Marshall

JCM800 2203 - 1985

Mk 2 Master Volume Model 100w Lead

A superb mid-’80s example of the legendary Marshall JCM800 2203, this 1985 Mk II Master Volume Lead delivers the unmistakable sound that defined hard rock and heavy metal throughout the decade. From crunching AC/DC rhythms to the saturated tones of Slayer, Zakk Wylde and countless others, the 2203 remains one of the most influential amplifiers Marshall ever produced.

Built during what many players consider the golden era of the JCM800, this UK-made 100-watt head combines simplicity, reliability and incredible touch sensitivity. With its single-channel layout and master volume design, the 2203 delivers everything from articulate edge-of-breakup tones to aggressive high-gain drive simply by adjusting the guitar’s volume control and your playing dynamics.

Specifications

• Model: JCM800 2203 Mk II Master Volume Lead
• Year: 1985
• Serial Number: S/A T22041
• Inspection Sticker Date: 09/08/1985
• Output: 100 Watts
• Power Valves: 4 x EL34
• Preamp Valves: 3 x ECC83 / 12AX7
• Channels: Single Channel
• Inputs: High & Low Sensitivity
• Controls: Pre-Amp Volume, Master Volume, Presence, Bass, Middle, Treble
• Impedance Selector: 4Ω / 8Ω / 16Ω
• Construction: UK-built PCB construction with flying leads

Service Work

• Fully inspected and serviced by Dave Wittering at Prestige Amp Servicing.
• Dave is a former Marshall Senior Service Engineer with over 15 years at the Marshall factory.
• New set of OEM Marshall EL34's (x4)
• V4 Screen grid resistor
• All pots replaced
• Input sockets replaced
• Speaker & DI sockets replaced
• Bias smoothing capacitors
• All knobs replaced
• Bias set to spec and PAT tested
• Ready for immediate studio, rehearsal or stage use.

Tone

The 2203 is one of the most direct and responsive amplifiers Marshall ever produced. The front end stays tight and articulate while the EL34 power section delivers the aggressive midrange punch and harmonic richness that made the JCM800 famous.

At lower gain settings it produces dynamic classic rock tones with exceptional note definition. Turn the preamp up and it moves into the snarling, aggressive territory that dominated countless records throughout the 1980s. Add a boost pedal in front and it becomes the blueprint for modern high-gain rock and metal tones.

This is the sound of arena rock, NWOBHM, thrash metal and countless legendary recordings.

Condition

A well-preserved vintage example showing honest signs of use consistent with its age. The tolex only has a few small snags and is generally very clean, the fret cloth on the front has faded to the fawn colour. The amplifier retains the character and appearance expected from a genuine 1985 JCM800 that has spent its life being used as intended. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Worldwide Shipping

All of our amplifiers are shipped in custom Overdrive Guitars boxes with extensive internal protection. We regularly ship vintage Marshall amplifiers worldwide using UPS and DHL, with fully tracked and insured delivery. Valves are carefully packed and secured for transport.

We are proud to be an Authorised Marshall Retailer and Marshall specialists, with a dedicated showroom where you can experience and test our amplifiers in person by appointment.