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Description

Unleash your musical prowess with the Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 100 Dual Super Lead 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp Head. This power-packed amp head, though no longer in production, continues to captivate the hearts of musicians worldwide. Its timeless design coupled with an impressive load of features gives it an edge in the realm of music gear. The DSL100, standing for "Dual Super Lead", is fortified with a dual footswitchable channel design, offering versatility at your fingertips. Each channel is equipped with a three-band EQ, presence, and reverb, offering you the ability to fine-tune your sound to perfection. But that's not all - each channel also features two distinctive modes: the Classic Channel offers Clean and Crunch options, while the Ultra channel provides separate Leads, essentially rendering the sounds of four amps in one compact head.

Key Features:

  • Dual footswitchable channel design
  • Three-band EQ on each channel
  • Presence control on each channel
  • Built-in reverb on each channel
  • Two unique modes on each channel: Clean and Crunch on the Classic Channel and separate Leads on Ultra
  • Delivers the sounds of four amps in one head.

Product specs

Brand Marshall
Model JCM 2000 DSL 100 Dual Super Lead 2-Channel 100-Watt Guitar Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Guitar Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Impedance 16 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 100
Power Tube Type EL34
Reverb None

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Marshall JCM2000 DSL use?

The Marshall JCM2000 DSL uses EL34 power tubes, which are known for their warm, punchy sound and are commonly used in British-style amplifiers.

How many channels does the Marshall JCM2000 DSL have?

The Marshall JCM2000 DSL features two channels, allowing for a range of tones from clean to high-gain distortion, making it versatile for various musical styles.

Is the Marshall JCM2000 DSL suitable for gigging?

Yes, the Marshall JCM2000 DSL, with its 100-watt output, is powerful enough for live performances, providing sufficient volume and headroom for most gigging situations.

Does the Marshall JCM2000 DSL have built-in reverb?

No, the Marshall JCM2000 DSL does not include built-in reverb, focusing instead on delivering pure tube-driven tone.

What are the impedance options for the Marshall JCM2000 DSL?

The Marshall JCM2000 DSL offers impedance options of 4, 8, and 16 ohms, providing flexibility for connecting to a variety of speaker cabinets.

The Studio Rats

The Studio Rats

Don't Sleep On This Amp - Marshall JCM 2000

Video thumbnail for Don't Sleep On This Amp - Marshall JCM 2000 by The Studio Rats

Don't Sleep On This Amp - Marshall JCM 2000

The Studio Rats

The Studio Rats

Video thumbnail for Marshall JCM 2000 dual super lead guitar amplification head review by Sammy Bones

Marshall JCM 2000 dual super lead guitar amplification head review

Sammy Bones

Sammy Bones

Video thumbnail for Does It Hold Up To Vintage Marshalls?? Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 100 by Justin Meyers – Nashville Guitarist

Does It Hold Up To Vintage Marshalls?? Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 100

Justin Meyers – Nashville Guitarist

Justin Meyers – Nashville Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Marshall JCM2000 DSL100 | Playthrough Demo by ChoptonesOfficial

Marshall JCM2000 DSL100 | Playthrough Demo

ChoptonesOfficial

ChoptonesOfficial

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile tones, suitable for hard rock to metal with pedal

  • Excellent clean and overdriven sounds

  • Classic Marshall roar to whisper dynamics

  • Dual channels with multiple voicings provide wide sound palette

  • Durable, reliable performance over years

  • Iconic Marshall tone at an affordable price

  • Works well at various volumes

  • Can achieve classic sounds of bands like Zeppelin, ACDC, and Malmsteen

  • Compatible with a range of guitars and cabinets

CONS

  • Needs to be played loud for optimal tone, impractical for small gigs

  • Requires careful pairing with the right cabinet to avoid "spiky" sound

  • Some users might find too much gain on second channel unnecessary

  • Not the best without effects, according to some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead.

Use cases and applications

  • One user has successfully used a JCM DSL 401 for church gigs without PA support, indicating solid performance under demanding conditions.

    Source
  • The JCM 2000 is praised for its versatility, offering tones from classic Plexi to modern high gain, making it suitable for various musical styles.

    Source
  • A professional-quality guitar and well-chosen cables are critical for achieving the desired sound with the JCM 2000.

    Source
  • Avoid using the effects loop for optimal sound quality; analog pedals are preferred to maintain tonal integrity.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple owners report mixed experiences, with some amps lasting decades with minimal issues, while others require extensive repairs due to known PCB and transformer problems.

    Source
  • A UK-made JCM2000 DSL has lasted over 16 years with minimal maintenance, demonstrating long-term durability.

