Marshall DSL 20HR (Affordable AND Good?)

[@MrPolevaulter]

Check out more gear videos here: kzbin.info/aero/PLNaLwTdlpQNFGz5Eesm0Ey_pDAL1F5y21

[@mr.mikehunt4286]

I see people buying a 1x12 with v30, mainly the Harley Benton or a custom cab with a greenback instead,,but how does the dsl40 COMBO compare to the dsl20 head?

[@rickclark4714]

I just bought this amp and matching 2x12 cab. It’s awesome. I tried my Bugera power soak with it and it’s phenomenal at near whisper volume levels. Looks great too.

[@Fnnggjji]

Idk why but I value your opinion more than other youtubers. You obviously know what you're talking about and don't hold back when you think something is terrible. Respect

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thank you very much :)

[@RickMichaelis63]

I bought this amp when it first came out and it’s been my go to amp for the last year

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yeah, it's good.

[@markmarshall7939]

I've had mine for over a year now & added the crunch channel to the Classic Gain channel & the lower gain channel to the Ultra Gain channel just like Marshall has on its bigger brothers the DSL40C & DSL100H amps. A couple of relays, some added components & an additional footswitch & footswitch jack is all it took to make this basically a 4 channel beast. I would recommend the stock amp to anyone. It's the most fun a guy can possibly have with his clothes on!

[@hugorodrigues7761]

Dear Mark Marshall do you know where I can find the schematics for this amp? Same as you I want to mod it slightly but I need to know where to change. Thanks in advance

[@markmarshall7939]

@@hugorodrigues7761 - The DSL20HR uses the same circuit board as the older DSL15 and the schematics are pretty much the same. Here's a cool video showing the mods to do. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5WWqYOkhKuhkNk

[@robbiepenninger4111]

So far this is the only demo I have found where the DSL doesn’t sound fizzy or buzzy. Excellent demo!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks Robbie!

[@lovecraftmusic8717]

Actually sounds a bit fizzy but it's the nature of this amp I think...in fact I'm not sure if bought it or not

[@NomadRonin]

The amp is a bit fizzy or buzzy out of the box but it can be improved quite a bit by putting a Sovtek 12AX7WA in the V1 position. It tames and smooths the high end out.

[@TheStereoField]

Thanks for mentioning this!! I thought something was wrong with mine. It sounds ok clean but if I touch the gain knob at all, it has this really fuzzy, fizzy distortion in the background and sounds like crap...I think I’m going to return it and try something else.

[@kringtheking2657]

​@@NomadRonin how does it affect the gain ?

[@mihaalbreht548]

Your playing sir... Its heaven for ears👏

[@taggartreid9408]

Man i love ypur playing. I just bought a new dsl20hr yesterday. Thank you Elmo

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers!

[@tjborekvideo]

My classic rock cover band played a restaurant gig with this amp a couple months ago, where I used the MX212AR cabinet. The sound tech--himself a Marshall player (TSL100)--was full of complements on my tone. I ran a wah and compressor into the amp input, and the noise gate, Boss GE-7 EQ, modulation, and delay pedals in my amp loop. The graphic EQ pedal is set with a slight midrange hump (about 2dB, max) along with 2-3dB level boost for solos (with the amp's Tone Shift ON). Nice and thick, and just enough to stand out in the band mix (drums, bass, and second guitar).

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cool :)

[@danvan8789]

@@MrPolevaulter yep , i got some good tones with shift on

[@elihue_redneckreview]

Amazingly brilliant amp!! It's a shame that in 2022 the price has more than doubled . Cheers Elmo, Rock on!

[@kringtheking2657]

What used to be the price ?

[@awonderingoneil206]

@@kringtheking2657 Around 260 quid mate

[@kringtheking2657]

@@awonderingoneil206 i paid like 450 😶

[@jimmyhartman573]

Hope to have mine today 799$ . . .far cry from 4 years ago , it has gone up almost 200$ under Obiden regime , crazy ! Got it before it crossed the 1k mark , lol

[@BazonBlades]

Just got one in (12/23) and paid $645.00 after tax. These have basically doubled in price since they were introduced. It's a great little amp, but the new prices are wack af.

