Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (19)
$2,299.99
Guitar Center
$2,299.99
Reverb
5.0 (10)
$1,911.60 New
$1,368.10 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$2,299.99
zZounds
5.0 (9)
$2,299.99

Average Price: $2,080

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue". 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

Unleash the vintage roar of rock history with the Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue. This legendary guitar amplifier head is a nod to the classic sounds of the '70s, embodying the same raw power and authenticity that made Marshall a household name among guitarists. While it shares the iconic design of its larger sibling, the 1959SLP, the 1987X stands out with its own unique voice, offering sweet, warm, and singing tones that will captivate any audience.

The 1987X boasts a no-frills design, allowing you to tap into its pure, organic overdrive simply by cranking it up. Each note resonates with a rich, vibrant overdrive, perfect for achieving that classic rock crunch. For added versatility, the 1987X features a modern series effects loop with a true bypass switch, ensuring your original tone remains untainted. Blend the two channels for a customized sound that suits your style, whether you’re in the mood for gritty blues or arena rock anthems.

Key Features:

  • 50W output for powerful performance
  • Faithful reissue of classic Plexi tone
  • 3 ECC83 preamp tubes and 2 EL34 power amp tubes for dynamic response
  • Classic 3-band EQ with presence control for precise tonal shaping
  • Series FX loop with true bypass switch for seamless integration of effects

Product specs

Type Tube
Number of Channels 2
Output 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 type of music is the Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue best suited for?

The Marshall 1987X is ideal for classic rock, blues, and hard rock genres, offering the vintage Marshall Plexi tone known for its rich, warm overdrive and dynamic response.

Does the Marshall 1987X have an effects loop?

Yes, the Marshall 1987X includes an effects loop with a bypass switch, allowing you to integrate external effects seamlessly into your signal chain.

How does the Marshall 1987X differ from the original Plexi models?

The Marshall 1987X is a reissue of the original 1970s Plexi models, maintaining the classic tone while adding modern features like an effects loop and improved reliability.

Can I blend the channels on the Marshall 1987X?

Yes, you can blend the High Treble and Normal channels on the Marshall 1987X using a patch lead, offering versatile tonal options.

What is the power output of the Marshall 1987X, and is it suitable for live performances?

The Marshall 1987X has a power output of 50 watts, making it powerful enough for live performances, particularly in medium-sized venues.

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That Pedal Show

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

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

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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 Marshall 1987x Plexi 50 Amp Demo by Guitar Gear Demos

Marshall 1987x Plexi 50 Amp Demo

Guitar Gear Demos

Guitar Gear Demos

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 Marshall SV20H vs 1987X - Studio Vintage vs Plexi Reissue by Johan Segeborn

Marshall SV20H vs 1987X - Studio Vintage vs Plexi Reissue

Johan Segeborn

Johan Segeborn

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 Marshall 1987x - In Depth Review / Playthrough by Totally Rad Guitars

Marshall 1987x - In Depth Review / Playthrough

Totally Rad Guitars

Totally Rad Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue.

Features and functionality

  • The Marshall 1987X lacks a master volume control, making it challenging to manage volume levels without additional equipment.

    Source
  • Jumping the channels on a 1987X allows blending the bright and normal channels, offering tonal flexibility rather than increased gain.

    Source
  • The 1987X takes drive and modulation pedals exceptionally well, with an effects loop performance reportedly better than the DSL 100.

    Source
  • The Friedman BE-100 Deluxe offers multiple Marshall amp emulations and a clean tone, making it versatile for various styles.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installing a master volume mod costs around $150 and helps manage the amp's volume more effectively, with minimal tonal impact.

    Source
  • A bright cap switch mod (100pf, none, 4700pf) on the 1987X adds flexibility for cleaner tones and mellower breakup.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Running the 1987X with a 4x12 cab can produce a massive sound that may overpower a drummer, suitable for large venues.

    Source
  • For high gain metal and clean blues, using a JHS Little Black Box in the effects loop allows for volume control and dynamic tone shaping.

    Source
  • The 1987X's edge-of-breakup and crunch tones are ideal for Van Halen-style playing when cranked, with excellent cleans when guitar volume is rolled back.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1987X is often compared to a Jubilee reissue or JVM for similar tones but with more volume control and usability.

    Source
  • The 1987X Plexi is perceived as less loud than the DSL100, though this is attributed to its non-master volume design requiring an attenuator.

    Source
  • Friedmans are described as "polite" Marshalls, with less upper-mid snarl than vintage Plexis, offering a thicker sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the amp's volume can be "punishingly" loud, even at modest settings, indicating its suitability for large spaces or outdoor gigs.

    Source
  • Owners stress the importance of an attenuator for the 1987X to manage volume effectively in smaller venues.

    Source

Build quality

  • Friedman's amps are praised for higher quality parts and meticulous construction, including turret board wiring in models like the Dirty Shirley Mini.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Marshall 1987x Amp Amplifier Review | tonymckenzie.com

tonymckenzie.com

The Marshall 1987X reissue delivers that iconic vintage tone, ideal for rock aficionados, but it’s not without its quirks. While it aims to replicate the original's sound, the addition of an effects loop and modern regulations means it falls short of being a true duplicate. This amp is undeniably loud, which could be a double-edged sword in today's noise-sensitive environment. Despite this, its reliability and current second-hand pricing make it a tempting option for players looking to capture classic vibes without the headaches of vintage gear. Ultimately, it’s a solid choice, but prospective buyers should weigh its modern adjustments against their pursuit of authenticity.

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
westley

Main amp

This has been my main amp for so long. I have found beautiful tones with a variety of guitars and pedals with this amp.

skylinerr

Marshall

Marshalls be Patriotic!

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Thomas Raggi uses Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue

Thomas Raggi

Guitarist

Måneskin

...
Verified via Photo

As you can see in this screenshot of Maneskin live, you can see written on the side of Thomas' amp 1987 PLEXI, which indicates that he is using the 50 watt plexi and not the 100 watt 1959

See how Dan Hawkins uses Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue

Dan Hawkins

Guitarist

The Darkness

...
Verified via Marshall.com

According to Dan Hawkins' artist page on the official Marshall website, he is confirmed to use a Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue.

See how John Notto uses Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue

John Notto

Guitarist

Dirty Honey

...
Verified via YouTube

In a Rig rundown John tells he plays always through the Marshall 1987X. In the video on 13:20.

See how K.A.Z uses Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue

K.A.Z

Guitarist, Composer

hide with Spread Beaver

...
Verified via YouTube

Marshall 1987x Reissue used by Kaz throughout the Hyde - Mad Qualia music video.

See how Tommy Gleeson uses Marshall 1987X - 50W Plexi reissue

Tommy Gleeson

Singer, Guitarist

Feeder

...
Verified via Peachguitars

Tom's gear is discussed in this interview with Peach Guitars.

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 - 50W Plexi reissue, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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