Marshall JCM 800 2204 (1985)
These two Marshall JCM 800 2204 50 Watt heads were the first amps I ever bought. I got these when I first moved to Hollywood, CA in 2008. If truth be told, I never really needed to try any other amps after getting these, they’re that good. I’ve used these on countless tours and recording sessions. I also have a third 50 Watt JCM 800 from 1984 which came out of a 4010 combo. The amp is identical to the 2204’s. Recently, I bought the new Marshall ‘Studio Classic’ JCM 800 which can be set to 5 or 20 watts. It’s a very useful amp for home practice or rehearsals.
These amps are incredibly reliable and if someone asked me which amp I would recommend for rock or metal, I’d tell them to get a JCM 800. Like many other famous players, I use a boost pedal in front of the amp. I prefer to use an Ibenez Tubescreamer or Marshall Guv’nor pedal.