Seriously, this is the most entertaining guitar show on YT on a weekly basis. Colin should have many times the subscribers that he does. And no, I don't practice windmills in front of the mirror. I've not reached that talent level yet.😀
My sv20 was far too bright when I got it. I had it looked at by a guy who was a design engineer at Marshall. He advised me to disengage the bright cap. Some people think doing this means it is no longer a ‘proper’ plexi. It sounds ten times better to my ears with the cap snipped out. He also advised to have a post phase inverter master volume installed, which he did for me. There has been no detrimental change in the sound of the amp, sounds like a plexi to me!
FYI Collin - This is officially my favorite UA-cam show. It is something positive that I look forward to weekly. And can look back on for gear references. If you ever question yourself if all your time and effort is worth it? Don’t. Your show is Magic. And if you ever get to LA??? I’ll buy you a steak so good you’ll ball your eyes out. Least I can do. Thank you man.
Yet another great video. For me you channel is one of the best guitar based content on youtube. Good to see you broaching a subject that few do but is important to a lot of people. I have a JVM410H into a 2 X 12 cabinet i made with a pair of G12H 75W 16 ohm speakers. I always use it with the master volume cranked and the channel volumes at around 12 o'clock. I have a volume box i made in the effects loop and to me it sounds awesome even at really quite low volumes. No doubt some might have a different opinion but i am very happy with it.
I bought it 2 years ago and k regretted it. I thought it was the problem of my amp hissing a lot and sounds very bright. Thank you for your review! I'm thinking to sell it out.
I’ve had the SV20 head going on 7 months now. I use it at home with a Friedman 1x12 cab for practice and working on tunes by myself. I run a hot plate with it at all times. When I first received the amp, I hated it. The bright cap across the high treble volume pot was so aggressive that it was unplayable. I had the bright cap removed by a local tech and it’s been my go-to amp ever since. I play it more than my Friedmans now.
I have the Origin 20 head and matching 2x12 cab. With the Origin's power scaling.. (.5w,3w and 20w) I can crank it on the .5w setting and not shake the foundation. The Origin sounds great for practicing on the .5w setting and when no one is home the 3w setting cranked is fantastic!!.. It's such a versatile, simple and fun little amp. Perfect for my needs. It absolutely nails what I believe 99.9% of us are looking for when we think Marshall tone. And.... No Pedals Needed !! 👍
Thanks for the video! I tried out that exact amp at sweetwater. I found the 10 inch speaker was way to bright for me. I ended up with the silver jubilee and run it though an iron man attenuator. Perfect for me but has more gain than a plexi but i have a 100 watt jubilee and am used to that tone. I think you're getting the amp to its sweet spot by tweeking. I had a plexi in the early 70's and still love those amps to this day. Tweek away mate....
Nice one, Colin, and very useful for many viewers, I'm sure. One thing I've been doing with my amps is using a volume pedal in the front to lower the level, and I've found it to work quite well. I haven't tried the FX loop trick, and one of the amps doesn't have a loop anyway, so in front is sufficient unto the day.
Mornin. This is a fun show. It is good to enjoy other enthusiast of like mind and curiosity. I say I am an old kid. Thanks and keep on doing what you do.
This was an informative and fun video. Based on this, it seems that the amp likes those P90s or, at least, I think they sounded the best from this demo.
Don't feel bad about giving up on the SV20 head. I had the same experience when I had one a couple years back: I just could not tame the thing... uncontrollably loud and bright, in a home setting. By the way, I like your pelham blue SG! Cheers.
New fan and subscriber of your channel. Great content and very entertaining. I am 100% a home player and I have kids, so I really need to keep it at bedroom / TV volumes which can be a challenge. I prefer the cranked marshal type sound ranging from blues breaker up to 80s rock / punk. I really want a tube amp ( i do have an ancient 65 deluxe reverb) but it seems I will need a fancy attenuator to maybe get there. I actually got a used kemper and it really sounds very close to a tube amp, but the best thing is it sounds amazing at very low volume. But I still feel drawn to some tube amps but I may just have to accept that digital is probably the best fit for my particular situation.
Putting the tone controls all at noon is a massive no no for me on a vintage style Marshall (or almost any Marshall for that matter) treble almost off, crank the mids, bass to taste is how I roll. I know it might feel weird to do for many players who've got used to thinking middle of the dial is where it's 'supposed' to be but I don't think it's ever the sweet spot on a Marshall amp. This is in no way a criticism of what you did in the video Colin, just sharing some experience that might help younger players get to grips with a amp like this a little quicker.
@@theguitaristas There's nothing wrong with a well implemented master volume on an amp and the older I get with less opportunities to play out I'm very glad of that 'feature' on amps. I have a little 5w Selmer combo with a tiny oval speaker and that is too loud to play at home in any kind of overdrive state, it's plenty loud enough to annoy half the street. Ironically my JCM2000 with master volume is way more practical as a 'bedroom' amp. 😂
My neighbours love my playing too. So much so that one of them put a brick through my window so they can hear me better. 😂always good to hear from a fan!!
That was interesting Colin. Believe it or not I never knew how to (and never have I seen anyone show me how to) connect an attenuator before. Thanks for that 👍. Great looking amp.
Love my Marshalls. When the owner of the business you're performing in tells you to turn down because customers can't get their orders in, it's time to pay attention. Good demonstration of what an attenuator does and the trade offs.
As much as I love Marshall for their history. Idk why they can’t modernize their amps like Friedman. A dirty Shirley mini or I guess now Little Sister combo isn’t too much more, doesn’t need attenuation and sounds more like how we picture what a Marshall sounds like in our heads.
There's a JTM20H coming out from them next year, a 20 watt version of the JTM45. The agent for their product in the US has really hiked the prices so it won't be a reasonable cost for the players over there, hopefully okay though for Brit, Europe, Aussie and NZ.
This amp is not ment to have a master volume. Its based off of 1968, 1959slp. Marshal has plenty of amps with a master. .try the jcm 800, or the silver jubilee. Theres plenty more.
I have the Marshall DSL5C at home, which I use mostly on the 0.5A setting. You can crank that and keep it at bedroom volumes. Perfect for me, practicing my windmills in front of the mirror (as you say!) 😂
Same here, though it still gets pretty loud at .5. I’ve really been impressed with how much it has smoothed out, though. I ride that gain knob pretty low on the hi gain channel most of the time still.