[@nicolasortiz5534]

Thanks Elmo. I've seen a lot of demos and I just want an inexpensive fun Amp with some dirt and an ok clean, to mess with n not worry about live. Since I'm not always able to go and test things in person, I trust your ear, and knowledge. You give a fair review. Aside from that I love your music, playing, and sense of humor, keep up the good work man.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thank you very much Nicolas. I really appreciate it :)

[@nevillegreg1]

I have my old DSL 2000 40W Combo. It does the job very well and it's very reliable. Marshall amp O/D 1 and 2 are, in my opinion, some of the best overdrives around - and of course you can push the amp even more by adding a Blues Driver or Tube Screamer in front. And all this without breaking the bank.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yep. Great for the price.

[@GuitarQuackery]

I was blown away with this amp, a few years ago, when I was checking it out at a guitar store. At this time is is $629.99 so I guess the price went up since you've posted this video. Really love your picking.

[@mattsikes919]

Awesome Elmo! I’ve been wanting to buy a Marshall for some time now and the DSL 20 has been on my radar. I’ve been scouring KZbin for reviews and demos and I must’ve missed this one from you. Absolutely beautiful sounding amp. Definitely the Marshall for me. Loved the video, it’s one of your older ones, obviously, and I have to admit that after watching your newer ones and then seeing this one, your tone is so much better and less harsh when you use the Strymon Riverside for overdrive instead of the Yngwie overdrive. I have to say, the videos where you’ve used the Yngwie overdrive your tone seems less smooth and brittle. Not a criticism, just an observation. Keep on shredding! Cheers!

[@knowitall1694]

I bought one a few weeks ago based on YOUR review. Great amp! Beats my old JCM800.

[@redcomn]

I'm planning to use this for rehearsal studio business. 100w and 50w sometimes is overbearing for vocal. How's the reliability?

[@danim5881]

Bold statement

[@blizzbee]

@@danim5881 haha, agreed

[@TheBsavage]

What other amplifiers were you considering? Are you saying, that of the hundreds of amplifiers, and thousands of videos, you chose this video to point you towards this amp? That is astounding. Bold. Focused. I'd never do that though. I have too many amplifiers now to add more boat anchors to my setup.

[@CassianSt05]

I've just experienced your channel for the first time. Your guitar playing is INSANE🤩

[@MrPolevaulter]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@elitecombatfitnesscentral6170]

Elmo. Thank you. I fell in love with the tone on the Marshall Studio classic and the Studio Vintage.But with the $1,200.00 price point it's too rich for my blood. I think this is a happy medium.. Thanks again for the review.

[@MrPolevaulter]

And thank you for the comment.

[@AnotherDayattheDock]

Thank you for this review, just got mine in today and I absolutely love this thing.

[@markdakel9253]

Excellent review of the amp. Classic Marshall tone in every aspect.

[@xjohn1970]

the dsl 20 is a highly recommended amp. sounds fantastic. great effect loop.

[@norbertittermann725]

THE BEST DEMO OF THIS AMP ON KZbin !!!!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thank you very much :)

[@Kadotus]

Wtf? Is it monday already? Damn you booze! Thanks Elmo, for pacing my weeks!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Haha :D

[@ahmedrashed78]

Just got one last night and love it!

[@lapinus]

I bought this yesterday, can't wait for this beast to get here... great review man! Subscribed :D

[@MrPolevaulter]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@lapinus]

@@MrPolevaulter (oh and also, great guitar playing)

[@MrPolevaulter]

@@lapinus Thanks :)

[@phil42069205]

Bought this thing last week. Still waiting for it to ship but I am pumped for this as a second sound. Also running Hughes & Kettner GrandMeister 40 deluxe as the primary rhythm amp. All subject to change. Great playing btw. Sad note, I used line6 spyder for a while🤢🤮. But I am all better and it’s no longer contagious.👍

[@MrPolevaulter]

Haha :D Good to hear you're well now :D

[@skinnykarlos710]

Haha. Very good !!

