ADA MP-1 vs MARSHALL JMP-1 GUITAR MIDI TUBE PREAMP SHOOTOUT / COMPARISON

Comparison of the ADA MP-1 and Marshall JMP-1 MIDI tube guitar preamps to settle which would have made the better choice for a rack based guitar rig for me in the 90's.
#guitar #preamp #shootout

[@micahscoville2800]

Hence, the reason why half of the rock guitar planet dropped whatever rig they were using in 1989 for the MP1! What a sound!

[@RickHollis]

I'm going to start using the ADA again live with my old Quadraverb like I used in the 90's.

[@Imokyourok440]

@@RickHollis I use an MP1 with a quad GT. I found the Quadraverb at a pawn shop for $80. Works great!

[@ENGL555]

Micah we ran them for years. Loved mine. Wish I still had it.

[@johanzander5919]

Still use my old ADA from time to time. Bought it -91 for 30$🙂. Used to lend it out to my guitarplaying friends so they could make some presets. I think I tended to get "stuck" in a sort of similar sound. So sometimes when I got it back, I just...Wow! A good way to see what it was capable of.

[@powerseostrategy]

I was super fortunate to pick up a ADA MP-1 at a garage sale for only $20. I absolutely love it. Been gigging for years with it with no issues!

[@crazeyjoe]

The MP-1 was a gem of a pre back in the day and in many applications will still hold its own today.

[@RickHollis]

Sure was. I'm going to get the noise mod done on mine and consider using it again live.

[@ianfurqueron5850]

Part of the reason I chose my MP-2 back in the early 90's is because I wanted to be different. The other part was I bought mine after grunge hit and nobody wanted rack amps, so I bought it new for a big discount. 25+ years later and I still have it. That said, I wouldn't mind having a JMP-1 now...

[@joelbennett9014]

It sounds stupid, but I did the same exact thing - decided to couple an MP1 with a Peavey Classic 60/60 rather than buying a head because I wanted to be different. It served me well so it wasn't that stupid really.

[@DwDrake2000]

Mine was the Mp-1 but also in the grunge era. What the Grunge crowed didn't understand that the mp-1 could create any tone if you put the time in to learning the program menu. got mine at a almost criminal also.

[@noeliaalejandragomez3116]

@@joelbennett9014hace dos años tome la misma decisión, cambie mi combo Marshall cfx 30 por un jmp1 rack, le metí una potencia Marshall y a una caja (cabina) 1x12 con Celestion vtype y otra caja 2x12 V30, por el loop un rack ART para efectos y el audio es realmente increíble, original y con mucha patada...

[@Eventual420]

The JMP-1 preamp picks up where the Marshall JMP amps left off. You’re basically in JCM territory. So that’s not a metal heads preferred weapon, but tons of great classic rock and 80s rock was done with Marshall. The ADA is a born screamer. These have a beautiful breakup and harmonic overtone that makes lead guitar lines really sing and feedback is highly desirable. The MP-1 is king for this reason. Once Mesa released the Rectifier amplifiers, those sounds became a requirement. Much more modern, scooped with Presence, they chug much better. I had to get the Rectifier Recording Preamp because inside is the circuit used in Rectos, enormous transformers, and the sound is massive. If you’re into the more modern sounds, may I recommend the KSR Ceres preamp pedal. It really screams, has a ton of gain and presence similar to the Mesa sound. Or the Black Widow MGP-1a Preamp, which covers much more ground from Fender to Marshall to Mesa. The MGP is one of the most desirable preamps out right now, comparable to the Engl E580. Rockman XPR predates all of these, the Rockman XP100 portable amplifier ended up as a rack unit in the XPR, and really nails the Tom Scholz Boston sound, and the Def Leppard Hysteria. They’re all great, and I use each of them with a pair of Sound Sculpture Switchblade GL’s switchers to combine them with EL84 Peavey, EL34 Marshall, and 6L6 Mesa power amps. Still, every now and then someone will demonstrate their amplifier and have a superior sound. Bogner Ecstasy heads are glorious. Mesa Triple Recs, Friedman JEL amps... it’s not hard to beat the old rack gear with a well made head. Just being honest.

[@phillamoore157]

Well said. It actually sounds like it's the same DNA as the DSL series (which I think are killer blues to hard rock amps). To my ears, anyway...

[@matthewearl9824]

Iron maiden use the JMP 1. That is metal enough for me.

