From the Chairman

ENGLISH

I would like to personally thank you for selecting this re-issue of my all-valve, JCM 800 2203, 100 Watt, Master Volume head. My company’s reputation and longevity have been built on a great many things – groundbreaking designs, skilled workmanship, reliability, flexibility, stylish looks and, above all else, great tone and feel. The continual fascination and love that many current guitarists show for our vintage amplification products is a testament to just how relevant and important such models are to this very day.

The amplifier you have just acquired is a re-issue of the JCM 800 2203, 100 Watt head that was originally launched in March of 1981 and proved incredibly popular with rock guitarists throughout the ‘80s. Although my JCM 900 Series replaced the entire JCM 800 range in 1991, the 2203 has remained a firm favourite with countless players – hence my decision to start making it again.

Our re-issue of the JCM 800 2203 is totally faithful to

the original in terms of looks, tone and feel. At the request of many 2203 fanatics it also boasts the addition of a Series Effects Loop – a feature which makes it totally at home in the modern performance arena.

I would like to wish you every success with your new amplifier and welcome you to the large and ever increasing family of players who plug into Marshall products.

!WARNING! - Important safety instructions

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED!

APLEASE read this instruction manual carefully before switching on.

BALWAYS use the supplied mains lead, if a replacement is required please contact your authorised Marshall Dealer.

CNEVER attempt to bypass the fuses or fit ones of the incorrect value.

DDO NOT attempt to remove the amplifier chassis, there are no user serviceable parts.

ERefer all servicing to qualified service personnel including replacement of fuses and valves.

Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally or has been dropped.

FNEVER use an amplifier in damp or wet conditions. No objects filled with liquids should be placed on the apparatus.

GALWAYS unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or if unused for long periods of time.

HPROTECT the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.

IDO NOT switch the amplifier on without a loudspeaker connected.

JENSURE that any extension cabinets used are of the correct impedance.

➲Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the requirements of the EMC directive (Environments E1, E2 and E3 EN 55103-1/2) and the Low Voltage directive in the E.U.

➲EUROPE ONLY - Note: The Peak Inrush current for the 2203 is 38 amps.

➲CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the users authority to operate the equipment.

➲Note: It is recommended that all audio cables, with the exception of the speaker lead, used to connect to the 2203 are of a high quality screened type. These should not exceed 10 metres in length.

Always use a non-screened Marshall approved speaker lead with the 2203 Head and extension cabinets.

➲WARNING: Do not obstruct ventilation grilles and always ensure free movement of air around the amplifier!

USA ONLY - DO NOT defeat the purpose of the polarised or grounding type plug. A polarised plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.

The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND HEED ALL WARNINGS

KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS !

ENGLISH

JCM800 specifications

Marshall Amplification has been synonymous with rock music for decades, and one of its most iconic amplifiers is the JCM800. Introduced in the early 1980s, this amp has garnered a reputation for its powerful sound and distinctive characteristics, making it a favorite among guitarists across various genres.

One of the standout features of the JCM800 is its simplicity and versatility. The amplifier comes in several configurations, including 50-watt and 100-watt heads as well as combo versions. This allows musicians to select the perfect power level for their needs, whether playing intimate gigs or rocking out in large venues. The JCM800 is primarily characterized by its two channels: a clean channel and a lead channel. The clean channel provides a warm, rich tone that can be easily pushed into overdrive, while the lead channel delivers a high-gain sound that is perfect for solos and heavy riffs.

Technologically, the JCM800 is built around a classic all-tube design, which contributes to its warm, organic sound. The use of EL34 power tubes is particularly notable; they provide a unique tonal character and dynamic response that many guitarists find unmatched. The preamp section features 12AX7 tubes, which add to the amp's ability to produce a wide range of tones from shimmering cleans to aggressive distortions.

The JCM800 is also equipped with simple yet effective tone controls, including treble, middle, and bass knobs that allow players to tailor their sound easily. Additionally, the presence and resonance controls provide further tonal shaping, enabling players to adjust the amp's response to better suit their musical style. This flexibility has made the JCM800 a go-to choice for many rock legends, from Slash of Guns N' Roses to Zakk Wylde of Ozzy Osbourne.

Another hallmark of the JCM800 is its rugged construction, built to withstand the rigors of touring and live performances. The amp's vintage-inspired design features a distinctive black vinyl covering and the iconic Marshall logo, which instantly conjures images of rock 'n' roll history.

In summary, the Marshall JCM800 is a legendary amplifier that has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of modern rock music. Its powerful tone, straightforward controls, and rugged build make it a preferred choice for countless guitarists seeking a reliable and high-quality amplifier that delivers exceptional sound quality, whether in the studio or on stage. The JCM800 continues to inspire a new generation of musicians, cementing its status as an enduring icon in the world of guitar amplification.