In this immersive class, students will construct a fully functional 45-watt, all-tube guitar amplifier modeled after the legendary Marshall JTM 45, the amp that shaped the sound of rock and blues. Along the way, participants will gain a solid foundation in electronics, exploring capacitors, resistors, transformers, vacuum tubes, transistors, diodes, and more. Essential soldering and troubleshooting techniques will be taught step by step, equipping students with the skills to understand, repair, and maintain vacuum tube amplifiers.

The learning doesn’t stop with electronics. Each student will also build a custom “headbox” for their amplifier, mastering woodworking skills such as dovetail joinery, routing, and precise glue-ups. To complete the project, students will dive into the art of Tolex covering, perfecting the classic look and feel of a professional-grade amp.

Whether you’re a guitarist eager to customize your own gear or a seasoned maker ready for a new challenge, this course delivers the rare opportunity to build an heirloom-quality amplifier that looks as good as it sounds.