[@dizzyred1390]

These are black n white colors of each other …. MP-1 is the sound of the 80s screaming heavy rock tone to the full max ….add a hint of delay n chorus ur there …. The JMP1 is a more versed sound that goes AC/DC to Classic rock and u can still get heavy tones from it …he’s playing metal here fast repeating notes…Ada is the guitar …. Now play AC/DC see which one gets u there first

[@christophermoffett3762]

I don't agree with your opinion of the JCMs being just for hard rock, 80s/90s stuff. There were 4 models of the JCM 800s. 2 50 watt and 2 100 watt. On both the 50 watt and 100 watt (which I had) that has the 2nd channel for a clean tone, which is horrible, they came with an extra gain stage. And trust me when I tell you, there was more than enough ass kicking in that amp to pay with any music. I had the JCM800 2210. The JCM800 2205 was just as good, but a 50 watt instead of the 2210s 100watt. Then the 2 single channel JCMs a 50 and 100 watt, which didn't have that extra gain know. My slightly modded 2210 was a monster! To bad it was stolen from me after making a few albums with it and touring across the states and Europe. 😢

[@danielspangler8358]

ADA MP 1 preamps were a game changer back then. Running the MP 1 preamp in stereo with that chorus on, 4X12's on either side of the stage sounded huge.

[@christophermoffett3762]

Right, but that doesn't translate to the audience. All shows are done in mono. Otherwise, people on 1 side wouldn't hear what's going on in the other side. Until the day comes where we can go to a show, put on headphones and hear left and right, or even surround sound, we're stuck with mono. When we can go and listen through headphones, with a killer, loud P.A. system so you can feel it also and get that extra volume from the P.A., we're stuck with mono.

[@mikewithers299]

​@christophermoffett3762 all the "PA" systems I've run were stereo even back in the '90's. With stereo sound effects patched thru the mixing boards. Good bands want stereo not mono

[@DwDrake2000]

@@christophermoffett3762 As @mikewithers299 posted. and I am from your line of thinking, but that is exactly the reason you use that feature during your solo spot, (if it's stero) It's your boost to 11! The side that doesn't hear it still feels the vol swell on the signals comeback_

[@steves5119]

think a friend played mp1 and not sure what speaker pair.. and gold top less paul... just wow

[@zerosoma33]

JMP-1 with a Mesa tube power amp is the best of both worlds. Been running that rig for decades now.

[@irmasil3]

I have no idea why I am watching this, because I have both preamps and play them everyday...I guess its entertaining :)

[@JonnyFG]

Hi. Can you change setting setting on the JMP1 with a midi switcher? (In a live setting). Cheers

[@irmasil3]

@@JonnyFG JMP-1 is midi driven, so yes you can change patches when set up and stored to your preferences. Depending on the midi switcher, you can have from 4 up to 120 patches.

[@ramses8847]

I remember back in the day trying the MP-2, the JMP-1 and the Triaxis. The MP-2 had the most gain. The Triaxis was the most tubey sounding, good for dirtier tones. But the JMP-1 was just unique. Marshall distortion is so characteristic and it was the sound I wanted. Very raw sounding. I really like it and still have it. I love the brighter clean channel and the OD1 channel.

[@PooNinja]

I gotta go with the ADA it just works for my ears 🤘🏽

[@RickHollis]

Agreed.

[@247Dalvarez]

What a great review! I used the ADA and it sounded good through several different speakers I had or that friends had. It blew my Mesa Booger quad pre amp out of the water. A friend had the Marshall that sounded great as well. This was 1988 and I went the full rack set up about the size of a small refrigerator because it was what a lot of players were doing at the time. What a waste! One day unloading my gear when parked on a hill near to the Roxy in Hollywood, my rack started to roll down the street and I barely caught before it hit passing cars on the street! I bought a fender red knob twin shortly after that episode. I may pick up another vintage ADA, I liked it!

[@OUTTATIMEMTL]

Great Demo, I used to have the ADA but got stolen, never found another one like this REV 2( I Miss my ADA), 2 months ago found a JMP-1 on classified ads and bought it just not the same but it get the job done on the Marshall, I changed the tube and it made a HUGE difference. the unit still had the original Marshall tubes.

[@bobbyodell8676]

Get online and find Red Letter Beijing Military Spec 12AX7s from the 80s…you’re welcome.

[@noeliaalejandragomez3116]

Buenas, te consulto, ¿Que tubos le pusiste al jmp1? Quiero cambiarle al mio.. gracias

[@jean-claudekujawa4080]

Great demo! Played the ADA back in the days...still have one today, beside the Bogners, Peaveys, Soldanos and Marshalls. Love it!

[@RickHollis]

Love it.

