Unlock the Truth: Is Marshall JTM Studio ST20 the Best 20w Tube Amp?

The things they never show you about the Marshall JTM ST20 Studio 20w tube amplifier and why its one of the best tube amps out there.
Marshall released the JTM Studio ST20 after a long delay. But is the truth that maybe this amp is at the top of the pile for quality, tone and flexibility. Lets unlock what others never showed you. A fully independent review too!
Related links:
Fair Deal Music: www.fairdealmusic.com
My website: tonymckenzie.com
Marshall website: www.marshall.com
Marshall playing: • Studio JTM | Official ...
Contents:
0:00 Start
0:26 Intro & Preamble
0:57 JTM45 Example
1:30 Fair Deal Music
2:26 Comparing with Friedman
2:50 The Chassis
3:19 5881 Power Tubes
3:45 Preamp Tubes
4:02 Inside the Amplifier
4:13 Switch Quality
4:47 Preamp Area
5:33 Power Amp Area
5:47 Cement Resistors Compared
6:57 Control & I/O Boards
7:33 Back of the Amplifier
8:15 Made in England!
8:49 Front Controls
8:58 JTM1 in Marshall Museum
11:06 Amp Aesthetics
11:40 Start Guide & Manual
12:06 3 Year Warranty!
13:02 The JTM Era
13:25 JTM Tones Opinion
14:37 Driving The Amplifier
16:29 Marshall Reissue Pedals
17:32 Other Thoughts
18:39 Have I had Enough?
19:39 Tones with Les Paul
21:39 Tones with a Stratocaster
22:47 Tones with Jumped Channels
25:34 Final Track Tone Example
What you will learn in this video review:
Is this amp flexible for many styles?
What does the JTM Studio 20H cost?
What about overall quality and build?
Does it have a good warranty?
Note final track I edited... as copyright... they say: but sadly not Gary Moore? :(
Unlocking the truth about the Marshall JTM Studio ST20 and comparing with other gear - you decide.
I never expected this amp. And along it came just a few weeks ago so I ordered one for review. I bought mine from Fair Deal Music and I had that amp the very next day! Their service was excellent and the price was very good.
With the Marshall JTM Studio ST20 amplifier this amp uses 5881 tubes as opposed (at least in the UK) to EL34 which on a JTM45 I own had those EL34's fitted.
Many guys will never have played a JTM tube amplifier, let alone with those 5881 tubes, so they really won't have much of an idea about the sounds from this great little amp. And I have to say, neither will they have likely experienced the quality of the Studio series of valve amplifiers from Marshall either if they don't own one.
So in this video I wanted to show most features and benefits that the Marshall JTM ST20 has to offer, but also some of the other products out there that cost far more and frankly paled in to insignificance once you mention quality and maybe engineering prowess.
While I show you some of the things that others really never do, I do also show just how great this amp really is in most respects including some of the tones. Alas the last track someone claimed a copyright.. questionable as they were NOT Gary Moore...
I expected from the Studio series maybe a newer amp model from Marshall (TSL maybe?) after all the previously released Studio series including the SV20, the SC20 (Marshall studio classic), and the 2525, but I have to say that this amp really did surprise me; not least from its incredible flexibility of different tones and suitability to different styles available to anyone who buys one. It's not a deat* metal amp of course! But it can easily do, clean, blues, rock, heavy metal and with the right pedal maybe more.
I do show some of the pedals that I have tried with the JTM Studio ST20H and each has a different tone to it. In there are of course many tube screamers (even a hand wired one) that work great with the JTM.
From just 5w watts out or 20w watts out and that ability to balance the tones with a jumped connector makes this amp very flexible.
Its finished in the older style levant too, and you'll notice no corner protectors.
I do show the Marshall JTM1 at the Marshall museum in the video so do take a look at that priceless amp yourself and see where it all started.
Of course there's not really a Fractal Audio Axe-FX III in the JTM and make no mistake there's no JTM ST20 in the Axe-FX III anything like this one. Real 5881 tubes (valves) rule.
I have spent considerable time creating this video entirely as I said and at my own expense:
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE, RING THE BELL, AND THUMBS UP to give my channel a boost and thank you for watching - I hope the video is enjoyable for you and that you see the tings in it that other reviews NEVER show!.
(c) A B McKenzie and www.tonymckenzie.com 2009-2023
All Rights Reserved. All Trade Marks Acknowledged
Visit www.tonymckenzie.com for more incredible reviews or my KZbin channel
#marshall #jtm #guitaramp #guitaramps #guitaramplifier #studio #tonymckenzie #tubeamplifier #tubeamp #5881

[@user-wz3or1yl4e]

Excellent review……….as always. Please don’t stop making content. Your reviews and the work you put into them are a breath of fresh air. The small minded people who think differently are jealous of you.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks ... appreciated comment and thanks for watching.

