Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (19)
$2,299.99
Guitar Center
$2,299.99
Reverb
5.0 (7)
$799.00 27 available Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$2,299.99
zZounds
5.0 (9)
$2,299.99
Thomann
5.0 (21)
$1,739.00 $1,725.00 $14.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,954

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Marshall 1987x 50 watt head, a must-have for any musician seeking a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern reliability. This gem is part of the esteemed Marshall Vintage Series, boasting a design as true to the originals as humanly possible while also incorporating a new series effects loop feature. With the capability to mix two channels together, the 1987x offers a unique sound experience that is distinctly Marshall.

The 1987x is defined by its simplicity of operation, allowing musicians to focus on what truly matters - the music. Its superb natural valve tone produces a warm, vibrant overdrive when cranked up, delivering pure, majestic tones uncluttered by unnecessary circuitry. This lends itself to a full, round, sustain for solos and a percussive attack with a natural sounding break up for chord work, allowing each note to ring out in a glorious musical crunch.

Key Features:

  • Part of the Marshall Vintage Series
  • Ability to mix two channels together for a unique sound
  • New series effects loop feature
  • Authentic vintage Marshall look and feel
  • 50-watt output
  • 3 x ECC83 preamp tubes and 2 x EL34 power amp tubes
  • 3-band EQ
  • Presence control

The Marshall 1987x 50 watt head is your ticket to a world of sweet, warm singing sounds packed into every nook and cranny. A faithful reproduction of the original, this amp is just what you're looking for!

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels 2
Total Power 50W
Preamp Tubes 2 x ECC83, 1 x ECC83 (phase splitter)
Power Tubes 2 x EL34
EQ 3-band EQ, High Treble
Inputs 2 x 1/4" (ch 1), 2 x 1/4" (ch 2)
Outputs 2 x 1/4" (4/8/16 ohms)
Effects Loop Yes
Bias Type Adjustable Fixed
Construction Material Black Tolex
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 10.2"
Width 26"
Depth 8.1"
Weight 34 lbs.

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head best suited for?

The Marshall 1987X is renowned for its classic rock and blues tones, thanks to its vintage Plexi design and tube-driven circuitry. It excels in producing warm, rich overdrive and crisp, articulate cleans that are perfect for these genres.

Does the Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head have an effects loop?

Yes, the Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head features an effects loop, allowing you to integrate external effects units seamlessly into your signal chain for greater tonal flexibility.

How does the Marshall 1987X handle pedals?

The Marshall 1987X is well-regarded for its ability to take pedals effectively, especially overdrives and distortions, enhancing its already robust tonal palette for a variety of soundscapes.

Is the Marshall 1987X suitable for live performances?

With its 50-watt power output and robust sound projection, the Marshall 1987X is well-suited for live performances, providing ample volume and presence for small to medium-sized venues.

What are the main tonal characteristics of the Marshall 1987X?

The Marshall 1987X is known for its rich, dynamic tones with a strong midrange presence, delivering the classic Marshall crunch and sustain that is favored by rock and blues guitarists.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Marshall Plexi 1987x

Video thumbnail for Marshall Plexi 1987x by ProGuitarShopDemos

Marshall Plexi 1987x

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Which Marshall Would You Choose – JTM45 or 1987x Plexi? by That Pedal Show

Which Marshall Would You Choose – JTM45 or 1987x Plexi?

That Pedal Show

That Pedal Show

Video thumbnail for Dan Hawkins - The Darkness | 1987X  Playthrough | Marshall by Marshall Amplification

Dan Hawkins - The Darkness | 1987X Playthrough | Marshall

Marshall Amplification

Marshall Amplification

Video thumbnail for Plexi Amp Comparison | Head & Cab | JTM45, 1987X, 1959HW by Marshall Amplification

Plexi Amp Comparison | Head & Cab | JTM45, 1987X, 1959HW

Marshall Amplification

Marshall Amplification

Video thumbnail for Marshall 1987x Amp Head | Reverb Demo Video by Reverb

Marshall 1987x Amp Head | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for 1987X | Official Demo | Marshall by Marshall Amplification

1987X | Official Demo | Marshall

Marshall Amplification

Marshall Amplification

Video thumbnail for 2020 Marshall 1987x 50w Amp by Daniel Cook

2020 Marshall 1987x 50w Amp

Daniel Cook

Daniel Cook

Video thumbnail for Putting A Marshall 1987X Plexi Through Its Paces! - In-Depth Demo With Different Guitars & Pedals! by PMTVUK

Putting A Marshall 1987X Plexi Through Its Paces! - In-Depth Demo With Different Guitars & Pedals!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for FRIEDMAN SMALL BOX | And compared to a Marshall 1987X & JCM800 2203 by Euge Valovirta

FRIEDMAN SMALL BOX | And compared to a Marshall 1987X & JCM800 2203

Euge Valovirta

Euge Valovirta

Video thumbnail for The Marshall 1987X (aka MK II) 50 watt head by Elmo Karjalainen

The Marshall 1987X (aka MK II) 50 watt head

Elmo Karjalainen

Elmo Karjalainen

Video thumbnail for Marshall 1987x 50 Watt Plexi Head Unboxing / Playthrough by Hollywood Rare Guitars

Marshall 1987x 50 Watt Plexi Head Unboxing / Playthrough

Hollywood Rare Guitars

Hollywood Rare Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head.

Features and functionality

  • The 1987X lacks a master volume, making it difficult to control loudness without additional equipment like an attenuator.

    Source
  • The effects loop on the 1987X is reported to outperform the DSL model, particularly in handling drive and modulation pedals.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installing a master volume at the amp's back is recommended to make it practical for gigs, costing around $150.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The amp can fill an auditorium and may require an attenuator like the Marshall Powerbreak to manage volume for smaller venues.

