Vintage Re-Issue Amplifiers

1959SLP Head • 1987X Head • 2245 (JTM45) Head

Yngwie Malmsteen

“I love everything about the amp, the tone, the crunch, the singing sustains when coupled with my SignatureYJM DOD Overdrive pedal. I could go on and on.”

From left to right:

1987X Head

1960AX Cab

1960BX Cab

2245 (JTM45) Head

1960TV Cab

1959SLP Head

1960AX Cab

1960BX Cab

Simon Neil

(Biffy Clyro)

“The 1959SLP head is everything you need from an amp. It’s crisp and beefy as f**k.What more could you ask for in a rock band. It’s the most rocking guitar sound I’ve ever had.”

The Vintage Series comprises the 100 Watt 1959SLP head, 50 Watt 1987X head, the 30 Watt JTM45 head, 30 Watt 1962 ‘Bluesbreaker’ combo, the 100 Watt JCM800 2203 head and the JCM900 4100 head.

All are faithful reproductions of the classic originals, which helped shape the sound of the modern electric guitar as we know it. The common characteristic of all these amps is their simplicity of operation and superb natural valve tone.

Due to high demand from users we have taken this opportunity to add a sonically transparent Effects Loop to the 1959SLP, 1987X and JCM800 2203 models. The Loop has been designed to not colour the guitar sound in any way, and a (true) Bypass switch gives you the option of completely removing this circuitry if desired. The only exception is the JCM900 4100 where the Series Effects Loop has always been a pivotal part of this versatile amp’s design. A loop Level switch on all these models ensures compatibility with both rack processors and stomp boxes.

1959SLP Head

THIS IS IT! The amp that defines classic rock – the Marshall 100 Watt Super Lead Plexiglas head of the late ’60s, re-issued in all its glory. To ensure tonal authenticity we searched for an amp from this period that epitomised this model. We gave this amp to our guitar playing R&D experts and they developed a replica that was so exact we couldn’t tell them apart. As previously mentioned, the only modern concession made was to add a tonally transparent Series Effects Loop with a true bypass switching option for the purist.

1987X Head

Though the 50 Watt 1987X shares the same front and rear panel features as its big brother, the 1959SLP, it does have its own distinct personality. Sweet, warm, singing sounds are the trademark of this great tone machine. As is the case with the 1959SLP, the 1987X has fittings and hardware as true to the originals as possible, to ensure an authentic Marshall ‘vintage’ look, plus the addition of a Series Effects Loop with Bypass and Level switches.

2245 (JTM45) Head

When Jim Marshall started manufacturing amps back in 1962, the first one out of the workshop was the JTM45. This amp instantly became a hit and launched a whole new generation of amazing guitar players. Since then, connoisseurs of tone have searched high and low for original examples of this beautiful amp. Now the search is over; the re-issued JTM45 is full of glassy clean tone and fluid warm sustain.

By including GZ34 valve rectification, as found in the original, we have ensured a faithful recreation of the JTM45’s signature sound. The GZ34 rectifier valve interacts with the rest of the valves causing subtle harmonics to shift and smoulder beneath every note you play.

AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATION

FEATURES	1959SLP	1987X	2245

Head	✓	✓	✓
Combo	No	No	No
Output (RMS)	100 Watt	50 Watt	30 Watt
3 Band EQ	✓	✓	✓
Tremolo	No	No	No
Pre-Amp Valves	3 x ECC83	3 x ECC83	3 x ECC83
Power Amp Valves	4 x EL34	2 x EL34	2 x 5881
GZ34 Valve Rectifier	No	No	✓
Series FX Loop	✓	✓	No
Footswitch (supplied)	No	No	No
Dimensions (mm)	750 x 310 x 215	665 x 265 x 205	665 x 265 x 205
Weight (kg)	20.5	15.3	14.6

Marshall Amplification Product Catalogue

JCM800 Series specifications

Marshall Amplification is synonymous with rock music, and the JCM800 series is one of its most iconic models. Launched in the early 1980s, the JCM800 series redefined high-gain amplification and became a staple for countless rock and metal guitarists. Known for its raw power and tonal versatility, the JCM800 has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

One of the defining features of the JCM800 series is its pure, aggressive sound. At the heart of these amplifiers lies a high-gain preamp circuit, which delivers a rich, harmonically complex tone that is ideal for modern rock styles. The JCM800 offers a variety of wattage options, typically ranging from 50 to 220 watts, allowing players to choose the right power for their sound and performance environment.

The classic EL34 power tubes serve as the backbone of the JCM800's tone. These tubes provide a warm, dynamic response and a pronounced midrange that perfectly complements the heavy distortion and sustain the amp is known for. The two-channel setup—commonly featuring a "Normal" and a "Overdrive" channel—grants players flexibility in their sound. The Normal channel is perfect for achieving clean tones, while the Overdrive channel unleashes an intense crunch that can be dialed in to suit any style.

Control features on the JCM800 amplifiers are straightforward yet effective. Simple tone controls—bass, middle, treble—allow players to sculpt their sound easily. The added presence and resonance controls enhance the amp's response, delivering everything from bright, cutting tones to thick, powerful sounds ideal for heavy riffs.

Another key technology in the JCM800 series includes the use of PCB (printed circuit board) design, improving reliability while maintaining an accessible serviceability profile. Marshall also incorporates features like series effects loops, allowing musicians to integrate their favorite pedals effortlessly.

The JCM800 has become a beloved choice for many legendary guitarists, with its sound frequently associated with iconic recordings from bands such as Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, and Nirvana. Available in various configurations, including heads, combos, and cabinets, the JCM800 series remains a cutting-edge line of amplifiers that capture the essence of rock music. Its rich history, combined with its powerful features, continues to inspire guitarists around the world. With the JCM800, Marshall Amplification has solidified its status as a pillar in the foundation of rock tone.