    Source
  • Some perceive the 2005 JCM 2000 anniversary model as brighter and crunchier, similar to Jubilee edition tones.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners consider buying non-functional JCM 2000 units for under $200 worthwhile for parts or refurbishment projects, given the high repair costs of up to $1000.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the main PCB assembly may be necessary due to discontinued support from Marshall, requiring destructive modifications to the existing board.

    Source
  • Replacing the output transformer with a more robust model can solve issues caused by improper speaker load connections.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's reported that the conductive PCB issue with bias drift in some JCM 2000 models can lead to overheating and is difficult to repair without replacing the board.

    Source
  • It's been noted that some early models' tube sockets were replaced with more robust ones, enhancing reliability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners suggest that if the amp is not powering on, common issues include a shorted power tube, bad filter cap, or blown output transformer.

    Source
  • Bias drift is a known issue in early JCM 2000 models, but it's less common in versions from 2005 onward.

    Source
  • Owners report that regular inspection of the bias is crucial, as incorrect biasing can lead to rapid tube failure.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While DSL50 and TSL60 models seem unaffected, the 100W DSL/TSL amps were more prone to issues before main board replacements became common.

    Source
  • The JCM 900 is akin to having a built-in Guv'nor pedal for distortion, while the JCM 800 is iconic for hair metal tones.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • A 2004 JCM2000 TSL100 head has been used extensively with minimal issues, only requiring occasional reflowing of solder joints for the FX Loop jack.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Atoragon's Guitar Nerding Blog: Review: Marshall JCM 2000 DSL

atoragon.blogspot.com

The Marshall JCM 2000 DSL is a versatile amp head that captures the essence of classic Marshall tones while offering modern flexibility. It's praised for its dual-channel design, providing a robust sound suitable for various genres from rock to thrash metal. While some argue it lacks the thickness of the JCM 800, the JCM 2000 strikes a balance with its manageable volume levels and tonal versatility, courtesy of features like the Tone Shift and Deep control. Musicians seeking a blend of traditional and contemporary sounds will find this amp a noteworthy contender.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 17 Reviews and 69 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
garfiendish

My go to amplifier

This is hands down my favourite amp. Sure the cleans are not the best but the plexi tones are amazing and you get a very versatile amount of gain. You can get super saturated metal tones or soft indie rock plexi sounds. It never fails to impress. Get this amp

mrrstrat

Perhaps the last best Marshall.

The JCM2000 100 Watt is supposed to be a two channel amplifier with the RED channel being a hot-rodded JCM800 and the GREEN channel a 1959/1987/Plexi vibe. While it is really neither, it is close enough for any working pro. These exact heads were used by everybody from Jeff Beck, Iron Maiden, to Slayer. They are 100% Marshall - British made with the look and tone. Surprisingly it can clean up well but is more for classic and hard rock. Later Marshalls changed things a little, but this one gives you the nice combo of the classic throwback amps they made in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.

rob74rib

the sound i ear in my head, my soul mate

After trying out many amps over the years i couldn t find a amp that better mirrors the sound i ear in my head like the jcm 2000. The clean just sound like a plexi, the crunch like the jcm 800. 2 awsome classic sounds in one. On the second channel u got on lead 1 the sound of a hot rodded jcm 800. Perfect, you dont have to buy a jcm 800 and modify it. Lead 2 is just the same plus more mids and more gain. This channel is in my opinion to much. I ve got no need for it, exept maybe in the studio for freaky stuff. These 3 sounds i descriebed are probably the most recorded amps in history, no wonder there what i have in my head. I think this will be my main amp for the rest of my life. I found my soul mate

From Gear Setup
cristian_aroca

Probably the best Marshall I played with

Had it for a while. With the wrong cabinet may behave “spiky” sounding. It is a must to pair it with strong mid ranged speakers (celestion greenbacks for example) and will sound amazing

From Gear Setup
frankie_skipper43

Good classic sound

I use this amp as a backup for the JVM410 killer classic sound what i love most about this amp is that you can put guitar into amp no pedals and you can get such a rich and fizzy sound.

dailydoze

I love it

When I'm not abusing my Rocktron Piranha that's run through some Marshall 9200 power amps, I'm using this. It has a fantastic distortion tone as well as a killer clean tone. I love this amp and if you want a good punk sound without using Dual-Rectifiers or Diezels, this is your best option.

rusty_stewart

My Favorite

By far, the best amp I have ever owned. 100 watts of Marshall goodness in a clean, classic chassis. Two channel, each with two voicings, provide a huge pallet of sounds from a useable clean to that punishing thunder that you buy a Marshall for in the first place. It has other features like separate reverb for each channel, and an effects loop.I have been abusing mine for years now and it never gives me any problems. If were to ever die, I would be online to order a new one that very day.

jimmarchi1

actualy, you can run these guys as hard as you like, but where the 2000s get their bad rep for reliability compared with 800s and 900s is in their susceptibility to PCB failures due to temperature changes

azfatboy

Great Marshall sound, too much of a good thing

I really like this head. I am hardly a Marshall connoisseur, but I think this nails that sought-after tone, if you can play it loud enough. And that's the rub, all these 100W heads are just too much--unless you are playing large gigs without PA support, which doesn't happen much anymore, and regardless, is certainly something I will never do.

thebryguy957

Love it!!!!!

