1970 Hiwatt Custom 50 DR504

There are very few amplifiers that can genuinely be described as benchmark designs, but the Hiwatt Custom 50 DR504 is unquestionably one of them. This 1970 example is particularly special — completely original and presented in excellent to near mint condition. A truly rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest British valve amplifiers ever built in original, untouched form.

Built in England at the HiWatt New Malden factory to famously uncompromising standards, the DR504 is revered for its military-grade construction, immaculate hand-wired layout, and immense clean headroom. Unlike many British amps of the era, the Hiwatt delivers clarity, punch and authority in equal measure, retaining note definition even at punishing volumes. It takes pedals beautifully and remains tight, articulate and commanding whether pushed hard or run clean.

This model is, of course, indelibly associated with Pete Townshend, who used Hiwatt stacks extensively during The Who’s explosive early-1970s period. That unmistakable sound — bold, percussive, and unflinchingly powerful — is very much the DR504’s calling card.

The condition of this example is exceptional. The amplifier remains completely original throughout, with no modifications or replaced components. There are a few light scuffs to the black tolex on the underside of the amp (see pictures) and a very small nick to the tolex on the front left edge but otherwise it is in as close to mint condition as to be expected. It also still has its three pin Bulgin mains socket. Many examples from this period have been modded over the years to feature an IEC 'kettle' mains socket.

This example has been in the possession of one owner since 1972. For collectors, this level of originality and preservation places it firmly in top-tier territory; for players, it represents the purest expression of the Hiwatt sound.

Whether viewed as a world-class recording and stage amplifier, or as a highly desirable piece of British rock history, this 1970 Hiwatt Custom 50 DR504 stands among the very best examples available today.

Comes with the original soft cover.

**DUE TO THE NATURE OF THIS PRODUCT IT IS AVAILABLE FOR COLLECTION ONLY FROM HERTFORD, UK.