[@Soul-OnFire]

When i first started playing I used a spyder as well. It’s ok I feel your pain,it wasn’t our fault though, we didn’t know anything about amps then, we were kids. It’s all better now. 👍

[@patricklong902]

Thanks for the review, i bought this over a year ago today when i started playing guitar. I first bought a Blackstar because that's what buddy suggested, i was new and didn't know any better and the Blackstar was a small Solid State amp. Doesn't take a genius to know what sounds good and not good. Well it sounded like shit (lol) so i went searching and randomly found this in the music store. Didn't know what a combo stack even was, but yeah, buddy hooked it up in the sound room, i made a bunch of annoying noise and a week later i went back to buy it. It cost more then 400 for me though, still worth every penny in my opinion. It's cool to see somebody with your skill level showing people what it can actually do! Thanks for re insuring me my judgement call was on point...Cheers.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cool bananas :)

[@OsMart0073]

Very nice review and playing Thanks Elmo, you really Rock!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks Oscar!

[@erik4971]

Thanks Elmo love all your video reviews and great tones and playing , a lot of the tone is in the hands , and you have it ! Amps and pedals just bring it out better than others and some amps more so than others too , tone is very subjective but bad tone and playing certain amps will expose a players lack of technique as well , that's what some don't understand they think they can buy a high end amp and think they are going to sound awesome because of the gear/amp/pedals , there are a few guys to watch and see reviews on how amps sound and you are for sure one of them thanks brother !!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thank you very much :)

[@marsattacks7071]

There is no ''linear behavior'' with vacuum tubes. You found a way to get your sound right but it doesn't seem logic to you and certainly a lot of people. Anyways, Marshall should listen to your demo and analysis and find a containment or change of design. Thank you friend for your effort put in this demo !

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers Eric!

[@rjo8500]

Don’t know what all the fuss is about in the comments? I thought it was a good and in depth review. I have this amp. I run it through a GB loaded JCM 800 4x12 cab. The amp (like most Marshalls from the JCM 800 onward) can easily get bright. But I rather have it that way than something that’s too dark and muddy with no way to dial the highs in to cut through.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thank you :)

[@sleepdeep305]

Most everyone I talk to hates this amp for some reason...but I love mine!

[@MrPolevaulter]

That's strange. Why do they hate it?

[@sleepdeep305]

@@MrPolevaulter I'm not sure, but I think a lot of it has to do with the MXR cab that is typically paired up with the amp, which doesn't do the DSL justice

[@tarkett8529]

Just ordered one of these to run through a 2x12 with V30’s, was really surprised when I tried it out how good it sounded for the price.

[@MrPolevaulter]

I was too.

[@robertleo7394]

Me too! Get better sound thru my Strat than this video w/ matching 2 12 cab.

[@tarkett8529]

Robert Leo I run it through a Harley Benton 212 vintage vertical sounds cracking for the money, looking at pulling the trigger on the Origin too

[@gabihakler868]

@@tarkett8529 i want to buy the same rig, Is it good for replicating slayer megadeth an Metallica tones? And how does it look😁

[@mjr2470]

@@gabihakler868 Phil McKnight from "Know Your Gear" did a Harley Benton 2x12 demo with a dsl1 if that helps.

[@portuguesebeer5069]

That is an awesome amp! Great sound and features! Your playing is very good! Cheers from Portugal 🍺🤘

[@edgarfenderusa6629]

I just bought this amp and paired it with the jubilee 2536 2x12 which comes with the g12 vintage 16ohms. Sounds amazing.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cool!

[@professoroak2252]

Disagree. Pedal on Ultra gain channel sounds awesome to me. Maybe just lacking a little bit of treble in my opinion. Thanks for the video. Bought a DSL20H for myself too.

[@angrytroll27]

Got the combo today sounds massive as you get the volume up!

[@heinzconrads5243]

thnx ...I have the same amp and had some issues. your review helped a lot. Great playing, too ...

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks!

[@jakesmith4506]

Thanks for the great review. I have the DSL 15c and it is kind of lame. This seems a lot better. At least it has an effects loop. Running it through a Celestian green back is pretty cool too.

[@MrPolevaulter]

I was pleasantly surprised by this one :)

[@tman6495]

Hey, the date of this video is my birthday...must be a sign!

[@MrPolevaulter]

:)

[@dalejacksonmo]

great Playing man love this amp and tones

[@thecolonel2750]

Great review! Seems like all the other reviews out there are tuned down to C.

[@SirLoinMagroin]

Thanks Elmo. Think I'll try one.

[@johnrist67]

Excellent video as always. I really trust your opinion on gear. Would love to hear your opinion on the Marshall DSL40CR. It's $250 more than this amp, but is 40 watts, and has 2 modes per channel.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks Ed! I don't know about that, but then again you never know. I might do something with that amp at some point.