[@steves5119]

it has only a few good sounds... but they are really good.. wish I could easily fix the input jack

[@tone-talk]

I’ve come back to this video many times, Rick. Awesome work and killer playing!

[@simonaslett-round9375]

I had both back in the 90s and continued using the Jmp-1 i to the ‘00s. But the ADA MP-1 deffo the better preamp. I still own both!

[@BigHairyGuitars]

WOW Rick! That track sounds amazing!!! Great playing and tone!

[@RickHollis]

Michael Nielsen Thanks Michael. Much appreciated :)

[@realtruenorth]

+1

[@davlostiedfranca]

Indeed; stunning !

[@emadismusic]

This is an EXCELLENT demo video. As for preference, except for the simplicity of the Marshall controls, the ADA wins in almost every situation. The Marshall sounds very good, the ADA sounds great. The 16 dB of tone control on the ADA shows. Very nice playing also!

[@christophermoffett3762]

I think the JMP 1 wins on heavy tones, but the ADA on clean tones! Now, too mix then both, that's an Amp! That or a Roland Jazz Chorus for clean!

[@color33d]

For me the JMP1 got way more charisma and i'm happy to have one

[@EgoShredder]

If you know what you are doing, you can get some legendary tones from it.

[@BillDerBerg]

it's definitely Marshall sounding

[@TommyG0709]

I had a MP-1 in my rack back in 1990. Loved that thing! Wish I still had it.

[@peterschaefer1665]

Dude I have watched umpteen reviews of both of these units and your tones are by far the warmest. Cheers!!

[@glaucosouza1971]

Love the episode, but the main reason to sign up to the channel was the mention of Leon 😎

[@brpadington]

I always liked both of them. I thought both were a better value than the Mesa Triaxis.

[@tomasagustinveravicentin7789]

The ADA sounds way more open imo, and the clean is far superior. Great video!

[@PlayFloyd_IN]

The clarity of chuggs on the ADA was amazing in contrast to the Marshall. That Hamer though was the 🌟 of the video. Thanks Rick!

[@RickHollis]

I've had that Hamer since '91. My best sounding chug machine by far. Am waiting delivery of a new updated Sustainiac system for it to replace the old one I removed years ago. Will be a video on that soon.

[@PlayFloyd_IN]

@@RickHollis I was wondering why the inside coil space in the neck humbucker cavity was empty. Now I know that it'll be the home to the sustainer which will be epic. Thanks Rick, you're the man, stay healthy and have fun!

[@820hurleyj]

Sure glad I chose the MP-1 all those years ago. It's in a cabinet with a 400 watt solidstate Crown power amp. It feeds into 2 Mesa Boogie 12" Black Widows. There's a couple of effects racks and a 30 band EQ keeping it all company. I had high hopes, but had to put my toys away for several years. But it's just about time to bust them loose again.

[@marcobiolcati]

Fantastic video comparison Rick!!!! ADA wins.. I got 2 and after 30 years is still my favorite. Nice video and super audio quality. It would be nice to know the settings values used.

[@ArdiNugrohocilacap]

I have marshall jmp1 ,, using since 06 till now..

[@scottvonscott3140]

You make everything sound incredible Rick.... couldn’t choose

[@RickHollis]

Thanks dude, you flatter :)

[@nikonaboy7878]

I'm still using ADA MP-1 & ADA MP1 Classic, Love them both 🤘🏼

[@SolarWarden88]

Rick, great video! Solid playing too. LOVE the A/DA MP-1! I recently HAD to buy one after watching this video and Leon Todd's on the MP-1. This unit is a GEM! Obviously, it had its run in the 80s and was well known, but with low-microphonic tubes, this amp SMOKES almost every preamp I've tried, even today. Best cleans, squishy yet still crunchy distortion - 100% agree, right choice Rick, the MP-1 is KING! Keep the vids coming.

[@RickHollis]

Solar Warden Thank you for the kind words and yeah, the ADA was and still is a beast. I’m going to have my tech perform the low noise mods on mine and possibly start using it again live.

[@SolarWarden88]

@@RickHollis thanks for the reply! Awesome, if you can, post here on how the potential mods go, I'd love to hear. I've been considering having mine modded. Keep rockin' Rick, all the best man 🤘

[@cipherldn8482]

Nice comparison man! Must have taken a long time to put that together, but i'm very glad you did. I guess with all these things though, there are so many variables to tone. So yes, with that setup, for sure the ADA sounded better, but who knows, with a tube screamer, different power amp, different cab, different mic setup, maybe the Marshall could have won! You can never win doing a comparison test though and I reckon you did a top job! Gave a great idea of what each sounded like with an equivalent rig. Subscribed!

