Guitarist magazine, July 2004

1974X 18 Watt Combo • 2061X 20 Watt Head • 1959HW 100 Watt Head

1959HW 100 Watt head

1960AHW/BHW 120 Watt cabinets

“When it comes to producing handwired amps with extraordinary tone, Marshall hasn’t forgotten how to do it . . .”

2061X 20 Watt head

2061CX 60 Watt cabinet

The 2061X’s point-to-point handwired circuit board.

THE TIMELESS TONE of vintage handwired, all-valve Marshall amplifiers, such as the 18 Watt model 1974X 1x12” combo (1966-1968), the 20 Watt model 2061X head (1968-1973) and, of course, the legendary ‘Plexi-era’ (late 1965-July 1969) model 1959HW 100 Watt head, have made them highly desirable to collectors and sonic connoisseurs alike. Due to overwhelming public demand, we are proud to introduce authentic, handwired re-issues of this trio of coveted amplifiers as the first products in our Handwired Series – a series that celebrates the company’s rich tonal heritage and revisits the handcrafted traditions and skills that first launched the Marshall legend.

The first seven products (two heads, one combo and four cabinets) in the Handwired Series thus far are:

1974X: Handwired re-issue of the model 1974X 18 Watt, 1x12” all-valve combo.

1974CX : Hand-soldered, 20 Watt, 1x12”, extension cabinet to compliment the 1974X.

2061X: Handwired re-issue of the model 2061X 20 Watt, all-valve head.

2061CX: Hand-soldered, compact, 60 Watt, 2x12” angled cabinet that compliments the 2061X. Loaded with Celestion’s critically-acclaimed G12H30 (75Hz resonance) re-issue speakers.

1959HW: Handwired re-issue of the 100 Watt, all-valve Super Lead ‘Plexi’ (a nickname derived from its Plexiglas front panel) head originally made in (pre-July) 1969.

1960AHW: Hand-soldered, 120 Watt, 16 ohm, mono 4x12” angled cabinet boasting metal handles, ‘100’ logo, salt ‘n’ pepper grille cloth and loaded with aged re-issues of the lower resonance (55Hz as opposed to 75Hz) 30 Watt, Celestion G12H, complete with the original Thames Ditton label.

1960BHW: Hand-soldered,straight-fronted partner to the 1960AHW cab.

All amps boast meticulous point-to-point, handwired circuits and, in order to make these re-issues as accurate as possible, we went to incredible lengths to achieve maximum authenticity

in terms of components, circuitry, constructional methods, materials, specifications, aesthetics, signal path, performance, tonal characteristics and feel.We are delighted to report that our suppliers were equally as exacting in their tasks, none more so than Dagnall Transformers and Celestion Speakers.

1974X 18 Watt combo

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Marshall Amplification Hand-Crafted Amplifiers manual 1974X 18 Watt Combo 2061X 20 Watt Head 1959HW 100 Watt Head
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Hand-Crafted Amplifiers specifications

Marshall Amplification is synonymous with rock music, a brand that has defined sound for generations of musicians. Renowned for their hand-crafted amplifiers, Marshall's commitment to quality and performance remains unparalleled. Each amplifier is a testament to the brand's expertise, melding tradition with innovative technology to create a sound that's powerful and distinctive.

At the heart of Marshall Amplification's offerings are their tube amplifiers. These amps are celebrated for their warm, rich tones, achieved through high-quality vacuum tubes that produce a natural compression and harmonic distortion. Artists love the dynamic response of tube amps, which react beautifully to a player's touch, allowing for expressive dynamics and tone shaping. Marshall's engineering meticulously selects components that elevate the tonal quality, ensuring that every amplifier delivers the unmistakable Marshall sound.

One of the most iconic features of Marshall amplifiers is their operating simplicity. Many models feature straightforward control layouts, with gain, treble, mid, and bass knobs that enable musicians to sculpt their tone with ease. Additionally, the distinctive Marshall EQ allows players to make radical tonal shifts quickly, fostering creativity in high-pressure performance situations.

Marshall has also integrated modern technology into their amplifiers without sacrificing their classic feel. The introduction of digital capabilities, like Bluetooth connectivity in certain models, allows users to stream their music and practice seamlessly. This blend of old and new exemplifies the brand's versatility, catering to both traditionalists and contemporary players alike.

Portability is another standout characteristic of Marshall's hand-crafted amplifiers. The design of many models emphasizes weight reduction while maintaining robust sound production, making it convenient for touring musicians. The addition of lightweight materials and compact designs means that musicians no longer need to sacrifice sound quality for portability.

Last but not least, Marshall Amplification's attention to detail culminates in the aesthetic appeal of their products. Each amplifier features the classic Marshall black and gold color scheme, often accompanied by the brand’s iconic logo. This timeless look not only stands out on stage but also reflects the brand's rich heritage.

Ultimately, Marshall Amplification hand-crafted amplifiers represent a seamless blend of heritage, technology, and artistic expression. Each amplifier is designed not just as a tool for sound, but as an extension of the musician's voice, empowering players to create their signature sounds with authenticity and power. For those dedicated to crafting memorable music, Marshall amplifiers remain an emblem of quality and passion.
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