Matchless Chieftain 2×12 Combo, 2000

The Matchless Chieftain is a 40 watt, class A 2×12 Combo tube amp using a pair of EL34 tubes and built to be extremely solid and versatile. Launched in 1995, the Chieftain has remained a key component of the Matchless lineup.

Here we’re looking at a Matchless Chieftain built in Los Angeles during 2000, based on its serial number ‘J20120’. It is in very good, clean condition and includes its soft cover. The cabinet covering has a small amount of light scuffing but no tears, suggesting that the amp was not used on the road.

Here is the builder’s description of the Matchless Chieftain:

“The Chieftain preamp utilizes two 12AX7’s for its interactive tone and two 12AX7’s for the reverb circuits. This highly flexible preamp circuit is enhanced by a very active mid control.

The preamp section is coupled to a pair of EL34’s power tubes via a 12AX7 phase inverter for tremendous power reserve.

The 40 watt Chieftain employs a tube powered spring reverb and a broad array of tone control knobs. The classic range of bass, mid, treble, brilliance and reverb controls provides quick access and visual confirmation of 5 tube based tone shaping parameters.

Exceptionally loud sound pressure levels can be attained with no appreciable loss of tone. Additional features include an effects loop and a switchable output impedance (4, 8, 16 ohms). Sound on the 212 Combo is delivered through two Celestion Creamback G12H75 speakers, each specially modified to a proprietary MATCHLESS formula.

All of this is encased in an extremely sturdy hand-made 11-ply, 3/4” Baltic birch cabinet, wrapped in richly textured black vinyl. The finishing touch is our signature backlit nameplate and control panel, which lets you (and the audience) know when the power is on.

The Chieftain will support almost any playing style and is considered an excellent all-purpose amplifier.”