They're real expensive in the USA. I have the head version and use a totally passive volume knob in the loop to get the amp to saturate at low volumes. It works good. This said, I almost think that I prefer the SC20 as they sound pretty similar driven, but you get the convenience of a master volume and no need to jump channels. For that case, although not the same entirely, I think the Origin 20 holds very well as an alternative for the price and features that come with that series.
@yatah It's a no name built attenuator. I opened it up and it's literally a volume pot inside of a small chassis. I'm not sure who built it. Good question, thanks!
@yatah the SV20 is cool albeit somewhat less flexible than the SC20 in some ways. In the end, I bought a reactive load Iron Man II mini attenuator and I think that sounds great with that particular amp! Both are good and I don't think you can really go wrong with a nice Marshall amp. 👍👍👍
Great little amp. Might sound thin on it's own but it slices through the mix nicely in a band situation. I use a little P&P attenuater that fits in the back, because like you said it is stupidly loud. Sounds great through a larger cab too. Love my Marshalls👍
Very nice vid. Lots of dialing in and jumping channels. Just FYI, I have a Blackstar HT5 watt and and it has .5 watt option. This works really well. I also like to dial in the UK (Marshall) and the US (Fender) tones with their ISF control. Don’t know if you’ve ever checked this little gem out but perhaps you should give it a try someday. Keep up the great vids.
I have one Les!... great amps, and I use the HT1HR at home for practice. I'd recommend those to anyone and plan to do something with them soon as I have the 20w version too so 1w, 5w, and 20w... they are all loud!
This is interesting thanks. This is the reason why I used my faithful US built peavey bandit and the Korean built vox Cambridge R hybrid amp. You get a reasonable broad spectrum of sounds at any volume! Long live the transistor!
Had this amp for a while now, you really have to run the high volume on 6 or more to thicken up the sound, best sound i find is high volume cranked fully and guitar volume on about half, then adjust guitar volume to suit whats needed, rarely have guitar up full, might blend a bit of low input volume depending on guitar pickups
Thanks for this video as well. You’ve just saved me £700. I’ve dialled my katana to sound pretty much the same but at alot lower house friendly volume.
Really enjoyed this vid Colin. I got the SV20 Head through a cab with 2 Vintage 30's a couple of years ago. I had the same initial thoughts and frustrations when I first got it - it is bloody loud!'. Thought I was gonna have to send it back as I only intended it for home use. I tried the volume insert in the effects loop along with delay and reverb and I found it works a treat. I also jumper the channels - about 4 on the Normal channel and 2 on the High Treble but use the full 20watts as the sound is more open. I think the key to it is to use the tone controls sparingly - I have the presence under 2, bass on 4, middle on 2 and treble on 2. This works for me. I use something in the front end to drive it a little - Klon type or clean boost. All my guitars retain their charcater with these settings. I think it was right that you poited out the 10 inch speaker in the combo - 12's definitely extend the bottom end and this compensates for the harshness of the treble. I'll be very interested to know how different methods of attenuation effects things if you do a follow up vid. Cheers Colin.
Thanks so much for making this video. I was thinking of getting one of these as a low volume alternative to my 1987X but you've clearly demonstrated I'd still need to use my attenuator to get it down to useable volume (in which case, why bother?). Thanks for saving me the trouble! (PS. The Fryette Power Station does an amazing job at attenuating without affecting the tone, highly recommended).
I’ve had the sv20c for a couple of weeks now. I have got a volume pot in the loop and it does suck some of the gain out of it. But for home noodling I don’t mind. Need to get the volume of the high treble channel up past 6 to lessen the treble bleed cap! You don’t get tonnes more volume up there just more saturation and less of the crazy high end. I play teles, but a Noventa is my main squeeze. Both channels around 6 and roll the guitar volume to clean up. Thanks for the videos mate. Always a great watch.
Thoroughly enjoyable and informational look at the SV20C and the OX. Thanks for playing our three most beloved PU's through the beast Colin, top notch playing as usual. 👍 At my (low, oh so low) level of "playing" the Studio 10's are still keeping me entertained. I'd have never known about them without you.
I have one of the Marshall 20/5 watt Studio amps, the SC20h (JCM800), great Rock amp for home as well as gigging. It has a Master volume, so you can play at low volumes and it still sounds great. Controlling the gain with the "preamp volume", mixed with the master volume, gives you total control of overall loudness. I have the head, not the combo, and I play thru two 1-12 cabs, it sounds great at low volumes and huge when pushed. The SV is a different beast, great sounding amp but you need to turn it up to get the goods!
Picked up an origin20 head (vietnamese made)for a song - very nice cleans to edge of breakup - takes pedals like a champ - low - mid - and high output settings - perfect for bedroom levels - and can get surprisingly loud (through an Orange 212 vertical) A golden age of nice affordable gear we are living in - 🤘🎸💥
Thanks for the video Colin. As a strictly bedroom player for my own enjoyment, this made me realise that the lure of a valve amp for the bedroom would be far too much. I’ll stick with my Boss Katana ( which is too loud at 0.25w )
It’s a teenage wasteland ,,,,,,just a teenage wasteland …..the Who .what a bloody band ..four of the most eccentric people in one place at the same time ,every one of them a rock n roll legend .and one of the best bass players ever to take a stage ..and moon the loon ,what more needs to be said about mad moon ..❤❤ another great vid fella ..
I've been a viewer of your channel from the early days Colin and have to say this is the best film so far, and the rest are very good anyway! Turning to the amp, and as a Marshall fan boy I keep hovering over the button to buy but films like yours keeps holding me back. The thought of having to buy an attenuator that here in the UK costs more than the amp itself does seem mad. I get the reason why Marshall wanted to keep this a NMV amp but they brought it into 21st century with an effects loop and I know I will be caned for this but I can't understand why they didn't put a MV on it. I've not A/Bd the SV with a Hndrx PRS but the PRS is supposed to have the Plexi sound and that has the master volume. Anyway, really interesting film on how to use an Attenuator and how to dial in an Amp. I for one would really like to see more films like this from you and maybe if I do decide to pull the pin on this amp, will use this film as my go to guide. Thanks mate.