[@FROZENWATERFALL7]

very cool review! my dsl20hr is in a cuple of hours in my studio yeah!

[@hoosierdaddy2308]

Elmo. Grear vid. This Amp is good. I tried the 40 watt combo and loved it. It of course was a combo 1 x 12, but of course I just used the gain channel almost allbthe way and pretty loud and then a boost pedal for leads or just use my volume knob with gain all the way up, but why NOT. 😛 Volume us good. My ears just balance my face now from loud tube amps since 1976. 😛 The 40 watt combo here in the USA is about 500 dollars rougly if I remember. Great amp. I'm telling ya, you should try the Fender Hot Rod deluxe. Clean fender channel and kinda Marshall or Mesa Gain channel. Also, the Peavey classic series are WONDERFUL..💝✌👍👍 Do you know the Finnish band Santa Cruz?? Killer guitar players my friend. You do a great job my friend. Tganks for what you're doing. 👍👍 Will share. 👍💝👍

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks :) I know of them, I don't know any of the members personally.

[@leeshobbyheaven3307]

I have the dsl20 combo and can stop using it over the last year. With my les paul pro 2 plugging in and the gain channel on it gives ur heart that flutter when strum and get the marshall grounch.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Very nice amp indeed :)

[@BruceKnouseMusic]

Is the DSL really cheaper than the Origin in the EU? The Origin is the cheaper amp over here in the States.

[@myuncle2]

All I can say is that on your demo the SV20 sounds as good as the plexi, but this DSL sounds miles away from it, yes it's cheap, but I would go straight for the SV20. The SV20 in my opinion is the best product by Marshall, because they managed to make it sound like a 1987x but in a smaller format, which is a difficult thing to do.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Absolutely, but you can't expect a Plexi for that price. I agree with you though. The SV20 is absolutely brilliant.

[@myuncle2]

Yes, but for that money you can buy a Bugera 1960, with autobias, 150w, it's a plexi copy, a real bargain, and ehm, as heavy as a plexi, not easy to transport these days :)

[@GTX1123]

Good review for those players who are into metal but someone should do a review where this amp's versatility is explored; i.e. use a couple different dist and overdrive pedals on the Classic Gain channel, see how well it cleans up when you back your guitar volume down and demo a delay, trem, chorus etc. in the effects loop. I'm in a cover band and we play a mix of mostly hard rock from the 70's w some pop metal songs from the 80's and one or two grunge tunes from the 90's. We have some songs in our sets that are mellower so I need that versatility where I can roll my guitar volume back and clean up the sound somewhat without sacrificing tone. I have a 50 watt Marshall clone I used for a while but it doesn't have an effects loop and it's impossible to get into the power section of that amp in smaller venues without being told to turn down. Tried the Marshall Classic 20 series and while it delivers a fairly decent amount of gain with the right dist pedal for crunch rhythm and cleans up nicely, it just doesn't have the balls to cut through the mix for solos. The gain control in that circuit just isn't hot enough when maxed so when you try to push it with a dist pedal to get it there, it flubs out. I think Marshall really missed an opportunity with that amp because all they had to do was either widen the sweep on the gain control and / or stack the gain by adding a second gain knob to it. Hmmm...that might be a good mod for it.

[@GTX1123]

Correction - I meant the 20 Watt Marshall ORIGIN 20 series

[@VeeeeryyyFaaaastSlooooth]

Problem with these DSLs is they sound terribly fizzy in low volume bedroom setting, even the lower wattage ones. EDIT: forgot to say great video and awesome playing

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks!

[@gtrman69777]

People keep saying that but I don't have that problem. Even at super low volumes it doesn't sound that fizzy to me. However I only have the gain on the red channel around half way and the presence around a third up. My only issue is that it is so damn loud. LOL

[@antmax]

I got one of these and on my low budget really like it. You did a great job going through the functions and playing both clean and high gain. Was impressed boy did your pinkie fly lol. Incidentally, I use the clean channel with pedals most of all. Glad you liked it.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Elmo "Flying Pinkie" Karjalainen :D

[@libor0711]

Some of the best reviews here... funny, topical, and quite honest...not a demo, but rather honest opinion. If Elmo is still reading these (it's an older review :-() would you think this 20H would sound good at home only? using the 3w or 0,5w setting into a cab? Like the tones, but not sure 20W tube is useful for home. Thank you!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! I don't actually remember trying it in the lower power modes. But it should be fine. The 1 watt combo version sounded just as good in 0.1 watt mode.

