The 100-watt DSL100HR is the latest surprise from Marshall’s long-established Dual Super Lead series and its flagship model. At the heart of the DSL100HR are four ECC83 and four EL34 tubes which ensure that players can enjoy true Marshall tone without compromise. At 100 watts, its output is enough for any stage in the world, but it can also be switched down to 50 watts if need be. This may be a no-frills amplifier, but its features and two-channel design still provide plenty of flexibility.
The DSL100HR’s two channels share a typical Marshall EQ section equipped with a bass, middle, and treble control, which are complemented by resonance and presence controls. The latter are essentially bass and treble controls but, unlike those in the preamp’s EQ section, they instead shape the tonal characteristics of the amp’s power stage. The front panel also features a Tone Shift switch that slightly scoops the mid-frequencies for a more “modern” sound. The rear panel features an Audio In socket, so you can play along to music from your mobile phone or computer. It also includes an Emulated Out socket with cabinet simulation, which immediately provides a suitable signal for recording or listening through headphones. The DSL100HR features an effects loop and, unlike the smaller models in the DSL series, it also comes equipped with a MIDI input for switching the channels, gain modes, effects loop, and master switch selection. The features are rounded off nicely by a dedicated digital reverb unit for each channel.
Marshall’s DSL100HR is a real all-tube amplifier positioned in the mid-price bracket that can still hold its own against significantly more expensive competitors and gives both professionals and ambitious amateurs everything they need. The order of the day is classic Marshall tone, and the DSL100HR effortlessly delivers just that. Its 100-watt output is enough for both the stage and the studio, and this can also be switched down to 50 watts. Furthermore, the DSL100HR is perfect for recording, especially since it comes equipped with a high-quality Emulated Out.
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.
Studio or stadium, loud or quiet: Marshall’s sound is unmistakeable, and players who are looking for that sound won’t settle for anything less. Luckily, the DSL100HR admirably upholds this Marshall heritage and comes at an affordable price. The DSL100HR is big enough for every situation and captures the essence of Marshall’s legendary amplifiers of decades past in a reliable and modern package.