I use the 5w and the same attenuator on 80%. Barely quiet enough for home use and the attenuator does suck all the brightness.. The loop is not great either
Just had neck surgery 2 days ago so I am laid up awhile and no guitar playing for awhile soooo..... gonna catch up on all your videos..... great content Sir.....!!!
@@theguitaristas Thanks Colin, love your style, the channel is peaceful and fun..... can't wait to strap a guitar on in a few months without shoulder and neck pain for the first time in decades....hopefully....😆
It may sound counterintuitive, but dialling the high treble volume knob past 5 actually starts taming the harsh brittle brightness... Something about bypassing the capacitor around that point. But yeah, loud as hell at that point!!
It cracks me up when you show the difference between 5 and 20 watts and watching on UA-cam you can’t tell much of any difference. It just can’t be captured on a recording. You could up to 200 watts and the viewer doesn’t notice much of any difference. But I sure wouldn’t want to be there with my tinutus. I have this amp for the home, but 90% of my home practice is on my Katana. I do attenuate with an Ironman, and I think it is not bad at bedroom level with a good attenuator. But the real joy of this amp is for the 10% of the time with the wife is away and I crank it up with my Les Paul for the true pleasure of this classic rock combo. My neighbors are not too many and they are cool with me letting loose every once and while (and not too late in the evening). For the home player its not a good choice for your only amp, but its a great choice for a second amp to let loose and have some fun with. With some experimenting you can get those classic Led Zep, AC/DC, The Who, Hendrix that we all love (at least anyone interested in a Marshall with love).
Hey Colin, I like the randomness of some of your videos - it's great on a Friday lunchtime to get a sarnie/foodstuffs and have lunch watching you waffle. ;-) I'd like to know a bit more about you mate - what's your background, how come you have a studio - is that your house?
Nice job Colin!! I can see I made the right choice on the jubilee BUT once you dialled it in it sounded sooooooooo good! And that Eastman is just next level man looks so good. Thanks for the weekly dose of GAS
@@theguitaristas As ive got to know it more ive grown on it a lot more. I dont even use its Half power mode anymore the master volume is that good. I can play it with my board at 9/10 at night with a 9 year old sleeping upstairs.
Even my Blackstar HT1R 1W amp goes plenty loud enough for the bedroom 😅 Do love my Origin 20 combo that has a 3 level power switch. Still loud enough but love the sounds. Thx for the vid, nice looking amp anyway!
It took longer to dial it in than I expected. Sounded good at the end. I think that Blackstar sneaks basically and overdrive pedal circuit into their amps. I have one, and it seems to work. I can get some decent sounds out of my 20W Blackstar tube head.
I have the SV20H with an Orange ppc212 open back and I also use the little black box in the effects loop. I also struggled little bit with a good low volume sound. My other amp is a Orange CS50...both combined together is a great sound at low volumes. The Orange has more bottom end and the marshall has the typical growl. It fits perfect.
got the same combo at home. to get good tone at home i resorted to using two notes captor x (speaker unplugged) using one of two note's dynamic cabinets (creakbacks for the win) and a pair of good open-back headphones. i can crank it (jumped) and play it with great tone any time of the day. I sometimes also plug the line out of the captor x to my hi-fi system at home (Aux In) and play it through my hi-fi speakers and it sounds fantastic
Aloha and Mahalo Colin! Thanks for more much appreciated info. I seen a SC 20 (JCM 800) awhile back. Plug in and got the tone. I knew it would be too loud for my condo. I found out the amp must be played at certain volume to get the tone; which, is too loud.
@@theguitaristas It was at Guitar center. Someone dialed it in. I can't even remember the guitar. Turned it on. Just the tone I was looking for. Yeah I would think that a master volume would make it easier to dial in your tone.
SOLD on looks alone, and apt at this time. Super Amps, but demand wide open and to hell with tomorrow: certainly tomorrow's hearing or any friendship with neighbours 😂.......Super vid as ever.
I’ve had these amps. They are not for practise levels. I decided to go the digital route with a black star silver line special. I don’t do gigs any more so it’s sorted now. Could you do a review on this amp. I found exactly what you have found. Didn’t like the torpedo captor either. Now I’ve got the soundsi want now. And I’m sure you might be interested in these amps.
I've never been a huge fan of "The Marshall Sound" except in the context of a loud band on a big stage, so that amp would not be for me. For home use I'm sure I prefer the features and characteristics of my Tube 15 with its built in 1 watt attenuator. With those graphics reminiscent of The Who on it, it was appropriate for you to demo the SG P90 with it. In a similar vein, regarding this amp, a Pete Townshend quote comes to mind, "Volume is a fantastic thing. Power and volume." Thanks for the video.
I’ve have the head version of this amp and find I constantly have to tweak it depending on where I’m playing. It’s definitely not a set it and amp (home playing, small club, large club and outdoors). Other then playing outdoor gigs it needs to be attenuated and I only do a couple of outdoor gigs a year so it’s mainly attenuated. I much rather use my Marshall 2061x or my Class 5 head in the small to large clubs because the sounds I get from them are pretty much consistent with the sounds I get at home or rehearsal at the same settings. They also need to be attenuated much of the time but I find myself not putzing around with the settings like I do with the SV20. I’ve tried to connect with this amp with different settings, jumping channels and tube changes and unfortunately haven’t. But that’s just my take on this amp maybe others will connect with it much better.
Got a head version, going through a 212 cab. You need an attenuator for low volume. I had a jhs in loop before and you can get a nice clean using that but you won't push the power tubes. I love the thing.
Great topic! The JCM800 is my dream amp but as a strictly home/studio player I just can’t justify the SC20C or any of the all tube Marshall combos. I’m looking at getting one of the new Marshall Guvnor pedals to use with my home set up.
@@matthewtyler-jones8317 Thanks for the recommendation! I’ve looked into them but I heard even the 1 & 5 watt DSLs are very loud when going for power tube saturation and attenuators are quite pricey. I might check them out regardless! Always wanted a proper Marshall.
I too am a strictly at home guitarist. Indeed I am an in private, bad, beginner guitarist, but I foolishly bought a DSL 402 LE, 40 watts and 2x12 combo. Much more amp than I need, but the price was just too good. It sounds devine (to me, but what do I know?) even at lower volumes, but it is very loud. 😀
I have the DSL 1W and run it through a victory 2x12, it really punches above its weight. The reverb I don’t care for too much so run an MXR Reverb in the loop. It’s a great setup for home use.
