TEST: Marshall DSL1CR

 With the Marshall DSL1CR, the biggest name in the guitar amp segment is not dedicated to the testosterone-fueled fullstack banging of past eras, but to the other end of the flagpole, the practice amp range. However, not with the intention of throwing the next acoustic cheapo in the double-digit price range among those willing to practice, but rather to bring a tiny all-tube combo with the manageable power of one watt to the man. What, only one watt? Wait and see!

The concept of the Marshall DSL1CR

Just to throw it around again, in order to double the volume of an amp, you have to increase the power tenfold, which conversely means that a 100 watt all-tube bolide can produce just four times the volume of a 1 watt amp. In the course of the test, the dwarf amplifier will prove what a noise 1 watt all-tube can make. Aware of this, the Marshall DSL1CR also has a pressure switch on the back of the case, which reduces the power to 0.1 watts (!).

One or the other will now of course ask why such a "low-power" amp with a retail price of just under 340, - euros, which is indeed a very ambitious price, especially for Vietnamese manufacturing. Well, all the anachronistic components such as transformers, tubes, etc. increase the manufacturing costs immensely, but in this case they are also supposed to save the beloved tube sound into the bedroom, which clearly puts the Marshall DSL1CR in the bedroom amp class. However, it should be noted that without an exorbitant sound or very flexible application possibilities, the VK will call one or the other critic on the scene.

The construction of the Marshall DSL1CR

Cuddly it really is, the small cube, after it has peeled itself from the packaging. With the dimensions 35 cm x 21 cm x 33 cm (WxDxH) and a weight of approx. 7.7 kg, the combo constructed in open design can be easily transported even by delicate female hands by means of the carrying handle, which looks gigantic in relation to the housing dimensions. By means of 2 pieces ECC83 and 1 piece ECC82 the combo produces according to sales jargon the "legendary DSL sound", with whose use I would personally deal a little less cocky. The DSL series is considered among experts more as the "Marshall of the little man", which carries the big name, but sonically especially with the H-series can not even begin to compete with the real legends of the JCM, JTM or Plexi series.

In order to keep the dimensions of the combo small, Marshall uses in this amp a speaker made by Celestion, only 8 inches in size, which according to the power of the amp can handle a maximum of 15 watts. The amp has 2 channels (Classic Gain / Ultra Lead), which can be switched via a push switch on the front of the cabinet, or with the included footswitch, while the Ultra Gain channel can be varied in its basic tonal direction via a tone shift switch. Both channels share a three-band tone control and a digital reverb control. On the right outside is the power switch, the Marshall DSL1CR does not have a standby due to its tube constellation.

On the rear, there are two mini-jack plugs, which are due to the primary application of the amplifier, in addition to a serial FX loop, the power plug and the connection for the speaker. On the one hand, there is an audio in, which allows the playback of MP3's etc., on the other hand, there is an emulated out, which allows a speaker simulation for demo recordings. The fact that a mini-jack makes sense as an input can be explained by the headphone connections of most smartphones etc., but what is the point of a mini-jack output for recordings? With all understanding for saving space, here you have to work with adapters in any case, whereby an adapter directly on the amplifier exerts a very unsightly leverage effect on the jack. A 6.25 mm jack socket would have belonged here in any case.

The first impression of the Marshall DSL1CR

Besides its cute appearance, the Marshall DSL1CR definitely leaves a very high-quality impression. The workmanship is impeccable, no seam that would be glued uncleanly, no screw that protrudes, no component that wobbles. Above the famous lettering, the color of the controller heads has shifted from the familiar brass of the front panel to gold. When viewed from the side, both colors appear roughly the same, but when viewed from the front, the two colors clash quite a bit. OK, let's say it's a matter of taste.

The potentiometers are offset to the rear in the case, so that no potentiometer is broken off in case of a flat impact from the front during transport. The top of the case is also offset to the rear in the area of the knobs, so that it is easier to reach the knobs from above. A small detail, but here again a tick was thought further, which concerns the practical range. Very nice!

Despite the open design of the Marshall DSL1CR, the inner workings of the combo are well protected. To protect the tubes from outside influences, the upper slot was closed with a metal grille, which leads the waste heat to the outside, but no objects to the inside. Why the Combo has another opening in the lower area on the back, however, is not quite clear to me. Is it for air circulation? At least it's narrow enough to prevent our coarse-motored contemporaries from throwing their power cords into the Combo. However, the slot is big enough to let a regular jack cable through, which can then damage tubes, transformers and the speaker again during transport.

The sound of the Marshall DSL1CR

So, now we come to the area that everyone has been waiting for. Does the Marshall DSL1CR manage to transport the sound of an all-tube combo into the bedroom amp realm? The answer is yes and no!

Yes: Unlike many bedroom amps that try to emulate the sound of an all-tube amp with all sorts of digital junk, the Marshall DSL1CR doesn't need to simulate anything due to its design. It is what others try to emulate with algorithms and you can hear it. The amp works very dynamically, especially in the distorted range, hangs very nicely on the volume pot of the guitar (see sound example 02) and avoids the musty-slabby basic sound of many competitors.

