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[The Legendary Plexi Returns] A Modified Marshall! Limited Edition 1959MS Now Available [Lineage and Reviews Included]

When asked, "Which amp changed the history of rock?", many guitarists would answer Marshall 1959 “Plexi” The fat crunch delivered by the 100W full-tube circuit has been imprinted on stages and records around the world by artists like Jimi Hendrix, Clapton, and Van Halen.
Based on this legendary circuit, the original Marshall has given it a modern modification, creating a limited edition model. "1959MS" While retaining the quality of the original, the addition of a master volume and clipping circuitry makes it suitable for a wide range of situations, from home practice to arena-level live performances.
In this article, first The background and history of the 1959 We'll look back at the 1959MS and then go into detail on how the XNUMXMS has evolved. Whether you're a classic guitarist seeking legendary tone or a modern guitarist emphasizing practicality, this is a must-read.

1959 Lineage | The story of the birth and evolution of Plexi
The 1959 model name does not mean "made in 1959." JTM45This is one of the model number systems that began with (1962).1967A model developed to 100W specifications was released in1959 Super Lead 100
This is a prototype that expands the circuit of the JTM45 to 100W. The power tubes are KT66 x 4, and the transformer is made by Drummet. The impetus for its development was when Pete Townshend of The Who directly appealed to the manufacturer for a louder sound.
This was the first 100W head with a gold acrylic (plexiglass) panel. The preamp was upgraded to three ECC83s and the power tubes were upgraded to four EL3s, resulting in a more aggressive high-mid sound. Jimi Hendrix also used this model at Monterey and Woodstock.
For cost and durability reasons, the front panel material was changed to metal. Although the sound directionality was the same, the term "Plexi" generally refers to the acrylic period from 67 to 69. The wiring method on the back of the amplifier also changed from hand-wired to PCB.
This reissue was released to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Plexi. It features modern vacuum tubes and components, and no master volume control. It was a key player in the revival rock boom of the 1990s and 2000s.
- This high-end model features the same hand-wired wiring as the 60s models. It is a popular choice among vintage tone enthusiasts and is still produced to this day on a made-to-order basis.
And in 2025, Marshall modified it in their own factory. 1959MS Based on the same hand-wired circuit board as the original,
- Add master volume
- Built-in clipping (2 modes)
- Bright Switch
While incorporating practical updates such asThe heart of Plexi: EL34 x 4 & 100W This car truly embodies the concept of "reconstructing a legend."
Marshall 1959MS | Appearance and specifications


Basic information about the Marshall 1959MS
| Type | Modified Series Limited Edition Amp Head |
| Rated output | 100W (all tube) |
| Channel | 2 channels (4 inputs, shared EQ) |
| Vacuum tube | Preamp: ECC83 x 2 + ECC83 x 1 (for phase inversion), Power amp: EL34 x 4 |
| Modifications | Master volume, bright switch, clip switch (ON/OFF + 2 types) |
| Speaker Output | 1/4" speaker output x 2 (impedance switchable: 16Ω/8Ω/4Ω) |
| Size and weight | W740×H305×D210 mm, approx. 21.4 kg |
| Release date (planned) | August 2025, 8 (Marshall Shop pre-orders available) |
| Reference price including tax | 770,000 yen (manufacturer's suggested retail price) |
Marshall 1959MSは、基本となる回路に1959HW(ハンドワイヤード版)の基板を用いた真空管100Wアンプヘッドです 。クラシックな2チャンネル(4インプット)設計と真空管構成はオリジナル同様で、プリアンプ管にECC83を3本(※位相反転用1本を含む)、パワー管にEL34を4本搭載しています。
On the other hand, new modification functions unique to this unit include a "master volume," "bright switch," and **"clipping circuit (ON/OFF and two distortion types)"**, and the rear panel is equipped with speaker outputs (2/16 inch x 8) that can be switched between 4Ω/1Ω/4Ω.