[@RickHollis]

Thank you!

[@afterliferockcoversbanduk3908]

I bought a Marshall JMP-1 when they first came out. I had it for about 3 months couldn't get on with it, so I placed an ad in Loot (A paper version of Ebay/Gumtree) wanting to sell/swap with someone with an ADA MP1. You can't imagine the responce I got the phone didn't stop ringing. I watched a video made by Paul Gilbert, he was using the ADA MP1 and it sounded great compared to the Marshall, that's why I decided to sell or swap. I done the deal with a guy from Edmonton, North London. We done a straight swap. Through the late 80's and 90's, the ADA was my No.1 amp. I ran the preamp through a Marshall Valvestate 8008 with an Alesis Quadraverb connected through the send and return. The Valvestate was connected to 2 Marshall cabs and that was my touring rig for about 10 years. I recorded an album with a band I was in at the time using that ADA setup. The cabs were recorded with mics as the direct outs wasn't that great. Sadly the ADA has fallen into disrepair (Display LEDs stopped working) even though the preamp still works, it's virtually impossible to program without the display. I now use a Synergy Syn2 system with Engl and Bogner preamps, the Quadraverb is connected through the send and return. I've retired the Marshall cabs and using 2 Engl 2x12 cabs instead. The poweramp is an Engl E840 100/100.

[@RickHollis]

Nice. I had a similar ADA/Quadraverb rig with a Carver power amp and 2 Valvestate 4x12 cabs.

[@JohnyLondon]

I've got both of these and I think that part of the secret of the Marshall is the rather limited eq, you haven't got so much to play with that you can really get into too much trouble, same goes for the gain (hence many choosing to add boost before). Agree about that low mid thing with the Marshall - but I quite like that sort of honk it gives. With the ADA I sometimes find the tone controls don't hit exactly where I want, but they are still very versatile. Maybe that's it's secret - slightly odd eq points? The compression and chorus definitely make it the better unit though, and I like it's kind of spongy feel. If only it had a noise gate.

[@jasondrummond1318]

I had to buy another MP-1 when mine went.... and the other guitar player in my band at the time (like 5 years) had the JMP-1.... great combo..... the do low end better than a lot of preamps as far as depth.... and for the time way ahead of anything else.....The Marshall is clearly smoother, with a classic tone.... the ADA is harsh, but with an eq and an OD to come alive.... ADA mrx 10 Marshall boss GE7 keeps the tone consistent to the preamp's nature.... in the end I bought a Triaxis as well.... and .... Tube amp addiction follows....Oh and TS-9 or 808 every one uses them... because they are the best...

[@powerfunk6588]

I have both, and I definitely prefer the ADA. I have set up my rack so I can use the ADA stereo chorus with both units, and I can use the Marshall emulated outputs with both. With the midi switching, I can control both preamp and my effects. I'm using a TC electronic G major 2. It's an incredibly versatile rig. Very easy to use, and offers loads of great tones. I do think the ADA is my favourite though.

[@TomChopperGuitar]

@Powerfunk how are you connecting the units to use the MP1 chorus with the JMP1?

[@SeanHyland]

That's a pretty sick setup! I have an MB-1 and just purchased a Line 6 Pod Go. Trying to wrap my brain around how I can utilize them together. I guess the MB-1 for distortion and EQ when needed, and the Line 6 for its effects and amp sims when performing live.

[@JRP3music]

I used the ADA MP-1 for a long time. The solid state clean with compressor was a great idea. You don't need any overdrives. You balance OD1/OD2. Program your gain and volume changes. The consistent tone is what I liked. I ran mine through a Boss NS-2 more like pedal volume, because I used it in front of the Real Tube II preamp (always clean) utilizing stereo fx loop and MosValve power amp. I used Rocktron Replifex and Intellifex together. Only used Bad Horse wah and midi controllers. Less wires. Great tone.

[@jasonsapp792]

The ADA has a liveliness the Marshall doesn't capture. The Hamer though!!

[@57Techboy]

You may want to check out the specs on the JMP 1 EQ. I'm not 100 percent sure but, from memory its a digitally controlled graphic that has a range of plus or minus 12 db. They both sound good, but I will agree that the MP1 has more definition. I have a Dr. Boost modded JMP 1done by my buddy who was "The" Montreal Marshall tech. I still love it after all these years.