[@BreauxBobby]

Thank you for the in depth review like no one has done for this amp. It's a beauty. Please keep the videos coming. I really enjoyed your take on things.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching and great that you gained from this review.

[@planzed.2]

Yes! The review I’ve been waiting for - thanks Tony, just strapping in

[@tonymckenziecom]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@SirVicc]

Love your in depth reviews, Tony. Don't let the numpties and KZbin get you down. Got your vid in my recommendations, and glad I did. Really loving this amp, just wish the pricing in Canada was closer to the pricing in the UK.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Yes prices seem high USA and Canada for sure. Distro's...

[@marshallamps]

Thank you for the fair and in-depth review, Tony!

[@tonymckenziecom]

No worries!

[@TheBhannah]

Glad to see that you’re back ! Always enjoy your reviews and jams !

[@tonymckenziecom]

Scarily, I never went away! And that's part of the problem... Thanks for watching...

[@eduardosouzagt4027]

Greetings from Brazil! Thank you for another excellent review. All your equipment reviews are always serious and professional, without the "strings" of sponsored products. I wish to you all the best.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thank you very much! and thanks for watching.

[@alfiekhoury]

Glad to see you back Tony! we love your reviews!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Much appreciated! and still here, but a bit off at the moment...

[@aipsong]

Tony, I am sure that you have a very appreciative and large group of people that will find your videos even if they are not notified. On my very new Mac, with a fiber optic network, many notifications don’t turn the bell icon red as they used to. Being subscribed to your channel means that I can always find your new videos in my subscription history. I can understand your frustration but I hope you will find time now and then to make my (our) days brighter!! Cheers!!!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Wow, thank you

[@Saul_HUDSON]

He's back and that's good ! Thanks for this very interesting video !

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks Saul... appreciated. And hope you liked the amp... I did.

[@G-NutZ]

I really liked your review, thanks for going over the chassis too.

[@tonymckenziecom]

My pleasure!

[@jutukka]

This was the first REAL review I have seen of this amp. Thousand thanks. 👍

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ha me too! :) They all did their little bit seemingly with promoted amps. I paid for this one and just made a real video. Its not the best playing I know, but it was a reflection of some of the tones... in any case, it sounds good when you play through it and that's all that matters. Appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching.

[@lewismcnicholas2631]

Cracking Review! Great to get your insights Tony - please don't stop! It would be really interesting if you did a breakdown of the cabinets as well as the heads as it seems like great value based on your feedback.

[@tonymckenziecom]

I did one of the cabs (shown in the vid) but generally I have loads of 1960a cabs of differing ages and don't really 'need' them. That's generally the reason for it. But if something special came along I would consider it for sure. Thanks for watching... appreciated.

[@sebastionhawk5565]

Thank you for this most comprehensive and informative review. I'm looking to get one, and, have been researching all takes on it, along with audio capture of its applications. This makes me want to get it even more, now. Thanks!

[@tonymckenziecom]

It's a cool amp of that there is no doubt and IMO is made well. If you're in the UK its cheaper than elsewhere, but still a great amp. I still have mine too :) Thanks for watching.

[@Wildman9]

Please don't stop what your doin Tony , its all good ,info ,your playing and super in depth info on the goods we buy. Hell I'm71 and still enjoy rock music and been a player since 1962. 👍🇬🇧

[@tonymckenziecom]

Good on you too! I started at about 16 or 17. Stick with it.... and thanks for the post... and for watching.

[@yobaby14]

Thanks for this review Tony. The normal reviews of "Oh, look...it makes noise!", got old rather quick since I was even more interested about the build quality, like whether the resistors were on or off the board. As you pointed out, having the resistors lifted off the board goes hand in hand with reliability. Cheers!

[@tonymckenziecom]

I agree... I did watch a couple of other reviews and they never really cover what I might want to see - but I get that. My reviews are content focused to what I might want to know myself, and its the reason I started reviewing back in about 2010 on YT. I have made them ever since, but it is harder now with less real new stuff out there, unless you like Tonex and that type of stuff. I found that not very good and the software let it down... a more common trait these days with the digital stuff from what I see. Yes the resistors for all the Studio amps (at the very least) are all off the board. I have seen so many that are hard fixed to the PCB... which IMO is a seriously not good way to have cement resistors. Marshall even lift the 1/2w ones off the board... Others generally don't. It says so much to me... Thanks for watching.