Super versatile tones. Amazing for hard rock and, with an overdrive pedal thrown into the mix, you can easily get heavy metal tones out of this amp. Has a very good clean tone as well!

charlesprins

awesome valve based amplifier

played through a 4x12 the sonic spectrum is amazing along with the accompanying floor reverberations ., goes from a whisper to a beauty Marshall roar just with different picking hand approaches / attacks .,

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Bellamy uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Matthew Bellamy

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via Musewiki

Before switching to a Diezel amp, Matt Bellamy used a Marshall JCM 2000 DSL 100 Amp. He says "I just use[d] a two-channel amp, one full on. A lot of people switch between channels for crunch sounds or clean sounds but I tend to stick to one channel 90% of the time, which is volume on full, with the gain really low. You get this really attacking, clean sound which I use quite a lot."

See how Joe Bonamassa uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Joe Bonamassa

Guitarist, Singer

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via YouTube

At 33:13 of this "Rig Rundown" with Premier Guitar, Mike Hickey, who is the guitar tech for Joe Bonamassa shows off the Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead 100 watt amp. Mike describes this as "the secret" to Joe's tone.

See how J Mascis uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

J Mascis

Singer, Guitarist

Dinosaur Jr

...
Verified via YouTube

one of J's marshall stacks during the original lineup reunion tour

See how Krist Novoselic uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Krist Novoselic

Bassist, Keyboardist

Nirvana

...
Verified via Photo

Krist pairs his JMP Plexi with a JCM2000 in recent live years.

See how Frank Iero uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Frank Iero

Singer, Guitarist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen here. Live at Reading Festival 2006

https://reverb.com/item/70179201-marshall-jcm-2000-dual-super-lead-owned-by-frank-iero?show_sold=true

There are four of these Marshall heads for sale. They were used in My Chem all throughout the world during the Black Parade touring cycle and then in LA for the Danger Days writing process." - Frank

See how Gary Moore uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Gary Moore

Singer, Guitarist

Thin Lizzy

...
Verified via YouTube

Moore can be seen using two Marshall JCM 2000 DSL amps in this live rendition of "Parisienne Walkways", at 2:57.

See how Paul Gilbert uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Paul Gilbert

Guitarist

Racer X

...
Verified via YouTube

At 4:23, Paul mentions that he's been using the JCM 2000 Dual Super Lead. He's been using these amps because they "always sound consistent and good [...] and they're just trouble-free".

See how Stephen Carpenter uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Stephen Carpenter

Guitarist

Deftones

...
Verified via YouTube

In the opening frames of the official music video for "Mein" by Deftones, Stephen Carpenter's rig includes a Marshall JCM 2000 Dual Super Lead amplifier head.

See how Yngwie Malmsteen uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Yngwie Malmsteen

Guitarist, Bassist

The G3 Jam

...
Verified via Photo

In the image, Yngwie Malmsteen's amplifier setup includes a Marshall JCM 2000 Dual Super Lead, positioned second from the left.

See how Ray Toro uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Ray Toro

Singer, Guitarist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

"Right now I’m using Marshall JCM 2000s® the DSL100 with two 1960A cabinets." - Ray Toro.

See how Taylor Hawkins uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Taylor Hawkins

Singer, Drummer

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via YouTube

In a Sotheby's video, Taylor Hawkins discusses his collection and can be seen with a Marshall JCM 2000 Dual Super Lead guitar amplifier head.

See how Dave Murray uses Marshall JCM2000 Dual Super Lead

Dave Murray

Guitarist

Iron Maiden

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:05, Dave Murray, of Iron Maiden, has his Marshall JCM 2000 being shown.

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 JCM2000 Dual Super Lead, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
R

rian_van_rensburg

Gear IQ 61

daniel_mueller

daniel_mueller

Gear IQ 566

thorsten_zeitnitz

thorsten_zeitnitz

Gear IQ 253

geobrentson

geobrentson

Gear IQ 123

cristian_aroca

cristian_aroca

Gear IQ 796

rick_shepard

rick_shepard

Gear IQ 98

rob74rib

rob74rib

Gear IQ 88

jianglee

jianglee

Gear IQ 193

materi519

materi519

Gear IQ 91

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cheaper alternative

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high-end alternative mod

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