Fender released its first solid-state series under CBS management in the summer of 1966. This series of amplifiers featured some of Fender's most popular tube amps and transformed them into solid-state versions. The first three models were the Dual Showman, Twin Reverb, and Bassman. A solid-state reverb unit and PA system were also introduced in this series. These amps were completely different than anything Fender had tried before and sported a silver control panel at a 45 degree angle, cylindrical flat-topped knobs, and aluminum trim around the speaker cabinets that would become standard for all Fender amps later on. These models had "Fender" spelled in black letters along the top of the grille and the words SOLID STATE printed in bold red letters. In 1967, Fender announced four new solid-state combos. These amps did not last long, and the entire line was discontinued in 1971.
Fender then began to start to experimenting with other solid-state ideas after the first series was discontinued. The Super Showman replaced the Dual Showman in 1969. This amp had many features including new technology with powered speakers. This was an amp that was designed for everyone in the band to use that same amp. The head had a built in E tuner, and a master volume the could control the combine the output of the three individual preamps. Fender used the idea of channel patching as well with the Super Showman. If only one person was using the amp, they could patch the channels together with short cords and use all the effects at the same time. Each speaker cabinet had a volume control on it. This amp had a lot of power, however, it was very expensive and very large. It only lasted for two years and was discontinued with the rest of the first series of solid-state amplifiers.