[@castleanthrax1833]

The settings you are referring to relate to the Origin 20, not the Dsl20. I think the Origin has 20, 7 and 0.5 watts, while the DSL20 has 20 and 10 watts power settings.

[@DamianS1893]

I love my Marshall DSL 100HR...

[@Gjuby]

Hi Elmo, as usual great and honest review. Since you ask, could you do the review of the hyped bugera g5 infinium head? Its a Little 5W tube monster but....I am personally not convinced. I am super curious to hear your opinion.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! I just had a look at a couple of videos, and I have to say I wasn't convinced either. I'm unsure if I'll get one, as I have a bunch of videos waiting to be released, and my to-do list is overflowing :D

[@davidmerlin3344]

Gjuby cheap components on that amp

[@leonrosser183]

It also has a emulated out for recording . And an input for backing tracks . Bit of a shame theres no reverb on pedal justan effects loop switch . Effects loop is a bit hummy but if you step away abit wih guitar it goes .. i love this amp and seems.loud enough for pubs and loud enough to hurt your ears haha great amp

[@han36solo]

Great review thanks! I might have to try one.

[@keithmasey664]

I bought one of these a little while back and love it. Remarkable value for money. It came down to this one versus a similar Blackstar model and whilst the Blackstar had, to my ears, a better clean sound the Marshall was the better for crunch and dirt. I've not gigged with it, but my only issue is that the extra output is a minijack. It would be great to have a minijack, regular and XLR output on the back, but for the price of this head I'd be silly expect all that!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yeah, it's a good amp. Remarkable for the price.

[@tjborekvideo]

The Emulated Out is kind of a joke because the way it works--Volume knobs disabled--makes sense only for recording, because you manage your recorded volume through the connected audio interface. Otherwise, when using Emulated Out, the two Volume knobs are disabled, leaving only the Gain controls working with a fixed signal level sent to the Emulated Out. Disadvantages include (1) no volume control for playing through headphones (you get LOUD, and only LOUD), and (2) you cannot balance the two channels when running direct to PA for performance. So if you plan to gig with the amp, you'll need to mic the speaker once you dial in your tone. I prefer some volume on stage, but if you buy this amp thinking you can have a silent stage environment requiring in-ear monitors (modern worship band, for example), you'll be disappointed. Otherwise, it's a great sounding head for the money.

[@wateroperator1972]

@@tjborekvideo Sorry to say, but your amp is defective. The volume knobs do work on the emulated out. The first few productions of these amps had defective emulated outs as yours is. Yours most likely has a defective FX loop too as they are tied together. I would send that amp back to Marshall. Even if it is not under warranty, they will still fix it for free. I have owned 4 of these, and the first 2 had the defect that yours has and Marshall fixed them. Go to marshallforums.com and research this and you will see there are countless people with these defective DSL20s. Great amp when you get a non defective one. 4th one was a charm for me.

[@tjborekvideo]

@@wateroperator1972 that's odd, because I use my effects loop all the time since buying the amp used nearly six months ago. I have run it with individual stomp boxes in the loop and now with a Boss GT 10 using 4 cable method. Sounds great. I appreciate the link. Will certainly explore the issue.

[@tjborekvideo]

@@wateroperator1972 I remember researching this a few months ago and found this response on one of the threads on that site: "You need to use the Gain pot for the volume. The two volume channels won`t work as these are for the power stage, and you are using the pre amp stage which is controlled by the Gain." So are you saying Marshall is in denial of this issue? Lying to customers?

[@MonkeyKingBooking]

I like the new DSLs. But it would be great, if they made a 50W Version, like in the origin serie (450€) and not a 100W with 50W power reduction option. (680€)

[@lordvalen8133]

Yeah, who thought not making a 50W was a good idea?

[@davecooper360]

Great review and great playng!

[@sim715]

Hi Elmo, To play metal music. Do you recommend the Marshall origin 20 head or the Marshall DSL 20 head? Kiitoksia paljon

[@MrPolevaulter]

Probably DSL.

[@fastacesus8499]

Great review fella

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers!