Wow that’s loud Colin, lovely amp just out of interest on one of your videos regarding the Harley Benton valve 15 you brought. You commented about not being able to see the control panel they’ve completely re designed it it has a bright chrome background with bold black writing.
that sv20c in black is sexy...I'm talking 1997 pam anderson sexy! That's a 20 watt plexi and what that means is it's 120 watts. There is one perfect solution which is fryette power station . you can finally get the full potential out of any size tube amp at any volume with absolutely no loss of tone. even the other expensive attenuators will suck the tone but the fryette does not lose any tone at all. it's a big chunk of change but the tone will be worth it
Wowza Colin What a stunning looking Amp. Feckin loud. And a bargain T' boot. That amp wouldn't be put of place at a status Quo concert! Really great and really enthralling video . 🍄
Colin, I fancied one of those when I spotted the deal just because of the colour and grill design . Not sure it would get much use though .I’ve already got 5 Marshall heads and 5 combos 😳
The mk3 will thankfully have built in attenuator, fixed loop where I can use effects with the volume cracked,12" greenback. And it will be glorious, beautiful cleans and creamy od
I had a 25 watt Marshall 1968 mini-PA (wish I hadn't sold it now but I was desperate). When it was cranked, it sounded sublime. Louder than a riot in Hell, though...
I had the same problems as you. I normally have a Marshall DSL 40CR and strangely I love the sounds I get at low volume despite the 40 Watts maximum power. I think it's because the distortion mainly comes from the pre-amplifier section.
My God that is a stunningly Beautiful amp. I seriously want it just for that paint job. Here in Los Angeles that bad boy costs $2000 $krilla. I just can’t justify spending that at the moment. Plus my wife would punch me in the sack. But still… That paint job would be worth it. If you think your amp is loud you should hear my wife when she’s upset with me. She needs an attenuator.
I've owned exactly 1 Marshall amp. Was playing bars, classic rock, it was ok. Got rid of it, started using a Peavey Roadmaster and never looked back but I've also used and owned a couple of Fender amps. If I buy another amp for home it'll probably be a positive grid spark
I believe the standard input hi & lo designation refers to sensitivity not impedance, though if you measured you would see resistance differences across the tip/ ground measurements. At least going by old schematics i have on Fenders from the 60s
Mismatched tubes could be the culprit of that waterfall noise at idle.😉👍 My Tone Master DR is loud at 1/2 watt...but it's a nice loud for livingroom jammin 😉👍 Attenuation is a must if you can't play at pants flapping volumes.😁 Can't lean into the sounds physically...that's for live gigs or studio... but it's better than nothing. 😁 Cool looking amp Colin😎👍 😎✌👍❤🖖 Love Brother
Marshall should make a 60 watt version of the Marshall Major. Two KT88’s, single channel, effects loop, and in a small head. I think that would be a great pedal platform and a very good seller. I have a 1970 Marshall Major and it would be nice to have a smaller version. With the volume on 4, you are killing small animals.
I bought a Major in 1970 full stack. I was gigging outdoors at the U of I 15,000 plus people. I never had to mike it and my God that wall of sound and the push you got from behind . What a amp❤
Ya got it going in the end Col!! Never seen the JHS loop vol, on the list now. Beautiful E'man 59 mate, it's gorgeous. l prefer p90s to buckers mself.. I found your channel via Shane's.👍
"I'm trying to make a point at the moment that it's just too fucking loud". Probably the best line I've ever heard in a product review. Legend.
😂🤷♂️
Seriously, this is the most entertaining guitar show on YT on a weekly basis. Colin should have many times the subscribers that he does. And no, I don't practice windmills in front of the mirror. I've not reached that talent level yet.😀
😊🙏
Finally a realistic review!!! Gave me every answer I needed!!!
My sv20 was far too bright when I got it. I had it looked at by a guy who was a design engineer at Marshall. He advised me to disengage the bright cap. Some people think doing this means it is no longer a ‘proper’ plexi. It sounds ten times better to my ears with the cap snipped out. He also advised to have a post phase inverter master volume installed, which he did for me. There has been no detrimental change in the sound of the amp, sounds like a plexi to me!
FYI Collin - This is officially my favorite UA-cam show. It is something positive that I look forward to weekly. And can look back on for gear references.
If you ever question yourself if all your time and effort is worth it?
Don’t.
Your show is Magic.
And if you ever get to LA???
I’ll buy you a steak so good you’ll ball your eyes out.
Least I can do.
Thank you man.
Thanks man, that's really appreciated! 😁🙏
...and I'll supply the Whorsthanshire... no, Worcestershire sauce also called Worcester sauce...
well the salt 'n pepper anyway...
I agree. I fire up the TV and the Amazon Fire thingy to watch it on a decent screen👍
Mine as well😁👍👍
+1
I think a view of a decibel meter would be useful when testing amplifiers.👍👍
It is nice to know, I'm not the only one that struggles to get "that" sound with amps, without pedals. It is about finding the sweet spot, I guess.
Yeah I know right?? Lol
Yet another great video. For me you channel is one of the best guitar based content on youtube. Good to see you broaching a subject that few do but is important to a lot of people. I have a JVM410H into a 2 X 12 cabinet i made with a pair of G12H 75W 16 ohm speakers. I always use it with the master volume cranked and the channel volumes at around 12 o'clock. I have a volume box i made in the effects loop and to me it sounds awesome even at really quite low volumes. No doubt some might have a different opinion but i am very happy with it.
Hi Colin, JHS little black box in the effects loop works a treat and is reasonably priced
I use it with the SV20 head
Cheers from Australia !
I bought it 2 years ago and k regretted it. I thought it was the problem of my amp hissing a lot and sounds very bright. Thank you for your review! I'm thinking to sell it out.
I’ve had the SV20 head going on 7 months now. I use it at home with a Friedman 1x12 cab for practice and working on tunes by myself. I run a hot plate with it at all times. When I first received the amp, I hated it. The bright cap across the high treble volume pot was so aggressive that it was unplayable. I had the bright cap removed by a local tech and it’s been my go-to amp ever since. I play it more than my Friedmans now.
Good one. It's amazing how loud 5 valve Watts can sound.
