JCM 800 4212

[marshallmel]

I just got this amp in a trade deal and was wondering if there were any quick easy mods for this amp that can be done, any problems that it's prone to, or any other general info or experiences you might have with this amp.

 

[Racerxrated]

The general consensus is that if you have an '87 or newer, those are the best to have. Prior to '87 there is a channel bleed issue. I just sold a 2205(50 watt head), an '87 that didn't need a pedal to get a good amount of gain. A lot of Marshall techs stay away from modding a channel switcher..I've contacted quite a few over the years, and they won't mod them. Good amps though and take pedals well, the FX loop is decent too. At least with the one I had..good luck!

 

[marshallmel]

It's a 1987. I'm pretty pleased with it so far. It needs a little TLC before I can take it out to gigs though.

 

[Racerxrated]

I ran a bad monkey in front, level half gain 1/4. Bass up, treble half..got a really nice heavier tone out of it. But It didn't need a boost, was fine without it. Had more gain than my Jubilee..just get it serviced (new caps, check solder joints, etc) and you should be good to go. Like I said, I contacted Brian at BFG and a few other modders over the years, and they all said those channel switchers are a nightmare to work on..

 

[MississippiMetal]

I've modded several channel switching JCM800's. They're super simple. I even change the gain channel LED to a superbright blue.