The combos and heads in the Marshall DSL series have enjoyed great popularity since their release, and the compact Marshall DSL5CR is no exception. This diminutive five-watt powerhouse boasts two channels of all-tube circuitry as well as some 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 that allows additional effects to be integrated. The three-band EQ has been upgraded to enhance its effectiveness, while the Tone Shift and Deep switches allow modern scooped sounds to be dialled in. The result is clearly audible through the 10-inch Celestion Ten-30 speaker – housed in a reassuringly robust and compact enclosure – which delivers outstanding presence throughout the entire sound spectrum.
The DSL5CR’s preamp stage is fitted with two ECC83 tubes, one for each of its two foot-switchable channels. Channel 1 (Classic Gain) provides a shimmering clean sound at low volume, which is gently compressed from about half-volume upwards and gradually becomes a gritty-sounding breakup when the volume is turned all the way up. Channel 2 (Ultra Gain) picks up where Channel 1 left off and delivers everything from sizzling crunch to high-gain lead with typical Marshall amp dynamics – and can then be further tightened using the Tone Shift and Deep switches. Both channels have their own volume and gain controls and share an effective three-band EQ.
If you love the Marshall sound, you will definitely love the DSL5CR – and this compact amp brings that classic all-tube Marshall character into your home. The DSL5CR is ideal for practising, small jam sessions, and recording. The Low Power switch reduces the output from five watts down to 0.5 watts – and allows the amp to really shine: Just crank the volume up, let the tubes glow, and enjoy their full dynamic range and saturation effect. Its extensive features, such as the two channels, the integrated digital reverb, the effects loop, and the Emulated Out/headphone output, will be tempting even for seasoned professionals – however, the DSL5CR’s attractive price also makes it an ideal tube amp for ambitious beginners.
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.
For sure, five watts of power won’t rock a stage, but will certainly rock during smaller sessions or at home. And if you need to lower the volume to bedroom level, the Low Power switch on the rear panel, which reduces the-five-watt output to ear-friendly 0.5 watts, is the way to go. This makes the Marshall DSL5CR an ideal practice combo, and the recording output with cabinet simulation allows that Marshall sound to be recorded on your computer without the need for a microphone. The DSL5CR is also sure to be a real eye-catcher in the living room or bedroom.