[@hendysetyawan6053]

I'm torn between this and peavey 6505 mh. What is your suggestion? Btw great review as always, thank you.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! Maybe the Peavey.

[@anthonysilva5312]

Love your vibe! Very cool demo. Sounds great too. How is it for dialing in a plexi tone?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! Well, it's not bad, but it's not great either.

[@IllusionaryFuneral]

You’re better off getting the Origin 20 if you want a Plexi type sound.

[@goingbananas]

Elmo would you reccomend this head for giging? I’m looking for a amp that can handle both rehearsals and giging without having to have a 100 or 50 watt head. Med dina Yngwie toner är det bara ett plus 👍🏻👍🏻

[@MrPolevaulter]

Depends how loud you play. It might be good.

[@greenstarwayband]

If you push volume and gain up but you have a master in the loop, it won't break up the power section, will it?

[@MrPolevaulter]

No it won't in the same way.

[@davespin9034]

I bought a DSL100HR on backorder from Sweetwater then saw some reviews on this bad boy and took a pause. I know I’ll love the 100, but for home use without an attenuator can I get the most out of the 100? I don’t play for loud I play for power and depth, usually around 9:00 or less Thanks for the great review as usual Elmo 👏

[@paulkielt9301]

I bought a Marshall DSL-1HR few days ago and it sounds like Holy Grail to me with an overdrive. I took a look inside and it's pretty well built. There are no OP-Amps or other fancy stuff to drive the gain stage (like other hybrid amps), just a common tube wiring. It reminds me of the JCM800 I used to play for years. I wish you'll try one of these someday?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Maybe at some point.

[@erik4971]

yes me too I set it to a medium crunch on the lead channel and add a ts9 set to level full and tone 3 0 clock and drive just about off ! resulting in a 800 roar!

[@geovra1976]

This was my first choice until i found a bargain for the jubille combo...it's a very decent amp both channels are good. Yeah the reverb is not very nice but it's there if u need it. I think they're made in Vietnam so i guess that's why there's that price tag...but if it sounds nice who cares where it's made?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yeah, it is quite good :)

[@geovra1976]

@@MrPolevaulter Code still rules lol :)

[@joehahn8817]

@@geovra1976 now that's funny stuff!!!

[@thomask.9850]

Hi, how does the DSL 20 compare to the new 20 watts 'Studio' heads from Marshall. Are these worth the big price tag over the DSL?

[@MrPolevaulter]

The Studio heads are much better. I'm not sure if they're worth the price tag. For me they are, but might be different for someone else.

[@JazzRadioFfm]

He's right, they are better. I also don't know about the price, but they are so much better that i will go for the sc20h instead of the dsl. so much more dynamic, sadly, for my wallet...

[@BrandonEht]

The studio's are far louder

[@Clutch3672]

Thanks for the honest review. I have this amp. The only problem I have is switching from clean to overdrive. I get a loud click. Or vice versa. I wonder if you experienced the same problem.

[@MrPolevaulter]

I didn't notice that no. Then again I don't have the amp either anymore. Sold it to get more gear to review.

[@joehahn8817]

Mine does that too!!!

[@MrPolevaulter]

@@joehahn8817 That's strange. Although it could just be down to the fact that the amp is very cheap, and they've cut corners when making it.

[@joehahn8817]

@@MrPolevaulter I figured it's all part of the "get what you pay for" way of the world!!!

[@sirbaronvoncount4147]

I love Marshall cleans especially on a no master volume amp. The most beautiful natural overdrive.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yep :)

[@soto44123]

549.99 USD in the U.S.. Wonderful little amp head. Although it is prone to over heating...use one or two computer exhaust fans to keep it cool.

[@truckergilligangilligan5877]

If you only had one choice DSL 20 or Peavey 6505 mh what would you choose? I've been watching the videos over and over still can't decide so figured I'd ask. Love your KZbin channel!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks!

[@Pushingleaddesign]

I have this amp. I run the yjmdod308 pedal on the red channel. Couldn’t max out the pedal on the red but the green handled it better. I’m still tweaking it to get the “marching out” type sound out of it. For the money it’s great. Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks for reviewing it.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers! I sold mine, so I can't really say.