    Source
  • It's noted that the 1987X pairs well with a 1936 Lead 2x12 cabinet, enhancing overall sound quality and projection.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the 1987X can be overwhelmingly loud, potentially surpassing a 100W JCM 900 in raw volume output.

    Source
  • Users note that jumpering channels enhances tonal flexibility by balancing the bright and dark tonalities, not merely to increase gain.

    Source
  • Owners enjoy the extensive tonal possibilities, describing the amp as having "myriad of tones" waiting to be discovered.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer alternatives like the Jubilee reissue or JVM for more manageable volume control without sacrificing tone.

    Source
  • Jumpering channels on the 1987X allows blending of bright and normal channels, differing from the gain increase in JMP models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Marshall 1987x Amp Amplifier Review | tonymckenzie.com

tonymckenzie.com

While the Marshall 1987X 50-watt head reissue captures the vintage charm and tone reminiscent of classic rock legends, it falls short of being an exact replica of its iconic predecessor. The addition of an effects loop might irk purists, and the amp's volume can be overwhelming for modern settings. However, the reissue impresses with improved reliability and a more accessible price point, making it an attractive choice for those seeking classic Marshall sound without the maintenance woes of vintage models. This amp delivers the sonic essence of a bygone era, but with modern practicality.

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
andris_gabor

This is the iconic Marsall plexi sound

Equipped with EL32 tubes it will sound bigger than a JTM45 or any other 6L6-equipped amp. It might be only 50 Watts butin clubs it is not a useful amp. After 2 it starts to scream. Do the bright cap mod and you will have a vintage Marshall sounding amp.

daniel_souvigny

Classic Marshall tone

Crank it up, and experience the genuine sonic happiness of plugging into a good ol' Marshall Plexi.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul Gilbert uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Paul Gilbert

Guitarist

Racer X

...
Verified via YouTube

At 11:07 in this video Paul Gilbert says that he used a Marshall 1987x amp for the recording of 'Vibrato'.

See how Tom Petty uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Tom Petty

Guitarist, Singer

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via Photo

"Taking a look at the other amps in his repertoire – such as a ’59 Fender Bassman Reissue, a Fender Vibro-King 60 watt combo, a ’69 Marshall JMP50 Plexi head and a Marshall 1987X Vintage Series 50 watt tube head, among others..." states this article, by Pro Audio Land, about Tom Petty's gear. "Then, I came across this old red Marshall on the road, and I started using that." Your welcome, Tom RIP.

See how Michael Schenker uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Michael Schenker

Guitarist

Scorpions

...
Verified via Blacksonata-hihi

Michael's most notable amplifiers are both Marshalls,The 1987x MKII 50 Watt series and JCM800 2205 series,in UFO and MSG eras respectively.

See how Kurt Ballou uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Kurt Ballou

Guitarist, Music Producer

Converge

...
Verified via Premierguitar

Listed under Amps on Kurt Ballou's Gear.

See how Robin Trower uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Robin Trower

Guitarist

Procol Harum

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video (@ 3:26), made on tour in 2018 Robin Trower explains that he used to use 100 watt Marshalls, but now uses the 50 watt units: the Marshall 1987X reissues. Comparing the old Marshalls to his new 50 watt ones: "I don't think they were much louder than these. These, these, these are really loud." Live, he has three. one he uses to drive two basket weave Marshall 4 x 12 cabinets with greenbacks; he uses another to drive a Marshall 4 x 12 cabinet with Vintage 30s. The third, I have to imagine is for backup.

See how Steve Hackett uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Steve Hackett

Guitarist

Genesis

...
Verified via Hackettsongs

On Steve Hackett's official website, he lists Marshall 1987x 50 heads among his amplifiers.

See how Brian Baker uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Brian Baker

Guitarist, Bassist

Bad Religion

...
Verified via Premierguitar

rian Baker tours with a pair of early 1990s Marshall 1987X 50-watt plexi handwired Reissues. Both amps have the "dookie" mod that creates a cascading gain structure that allows you to control the input volume. After watching the AC/DC Rig Rundown, Baker took the idea of the Kikusui PCR4000M Power Supply that Angus Young used and applied it to his rig. He doesn’t have the financial standing to tour with those, but after some online sleuthing, he found a cheaper solution in the AmpRX BrownBox that gives his amp safe, consistent power. (One of the heads was actually a loner from Billie Joe Armstrong, but fortunately for Baker, Armstrong hasn't missed the head so he's been enjoying it onstage for years.)

See how Tracii Guns uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Tracii Guns

Guitarist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via Facebook

On Tracii Guns Facebook from November 24, 2015. He included a picture with this amp.

See how Korey Cooper uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Korey Cooper

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Skillet

...
Verified via RockView Live

In kory cooper’s live rig, she has two Marshall 1987x’s. One is a spare.

See how Bob Daisley uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Bob Daisley

Bassist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Bobdaisley

"I also have a...1969 50 Watt Marshall "guitar head".

See how Kai Hansen uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

Kai Hansen

Guitarist

Helloween

...
Verified via YOUNG GUITAR

In this article, Kai mentions he has used a 1987 Amp since before Keeper of the Seven Keys Pt 1.

At the time of purchase, it has been modified to advance the master volume and gain section. It's played on a 4x12 Marshall cabinet with a Celestion Vintage 30.

See how G. E. Smith uses Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head

G. E. Smith

Guitarist

Hall & Oates

...
Verified via YouTube

G.E uses two of these on the Roger Waters' Wall tour.

At 2:30 you can see them

Album Usage

The Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Marshall 1987X 50 Watt Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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