[@bastianogr4960]

Loved this demo! Back in the day I could only dream of playing one of those. And I did. Back then, I wanted the Marshall so bad. Today, especially after seeing this demo, I‘d clearly go for the ADA. Way better tone. More distinct, more punch. Just great! Thank you!

[@sexyguitarboy69]

I agree fully with your decision, the ADA soundwise eats the Marshall in every important aspect. But I wouldn't put too much trust in the ADA's quality of workmanship. Touching the up/down pads on the ADA always gave me a feeling like "When will this device die on me?" When taking a close look at the Marshall's inner life, it gave me a feel of confidence. Not so with ADA. I owned both the pre and one of the 1 rack space stereo power amps. Both were not made to last long, not even at home. I couldn't go out on stage with the ADA products. Maybe this is the reason why they ceased to exist. A Marshall will rarely die on stage, if ever. Bottom line: ADA should have put in better parts and used a better mechanical overall concept to make their gear roadworthy and easy to use/program. You can't help but be amazed at their sound! But everything else really sucks and gives you a feeling of uncertainty on stage which for me personally is a no-go. So I am using a very different equipment.

[@zepp3lin]

Nah, sorry dude I disagree, my ADA survive till now from 1992 till 2022 no service was done on the button.

[@MilesTippett]

Both were used by smashing pumpkins. MP1 - Gish JMP1 - Mellon Collie

[@scoobydoo936]

I came for the preamps, i stayed for the playing. Killer bro!

[@RickHollis]

Thanks man!

[@rocksteady9115]

Marshall warmer tone to me Ada more fizz

[@vladimirshevyakov]

Absolutely love my JMP-1! In conjunction with EL34 50/50 power amp it is just fenomenal!

[@jaykarimi7123]

I just stumbled across this & have both the MP1 & JMP1..I hadn't really used the MP1 in a long time but this makes me realize why i bought it in the first place. I love them both but you inspired me to wipe the dust of the MP1 again.. Great video!

[@larslevinberget9558]

Both are excellent preamps, the JMP1 is like the precursor to the DSL line while the ADA sounds like a modded 70s Marshall head

[@lightningstrikes7314]

John Mitchell gets beautiful lead tones from the JMP 1 on the Lonely Robot albums

[@Nghilifa]

Kirk Hammett used the MP-1 from 88 to 94 I think, so it definitely has thrash metal credentials. I preferred its tone over the jMP-1 in this video. Great playing!

[@RickHollis]

Thank you :)

[@timwhite5562]

Between the solo tone, and that Hamer, it's like 1989 flashback.

[@RickHollis]

Love my Hamer. And it's an '89 Hamer ;)

[@darwinsaye]

In the drive settings, the JMP-1 is a little throatier where I like girth in the lower midrange frequency spectrum. The two got very close in this demo though. I agree the ADA has it for cleans. But in the end, the Marshall totally wins on current prices - the asking prices for ADAs are just ridiculous.

[@keithpowell5336]

Thanks for this! I have an ADA MP-1 and love it, I had always wondered if I was missing something with not having the JMP-1. They both sound great to me, but definitely lean to the ADA for features and sound

[@mikewithers299]

Same here. I wanted the JMP-1 or any Marshall tube amp but ended up finding a used MP1 and fell in love. Glad I got it now

[@aaronsongid6698]

The playing is Superb. I forgot it's about the preamp. Awesome playing and inspiring

[@aquilarossa5191]

ADA has a boost thing that works like a built in drive pedal, plus it has a hi-gain circuit for more hot rodded Marshall type tones. The Marshall does not -- at the most it just has the JCM 900's diode clipping in OD2. It requires a pedal to push it over the top just like the amps its preamps are based on. The JMP-1's channels are based on stock Marshall preamps, so obviously it would need to be modded to get the hot rod Marshall tones the ADA can do. I did not realise this at the time back in the mid 1990s, so traded the JMP-1 for a Digitech Artist valve preamp with built in FX that sounded way cooler stand alone. The JMP-1 needed outboard pedals and effects to get the same kinds of sound (TS808 or SD1 in front and the Marshall JFX-1 or similar would do it --- which is pretty much what Iron Maiden do now and their gigging tone is freaking awesome).

[@everettnapihaa6111]

ADA Paul Gilbert, for me, I never heard anything like it first time Mr.Big!Fan ever since.

[@kazkylheku1221]

Rick would like my ADA MP-1. I replaced most of the op-amps with NE-5532's, and the one in the EQ section with a MC33079. There is way less noise. I also replaced the compression chip with a newer build of that chip. Plus, I added an input gain knob. If you're going straight into the MP-1 with different guitars (pickup output levels) you can compensate, without having to change presets. The gain knob is just the OD-1 internal gain trimmer pot replaced with an external one.