[@scottnoricsson2023]

Can you make your tone to have the sustain (without the additional over-distorting) with the dod into the red channel in the similar fashion Elmo's 1987x has when he hits it with his pedal? I am thinking about buying Dsl 5cr combo....but I don't know if it can get me that liquid type of sound (with Sd-1 as a boost) Without getting too distorted a la modded JCM 800

[@errorcode1133]

Nice review. If there is a volume pot in the loop, power amp will obviously not work on full, and distortion is all from the preamp?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Not sure if this answers your question:: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zn21YZuXgbCspMk

[@roimodeste]

great review ,great play, great stratocaster for a great little big 20w british marshall cheap head! Need a good cab with good HP and a tube upgrade to be perfect .

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers!

[@drlove2112]

As far as the amp not handling the overdrive pedal on the overdrive channel, that's usually indicative of 1 or more preamp tubes needing replaced. I had the same issue on my DSL 40 combo and new tubes fixed it completely. Great demo!

[@MrPolevaulter]

Cheers!

[@brandbandestudio9085]

Hi Elmo, I've become a fan of your channel, I love your reviews, I would like to buy the DSL20H, but I have a 4x12 MG412ACF cabinet, what do you think of that combination? Thank you very much Elmo. Greetings from Peru.

[@dimarzio999]

Hi. How about a comparison with the Egnater tweaker 15? They are about the same price. Thank You in advance.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Good suggestion, but I don't have the DSL anymore. Sorry :(

[@dimarzio999]

@@MrPolevaulter Thanks :) I've decided to buy the Studio vintage 20 head instead. Guess I prefer amps made in UK, and hookers made in Vietnam :D This amp probably has the character I need..unlike the tweaker, which is "good for everything" so translation "excels in nothing" - due to the supply chain mess-up, I have to wait a couple of months..

[@J_Braz_]

It seems these are very noisy amps,even with nothing plugged in and not on standby. I just sent mine back for a replacement. With the volume and gain at 5, EQ knobs too, this thing is too loud.( With no guitar plugged in, mind you) Hopefully the replacement is better.

[@JerryHodensack]

I like the sound, but its to quit to play with drums with a clean tone. Very sad, that the 40Watt version is only aviable as Combo

[@CrazyCalabrese78]

Can I ask seriously though, who wants a Marshall for loud cleans?

[@Wooburnmusic]

​@@CrazyCalabrese78been playing Shadows concerts since I purchased two 1979 Marshall MK2 master volume 50w combos for creamy valve cleans, for shitty distortion when required my Boss SD1 AND SD2 PEDALS provide all of the dirt we have ever needed as a band.

[@joshmuz9018]

Hi Elmo. As you have demo so many amps. If you rememeber this one at all, is it good for 80s hair metal and malmsteen type tones? Is there a good attack on the notes, good clarity enough to shred on and get a sound somewhat close to your 1987?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Doesn't get close to the 1987x, but it's OK.

[@joshmuz9018]

@@MrPolevaulter hmm ok thanks I guess I'll keep looking for another amp

[@clovergrass9439]

Price at the end of Dec 2022 is roughly $799 new in the US...

[@skinnykarlos710]

I think I prefer the 'vintage' sound of the Origin 20, then again I'm 53 so that was the sound I grew up on. It's $670 au if looking at the budget. This DSL 20 H is around the same. If the budget stretches a tad I'd prefer the Studio Vintage ($1400 au) so basically double the price. Always that pesky trade off, eh? Nice review, Elmo. Just out of pure curiosity, but does your wife take you at all seriously?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Haha :D I'm not sure :D

[@skinnykarlos710]

@@MrPolevaulter Yeah, none of us are eh, I'd wager. None of us are.

[@ilikeguitar662]

Elmo the dsl 20 or the origin 20 combo for home use and gigging i really want a plexi style amp in apartment volumes and not only Plus is the origin bad at high volumes?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Not sure. I did think the Origin started to sound a bit iffy at full volume. The DSL is good, but not really a Plexi either.

[@deimos_doc]

Hi Elmo! Good job! I'm looking for a small and light head and I play in AC/DC and Iron Maiden tribute bands... to you the DSL 20HR may hit the mark? do you know a better choice (price less than 1000 €) thank you!

[@nicolasb3660]

Got one, and with a good speaker, a greenback for sur you got the sound

[@MrPolevaulter]

Not for the price of a DSL. The only worry is that it won't be very durable, since it's so cheap. For 900 € you could definitely get something better, especially second hand.