This was one of the best demos I’ve heard. My fave Plexi sounds are warm and clean with a slight bit of grit. This nails it perfectly.
I have the Origin 20 head and matching 2x12 cab. With the Origin's power scaling.. (.5w,3w and 20w) I can crank it on the .5w setting and not shake the foundation. The Origin sounds great for practicing on the .5w setting and when no one is home the 3w setting cranked is fantastic!!.. It's such a versatile, simple and fun little amp. Perfect for my needs. It absolutely nails what I believe 99.9% of us are looking for when we think Marshall tone. And.... No Pedals Needed !! 👍
Thanks for the video! I tried out that exact amp at sweetwater. I found the 10 inch speaker was way to bright for me. I ended up with the silver jubilee and run it though an iron man attenuator. Perfect for me but has more gain than a plexi but i have a 100 watt jubilee and am used to that tone. I think you're getting the amp to its sweet spot by tweeking. I had a plexi in the early 70's and still love those amps to this day. Tweek away mate....
I LOVED this!! More amp videos!!!
Nice one, Colin, and very useful for many viewers, I'm sure. One thing I've been doing with my amps is using a volume pedal in the front to lower the level, and I've found it to work quite well. I haven't tried the FX loop trick, and one of the amps doesn't have a loop anyway, so in front is sufficient unto the day.
Mornin. This is a fun show. It is good to enjoy other enthusiast of like mind and curiosity. I say I am an old kid. Thanks and keep on doing what you do.
This was an informative and fun video. Based on this, it seems that the amp likes those P90s or, at least, I think they sounded the best from this demo.
Thanks geezer. You obviously enjoy reviewing guitars more than amps... nice of you to take one for the team.
Yay! New video day! Been waiting all week! (On holiday) Thanks Colin, can't get enough...
Don't feel bad about giving up on the SV20 head. I had the same experience when I had one a couple years back: I just could not tame the thing... uncontrollably loud and bright, in a home setting. By the way, I like your pelham blue SG! Cheers.
Cool session! Thank you for sharing! Looking forward to the attenuator video as well! Cheers!
New fan and subscriber of your channel. Great content and very entertaining. I am 100% a home player and I have kids, so I really need to keep it at bedroom / TV volumes which can be a challenge. I prefer the cranked marshal type sound ranging from blues breaker up to 80s rock / punk. I really want a tube amp ( i do have an ancient 65 deluxe reverb) but it seems I will need a fancy attenuator to maybe get there. I actually got a used kemper and it really sounds very close to a tube amp, but the best thing is it sounds amazing at very low volume. But I still feel drawn to some tube amps but I may just have to accept that digital is probably the best fit for my particular situation.
Putting the tone controls all at noon is a massive no no for me on a vintage style Marshall (or almost any Marshall for that matter) treble almost off, crank the mids, bass to taste is how I roll. I know it might feel weird to do for many players who've got used to thinking middle of the dial is where it's 'supposed' to be but I don't think it's ever the sweet spot on a Marshall amp. This is in no way a criticism of what you did in the video Colin, just sharing some experience that might help younger players get to grips with a amp like this a little quicker.
Cheers Simon, definitely helpful! 👍
@@theguitaristas There's nothing wrong with a well implemented master volume on an amp and the older I get with less opportunities to play out I'm very glad of that 'feature' on amps. I have a little 5w Selmer combo with a tiny oval speaker and that is too loud to play at home in any kind of overdrive state, it's plenty loud enough to annoy half the street. Ironically my JCM2000 with master volume is way more practical as a 'bedroom' amp. 😂
Very nice..got my hands on a blackstar a while back with all the bells and whistles not a bad amp..the neighbours love it too.
😁👍
My neighbours love my playing too. So much so that one of them put a brick through my window so they can hear me better. 😂always good to hear from a fan!!
That was interesting Colin. Believe it or not I never knew how to (and never have I seen anyone show me how to) connect an attenuator before. Thanks for that 👍. Great looking amp.
Cheers Paul, it's a great looking amp but too loud!
Thanks Colin, have a nice weekend!
I've been looking forward to the amp reviews. Keep dialing them in : )
Love my Marshalls. When the owner of the business you're performing in tells you to turn down because customers can't get their orders in, it's time to pay attention. Good demonstration of what an attenuator does and the trade offs.
As much as I love Marshall for their history. Idk why they can’t modernize their amps like Friedman. A dirty Shirley mini or I guess now Little Sister combo isn’t too much more, doesn’t need attenuation and sounds more like how we picture what a Marshall sounds like in our heads.
Especially here in the states, the Marshall costs several hundred dollars more than the Friedman amps that are comparable.
@@anthonymichael3029 true. I forgot how much cheaper Marshall is in the UK
There's a JTM20H coming out from them next year, a 20 watt version of the JTM45. The agent for their product in the US has really hiked the prices so it won't be a reasonable cost for the players over there, hopefully okay though for Brit, Europe, Aussie and NZ.
Couldn’t agree more
This amp is not ment to have a master volume. Its based off of 1968, 1959slp. Marshal has plenty of amps with a master. .try the jcm 800, or the silver jubilee. Theres plenty more.
I have the Marshall DSL5C at home, which I use mostly on the 0.5A setting.
You can crank that and keep it at bedroom volumes. Perfect for me, practicing my windmills in front of the mirror (as you say!) 😂
Same here, though it still gets pretty loud at .5. I’ve really been impressed with how much it has smoothed out, though. I ride that gain knob pretty low on the hi gain channel most of the time still.
They're real expensive in the USA. I have the head version and use a totally passive volume knob in the loop to get the amp to saturate at low volumes. It works good. This said, I almost think that I prefer the SC20 as they sound pretty similar driven, but you get the convenience of a master volume and no need to jump channels. For that case, although not the same entirely, I think the Origin 20 holds very well as an alternative for the price and features that come with that series.
Interesting! What's the passive volume knob you using? Something like the DYNASTY PROAUDIO PMC-1 ? cheers
@yatah It's a no name built attenuator. I opened it up and it's literally a volume pot inside of a small chassis. I'm not sure who built it. Good question, thanks!
