Marshall

1962 Bluesbreaker - 1989 2×12 Valve Combo - 240v

Original Celestion G12M Greenback Speakers

A superb example of an early 1989 Marshall 1962 Bluesbreaker 2×12 combo, combining one of Marshall's most celebrated amplifier designs with a pair of its original Celestion G12M Greenback speakers.

The 1962 Bluesbreaker is Marshall's recreation of the legendary mid-'60s Model 1962 combo, forever associated with Eric Clapton's groundbreaking guitar tone on John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers' Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton album.

Built in England, this 1989 example comes from the early period of Bluesbreaker reissue production and has now developed exactly the sort of character you want to see on a vintage Marshall. Rather than having been restored cosmetically, it retains a lovely natural patina acquired through more than 35 years of use.

Specifications

• Model: Marshall 1962 Bluesbreaker - 240v
• Year: 1989
• Serial Number: X00956
• Configuration: 2×12 open-back valve combo
• Speakers: 2 × Original Celestion G12M Greenbacks
• Speaker Date Codes: LX14
• Power Valves: Sovtek 5881 / 6L6 – Made in Russia
• Preamp Valves: ECC83 / 12AX7
• Channels: Normal & Tremolo
• Controls: Presence, Bass, Middle, Treble, Volume I & Volume II
• Tremolo: Speed & Intensity
• Made in England

Original Celestion Greenbacks

A particularly desirable feature of this amplifier is its pair of original Celestion G12M Greenback speakers, both carrying LX14 date codes.

The G12M is an integral part of the classic Bluesbreaker sound. Its warm midrange, woody low end and characteristic compression complement the amplifier beautifully, particularly as the volume is increased and both the amplifier and speakers begin to work together.

Having its original period speakers still in place is an important part of the appeal of this example.

Valves

The amplifier is currently fitted with Russian-made Sovtek 5881 / 6L6 power valves.

These are robust, well-regarded valves that provide excellent headroom, strong low-end response and a smooth transition into overdrive, complementing the Bluesbreaker's naturally dynamic character.

Tone

Few Marshall amplifiers are as closely associated with a particular sound as the 1962 Bluesbreaker.

At lower settings it produces a warm, open clean tone with excellent touch sensitivity. Increase the volume and it gradually moves into the rich, harmonically complex overdrive for which the circuit became famous – woody, vocal and extremely responsive to both picking dynamics and the guitar's volume control.

With a Les Paul or other humbucker-equipped guitar, it delivers the thick midrange and singing sustain associated with classic British blues and early rock. With single coils, it becomes more open and articulate, with plenty of chime and dynamic response.

The original G12M Greenbacks are a major part of the experience, adding their own compression and warmth as the amplifier is pushed.

Condition

Presented in good vintage condition for its age, with genuine cosmetic wear and a wonderful natural patina developed over more than three decades.

There are marks, scuffs and signs of use across the cabinet and hardware, but these are entirely in keeping with the age of the amplifier and give it considerable character. We have deliberately not attempted to disguise this ageing or make the amplifier appear newer than it is.

It looks exactly as a well-used late-'80s Marshall should.

Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

Worldwide Shipping

All of our amplifiers are professionally packed in custom Overdrive Guitars shipping boxes with extensive internal protection. Particular care is taken with heavy vintage combos, with the cabinet, speakers and valves appropriately protected for transport.

We regularly ship Marshall amplifiers throughout the UK, Europe, North America and worldwide using UPS and DHL, with fully tracked and insured delivery.

As an Authorised Marshall Retailer and Marshall specialist, every amplifier we sell is thoroughly inspected and prepared before leaving us.

You're also welcome to visit our West London showroom by appointment to view and try the amplifier in person.