[@yobaby14]

@@tonymckenziecom From my understanding, when Marshall first started using PCB's it came with a learning curve. They upgraded the quality of the PCB's and stood off the resistors as a result, and now have a quality PCB product. Unfortunately, there is another well known brand that hasn't implemented Marshall's "Lessons Learned". I love the EQ of the JTM's and am soooo tempted to get one. But at the same time, I can closely emulate that EQ with my Quilter Superblock UK & US that I run in stereo into a Marshall cab. The stereo rig also takes up less space on my end table/cabinet that's next to my chair too. LOL

[@glennmichaelthompson4112]

This is the first time I want to buy a Marshall amp since I sold an old mid 60's 50 watt half stack several years ago. The JTM Studio seems so versatile. I have to check the prices here in Canada. It would be nice to get the speaker cabinet as well... it's not like I have a lot to choose from personally. Thanks for another great review, Tony! I hope there's enough interest to keep you doing these... without the hassles. Take good care.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Seems expensive there... :( and thr transformer like all Studio models here supports 230v only (no other primary). Thanks for watching and the post too.

[@mediagrope7150]

One of the best reviews I've seen in all the years. Love your dry style. Keep 'em coming!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Wow, thank you! Well, I even smile at myself sometimes :) I go back and watch some years later and man... but I love the gear... and thanks for watching.

[@OzziePete1]

HI Tony. This video was in my front page this morning, Australian time..... I had to go out for a while but came back to watch it. It was probably noticed by me within 12 hours of it being uploaded. So your content is getting out there....

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for this report - its much appreciated...

[@efstathioszavvos4878]

Great demo and excellent licks mate, thanks so much.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you liked the demo and inside and out review. Thanks for watching...

[@twlowe19]

Outstanding overview as always. You've inadvertently served to muddy up the waters over which amp I'd like to get , ha! I was thinking of one of the three 20-watters or ... just get a JVM that has more flexibility ... and more complexity. I do keep coming back to these guys and the 20w JCM800s they have, they both sound great. Regardless, thanks to your videos, it seems that all are very well built and won't give up the ghost on you any time soon!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thank you kindly! You want to read what some guys say on some reviews - my integrity is questioned etc. but sadly (for them) I sincerely hope they buy the whichever product and it sucks for them too. My reviews are always as I find the gear, and I can't say more than from personal experience. Glad you liked the review, by far most do, but its probably 'fan boys' that on some reviews create sarcasm and not cool comments which is always a problem on 'social' networks. Me? Social networks frankly I dislike because of exactly those reasons. The good guys are great and the less good ones are basically not nice people, have awful channels (nothing on them) and criticize until the cows come home. You're one of the good ones :) and thanks for hanging in there and watching.

[@samaitcheson7057]

Great review Tony. I really like your no BS approach and in depth reviews. Keep them coming. IMO Marshall are absolutely nailing it with these studio amps and evidently surpassing so called boutique amp builders in terms of build quality. Made in England too, as Marshalls should be.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you liked this review. I was surprised that after this review Marshall 'subscribed' to me! So I guess they liked it. I like the Studio series too and cheap enough (at least in the UK) to be affordable. I would love to see one of the more modern Marshall amps in the 20w format too like a 410HJS (preferably) but unlikely they could use the (JS) part at the end. Might cost a little more but I'm sure that amp would also sell well. There are some good boutique amp makers, but generally the costs involved are very high (generally made USA way) with little real advantage over the Studio series and I think they know it. Thanks for the post and for watching. I'm thinking of 'revisiting the Marshall JVM410HJS head as that offers so much by way of tones and its so different than the 410H version...

[@richardtownsend2150]

I have found your work useful and appreciate the effort

[@tonymckenziecom]

So nice of you and thanks...

[@babetopaz]

great reviews, keep on keeping on.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Much appreciated! and thanks for watching.

[@LevonsWound]

good to see you again!

[@tonymckenziecom]

You too! Trust you're OK... and thanks for watching.

[@therealrem]

Great review Tony… as always 👍

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching.

[@97guitarzan]

Love your reviews Tony!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Well thanks - and really... thanks for watching.

