Marshall amp aficionados, I need your guidance

[MadAsAHatter]

It won't be for a good while (especially since I just rage bought a Mark III), but I've decided my next amp purchase will be one out of the couple vintage Marshalls; 3 of which are kind of one in the same.

• Super Lead
• Super Bass (maybe mod to Super Lead specs)
• Super PA and do the Super Lead/Bass mod
• JCM 800 2204 (more set on a super lead, but would grab one at a good price)

I know jack shit about purchasing a vintage Marshall and need to start educating myself so I don't get fucked over on a bum amp. I may get lucky and find local, but in all likelihood I'll have to buy something online. In either case, I have a couple of questions/concerns on what to look out for.

• What do I need to pay attention to so I know everything is in good shape and the amp isn't on it's last legs or about to need massive service?
• Anything to watch out for if the amp was modded? Any type of mods that say walk away from this amp?
• I see people speak of replacing filter caps on old amps. I understand the need for it. Concerning a vintage Marshall, what do I need to look for, both if originals need replacing or if they have already been replaced?
• Any specific years/models to be on the lookout for or ones to stay clear of?

Hopefully my questions make sense. Aside from knowing they sound awesome, as I said I know jack shit about the rest of this subject. So I really don't even know if I'm asking you guys the right questions in the first place.

 

[MadAsAHatter]

The questions still apply because I do eventually want to get a vintage Marshall, but scratch that it's going to be my next amp purchase. Shea Monomyth just messaged me he's going through the waitlist and opening preorders for a 3rd run of Skeleton Keys. I'm not missing out on one so that's going to be my next amp.

 

[BesaMoogie]

Look out that the amp has the original transformers, replacements will drop value dramatically in the eyes of purists.

Ask for gutshots if possible, people here will be able to tell you about mods that were done.

If the amp was used regularly, caps should be ok as far as the amp won’t blow up as soon as you turn it on.
From there on you can still think about a cap job.

 

[Racerxrated]

No matter which one, I’d make sure any vintage Marshall has its original OT, the PT can be changed out as long as the voltage is near the original spec. Find out the history and see if has the original circuit including filter caps. I’d honestly join over on the Marshall forum as they have 3-4 guys who know exactly what each component should be, and can tell if solder joints have been messed with. Post a pic. They’re super helpful. Original Daly and LCR caps do add value to the amp IF healthy…so if you do change them out for ARS (recommended) I’d keep the originals and try to reform them.
My fav are the early 70s NMV Marshalls; that’d be my first choice. And, don’t buy one with the bright cap removed….you will have a slightly neutered amp….and those Lemco caps are impossible to find these days. You can always remove it if you want to but you’ll still have it to restore when you want.

 

[Chubbs]

Get a ton of pics inside the amp and where the transformers/tube sockets are and post them here if you can. Stock is kinda a sliding scale with Marshall sellers and the people here would help sus out the questionable. Fryette’s channel is a good place to learn some stuff regarding old Marshall’s too.

 

[SpiderWars]

The questions still apply because I do eventually want to get a vintage Marshall, but scratch that it's going to be my next amp purchase. Shea Monomyth just messaged me he's going through the waitlist and opening preorders for a 3rd run of Skeleton Keys. I'm not missing out on one so that's going to be my next amp.

Killer! And this buys you time to do some searching so when the opportunity arises you’ll be educated and ready. The Monomyth will probably be a keeper but I think you’ll still want a straight up Superlead at some point.