[@runabout76]

Great Demo! I have both of these units and find that they both have EQ limitations. I find a good 10 or 15 band graphic EQ is key to really making them shine.

[@pjotrmaster9424]

I used to own JMP-1 for 20 years but finally sold it becase of bad clean sounds. Still I miss it somehow.

[@rexmasters1541]

I still have my MP1 from 1983 and it still gets used.

[@zundap100]

You did a very good job and probably know the best, but for me this Marshall sounds the best of those two.

[@mikkywhalan]

Or better yet, double track both lol, I prefer the ADA, I think the main reason for the bump in the low mids and high mids is because I think it scoops the mids around 800 hz

[@RickHollis]

I did run both tracks side by side to see how it sounded and it was really good.

[@mikkywhalan]

@@RickHollis yeah, but if I had to pick one, it'll definitely be the ADA

[@Hagstrom4ever]

I love both, but I think the ADA is clearer and more defined. It sounds incredible man.

[@RickHollis]

Thank you! I was surprised. I thought the Marshall would sound better going on other people’s opinion but I had to A/B for myself.

[@Hagstrom4ever]

@@RickHollis You know, it's strange haha I have a beautiful Mesa Mark IV Rev A, a '92 and yesterday I sent an e-mail to a guy for his jMP-1. Now I don't know what to do, honestly :-)

[@RickHollis]

Hagstrom4ever get your hands on an ADA ;)

[@WillVRam]

Normally I watch like 10 videos about something to get a good opinion about something. But dam! your video is so complete! I hope someday I will be so good playing and geting tone as you are. I'll check your channel but you deserved the subscription sole by this video. Thank you!

[@Swanlord05]

Marshall for the win

[@ginopanteristabootpim7346]

AGREEEEEEEEEEEEEE

[@kazkylheku1221]

ADA MP-1 pro tip: if you're ever going into some full range amplification system or direct or whatever, and you're not able to cut the high frequencies enough for whatever reason, try the headphone output. There is an R-C (resistor-capacitor) low-pass filter in the headphone output. It has its own rear-panel volume control (the front panel output volume knob does nothing). It's a stereo jack, but using it mono is fine.

[@EgoShredder]

I've not checked the comments yet, but first thing I would say is the ADA MP-1 compression and chorus should have been completely switched off it possible, seeing as those are missing from the Marshall JMP-1. That can make a HUGE difference to the overall gain structure and balance of the tone and levels etc.

[@donadams1505]

I am sorry but with Bands like Tesla or Zack Wylde ,Paul Gilbert and a few other using ADA it was very hard not to buy one, However I will say I wish some of the newer equipment like Fractal or T.C Electronics would make something simple like this because the old days were just incredible with these Pre Amps and with everyone wanting musicians to carry very little traveling and I must say with a clean channel like the ADA it is well worth building a travel rack with the MP-1 again and leave a lot of the other pedals and processors at home.. It's almost as simple as direct in to any PA system or carrying a good amp because the sound is pure even 40 years later.. Thanks for reminding some of us what was hiding in a closet or storage space somewhere because i think i have just made my Road Rack so much easier and smaller..

[@ryanshook8284]

Awe man I agree woth this 110%.

[@RickHollis]

I’m thinking of building a live rig around my ADA again. Gotta love midi switching.

[@kazkylheku1221]

The EQ on the MP-1 has deep boosts and cuts. Certainly. But it's not actually flexible. Reason being: there is basically only one way to use it for your dirty channels. You need to crank the bass in the MP-1 itself because without that you don't get two things: (1) not enough mid scoop and (2) not enough bass roll off. Boosting the bass (which is a narrow band at around 180 Hz) rolls off the lower bass that causes mud. Paradoxically, if you match levels after that, you get a tighter bass. The bass boost then allows for a balanced tone with the treble and presence being cranked. The presence being cranked contributes to smoothness, because the highs drop off more relatively to the cranked presence. I.e. cranking the MP-1's presence is how you effectively roll off highs after the presence.

[@deancramer]

ADA sounds better in every example, to my ears. The Marshall gets dull/muffled, while the ADA stays bright and focused. Nice video!

[@mq5150]

Hey Rick, nice comparison. I also used the ADA (stock) a lot during the 90's and early 2000's and still own it. The ADA certainly stood out in this demo and sat much nicer in the mix. Whilst the ADA was always promoted as a shred preamp, once you dig in you can get some very vintage tones across a alot of styles

[@RickHollis]

Matthew Quin Thanks man. I agree, the pushed clean tones on the clean channel are amazing.