@@beerwolf8518 thx for the quick reply. i think i'll go with the SV20H
@yatah the SV20 is cool albeit somewhat less flexible than the SC20 in some ways. In the end, I bought a reactive load Iron Man II mini attenuator and I think that sounds great with that particular amp! Both are good and I don't think you can really go wrong with a nice Marshall amp. 👍👍👍
Great little amp. Might sound thin on it's own but it slices through the mix nicely in a band situation. I use a little P&P attenuater that fits in the back, because like you said it is stupidly loud. Sounds great through a larger cab too. Love my Marshalls👍
Second recommendation for the P&P! Yse it on the sc20
Very nice vid. Lots of dialing in and jumping channels. Just FYI, I have a Blackstar HT5 watt and and it has .5 watt option. This works really well. I also like to dial in the UK (Marshall) and the US (Fender) tones with their ISF control. Don’t know if you’ve ever checked this little gem out but perhaps you should give it a try someday. Keep up the great vids.
I have one Les!... great amps, and I use the HT1HR at home for practice. I'd recommend those to anyone and plan to do something with them soon as I have the 20w version too so 1w, 5w, and 20w... they are all loud!
This is interesting thanks. This is the reason why I used my faithful US built peavey bandit and the Korean built vox Cambridge R hybrid amp. You get a reasonable broad spectrum of sounds at any volume! Long live the transistor!
Had this amp for a while now, you really have to run the high volume on 6 or more to thicken up the sound, best sound i find is high volume cranked fully and guitar volume on about half, then adjust guitar volume to suit whats needed, rarely have guitar up full, might blend a bit of low input volume depending on guitar pickups
Cheers Steve, I still need to get the hang of this one... will try that!
See you next week! I like the video and would like to see how those attenuators work with those bigger amps. Thanks again!!
I love watching your videos, I look forward to your show every week. You are always informative, entertaining, and funny.
Thanks for this video as well. You’ve just saved me £700. I’ve dialled my katana to sound pretty much the same but at alot lower house friendly volume.
Really enjoyed this vid Colin. I got the SV20 Head through a cab with 2 Vintage 30's a couple of years ago. I had the same initial thoughts and frustrations when I first got it - it is bloody loud!'. Thought I was gonna have to send it back as I only intended it for home use. I tried the volume insert in the effects loop along with delay and reverb and I found it works a treat. I also jumper the channels - about 4 on the Normal channel and 2 on the High Treble but use the full 20watts as the sound is more open. I think the key to it is to use the tone controls sparingly - I have the presence under 2, bass on 4, middle on 2 and treble on 2. This works for me. I use something in the front end to drive it a little - Klon type or clean boost. All my guitars retain their charcater with these settings. I think it was right that you poited out the 10 inch speaker in the combo - 12's definitely extend the bottom end and this compensates for the harshness of the treble. I'll be very interested to know how different methods of attenuation effects things if you do a follow up vid. Cheers Colin.
I use an SV20 in a home studio, but I ONLY play it through a load box (Suhr Reactive Load IR). Even in 5W mode, it's painfully loud.
Sounds lovely to my ears
Thanks so much for making this video. I was thinking of getting one of these as a low volume alternative to my 1987X but you've clearly demonstrated I'd still need to use my attenuator to get it down to useable volume (in which case, why bother?). Thanks for saving me the trouble! (PS. The Fryette Power Station does an amazing job at attenuating without affecting the tone, highly recommended).
I’ve had the sv20c for a couple of weeks now. I have got a volume pot in the loop and it does suck some of the gain out of it. But for home noodling I don’t mind.
Need to get the volume of the high treble channel up past 6 to lessen the treble bleed cap! You don’t get tonnes more volume up there just more saturation and less of the crazy high end. I play teles, but a Noventa is my main squeeze. Both channels around 6 and roll the guitar volume to clean up.
Thanks for the videos mate. Always a great watch.
Cheers man!
Now your talking useful information. Thanks.
And normally I talk rubbish?? 🤣👍
Not intended to be sarcastic. Internet can be a harsh place😅
@@JD-vx8gr 😁👍
Thoroughly enjoyable and informational look at the SV20C and the OX.
Thanks for playing our three most beloved PU's through the beast Colin, top notch playing as usual. 👍
At my (low, oh so low) level of "playing" the Studio 10's are still keeping me entertained. I'd have never known about them without you.
Cheers mate... still got my studio 10 and that could do it all every day! 👍
If you put a DS1 boss in front of that you can control the output with the level on the pedal and crank that thing.
Thanks, I always forget about controlling the level with pedals! 👍
Good demo...Eastman marking up nicely 👌
I have one of the Marshall 20/5 watt Studio amps, the SC20h (JCM800), great Rock amp for home as well as gigging. It has a Master volume, so you can play at low volumes and it still sounds great.
Controlling the gain with the "preamp volume", mixed with the master volume, gives you total control of overall loudness.
I have the head, not the combo, and I play thru two 1-12 cabs, it sounds great at low volumes and huge when pushed.
The SV is a different beast, great sounding amp but you need to turn it up to get the goods!
Picked up an origin20 head (vietnamese made)for a song - very nice cleans to edge of breakup - takes pedals like a champ - low - mid - and high output settings - perfect for bedroom levels - and can get surprisingly loud (through an Orange 212 vertical)
A golden age of nice affordable gear we are living in - 🤘🎸💥
Thanks for the video Colin. As a strictly bedroom player for my own enjoyment, this made me realise that the lure of a valve amp for the bedroom would be far too much. I’ll stick with my Boss Katana ( which is too loud at 0.25w )
It’s a teenage wasteland ,,,,,,just a teenage wasteland …..the Who .what a bloody band ..four of the most eccentric people in one place at the same time ,every one of them a rock n roll legend .and one of the best bass players ever to take a stage ..and moon the loon ,what more needs to be said about mad moon ..❤❤ another great vid fella ..
The greatest live band ever. We will never see their like again.
Who doesn't get much love these days....wonder why?
Colin....I recommend a marshall dsl 1 hr head ....and a 4 x 12 opened Back cabinet....+ compressor pedal for low volume awesomeness
I've been a viewer of your channel from the early days Colin and have to say this is the best film so far, and the rest are very good anyway! Turning to the amp, and as a Marshall fan boy I keep hovering over the button to buy but films like yours keeps holding me back. The thought of having to buy an attenuator that here in the UK costs more than the amp itself does seem mad. I get the reason why Marshall wanted to keep this a NMV amp but they brought it into 21st century with an effects loop and I know I will be caned for this but I can't understand why they didn't put a MV on it. I've not A/Bd the SV with a Hndrx PRS but the PRS is supposed to have the Plexi sound and that has the master volume. Anyway, really interesting film on how to use an Attenuator and how to dial in an Amp. I for one would really like to see more films like this from you and maybe if I do decide to pull the pin on this amp, will use this film as my go to guide. Thanks mate.