[@rickycompton2610]

Glad to see you back Tony, what a great in depth review as you always Do, Nobody does reviews like you, I’ve said before and I’ll say it know you can’t beat UK Marshall build Quality yes they have a few Quirks here and there with the JCM 2000DSLs and TSLs but nothing that can’t be sorted out by replacing a board, I think they nailed the JTM 45 tone in a smaller package,Thanks for the review Tony!!

[@stillpist]

Replacing the board is a pretty big deal. Hardly belongs in the 'sorting things out' category.

[@tonymckenziecom]

@stillpist - it might be a very big deal in some countries... I completely agree, but my board for the TSL100 when I did it was about £120.00 which to be honest was a really good deal. But my TSL really was worth spending the £120 on it... they are great recording amps when they are operational. Thanks...

[@stillpist]

I guessing that was the price of the board itself and you did the work yourself? I'm not a tech and am no way comfortable doing that sort of thing. I would imagine if you brought it to a shop it would cost 3 or 4 times that. Mostly I'm just frustrated that amp companies make engineering decisions that lead to failures when they could literally spend a few dollars more in production to fix some of these glaring problems. Seems like planned obsolescence to me and that's in part why I bear my name.

[@russiancrowe13]

I enjoy watching your videos. They do show up in my suggested videos since I subscribed to your channel. This is the best video I've found for this amp. I'm really considering buying one after watching your video.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Great to know that it has helped. It's why I make them. Thanks for the sub and for watching.

[@stevehughes1510]

Cheers Tony and all the best for '24, great review as per usual. As it happens I have a burgundy snakeskin SV20 also, touche !!

[@tonymckenziecom]

:) Ha I seem to collect them... but you can't really have enough of a good thing :). Thanks for watching.

[@PeterDad60]

Tony, this is the among best amplifier review I have ever watched here on KZbin. I have been watching your video's for a couple of years now so today I have subscribed. I wish to encourage you to continue to educate people about amplifiers as you talk about how they sound and also about how they are built and that is something very few people do. Please continue as your efforts are greatly appreciated (and needed). I am 73 years of age and my favorite guitar amplifier is the Marshall JTM45 /2245, but for some reason I have had bad luck with them and all 3 JTM45's that I purchased brand new had issues within 10 days so I returned each of them. I still want the JTM45 sound as it inspires me. If I can get that sound from the new Marshall JTM Studio ST20 I shall purchase one immediately. If I need the Xotic SL Drive Mini overdrive pedal to get that sound using the JTM Studio ST20 then I shall get both immediately. Or if only the Marshall JTM45 can get that sound I shall try again and get another new JTM45. I am of an age that I want to be satisfied with my sound as I play all day and for several hours every day and evening of my life. I am not a wealthy man but the price for me is worth it. My playing is something close to a jazz, blues, rock with a touch of metal thrown in. I have no need to play extremely loud but I still like a long sustain note available when I want to play one. I actually play at a softer, moderate volume and Allow the tone to carry me away. Marshall JTM45/2245 has that tone at any volume I want. I love the tone. To me the JTM45 has a strong bottom end tone and when I play I dial up the bass while lowering both the mids and treble controls on the amplifier to get the sound that I like best. I also like to play through my Marshall Origin Full stack because two 412 cabs (the top 412 is a slant or type "A" and the bottom is the type "B" 412 cab) can really distribute the sound all throughout my living room/studio. I had a Marshall 1960A and 1960B Full stack years ago but sold it when we moved. I am settled in now in our own home but my finances have changes and now I have the newer Marshall Origin 412A and Marshall Origin 412B Full stack Still not too bad at all! Now, having heard your playing at the end portion of this video I can say that my playing is similar to yours as played here. Well, your notes have a certain amount of more treble than mine but otherwise our styles are close enough. - Peter age 73

[@PeterDad60]

One other thing I prefer to bias my own amps and Stuart ukguitarampguy has made a KZbin video "How to bias Marshall JTM45 MKll Model 2245" and that was a god send for me. If you have the time could you make such a "How to bias" video for the new Marshall JTM Studio ST20 amplifier? Please sir? Tony, I shall be so very thankful for any consideration you may give my request. Thank You again! - Peter age 73

[@tonymckenziecom]