[@MrPolevaulter]

But the DSL is really good. Astonishingly so for the money.

[@rsmallfield]

Thanks for the review - it was helpful. Any chance of reviewing the Laney L5 head?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Maybe, but no plans at the moment.

[@midgetsniffers1262]

I own that Marshall now😈

[@graemedixon6314]

Would've been nice to hear some samples with a humbucker and also see if it covers modern metal. Having said that it did produce some nice tones with single coil pickups.

[@harryemmott8597]

I use the DSL 1H into a 1x12 with a v30, boosted with a tube screamer and played with a PRS SE custom 24, it does some pretty decent 80s metal tones, think Maiden and Megadeth at higher gain. Can probably EQ in some more modern sounds from it (check out Ola Englund's "will it chug?" on the 1w head), but it's always worth looking around to see what your preference is.

[@repetitivemotion]

The amp sounds very good with the amp gain and no pedal

[@miachevydude]

Would be nice to see this Marshall in "White" tolex instead of Black.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Yeah.

[@davidbuckles3298]

The coolest tone was the part you said was "really strange and really annoying". Sounds like Jumi Hendrix playing in reverse.

[@mikecorey8370]

No, it wasn't. It sounded horrible. High gain into high gain is not going to work. Especially into a cheap amp, with cheap tubes. Only Wannabe Metal Heads think that sound is good, because they like crap noise.

[@jamiemacmillan4056]

How quiet is the low power mode? I'm heavily leaning towards this I'm just curious as to whether I will only be able to use headphones? My family are fine with me playing guitar all day but only if they can still hear the TV over it at the unnecessarily low volume they watch it at

[@jamiemacmillan4056]

@@Jay-hq4lo thanks for the reply, think I need to just accept my decisions been made anyway hahaha. Think my heart was set on it before I even commented 😂

[@CalitranoN]

louder than the 50 watt Origin? which would be its competition? maybe i should have bought this one?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Don't think it's louder than the 50W Origin.

[@CalitranoN]

@@MrPolevaulter didn't think so! ha

[@kettenlaiho]

Dear Elmo-Sama, have you tried the DSL100HR? If so, how does it compare to this one?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Sorry, haven't tried it.

[@frdyyung5524]

Hey Elmo, do you think the amp is also fine, usable for bedroom practice? Thanks!

[@MrPolevaulter]

If you want power amp breakup, then no. If not, then sure.

[@frdyyung5524]

@@MrPolevaulter Thanks for your answer! Well, I play mostly metal and rock, so I guess the gain is coming from the pre amp and then it should be fine... I wish I could just go testing in a music store xD (here in Germany its not really possible now)

[@m.a.freund3332]

Been going back & forth on this or the Studio Classic JCM800 reissue... This is cheaper & more versatile, but the JCM800 seems like it just sounds better. I have nowhere to demo both near me, which do you swear is better and why?

[@MrPolevaulter]

I really can't say for sure as I haven't tried the Studio Classic. I would assume that the SC is better though, as it's more expensive. But like I said, not sure.

[@notsure1135]

If you have the money to throw at it, go for it, but with an eq in the fx loop you can get close enough to any sound.

[@davidjorgenpedersen8010]

Good Review! Have You Played EVH 5150 50 watt Combo?

[@MrPolevaulter]

No. I'd like to though :)

[@davidmerlin3344]

david jorgen Pedersen loud and too much hiss/noise

[@PeterLucibelli]

Great review, what over drive pedal are you using with this?

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! I think it was a Fender Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive. Either that or a Strymon Sunset.

[@MrPolevaulter]

@Return of the Native Cool :)

[@nicolasb3660]

Great review. Can you tell us on witch cab and speakers you play it ? Cheers !

[@MrPolevaulter]

Thanks! Celestion Vintage 30's.

[@thehansongoons8975]

If someone is on a budget, loves those 80s metal tones and just plays at home, would you recommend this head or the Burgera 1960 Infinium? Will be using either a JHS Bonzai or Steel Panther Butthole Burner (rebranded Pussy Melter) for drive.

[@MrPolevaulter]

Probably this. The Bugera is very much a Plexi.

[@sebastiancordero237]

If you are playing at home you DON'T need 120 watts. this DSL20 is way more than enough. you can even jam with your friends with it!