[@Imokyourok440]

@@RickHollis I’ve heard several people say the ADA is a “one trick pony.” That is certainly not true. You can get all kinds of tones out of it. Clean, kinda dirty, more dirty...really dirty. I’ve played country music with it and no one complained. Of course they may have complained behind my back. Did they? Who? I wanna know who? 😂😂😂😂

[@ZannsViol]

Back in the early 90s I had the ADA and my buddy had the Marshall. They were both pretty great.

[@The_Absurdistt]

Bought both back in the day. Guess which one I still have.....

[@redmoonmusicaustralia3064]

Full of great comparisons and insight. I'm definitely sold on the ADA. I agree I thought I'd prefer the Marshall. Nice one man!

[@qynNL]

Yeah, when you added the 707 it made my ears perk up. Had that beautiful mid-range peak that can make certain amps sound almost 3D at times. That sound is all over Coheed and Cambria's No World for Tomorrow album.

[@kimblez]

wish you would mic a cab ...these sims sound like a rockman

[@DANTHETUBEMAN]

I put a compressor in front of the jmp-1 in to the 9200 power amp and it is great. Two good preamps , great review.

[@RickHollis]

Thank you. Glad you liked it.

[@jasonlytle89]

Todd Langner also created the Langner DCP-1, which was pure thrash metal.

[@davestadel]

Back in the rack days I upgraded from the ADA MP-1 to the JMP-1. I was looking for Marshall tone in a rack mount unit and that's what it delivered. 30 yrs on, evaluating each from a multi feature approach the ADA comes across better in a KZbin comparison. My purpose was for playing live and I didn't need or really want the built-in chorus or compression, or a SS clean tone. Having a little broader range in eq on the Marshall would have been nice. Regardless, I preferred my JMP-1 tonally everyday and never regretted making the switch. Great video, thx.

[@unknownportalmusic]

Buddy, just because they sound different doesn't mean the MP-1 is better. And by the way, the JMP-1 is 99 percent solid state. It just has one tube saturation stage of which is dependent on the output level knob. But it's a solid state overdrive with a preamp circuit that's 99 percent similar to the Valvestate line. As for the cut, there's a way to make that JMP cut a bit more with the riht combination of the presence, mid and treble and output level knob, but it's meant to be a bit softer overall on the edges so leads have a uniquely glued together quality. It's very articulate on leads in a quick and thick way. Low gain crunch is very fine on the JMP-1 for those who don't want rough edges on their medium gain sounds but who want it very smooth. The gain is sloppier on the MP-1 which you are mistaking for a 'better' cut. Turn up the output on the JMP-1 and then turn down the master of your power amp if you want the JMP to bite a bit more.

[@whiskerbiscuit6674]

Those ada cleans sounded waaay too 80's. But that's probably why all shred guitarist sounded like the way they do. They all used ADA's. The Marshall clean is just natural. I preferred it.

[@EgoShredder]

Well nearly everyone...........Yngwie Malmsteen obviously stuck with older Marshall heads I think.

[@NumbskullAudioProduction]

Great comparison! Those "tubby low-mids" is what makes or breaks a Marshall tone IMO. It's because they typically have their mid control centered at 650hz, where-as more "American" tones (Mesa, Fender, Rivera, and seemingly, the ADA) have it centered around 500-550hz, so as you bring the mids down you bring a little low-mid down with it, where-as Marshalls tend to leave the low mids intact. Without any post-EQ they can sit a little awkwardly in a rock mix, and definitely need a little help in that area. Also, as you say, the top end is much more buzzy, where-as the ADA is more fluid and amp-like. I had a JMP-1, and personally it felt like a rack-mounted Marshall 8100. They were released at the same time and have pretty similar circuits, so I wouldn't be surprised if there's some shared DNA there.

[@EgoShredder]

I own a JMP-1 and have used the 8100 and other models around that time, and IMHO the JMP-1 does not sound like them at all thank goodness.

[@kazkylheku1221]

I think the MP-1's mid is centered on 600 Hz. Even at -12, there isn't enough scoop. The secret is the possibility of bass boost at around 180 Hz, which goes up to +16. The video mentions that. When you crank that, it creates a steep slope toward that 600 Hz, giving rise to a more pronounced scoop. It reduces the tubbiness.

[@actionchris540]

Great video. Love my ADA. Still use it today.