Cheers Mark! 😁👍
great amp mate!
i heard bits of great hits brotha!
I found low volume nirvana with my SV20 using a Bugera PS1 Attenuator. Worked a treat. Otherwise, unbelievably too loud for home use.
I use the 5w and the same attenuator on 80%.
Barely quiet enough for home use and the attenuator does suck all the brightness..
The loop is not great either
Really dig that he/ you are demo this without all the do dads( pedals)
Just had neck surgery 2 days ago so I am laid up awhile and no guitar playing for awhile soooo..... gonna catch up on all your videos..... great content Sir.....!!!
Get well soon! 😎👍
@@theguitaristas Thanks Colin, love your style, the channel is peaceful and fun..... can't wait to strap a guitar on in a few months without shoulder and neck pain for the first time in decades....hopefully....😆
It may sound counterintuitive, but dialling the high treble volume knob past 5 actually starts taming the harsh brittle brightness... Something about bypassing the capacitor around that point. But yeah, loud as hell at that point!!
It cracks me up when you show the difference between 5 and 20 watts and watching on UA-cam you can’t tell much of any difference. It just can’t be captured on a recording. You could up to 200 watts and the viewer doesn’t notice much of any difference. But I sure wouldn’t want to be there with my tinutus. I have this amp for the home, but 90% of my home practice is on my Katana. I do attenuate with an Ironman, and I think it is not bad at bedroom level with a good attenuator. But the real joy of this amp is for the 10% of the time with the wife is away and I crank it up with my Les Paul for the true pleasure of this classic rock combo. My neighbors are not too many and they are cool with me letting loose every once and while (and not too late in the evening). For the home player its not a good choice for your only amp, but its a great choice for a second amp to let loose and have some fun with. With some experimenting you can get those classic Led Zep, AC/DC, The Who, Hendrix that we all love (at least anyone interested in a Marshall with love).
Hey Colin, I like the randomness of some of your videos - it's great on a Friday lunchtime to get a sarnie/foodstuffs and have lunch watching you waffle. ;-) I'd like to know a bit more about you mate - what's your background, how come you have a studio - is that your house?
Cheers Carl! 😁👍 there's a studio tour and backstory bonus film over on the TV channel... 30 days free so check it out! theguitaristas.vhx.tv
THAT THINGS A LIL BEAST LOL, SUPER VID MT.
cheers col keep on rocking mt.
Nice job Colin!! I can see I made the right choice on the jubilee BUT once you dialled it in it sounded sooooooooo good! And that Eastman is just next level man looks so good. Thanks for the weekly dose of GAS
Cheers mate!, I was leaning towards the Jubilee until I saw this deal... but it's still on the list thanks to you! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas As ive got to know it more ive grown on it a lot more. I dont even use its Half power mode anymore the master volume is that good. I can play it with my board at 9/10 at night with a 9 year old sleeping upstairs.
Even my Blackstar HT1R 1W amp goes plenty loud enough for the bedroom 😅
Do love my Origin 20 combo that has a 3 level power switch. Still loud enough but love the sounds.
Thx for the vid, nice looking amp anyway!
Cheers Johan, HT1RH is what I use at home for practice… sounds great too!
It took longer to dial it in than I expected. Sounded good at the end. I think that Blackstar sneaks basically and overdrive pedal circuit into their amps. I have one, and it seems to work. I can get some decent sounds out of my 20W Blackstar tube head.
Thanks for this video ! I learned things that I would be embarrassed to ask !
You're welcome... me too! 🤣👍
15:41 made me laugh out loud, Col ! 😁
😂👍
I have the SV20H with an Orange ppc212 open back and I also use the little black box in the effects loop. I also struggled little bit with a good low volume sound. My other amp is a Orange CS50...both combined together is a great sound at low volumes. The Orange has more bottom end and the marshall has the typical growl. It fits perfect.
got the same combo at home. to get good tone at home i resorted to using two notes captor x (speaker unplugged) using one of two note's dynamic cabinets (creakbacks for the win) and a pair of good open-back headphones. i can crank it (jumped) and play it with great tone any time of the day. I sometimes also plug the line out of the captor x to my hi-fi system at home (Aux In) and play it through my hi-fi speakers and it sounds fantastic
Did you managed to use captor x attenuation ? How does it work in terms of volume on each level ?
Aloha and Mahalo Colin! Thanks for more much appreciated info. I seen a SC 20 (JCM 800) awhile back. Plug in and got the tone. I knew it would be too loud for my condo. I found out the amp must be played at certain volume to get the tone; which, is too loud.
Cheers Victor, I thought the SC might be a bit easier as it has master volume... not the case?
@@theguitaristas It was at Guitar center. Someone dialed it in. I can't even remember the guitar. Turned it on. Just the tone I was looking for. Yeah I would think that a master volume would make it easier to dial in your tone.
My 15 Watt Fender Pro Jr is too loud for apartment
SOLD on looks alone, and apt at this time. Super Amps, but demand wide open and to hell with tomorrow: certainly tomorrow's hearing or any friendship with neighbours 😂.......Super vid as ever.
I’ve had these amps. They are not for practise levels. I decided to go the digital route with a black star silver line special.
I don’t do gigs any more so it’s sorted now. Could you do a review on this amp. I found exactly what you have found. Didn’t like the torpedo captor either. Now I’ve got the soundsi want now. And I’m sure you might be interested in these amps.
I've never been a huge fan of "The Marshall Sound" except in the context of a loud band on a big stage, so that amp would not be for me. For home use I'm sure I prefer the features and characteristics of my Tube 15 with its built in 1 watt attenuator. With those graphics reminiscent of The Who on it, it was appropriate for you to demo the SG P90 with it. In a similar vein, regarding this amp, a Pete Townshend quote comes to mind, "Volume is a fantastic thing. Power and volume." Thanks for the video.