Marshall 1959MS | Key evolutions and sound characteristics

The Marshall 1959MS' greatest feature is that it retains the legendary Plexi sound while enhancing its versatility for the modern music scene. The original 1959 had issues (such as difficult volume control and a lack of distortion) that Marshall personally addressed and improved, resulting in a high level of vintage flavor and practicality. Specific improvements and acoustic features are as follows:
Adding Master Volume
This is the biggest improvement of the 1959MS. The previous 1959 did not have a master volume, and to get its true potential, you had to crank the amp up (to full power) at an unbelievably loud volume. Turning the newly installed Master Volume fully clockwise (to 10) achieves the same volume setting as the original 1959, using the same circuit layout as the previous model. Turning it down, however, makes it easier to achieve saturated power tube distortion even at low volumes, even at home. In short, the ability to freely control the relationship between volume and distortion makes the amp easy to use in any situation, from late-night practice sessions to loud stage performances.
Clipping circuit included (boost and two distortion modes)
The original Plexi's distortion output fell far short of modern high-gain amps, and booster/overdrive pedals were the standard for genres beyond hard rock. The 1959MS incorporates a preamp boost circuit (Clip switch) that allows for gain boost with a single switch. It also features a clip type selector that lets you choose the quality of the distortion, switching between two clipping circuits: Mode I (Zener diode) and Mode II (transistor). Mode I provides a more open, dynamic range-rich distortion, while Mode II provides a more compressed, saturated distortion. This allows this single unit to cover a wide range of distortion characteristics, from classic crunch to modern lead tones. Turning the Clip switch off bypasses the boost circuit and allows you to play with the pure, original 2 circuitry.
Bright Switch
The Bright switch was added to make effective use of the Master Volume. This function compensates for the "high frequencies sounding muffled and attenuated" that is often felt when playing the original 1959 at low volumes. Activating the switch emphasizes the high frequencies, restoring the original Plexi's bright tone. This is particularly useful when practicing at home or recording with the Master Volume turned down, allowing you to create a solid sound even at low volumes.
Easier channel linking
Like the original four-input Plexi, the 4MS also allows for parallel use by bridging channels I and II (linking them with jumper cables, etc.). This allows the Bright and Normal channel preamps to be driven simultaneously, adding thickness and spaciousness to the sound. While the original 1959 required players to connect the input terminals themselves with patch cables, the 2MS's input layout and internal circuitry appear to make linking much easier. While still utilizing traditional techniques, it offers even greater freedom in sound creation.
These improvements give the Marshall 1959MS the flexibility to seamlessly switch between the punchy UK rock tone of the original and a gain-boosted modern sound as needed. When clipping isn't used, the sonic profile is similar to the classic Super Lead, from a lustrous clean tone to a fat crunch, but with Clip mode engaged, it can effortlessly handle high-gain leads reminiscent of the JCM800 and later eras.
"With Master at full 10 and Clip off, you get the traditional 1959, and then you can gradually blend in modern touches as needed." This amp truly combines the depth of its legendary sound with scalability. Manufactured at the Bletchley factory in the UK, it's meticulously finished, with Marshall's traditional craftsmanship evident throughout, from its sturdy chassis to its beautiful wiring. The 1959MS boasts a quality that will resonate with vintage Marshall fans, and its greatest appeal lies in its ability to adapt to the times without compromising the sound character of the original circuitry, which is the "key to the sound."
Marshall 1959MS | Sound demo
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Marshall 1959MS | Reviews and Reputation
Good reputation (positive reviews)
- "Two types of classic mod boost: diode and transistorIt's good to have the option to choose.
- "Master volume placed before the tone stackThis gives me more control over the effectiveness of the tone stack."
- "Traditional, British-made and easy to maintain constructionI'm glad that it is.
- "This amplifier isDynamic depth reminiscent of HendrixFor those who are looking forPeople who want to create their own unique toneIt has the flexibility to respond to
Bad reviews (negative reviews)