No: What was already foreshadowed is revealed in practice. The built-in speaker is simply too small for the balanced sound of a large combo. Celestion does its best to compensate for the treble-heavy sound of an 8-inch speaker and the Tone Shift control in the Ultra Gain channel in the depressed position takes a lot of treble out of the signal, but the lack of volume in the low-mids or basses cannot be compensated. If the controls of the amplifier section had been moved to the top of the cabinet and a 10 inch speaker had been used, the whole thing would sound quite different.

However, I once took the trouble and connected the amp to a 4x12 cabinet. In this case the sun truly rises. Of course, the single ended power amp has no real reserves in terms of headroom at the start, but an official AC/DC rhythm sound you have in any case at hand and even at an official volume. Of course, the one watt can't put a thumping drummer in his place, but in a disciplined band you will be able to hold one or two rehearsals and even play a small club gig.

At 0.1 watts, however, it's finally the end of the line for the band. By the way, the basic tone of the amp changes dramatically again in this setting, another sign of how strongly the interaction of the loudspeaker in terms of return current etc. is responsible for the sound of an all-tube amp.

All in all the amp leaves a very good impression, which has to live with some physically caused limitations.


Conclusion

With the Marshall DSL1CR, rock music's most famous trademark targets the increasingly popular bedroom amp segment. The amp impresses with a wide range of good to very good basic sounds that can be produced at moderate volumes. Impeccable workmanship and a cuddly exterior make the rather high retail price recede into the background.

Additional Informations:

Marshall Amplifiers is an iconic British company that has revolutionized the music industry with its high-quality guitar amplifiers. Founded in 1962 by Jim Marshall, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the most powerful and sought-after amplifiers in the world. With their distinctive sound and distinctive design, Marshall amplifiers have become synonymous with rock music, playing a crucial role in shaping the genre's sonic landscape. This comprehensive report delves into the history, innovations, impact, and global presence of Marshall Amplifiers.

History:
Marshall Amplifiers has its roots in the early 1960s, when Jim Marshall, a drum shop owner in London, began to experiment with building amplifiers for guitarists. Responding to the demand for more powerful and versatile amplification, Marshall designed his first amplifier, the JTM45, which was heavily influenced by the popular Fender Bassman. This marked the beginning of Marshall Amplifiers as a brand dedicated to meeting the needs of guitarists seeking a heavier, grittier sound.

Innovations:
Over the years, Marshall Amplifiers has been at the forefront of technological advancements in amplifier design. Some of their notable innovations include:
    a) The "Marshall stack": In the late 1960s, Jim Marshall introduced the concept of the "Marshall stack," which consisted of a powerful amplifier head paired with multiple speaker cabinets. This setup significantly increased the volume and presence of the guitar, becoming a staple of rock concerts and influencing the live performance experience.
    b) Distortion and overdrive: Marshall amplifiers are renowned for their ability to produce rich and harmonically complex distortion and overdrive tones. This characteristic "Marshall crunch" has become an essential ingredient in rock, metal, and blues music.
    c) Master Volume control: Marshall introduced the Master Volume control in the mid-1970s, allowing guitarists to achieve power tube saturation at lower volume levels. This innovation enabled musicians to obtain desirable tones without excessive volume, making Marshall amplifiers more practical for studio recording.

Product Range:
Marshall Amplifiers offers a diverse range of amplifiers to cater to various needs and preferences. Their product lineup includes:
    a) Valve Amplifiers: Marshall is best known for its valve amplifiers, which use vacuum tubes to deliver warm, responsive tones. These amplifiers, such as the iconic Marshall JCM800 and JCM900 series, continue to be widely used by professional guitarists worldwide.
    b) Solid-State Amplifiers: In addition to valve amps, Marshall manufactures solid-state amplifiers that offer reliability and affordability. These models, like the MG and CODE series, provide a wide range of tones and built-in digital effects, making them popular among beginners and gigging musicians.
    c) Signature Series: Marshall collaborates with renowned guitarists to create signature amplifiers that capture their unique tone and style. Artists such as Slash, Jimi Hendrix, and Joe Satriani have all had signature models with Marshall, solidifying the brand's association with legendary musicians.

Influence and Legacy:
Marshall Amplifiers' impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Their amplifiers have played an integral role in shaping the sound of rock music, from the classic rock era to modern genres like metal and punk. Countless iconic guitarists, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Angus Young, and Eddie Van Halen, have relied on Marshall amplifiers to achieve their signature tones. The distinct growl, power, and sustain of a Marshall amplifier have become instantly recognizable and highly desirable among musicians and fans alike.

    Global Presence:
 arshall Amplifiers has a significant global presence and enjoys widespread popularity. Their amplifiers are sold in numerous countries worldwide and are a staple in music stores, studios, and live venues. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a loyal customer base and endorsements from leading musicians across the globe. Marshall also manufactures a range of accessories, including cabinets, pedals, and headphones, further expanding their product offerings.

Conclusion:
Marshall Amplifiers stands as a pioneering force in the music industry, synonymous with the sound of rock. With a rich history, groundbreaking innovations, and an unrivaled influence, Marshall amplifiers have become an essential component of the guitarist's toolkit. Continuously evolving and adapting to meet the needs of musicians, Marshall Amplifiers remains at the forefront of amplifier technology, ensuring their legacy continues to shape the future of rock music for generations to come.