<P> The Red Knob amplifiers were produced from 1987 until 1993 . These were some of the first models produced by the newly formed Fender Musical Instrument Corporation . These amplifiers , named for their bright red control knobs , have a slightly similar appearance to the older Blackface cosmetics , having black control panels with white lettering and the late 1970s `` scripted tailless '' Fender logo . Many of these models were simply refitted with black knobs and early 1970s `` unscripted tailless '' Fender logos in 1996 when most Fender amplifier manufacturing moved to the Ensenada factory in Mexico . This series of amplifiers all used printed circuit board construction and can be difficult for amateur amp techs to service . The Red Knob amps , with their high - gain channels , had their own sound , not much like the older classic Blackface and Silverface designs . </P>
when did fender start making amps in mexico
1996