Marshall JCM800 2203

$1,278.99

Experience rich and powerful sound with the Marshall JCM800 2203 guitar amp head – the ultimate choice for any serious guitarist.

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SKU: 6945170 Category: Tags: , , ,

Description

The Marshall JCM800 2203 guitar amp head is an all-time classic in the music industry that has been popular among guitar enthusiasts for almost four decades. This British-made amp head is responsible for defining heavy metal music and has been an iconic piece of equipment for many musicians worldwide.

The JCM800 2203 was first introduced in 1981 and built on Marshall’s earlier model; the JCM800 2204 that has been popular among hard rock and metal musicians since its release in 1980. The difference between the two models is that the JCM800 2203 is a 100-watt, all-valve amplifier head that provides a higher output than its predecessor. With its distinct sound and high gain capabilities, the JCM800 2203 quickly became the go-to choice for heavy metal guitarists in the early 80s.

The JCM800 2203 amp features an all-tube signal path with four ECC83 preamp valves and four EL34 power amp valves. The amp’s tonal characteristics are best described as having a high mid-range focus, which blends perfectly with a guitar’s natural sustain to produce the classic Marshall crunch. This gives guitarists a warm, full-bodied sound that is perfect for hard rock and heavy metal.

The Marshall JCM800 2203 has been used by many famous guitarists such as Slayer’s Kerry King, Metallica’s James Hetfield, and AC/DC’s Angus Young, among others. Its popularity has even continued into the modern era, with many contemporary metal musicians still relying on its classic sound.

One of the JCM800 2203’s standout features is its simplicity. The amp has two channels with high and low sensitivity inputs, which can be linked together for a range of tonal options. The amp’s only tone controls are a three-band equalizer and a presence control, making it easy for guitarists to dial in the perfect tone quickly.

The JCM800 2203 has also been used extensively in recording studios for its distinct tone. It has been heard on countless records over the years, and its popularity continues to this day. With the rise of high-gain digital amplifiers, the JCM800 2203’s analogue sound is still unmatched by many who prefer the warm and organic sound that only a valve amp can provide.

Overall, the Marshall JCM800 2203 is an iconic guitar amp head that has stood the test of time. Its distinctive tone and simplicity have inspired many musicians and set a standard for heavy metal tone that is still sought after today. If you’re looking for a classic, high-gain amplifier that delivers a powerful, full-bodied sound, it’s hard to look past the Marshall JCM800 2203.

Marshall JCM800 2203 properties

Product name JCM800 2203
Brand Marshall
Type Guitar Amplifier Heads
Sound Effects Presence
Sound Setting Middle, Treble
Height 315.0 mm
Depth 210.0 mm
Width 740.0 mm
Weight 20.5 kg

Additional information

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Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the difference in tone and performance between the original 1969-1974 JCM800 2203 head and the reissue models, specifically regarding the power amp section and preamp circuitry?

The original 1969-1974 JCM800 2203 head and its reissue counterparts are two distinct amplifiers that share a common heritage but differ in terms of tone and performance. The main differences lie in the power amp section and preamp circuitry. The original 1969-1974 JCM800 2203 head is known for its unique tone, which many consider to be among the most iconic guitar tones ever produced. The original amp's power amp section was designed around a pair of EL34 power tubes, with a biasing system that emphasized the midrange frequencies and created a warm, harmonically rich sound. This was achieved through a combination of circuit design choices and the inherent characteristics of the EL34 tube itself. In contrast, reissue models such as the 2203 reissue have made changes to the power amp section in an attempt to replicate the original's tone more accurately. However, these changes have led some players to argue that they do not capture the essence of the original. The most notable change is the use of a different biasing system, which shifts the emphasis away from midrange frequencies and towards higher frequency harmonics. Regarding preamp circuitry, reissue models tend to incorporate more modern components such as ceramic capacitors, which are often seen as having a brighter, more aggressive tone compared to the original's wax paper or Mylar capacitors. This can result in a slightly harsher high end and reduced low-end warmth. The 1969-1974 JCM800 2203 head's preamp circuitry was designed around a pair of ECC83 dual triodes, with a unique biasing system that allowed for a wide range of tonal variations. The original amp's preamp section is known for its ability to produce a rich, harmonically complex sound, which is often described as warm and dynamic. In contrast, reissue models have made changes to the preamp circuitry in an effort to improve reliability and maintainability. However, these changes have led some players to argue that they compromise the original's unique tone. Overall, while reissue models can be a good option for players seeking a more reliable and maintainable amplifier, those who value the original 1969-1974 JCM800 2203 head's unique tone may find that it is worth the added hassle of maintaining an older amp.

Before you buy Marshall JCM800 2203

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