- "The legend of 1959Power Stage SaturationIf you want to make the most ofPower Scaling FunctionI wanted it."
- Each amplifier isAbout £500 more than the unmodified model, putting it in the same price range as boutique machines like the Friedman Plex."
The Marshall 1959MS is recommended for these people!
- Classic rock fans looking for the classic tone of a vintage Marshall
The 1960MS is an ideal choice for anyone who aspires to the sound of British rock and blues rock from the 70s and 1959s. Based on the original circuitry and vacuum tubes, it delivers "that" Plexi sound, allowing you to recreate the legendary tones of Jimi Hendrix and Clapton at home. The Bright switch lets you adjust the high frequencies as needed, delivering a clear, beautiful clean to crunch range that's truly exquisite. - Those who want to cover 80's hard rock/heavy metal
For those who felt the gain was insufficient with the classic Plexi, the 1959MS's built-in clipping circuit allows for additional distortion boost. By utilizing Clip Mode II, you can achieve high gain approaching that of a modified JCM800 amp, using only natural, direct-amp distortion. Its tightness and clarity won't leave you numb even during intense riffs or fast leads, making it a perfect choice for hard rock and heavy metal players. (For more powerful gain and modern features, consider the 2203MS, its sister model.) - People who want to put on a powerful performance at a loud live show
Its 100W output is no joke, delivering ample clean headroom and sound pressure even on festival-level stages. The 1959MS's vintage design means simple operation and minimal trouble, plus its British-made reliability makes it ideal for professional use as a main amplifier. The master volume control makes volume adjustments easy, even in small live music venues, so you can always get the drive tone you want, regardless of the stage size. - Anyone who wants to record legendary crunch at home or in the studio
Unlike the previous 1959, the 1959MS is designed for easy operation on household power sources. Even in environments where you can't play loud volumes, you can turn down the master volume to create rich distortion from the power tubes, allowing you to recreate that "that Plexi-on-top sound" even during late-night practice or recording sessions at home. In fact, some say it's the perfect practice amp for home use. Its undeniable roughness is what really helps improve your technique, making it a coveted amp for home recording enthusiasts and DTM enthusiasts alike. - A discerning listener who doesn't rely on effects pedals and sticks to "direct to the amp"
The 1959MS is also recommended for players who want to create their sound entirely within the amp itself. Thanks to the clipping boost function, you can achieve ample distortion without relying on an external overdrive pedal, and pedal-like effects like mid boost can be partially compensated for with the amp's built-in Bright switch. The direct connection from guitar to amp eliminates the need for additional equipment, allowing you to fully enjoy the sensitivity to picking nuances and the dynamics unique to tube amps. It retains the benefits of vintage Marshalls while enhancing essential functions, making it a perfect fit for stoic guitarists who only have a tuner at their feet.
There's no doubt that the original Marshall 1959 is a legend in the history of guitar amplifiers. The 1959MS is a true attempt to revive and update that legend for the modern era—a true "reconstruction of the legend." While retaining the sonic character and spirit of the vintage Plexi, the 1959MS officially incorporates features long-standing player demand (such as master volume and gain boost), a significant milestone. In fact, experts have praised the XNUMXMS for faithfully recreating the classic tone while expanding its sonic range with new features. The true value of this amp lies in the uncompromising quality of its sound and build quality, achieved through the direct production of Marshall's own amp, without compromising on the original's value.
While the price tag is certainly not low, the unique presence of a modified Plexi from a "real Marshall" still appeals to hardcore guitarists. With a brand presence that cannot be replicated by clone amps or pedals, and a sound that blends tradition and innovation, the 1959MS is truly a "reinvention of a legend" from Marshall. It's a dream come true for longtime fans, and for the next generation of players, it's a masterpiece that allows them to own both Marshall's legacy and its future. If you're looking for both legendary tone and modern practicality, the Marshall 1959MS will not disappoint. It's exciting to see what kind of music scenes this amp, steeped in legend yet cutting-edge, will play in in the future.






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