1955 Princeton SN: P00102 Small body narrow panel 5E2 circuit 

This is an original small cabinet narrow panel Princeton amplifier. This model is a transitional model only offered in 1955 with a few orders fulfilled in 1956 as well. This is the 5E2 circuit. The date code is EE, corresponding to May of 1955. The serial number is P00102, indicating an early build in the small run of these made that year. 

The cabinet is similar in size and shape to the Champ cabinet of the later 1950’s. The circuit also outwardly resembles a Champ of the same year, but differs in a few key ways. The most obvious change is the addition of a tone knob to complement the combination volume and on/off switch. Internally, there are differences as well. A choke, 26R2Z, is added to the usual complement of a 265 Triad output transformer and a 7877 Triad power transformer. All of the transformers are original to the amplifier, however, the choke has been re-wound. The choke transformer leads have been spliced into the original circuit. 

The speaker has been replaced with a recent Made in Italy Jensen Special Design ceramic magnet speaker, which sounds fantastic. The RCA speaker connection has been replaced with a ¼” jack. Most of the electrolytic capacitors and Ashtron capacitors, along with several resistors, have been replaced. This was careful work; the details of the 5E2 circuit, which includes provisions for negative feedback, have been thoughtfully preserved. A three prong cord has been installed. A trio of vintage tubes have been selected: A General Electric 6V6GT, a Magnavox 12AX7 and a Tung Sol 5Y3GT. 

Outwardly, the cabinet and panels are original and they retain their original Tolex, which has darkened considerably with age. The grill cloth is original as well and has a few small marks and pulls. The control panel has little of the original lettering left and there are spots of corrosion and pitting. The handle is a well crafted leather replacement. 

Soundwise, this is in every way a Princeton. The negative feedback cleans up the sound a bit, the choke adds some welcome compression and the tone knob offers variety unavailable to the Champ. With a little more volume, this single ended design breaks up nicely.