Pete, I love both channels but I personally go into the “Steel” channel more for the sweeter glassier tones. The “Guitar” channel is a bit browner/tweedier sounding to my ears. You can even jumper both channels like you would on a 4-input Marshall or tweed Bassman – both channels are “in-phase” of each other unlike most Fender reverb amps. I occasionally do this and it gets real thick and meaty. But I still prefer going into the “Steel” channel by itself most of the time. You could have a tech modify the “Guitar” channel for more versatility. For example, I had a tech change the slope resistor on that channel from the stock 100K value to 56K for a darker and warmer Marshally voice. You could even go as low as 33K for more warmth, but the 56K sounded the best to my ears. Another option is changing out the “Middle” control pot from the stock 10K value to a 25K value. You still can get the original range of the original pot, but then you gain more mids/fat if you want it. The possibilities are abundant. It really is like having 2 amps in 1.

I just have a question for all you Custom Vibrasonic owners out there: When using a Tele, what is your preferred channel and EQ settings on this amp? I realize the “GUITAR” channel adds some additional midrange, but I’d like to hear what works for you guys in a country band setup, (especially in a recording scenario). I just acquired this amp, and it aleady has a ton of miles already on it in 2022, and I’m already favoring the “STEEL” channel….it’s a little sweeter, no matter what instrument I have plugged-in (whether lapsteel or guitar).

I guess the 418 just sounded more open and musical. For an aluminum capped speaker, it really isn’t very harsh at all when pushed with overdrive or even fuzz pedals. I’m now using the Vibrasonic with a 1×12 extension cab loaded with an Eminence Swamp Thang and it’s a very good pairing with the Altec. These amps are incredible.