I’ve have the head version of this amp and find I constantly have to tweak it depending on where I’m playing. It’s definitely not a set it and amp (home playing, small club, large club and outdoors). Other then playing outdoor gigs it needs to be attenuated and I only do a couple of outdoor gigs a year so it’s mainly attenuated. I much rather use my Marshall 2061x or my Class 5 head in the small to large clubs because the sounds I get from them are pretty much consistent with the sounds I get at home or rehearsal at the same settings. They also need to be attenuated much of the time but I find myself not putzing around with the settings like I do with the SV20. I’ve tried to connect with this amp with different settings, jumping channels and tube changes and unfortunately haven’t. But that’s just my take on this amp maybe others will connect with it much better.
Got a head version, going through a 212 cab. You need an attenuator for low volume. I had a jhs in loop before and you can get a nice clean using that but you won't push the power tubes. I love the thing.
Colin, if you ever buy videos of your band that you’ve mentioned, or just jamming with friends, I’d love to hear you playing in context of songs.
Great topic! The JCM800 is my dream amp but as a strictly home/studio player I just can’t justify the SC20C or any of the all tube Marshall combos. I’m looking at getting one of the new Marshall Guvnor pedals to use with my home set up.
What about one of the smaller DSLs?
@@matthewtyler-jones8317 Thanks for the recommendation! I’ve looked into them but I heard even the 1 & 5 watt DSLs are very loud when going for power tube saturation and attenuators are quite pricey. I might check them out regardless! Always wanted a proper Marshall.
I too am a strictly at home guitarist. Indeed I am an in private, bad, beginner guitarist, but I foolishly bought a DSL 402 LE, 40 watts and 2x12 combo. Much more amp than I need, but the price was just too good. It sounds devine (to me, but what do I know?) even at lower volumes, but it is very loud. 😀
I have the DSL 1W and run it through a victory 2x12, it really punches above its weight. The reverb I don’t care for too much so run an MXR Reverb in the loop. It’s a great setup for home use.
love the amp... not the price 😀😀😀... nice week-end
I have been using the same 100W Marshall amp at home as my main amp since 2002!
Wow that’s loud Colin, lovely amp just out of interest on one of your videos regarding the Harley Benton valve 15 you brought. You commented about not being able to see the control panel they’ve completely re designed it it has a bright chrome background with bold black writing.
I kept hoping you would break into Ziggy Stardust Colin with that opening G chord!
I've had one of these on my wish list for a long time.
that sv20c in black is sexy...I'm talking 1997 pam anderson sexy! That's a 20 watt plexi and what that means is it's 120 watts. There is one perfect solution which is fryette power station . you can finally get the full potential out of any size tube amp at any volume with absolutely no loss of tone. even the other expensive attenuators will suck the tone but the fryette does not lose any tone at all. it's a big chunk of change but the tone will be worth it
Wowza Colin
What a stunning looking Amp. Feckin loud. And a bargain T' boot.
That amp wouldn't be put of place at a status Quo concert!
Really great and really enthralling video . 🍄
The Quo!! 🔥 they were the first real band I ever saw Live (1974) and my ears are still ringing!! 🤣 Cheers mate.
Quo have mixed it up over the years when it comes to amps: Orange, Hiwatt, Marshall and Vox. No matter the amp, they still sound like Quo.
Just found your channel and subscribed. Excellent content!
Cheers man! 😁👍
Colin,
I fancied one of those when I spotted the deal just because of the colour and grill design .
Not sure it would get much use though .I’ve already got 5 Marshall heads and 5 combos 😳
The mk3 will thankfully have built in attenuator, fixed loop where I can use effects with the volume cracked,12" greenback.
And it will be glorious, beautiful cleans and creamy od
And all of that for half the price. 😅👍
I had a 25 watt Marshall 1968 mini-PA (wish I hadn't sold it now but I was desperate). When it was cranked, it sounded sublime. Louder than a riot in Hell, though...
Bravo !Allways a GAS!
I had the same problems as you. I normally have a Marshall DSL 40CR and strangely I love the sounds I get at low volume despite the 40 Watts maximum power. I think it's because the distortion mainly comes from the pre-amplifier section.
Thanks for the great demo. Would love to hear your opinion on the Mini JCM800.
My God that is a stunningly Beautiful amp. I seriously want it just for that paint job. Here in Los Angeles that bad boy costs $2000 $krilla. I just can’t justify spending that at the moment. Plus my wife would punch me in the sack.
But still…
That paint job would be worth it.
If you think your amp is loud you should hear my wife when she’s upset with me.
She needs an attenuator.
Don't they all! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Henny Youngman!
Great video my friend, thnk you
I've owned exactly 1 Marshall amp. Was playing bars, classic rock, it was ok. Got rid of it, started using a Peavey Roadmaster and never looked back but I've also used and owned a couple of Fender amps. If I buy another amp for home it'll probably be a positive grid spark
I have a Spark and hate it. Maybe mine is duff but my little Marshall MG 10 has a better sound.
Good review of the spark! 🤣👍
I believe the standard input hi & lo designation refers to sensitivity not impedance, though if you measured you would see resistance differences across the tip/ ground measurements. At least going by old schematics i have on Fenders from the 60s
Cheers! 👍
Mismatched tubes could be the culprit of that waterfall noise at idle.😉👍
My Tone Master DR is loud at 1/2 watt...but it's a nice loud for livingroom jammin 😉👍
Attenuation is a must if you can't play at pants flapping volumes.😁
Can't lean into the sounds physically...that's for live gigs or studio... but it's better than nothing. 😁
Cool looking amp Colin😎👍
😎✌👍❤🖖
Love Brother
Cheers Richard! 😎👍
Marshall should make a 60 watt version of the Marshall Major. Two KT88’s, single channel, effects loop, and in a small head. I think that would be a great pedal platform and a very good seller. I have a 1970 Marshall Major and it would be nice to have a smaller version. With the volume on 4, you are killing small animals.
I bought a Major in 1970 full stack. I was gigging outdoors at the U of I 15,000 plus people. I never had to mike it and my God that wall of sound and the push you got from behind . What a amp❤
Ya got it going in the end Col!! Never seen the JHS loop vol, on the list now.
Beautiful E'man 59 mate, it's gorgeous.
l prefer p90s to buckers mself..
I found your channel via Shane's.👍
Nice one man glad you found us! 😎👍
Nice review Colin! Not for me but am sure many will like the amp.