[@RickHollis]

actionchris540 I might start using mine again once I get the noise mod completed.

[@azlakki]

JMP-1 for me🎸

[@thromboid]

I have one of each, and this fantastic demo makes me realise I don't deserve either! I found that my JMP-1 just sounds a bit boring, not only in the cleans, and I seldom feel inspired to play it. On the other hand, the MP-1 is always fun and wild, and does that "pushed clean" really well (which the later MP-2 really doesn't, though it's much more refined in many respects). Great to have chorus and compressor bulit-in, even if they can sound a bit dated.

[@dizzyred1390]

Clearly ur doing something wrong

[@Guilherme81]

I went out looking for both around 2011 and there were only 2 ADA for sale in Portugal if i can remember, and too expensive. I was actually pending more for the ADA but ended up buying a JMP1 because i found a used one for 220€ with Mesa Boogie valves inside. The owner didn't tell me because i gess it was done by the previous owner! Fast forward to 2022 and they are still more expensive than what i paid and as far as i know there is only one for sale in the country at 350€. I'm actually not using it anymore but don't plan on selling it

[@keithfields1178]

Still got my MP 1. Still love it.

[@scottdunn2178]

Frank Aresti from Fates Warning used the ADA on "Parallels" and combined with an original black face Rocktron Intellifex with its 8-voice chorus produced my all time favorite clean tones next to Alex Lifeson. Check it out if you get a chance.

[@RickHollis]

Will do Scott. Thanks for watching.

[@EgoShredder]

I bought that album back in 1994 and yes it has some beautiful guitar sounds, and of course arguably their very best songs.

[@65Superhawk]

Got to see Oz Noy at a tiny club in Nashville several years back. Guy is a beast! Great use of delay.

[@SPQRTempus]

All my guitarist mates back in those days went for the holy duo of ADA MP1 and Alesis Quadraverb for those hard rock tones. I don't remember any one using the Marshall preamp, or even talking about it.

[@quiquepriore]

best ada sounding demo here 🔥🔥🔥 amazing tones

[@TheGuitaristFrom1984]

Great video! I have an MP-1 and I couldn't figure out why palm muted chugs wouldn't pop. I used a boost like you demonstrated and what an improvement!

[@RickHollis]

Guitarist From 1984 Wow. Glad I could help :) I stumbled on this a few years ago.

[@TheGuitaristFrom1984]

@@RickHollis I've been doing some reading and I found a lot players from the 80's never ran their amps stock. Everyone seemed to have modded Marshalls or boosted stock Marshalls. So, I guess the ADA was no exception. I believe Paul Gilbert boosted his with a Tube Screamer. And Michael Wagner used the BBE Sonic Maximizer in front of the ADA.

[@BillHertzing]

Great demo. Thanks for breaking everything down.

[@TexasJackdaw]

Great stuff. That sound takes me back. Definitely liked and subscribed! Thank you for sharing 🤘

[@DwDrake2000]

5/26/2024 and this is still a relevant / awesome video_ Just curious @6:00 did you try a gain jacked clean tube channel? I just wonder if that would have made a deference?

[@Taylor-kd6lr]

Brilliant planting and great demonstration Rick. I think I like the ADA a tad better.

[@RickHollis]

Thank you. Me too :)

[@Yupppi]

To be fair that kick drum was pretty nasty. I'd rather fix that (or the pattern) rather than the guitar sound. One question this demo comparison begs to ask, was the jmp-1 modded like professionals commonly did? Or the stock spec? By far this is the best sounding ADA MP-1 demo I've heard so shoutouts for that, it's been much less impressive in other demos. I kinda liked the "natural" sound of the marshall cleans, although the ADA had options for solid/tube and more refined sound.

[@RickHollis]

Thanks Yuppi, the JMP-1 was stock, as is the ADA. The common mod the pros used for the JMP-1 was the Lee Jackson mod, which is still on his website and is very expensive.

[@MikeUIibarri]

When guitars ruled the world. Good times.

[@adam872]

Definitely preferred the ADA, especially the clean tones.

[@kylehowdy]

Man, the ADA sounds killer. So these recorded tones are preamp -> IR. No poweramp or poweramp sim?

[@RickHollis]

Correct

[@kylehowdy]

@@RickHollis always been a jmp1 fan, but that ADA was just better lol.

[@chazssmudj]

Using an EQ into the jmp1 and turn the gain down to about 11 , better sound and gain than gain 20 with no eq boost,infact if you use an eq boost on gain 20 it has very minimal if any difference

[@DaveSteele07]

The ADA rocks!!