The Thomas Organ Company's Cry Baby wah pedal isn't just a piece of gear; it's a cornerstone of rock, funk, and countless other genres. Its distinctive vocal-like sweep has graced countless iconic recordings, making it a coveted piece for guitarists of all levels. But navigating the vintage Cry Baby market can be tricky. Knowing the manufacturing year based on the serial number is crucial for determining its value, authenticity, and potentially even its sonic characteristics. This guide will help you decipher the secrets hidden within those numbers, giving you the knowledge to confidently identify your Cry Baby's age and unlock its history.
Why Bother Knowing Your Cry Baby's Age?
Understanding when your Cry Baby was made goes far beyond simple curiosity. Here’s why it matters:
- Value: Vintage Cry Babies, particularly those from the early Thomas Organ era, can command significant prices. Knowing the year helps you accurately assess its market value.
- Authenticity: With the rise of clones and replicas, identifying the manufacturing year helps verify the pedal's authenticity and prevents you from being scammed.
- Components and Sound: Different eras of Cry Babies used different components, which significantly impacted their sound. Knowing the year helps you understand what to expect from its tone. For example, early Italian-made versions are often prized for their richer, warmer sound.
- Collectibility: Certain years or specific models are more sought after by collectors. Knowing the year can help you determine if you have a particularly rare or desirable piece.
- Repair and Restoration: Knowing the age helps in sourcing appropriate replacement parts and understanding the pedal's original construction, making repairs and restorations easier.
The Thomas Organ Era: A Serial Number Decoding Mission
The most desirable and collectible Cry Babies are generally those manufactured under the Thomas Organ Company's license. These were typically produced in Italy. Identifying the manufacturing year requires deciphering the serial number system used during this period. Unfortunately, Thomas Organ didn't keep meticulous records, making precise dating a bit of an art as much as a science. However, here's a breakdown of the most common serial number patterns:
Early Italian Vox Cry Babies (pre-1967): These often lack serial numbers altogether. Their identification relies on other factors like component markings, construction details (e.g., the type of inductor), and the presence of the Vox logo. These are highly sought after.
Thomas Organ Cry Babies (1967-1970s): This is where serial numbers start to become more prevalent, but the system is inconsistent.
No Letter Prefix: Some serial numbers consist of only numbers, typically ranging from 4 to 6 digits. Lower numbers generally indicate earlier production years. For example, numbers in the low thousands (1000-5000) are likely from 1967 or early 1968. Numbers in the tens of thousands (10,000-30,000) could be from later 1968 or 1969.
"T" Prefix: Many Thomas Organ Cry Babies feature a serial number starting with the letter "T." This "T" likely stands for Thomas. The numbers following the "T" are the key. Again, lower numbers generally mean earlier production. T1000 to T5000 would likely be from 1968 or early 1969. T10000 to T20000 could be from 1969 or 1970.
"F" Prefix: Some examples have been found with an "F" prefix. The exact significance of "F" is debated, but these are generally considered to be from the late Thomas Organ era, possibly early 1970s.
Important Considerations:
- Internal Components: Cross-referencing the serial number with the date codes on internal components (e.g., potentiometers, capacitors) can provide a more accurate estimate. Date codes are typically week/year format (e.g., 42 68 would indicate the 42nd week of 1968).
- Inductor Type: The type of inductor used (e.g., Stack of Dimes, Halo, Fasel) is a strong indicator of the production era. Consult online resources and forums for detailed information on inductor characteristics and their corresponding years.
- Case Construction: The construction of the pedal's enclosure can also provide clues. Early models often had a smoother, more rounded casting compared to later versions.
- Potentiometer: The resistance value of the potentiometer (typically 100k or 500k) can also help narrow down the date range.
Caveat Emptor: Serial number information is not a foolproof method. There are variations and inconsistencies. Cross-referencing with other physical characteristics is crucial for accurate identification.
Beyond Thomas Organ: The Later Cry Baby Years
After the Thomas Organ era, the Cry Baby went through several iterations and manufacturers. Serial number systems varied considerably, making precise dating even more challenging.
Vox Reissues (1980s-1990s): These were often manufactured in Japan or Korea. Serial numbers may or may not be present. Identifying these usually relies on specific design features and component markings.
Dunlop Cry Babies (1990s-Present): Dunlop acquired the Cry Baby brand and continues to produce various models. Dunlop typically uses a date code system, often stamped on the circuit board or inside the enclosure. These codes can usually be deciphered to determine the manufacturing date. Contact Dunlop customer service for assistance if needed. Many Dunlop Cry Babies also include a serial number, but its format doesn't necessarily correspond to the manufacturing year directly.
Resources for Cry Baby Sleuths
Identifying your Cry Baby’s age can feel like detective work. Here are some valuable resources:
- Online Forums: Guitar forums dedicated to vintage gear are treasure troves of information. Search for existing threads or post pictures of your pedal and ask for help. Experienced collectors and enthusiasts are often willing to share their knowledge.
- Cry Baby Websites and Blogs: Several websites and blogs are dedicated to the history and evolution of the Cry Baby. These resources often contain detailed information on serial numbers, component variations, and other identifying features.
- Books on Vintage Effects Pedals: Books dedicated to the history of effects pedals often include sections on the Cry Baby, providing valuable information on its different eras and variations.
- Visual Inspection and Comparison: Comparing your Cry Baby to pictures of known examples from specific years can be helpful. Pay attention to details like the logo, the type of inductor, and the construction of the enclosure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When dating your Cry Baby, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Relying Solely on the Serial Number: As mentioned earlier, the serial number is just one piece of the puzzle. Always cross-reference it with other physical characteristics and component markings.
- Ignoring Component Date Codes: The date codes on internal components can provide valuable clues, especially when the serial number is ambiguous.
- Assuming All Cry Babies Are Valuable: Not all vintage Cry Babies are highly valuable. The most desirable models are typically the early Italian-made versions from the Thomas Organ era.
- Overlooking Modifications: Modifications can significantly impact the value and authenticity of a vintage Cry Baby. Look for signs of replaced components or altered wiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find the serial number on my Cry Baby? The serial number is usually stamped on the bottom plate of the pedal's enclosure. It might be faint or partially obscured by paint or wear.
What does a "Stack of Dimes" inductor mean? A "Stack of Dimes" inductor is a type of inductor used in early Cry Babies. It is characterized by its cylindrical shape and the appearance of stacked metal washers. Its presence often indicates an early to mid-1960s production date.
Is my Cry Baby valuable if it has been modified? Modifications generally decrease the value of a vintage Cry Baby unless the modifications were done by a reputable technician and enhance its sound or functionality. Originality is key for collectors.
What does "Fasel" inductor mean? "Fasel" refers to a specific type of inductor used in many vintage and reissue Cry Babies. They are known for their distinctive sound characteristics and are often associated with classic wah tones.
Can I accurately date my Cry Baby using only the serial number? Not always. Serial numbers provide a starting point, but cross-referencing with other physical characteristics and component markings is crucial for a more accurate estimate.
Conclusion
Dating your Thomas Organ Cry Baby based on its serial number and other features is an involved process, but ultimately rewarding. By understanding the nuances of the serial number system, component variations, and other identifying features, you can unlock the secrets of your pedal and gain a deeper appreciation for its history and value. Remember to cross-reference information and consult with experienced collectors to ensure accuracy.