[tenwatt]

I have an itching to build a Fender Princeton (blackface) to run in stereo with my AC15. I have two questions:

1.) Could I realistically build one for half of what it would cost me to buy one?
2.) Is there a clone anyone could recommend?

[RubberChipmunk]

Originally Posted by tenwatt

I have an itching to build a Fender Princeton (blackface) to run in stereo with my AC15. I have two questions:

1.) Could I realistically build one for half of what it would cost me to buy one?
2.) Is there a clone anyone could recommend?

1) It really depends. If buying one would cost more than about $1000-1300, then yes.
2) Clones use the original schematic in most cases, unless they're modded. If you're building it yourself, get a schematic of that amp and work from that.

[Major Tom]

A fill in worship leader told me he had recently built a Deluxe clone, and seemed to be pretty proud of the fact that he built it for $700. For that money, or even less, you could buy a silverface Princeton Reverb, and "blackface" it if it hasn't already been done, or if it even needs it. You can even buy blackface panels for SF amps (oh no, not another ethical issue, like in the GAS'ing for a Squier thread...). The Fender is almost certain to appreciate in value, while a homebuilt clone, no matter how wonderfully it was done... dunno...? Of course, there may be some self satisfaction from building a kit (whether it was bought as an actual kit, or separate items), but conversely, if you are not an amp technician, there would be the potential for some real frustration if it didn't work after completion, or had noise issues.