Inspirational faceplate design

For inspiration, I like to look to the more unusual amplifier faceplates from the past, and this 1964 Gibson Titan III bass amp is a good one to draw from.

The plate uses legible typography for the controls and a futuristic script face for the amp logo. The use of rules and outlines gives the design movement to imply that this amp is forward and ultra modern (for 1965 it was!). And you've gotta love those stovetop knobs!

Thanks to the Gibson Garage for posting this and hundreds of other great pics of the classic Gibson amp line!

The list to end all lists

In case you might want to start your own amplifier company (more power to you!), Philip Ruetz over at DIY Guitar Amp has the be-all, end-all list of links to your competition. His list of guitar amp manufacturers is a veritable who's who of the big guys, the bou-teeks and even the smart-alec newcomers on the block. Check it out!