The Marshall DSL40CR boasts two channels, each with two different voicings. The sound of Channel 1 ranges from clean to crunch, while Channel 2 has two different overdrive options which provide a wide spectrum of distorted sounds. The amp is equipped with many useful extra features, including an emulated line out for direct recording, an audio input for playing back music from external sources, on-board digital reverb, and an effects loop which allows additional effects to be integrated. The three-band EQ has been upgraded to enhance its effectiveness, while the Tone Shift switch allows modern scooped sounds to be dialled in. Extra signal processing options are provided by the Presence and Resonance controls, which further shape the sound of the 40-watt power stage and its two EL34s. The result is clearly audible through the 12-inch Celestion V-Type speaker, which delivers outstanding definition and presence throughout the entire sound spectrum.
The preamp stage of the DSL40CR is equipped with four ECC83 tubes and its two channels can be selected either via the front panel, the footswitch that comes included, or MIDI. The sound of Channel 1 (Classic Gain) ranges from shimmering clean through to a pleasantly dynamic breakup, while Channel 2 (Ultra Gain) covers everything from sizzling crunch to high-gain lead. Both channels have their own volume and master volume controls and share an effective three-band EQ, while the Presence and Resonance controls allow precise shaping of the power stage’s tonal response. The on-board reverb is also independently adjustable for each channel. In addition to the effects loop, the MIDI connection, audio input, and footswitch connection, the DSL40CR also features an Emulated Out. Last but not least, five speaker outputs are present which allow various combinations of 4, 8, and 16-Ohm speaker cabinets to be connected – should you require that extra power boost.
If you love the real Marshall sound, you will definitely love the DSL40CR. This stalwart combo delivers Marshall’s classic all-tube sound and is equally suited to the rehearsal room, the stage, or the recording studio. The amp’s output power can be reduced from 40 to 20 watts and can thus be adapted to many applications, while its extensive features, such as the two channels with four different voicing options, high-quality digital reverb, effects loop, and cab-emulating direct/headphone output, make the Marshall DSL40CR a go-to amp for any guitarist looking for an extremely flexible, versatile, and powerful tube combo.
Marshall, the manufacturer from Milton Keynes in Great Britain, is an indispensable figure in the world of electric guitar. The tube amplifiers of company founder Jim Marshall († 2012) have been writing Rock music history since 1962 with names like Pete Townshend, Jimi Hendrix, and Eric Clapton. The classics of the JTM, JMP, and JCM 800 series are still highly sought-after today, as they shaped the sound of overdriven and distorted electric guitar more than any other product. To this day, the combination of the amp and 4x12" cabinet - the "Marshall stack" - is synonymous with the energy and power of the Rock music genre. Alongside these landmark achievements, however, Marshall has always kept its finger on the pulse of the times and a close eye on the needs of up-and-coming musicians.
With its 40-watt power stage and 12-inch Celestion speaker, the DSL40CR can be used at home, in the rehearsal room, on stage, and above all as a hassle-free recording companion in the studio. Its Emulated Out features cab simulation developed by the specialists at Softube which allows the full dynamic range of the classic Marshall sound to be captured on computer without the need for complex miking.