Which modded Marshall should I build?

[ledvedder]

I have a full set of parts for a 1987 build, but I already have a Ceriatone All Access Plexi. So, I'm trying to decide what to build. I've thought about a straight up 2204, but I'd like something a bit more fun. I don't need super modern high gain. I'm more of an 80s hard rock/VH type of guy. I see so many variants out there. Splawn modded Marshall, Fortin, Cameron, Headfirst Cali, etc. I know I'm forgetting a ton. Just looking for some ideas.

 

[glpg80]

Whatever Fortin or Cameron circuit schematics you think you have aren’t going to net you the results of those amps entirely. They tuned a circuit based on what the amp wanted, not by schematic. A dog chasing it’s tail is where that leads. I don’t recommend it.

The headfirst cali will net you the next best results for your hard work if you don’t cheap out on components and iron.

Splawns are a modded Marshall, if you want a Splawn just go buy one. He’s done the hard work for most of us already and at a fair price. His amps are solid as-is. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of anyone modifying a Splawn circuit because they don’t need modification.

 

[311boogieman]

Whatever Fortin or Cameron circuit schematics you think you have aren’t going to net you the results of those amps entirely. They tuned a circuit based on what the amp wanted, not by schematic. A dog chasing it’s tail is where that leads. I don’t recommend it.

The headfirst cali will net you the next best results for your hard work if you don’t cheap out on components and iron.

Splawns are a modded Marshall, if you want a Splawn just go buy one. He’s done the hard work for most of us already and at a fair price. His amps are solid as-is. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of anyone modifying a Splawn circuit because they don’t need modification.

I'm not in the modding business but this all makes a lot of sense. Maybe instead of following a schematic, use the schematic only as a guide and swap some values around based upon your ears and what you have for your 87 build.

Also wanted to say I agree on the Splawn part too. Scott did his Marshall version without a cathode follower in V2 so his power feeding is completely different. That, and they are very affordable both new and used. I just saw a Competition (single channel QR) on FB for like $900. There are a few modded Splawns out there but not very many and I'm not talking about the 'easy' stuff like resistor swaps for different tubes or mid-cuts etc.