for recording. A dedicated headphone output and built-in internal speaker load allow for quiet practice and recording when configured according to the owner’s manual.
Available as a 1×12″ combo or head with a matching 1×12″ speaker cabinet, the Super Fifteen combines traditional tube amplifier character with the practical features needed for modern playing environments.
Best for: Studio work, rehearsal, club performances and players who want EL84 chime, natural overdrive and flexible recording options.
View the Super Fifteen Amplifier
Super Fifty-Nine M-80
45 watts | Dual EL34 | Class AB | Footswitchable Gain | Master Volume
The Super Fifty-Nine M-80 brings two distinct gain structures together in one powerful amplifier.
Developed from the Super Fifty-Nine MK I and MK II designs, the M-80 combines the low-to-medium gain character of the MK II with the additional gain stage of the MK I. Players can move between these two voices using the front-panel selector or included footswitch.
A pair of EL34 power tubes delivers 45 watts of push-pull Class AB power, providing the punch, presence and harmonic richness associated with classic British rock amplification.
The lower-gain setting emphasizes clarity and dynamic response, allowing the character of the guitar and the player’s touch to come through. Engaging the higher-gain mode introduces an additional gain stage for increased saturation and sustain.
Separate gain controls for each mode allow players to establish two distinct sounds, while the Master Volume and Treble, Middle, Bass and Presence controls provide further control over the overall response.
A tube-buffered effects loop accommodates external pedals and effects without changing the fundamental purpose of the amplifier.
The Super Fifty-Nine M-80 is available as a 1×12″ combo, 2×12″ combo or separate head with a matching 2×12″ speaker cabinet, offering several configurations for different stages and performance needs.
Best for: Stage and studio players who want EL34 power, British-inspired gain and the ability to switch between two distinct amplifier voices.
View the Super Fifty-Nine M-80 Amplifier
Finding the Right Magnatone
The Master Collection offers three different approaches to British-inspired amplification. While all three feature master-volume control and effects loops, their power sections, gain arrangements and speaker configurations give each a distinct identity.
- Baby M-80: A compact 12-watt amplifier with selectable LO and HI gain modes and a custom 10-inch speaker. Ideal for players who want a small amplifier with a wide range of clean and driven tones.
- Super Fifteen: A versatile 15-watt EL84 amplifier with a 12-inch speaker, High and Low inputs, and practical recording and headphone features.
- Super Fifty-Nine M-80: A powerful 45-watt EL34 amplifier with two footswitchable gain structures, extensive tone controls and multiple cabinet configurations.
Choosing the right amplifier is not simply a matter of wattage. The interaction between the preamp, power section and speaker contributes to the way each model responds to a guitar and the player behind it.
From the compact immediacy of the Baby M-80 to the authority of the Super Fifty-Nine M-80, each offers something different.
Built with Purpose
The Master Collection represents another side of Magnatone’s commitment to amplifier design.
Each amplifier is hand-built in the USA, using carefully selected components and cabinetry designed for durability and performance. Finger-jointed birch plywood cabinets, woven fiberglass grille cloth, nickel-plated vents and Magnatone’s signature chevron details carry a consistent design language throughout the collection.
But the most important differences are found in the circuits themselves.
The Baby M-80, Super Fifteen and Super Fifty-Nine M-80 are not simply different sizes of the same amplifier. Each has been developed around its own power section, gain characteristics and intended playing experience.
Together, they represent Magnatone’s approach to British-inspired tube amplification, combining classic tonal character with the flexibility and craftsmanship expected from a modern, hand-built American amplifier.
Explore the Magnatone Master Collection and visit an authorized Magnatone dealer to experience the collection firsthand.
