Marshall Amplification is one of the most legendary names in music and music gear history, with cosigns from iconic shredders like Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour, and Eric Clapton, and the continuing support of current acts as well. When Jim Marshall released the JTM45 in 1963, it quickly became one of the most important amps in rock history, and the iconic Marshall Stack is still an unmistakable sight on any stage. Earlier this year, Zound (owners of Marshall Headphones) bought the British audio equipment manufacturer, and the Marshall Studio JTM drop marks the first release since this acquisition (which fans have been nervously awaiting). It’s a collection of retro gear, including an amp head, a combo amp inspired by the legendary JTM45, and two cabinets, dedicated to the Father of Loud and inspired by legends.
This studio version of the JTM gear is lightweight and has lower wattage, allowing you to get that Marshall tone without the infamous weight (and ear-piercing distortion). Many parts from the classic JTM45 are back, like EEC83 preamp tubes, an EEC83 phase splitter, and 5881 power amp tubes, but there are also new additions, like being able to switch between 5W and 20W on the ST20C. There’s built-in power reduction on both the 1×12” and 2×12” cabs, so you have better control over the wattage there too.
The JTM45’s unmistakable tone defined the British Invasion, so it only makes sense that this retro release also aesthetically honors that. Everything is handmade in the UK and has period-accurate touches, from the red enamel coffin logo to the fawn fret.
The Marshall Studio JTM collection, including the amp head, the combo amp, and two cabinets, starts at $2,350 for the ST20H amp head, $2,650 for the ST20C combo amp, $1,480 for the 1×12” ST112 cabinet, and $1,850 for the larger 2×12” ST212 cabinet. Availability and pricing will vary across retailers.
