Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $2,616
High-end/Boutique
$300
$801+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Friedman PLEX". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Inspired by the legendary tones of 1968, the Friedman PLEX Guitar Amplifier Head is a modern tribute to the iconic British sound that shaped rock history. This amp captures the essence of Dave Friedman's favorite vintage amplifier, meticulously recreated with custom USA-made transformers and premium components. The PLEX offers a powerful 50-watt output driven by dual EL34 power tubes and a trio of 12AX7 preamp tubes, ensuring an authentic and dynamic tonal experience.
The PLEX’s dual-channel design provides both Lead and Normal channels with individual volume controls, allowing guitarists to achieve a versatile range of sounds from clean to crunchy. Internal channel jumpering, a nod to classic Plexi amps, enables seamless blending of these channels for that perfect tonal balance. With the innovative post-phase-inverter master volume control, you'll enjoy rich, harmonic saturation at any volume, whether you're on stage or in the studio.
The PLEX also features a 3-band EQ, Presence control, and channel-specific bright switches, offering extensive tone-shaping capabilities. A 3-way variac switch provides further flexibility, letting you dial in the amp's response to suit different playing environments. Finished with a rugged yet stylish enclosure, the Friedman PLEX is built to withstand the rigors of touring while delivering timeless tones that inspire.
Key Features:
- 50W tube amplifier head with dual EL34 power tubes
- 2-channel design with Lead and Normal channels
- Internal channel jumpering for seamless sound blending
- Post-phase-inverter master volume control for dynamic tone at any level
- 3-band EQ with Presence control and 3-way channel-specific bright switches
- 3-way variac switch for voltage and tone customization
- High and Low instrument inputs for versatile sound sculpting
- 4-, 8-, and 16-ohm output jacks for flexible cabinet pairing
Product specs
| Type | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Output Power | 50W |
| Preamp Tubes | 3 x 12AX7 |
| Power Tubes | 2 x EL34 |
| EQ | 3-band EQ, Presence, 2 x bright switch |
| Inputs | 2 x 1/4" (Normal, Lead) |
| Outputs | 5 x 1/4" (4, 8, 16 ohms) |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 10" |
| Width | 24" |
| Depth | 8.75" |
| Weight | 33.5 lbs. |
FAQs
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What kind of tones can I expect from the Friedman PLEX for classic rock music?
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The Friedman PLEX delivers authentic Plexi-style tones, known for their rich, dynamic response and classic British rock sound. Its two channels replicate the iconic 1968 JMP Super Lead, providing both clean and overdriven tones ideal for classic rock.
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Is the Friedman PLEX suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Friedman PLEX is a 50-watt tube amplifier head that offers enough power for live performances, providing ample volume and headroom to cut through a band mix while maintaining clarity and punch.
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Does the Friedman PLEX take pedals well?
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The Friedman PLEX is renowned for its pedal-friendly nature, allowing effects pedals to integrate seamlessly, enhancing its versatile tonal capabilities without losing the amp's inherent character.
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What are the main features of the Friedman PLEX's EQ section?
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The Friedman PLEX features a 3-band EQ with controls for bass, mid, and treble, along with a presence control and two bright switches, allowing for precise tonal shaping to suit various musical styles.
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Is the Friedman PLEX hand-wired?
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Yes, the Friedman PLEX is a hand-wired boutique tube amplifier, meticulously crafted to replicate the iconic tone of Dave Friedman's 1968 JMP Super Lead "Plexi" amplifier.
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional master volume control for precise tonal adjustments
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Offers rich British clean tones with customizable brightness
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Versatile sound, covering genres from rock to metal effortlessly
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Immediate string response for a gratifying playing experience
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Delivers classic '68 plexi sound in a reliable, service-free package
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Harmonically rich tones with wide sound variety via bright switches
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Excellent compatibility with pedals, enhancing tonal flexibility
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Approaches the iconic '68 Marshall sound for a dream tone
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Highly versatile, suitable for multiple genres like southern rock and blues
CONS
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Lacks an effects loop, which may limit some soundscaping options
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Friedman PLEX.
Comparisons
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Friedman Plex is noted for smoother tones compared to JTM45, lacking the JTM45's thickness.
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Despite similarities, JTM45 and Bassman circuits differ significantly in negative feedback and components, affecting tone.
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Planned A/B testing with a '76 Lead and a studio vintage will provide further tonal comparisons for potential buyers.
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The SV20 circuit and Friedman Plex differ in the 22uf bypass cap on V2 and fixed vs. cathode bias, affecting gain and bass.
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It's noted that modern Marshall amps have new filtering and feedback to reduce original Plexi circuit issues like ghosting.
Source
User experience
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Owners who transitioned from Friedman Plex to Ceriatone often returned, missing the unique tonal qualities of the Friedman.
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Friedman Plex is described as delivering perfect Plexi tones but is considered expensive compared to alternatives like Ceriatone.
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Initial impressions highlight the amp’s capability to achieve the desired "Marshall thing," addressing previous concerns about Friedman amps being too dark or compressed.
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An owner transitioned from a Friedman Twin Sister to the Plex and expressed satisfaction with the decision.
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Use cases and applications
Features and functionality
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The variac feature adds a "juicy" quality to the tone, enhancing the amp’s appeal for users seeking a distinct sound.
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Bright switches are effective in dialing in a clean tone and removing muddiness from the bottom end.
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Friedman's Plex includes a Lar-Mar master volume, shunting the signal before EL34s, maintaining sound consistency from low to high volume.
Source
Critic Reviews
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Artist usage
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