This Electar by Epiphone Tube 30 has evolved into a unique, great-sounding custom amplifier that combines the warm, dynamic response of an all-tube EL84 platform with the punch and projection of a custom 4x10 speaker cabinet. While no longer original to its factory configuration, the amplifier retains its original chassis, transformers, wiring, capacitors, and tube circuitry, preserving the heart and tone of the Tube 30 design. Professionally evaluated by Blue Note Music, the chassis is in excellent condition, all electronics function as intended, and the four Carvin speakers deliver a full, articulate voice with impressive clarity and headroom. If you're looking for vintage-inspired tube tone in a reliable, stage-ready package rather than a collector-grade original, this modified Tube 30 offers outstanding performance, exceptional value, and a distinctive look and sound that sets it apart from the ordinary.

 

Blue Note Music

Amplifier Authentication & Evaluation Checklist

BASIC INFORMATION

Manufacturer: Electar/Epiphone

Model: Tube 30

Serial Number:  K971105972

Estimated Production Year: 1998

Country of Manufacture: Korea

PRIMARY AUTHENTICATION

Serial Number Verification: Present

Chassis Inspection: Original

Power Transformer: KT1762OU

Output Transformer: SKT-16014

Speaker Codes:  Carvin VL10x4

Tube Chart / Factory Labels: None

CABINET AUTHENTICATION

Cabinet Construction

Construction: Replacement. Originally a 1x10 combo

Covering: Replaced

Type: Tolex

Grill Cloth: Replacement

Hardware

Handle: replacement

Corners: replacement

Feet: replacement

Logo: original

TRANSFORMERS

Power Transformer: Siemens. WS9710

Output Transformer: Siemens MS9709

All original

SPEAKER SYSTEM

Speaker Configuration: 4x10

Speaker Manufacturer: Carvin

Speaker Assessment: All working as they should

ELECTRONICS AUTHENTICATION

Capacitors

Filter Capacitors: Original

Coupling Capacitors: Original

Wiring Harness: Original

Solder Joints: Original

TUBE COMPLEMENT

Power Tubes: EL84

Preamp Tubes: 12AX7

MODIFICATIONS

Functional Modifications: Speaker change

STRUCTURAL CONDITION

Cabinet: Minor wear

Chassis: Excellent

FINAL EVALUATION

Condition Grade: C

 

A+ — Exceptional / Collector Grade

Outstanding originality and condition. Among the finest examples likely to be encountered.

A — Excellent

Highly desirable example with only minor wear and no significant issues.

B — Very Good

Strong vintage example with normal wear and minor repairs or service replacements.

C — Good Player Grade

Functional amplifier with noticeable modifications, repairs, or originality loss.

D — Project Grade

Requires significant repair, restoration, or maintenance.

F — Parts / Salvage Grade

Major damage or missing components make restoration impractical.

Originality Grade: O4 significantly modified

Structural Grade: S1 Excellent

Repair Grade: R0 No work reccomended

Authentication Confidence: High

 

Kevin Carmody