IK Multimedia’s latest TONEX expansion captures a selection of nine rare ‘Brown Panel’ Fender amps that were produced from 1959 to 1963. Sitting somewhere between the raw, warm sound associated with the earlier Tweed versions and the cleaner, more powerful ‘Black Panel’ amps that followed, the models in question are said to represent one of the most influential chapters in American amplifier history. 

Widely used across surf, country, blues and early rock records, the amps were behind everything from the expressive tones of Chris Stapleton to the pristine clean sounds embraced by Mark Knopfler. IK Multimedia say that the Brown Panel Signature Collection collection accurately captures the warmth, punch and dynamic response that made the amplifiers a go-to choice for so many players both in the studio and on stage.

The collection includes 80 Tone Models that are based on nine Brown Panel-era amplifiers, each of which has been captured across a wide range of settings to reveal its unique voice, feel and playing dynamics. Included in the collection are a 1960 Concert Amp, a 1962 Vibrolux, a 1960 Bandmaster, a 1961 Deluxe Amp, a 1962 Super Amp, a 1963 Vibroverb, a 1960 Princeton 1x10 combo, a 1961 Pro Amp and a 1963 Vibrasonic.  Together, they deliver a wide variety of authentic American tones, offering everything from expansive cleans and sparkling small-combo response to bold 1x15 authority, smooth breakup and pedal-enhanced lead sounds.

Each amplifier was captured using IK Multimedia’s AI Machine Modeling technology, with each session tracked through an SSL 4000G console with carefully selected dynamic, ribbon and condenser microphones. Select Complex Rigs expand the tonal palette with vintage-inspired signal chains that feature pedals and circuits based on the Klon Centaur, TS9 Tube Screamer, Tube Driver, MXR Distortion+ and the 6G15 Reverb preamp section.

Brown Panel Signature Collection runs in IK Multimedia’s TONEX software, which is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 11 and above. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available, along with a standalone application. It’s also compatible with AmpliTube, and can be used with any of IK Multimedia’s hardware TONEX products. 

Brown Panel Signature Collection is available now, and is currently (18 July 2026) being offered at an introductory price of $€79.99, reduced from its full cost of $€99.99.

www.ikmultimedia.com/products/tonex-brown-panel