Peter - forget the age thing... you're as old as your mind allows you to be - there are far too many that cite age on YT and that frankly ageism seems pretty common. Of course, like me you are a wealth of knowledge from practical experience and that is in my opinion important - and when someone posts like you have its all to easy to see that... I'm nearly as old, but you know what, it's all about what you like to do. I still work too, but because I WANT to... these values all mater Peter and its great to read your post - clearly you love the Marshall JTM45 :) This little ST20H I showed is a very good product - its clearly not a top end amp, but my guess is that for the money it might be hard to find another equivalent. The price might be higher if you're in the USA of course... Marshall are cheaper here. But it IS worth at least trying one out - indeed as I did. I do play lots of styles from older stuff, blues, rock heavy rock and some metal but I do have a number of amps and I tend to use those depending on exactly what tones I want at the time. The Boss Blues 2 pedal also had a good sound with the ST20H I thought. Ah the 1962 A and B :) I tend to have the 1962A cabs but ha I have too many. The origin cabs are great value for the money I think. In any case, let me know how you go on with it all - I would love to know what you end up with :).... and thanks for the post and for watching.

[@dpe94]

New subscriber. Best gear review I've seen in a long, long time. Cheers mate, keep up the great content!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Welcome aboard! and really appreciate the sub and for watching too... I have many amp reviews similarly check them out here: kzbin.info/aero/PL764D9C7505FDEC8D

[@LPCustom3]

Don’t quit Tony! I’ve always enjoyed your vids!!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Don't worry

[@reginald1001001]

Subscribed, excellent review. Thank you sir!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Much appreciated for that subscription and thank you for watching. I do have a playlist that has very many amps reviewed in similar vein... check my channel.

[@ericambel449]

Thank you for your in depth review. Much appreciated.

[@tonymckenziecom]

No problem and check out the others I have made many... thanks for watching.

[@Deliquescentinsight]

We can always rely on you to investigate new gear Tony, you have an engineer's eye for details, and a unique way of describing technology.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ha what - the wrong way :) (some say - especially the guys where I see something not too good I guess). Well, as I've always said, I'm just like everyone else and I just buy the gear and look closer. Someone has too and I don't think we'll see any of those reviewers (I'll call them that) showing it all anytime soon. After all, most of them are probably doing it all for their paymasters and well, I am not for the most part. Thanks for watching this stuff, to me its fascinating in general. I was a bit down on this video through one thing or another and generally this would have taken longer, but some might tell me that's not a bad thing. Well its complete and hopefully it will help someone somewhere. Thanks for watching.

[@StratsRUs]

Great Review.Always look forward to your vids. Marshall would be well happy having passed your scrutiny.Well done. I like Fair Deal too.Good people there. Thank you and those guitar tones show the amp off perfectly.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching. Yes I like Fair Deal Music - and they are really good on Marshall gear. I always go there myself... and I met Gary a very long time ago at Musical Exchanges in Birmingham (about 1996). Gary is a credit to wherever he works too. On the tones - some guys accuse me of 'you can't play' (ho ho ho - I sure can) and all that stuff but just playing the music alone does not really show those tones for this amp. I could have cranked and played metal on the amp but not the best answer. The last track was cut through a 'copyright' claim from someone that certainly was not Gary Moore... and that had some rock chords in there that might have well also shown the tones of the amp for that situation (think Thin Lizzy) but I cut it because to be honest I did not believe the complainant really. Oh well. Thanks for watching.

[@finoroverato7640]

Lovely review ! Cheers

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thank you kindly!

[@timaddison707]

Great detailed review Tony

[@tonymckenziecom]

I tried hard to show this amp as it really is - and it's not a sales video. Hopefully guys will learn more about the amp from this video and make up their own mind from a better informed decision. Thanks for watching and have a great new year.

[@billydunn]

Would be good if you continued with your reviews ,I for one appreciate the detail you go into on each product

[@tonymckenziecom]

Noted!

[@mnewln1800]

Great video Tony. Thank you!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks...

[@nathancourtney2006]

Greetings from across the pond. Very interesting indeed. Great video. Thanks Nathan

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching Nathan...

[@soapboxearth2]

I've seen so many videos about this lately. Yours and Tone Preist's are the only ones that didn't feel like paid ads. Good review as always ! I'm surprised you gave it a good review, actually. I'm kind of spoiled and have been building my own hand wired amps, and I've kind of gotten snobby about pcb amps.. Glad to see this one is well made. It really looks amazing, too. Good first offering from the new owners of marshall

[@tonymckenziecom]

Well the amp is probably better than what many think re the JTM name. Nothing wrong with them, but I did feel that this JTM Studio is different sounding to me. It can do a lot and so I refer guys to check the Marshall playing review as that has it all covered in general. It was better than what I envisaged tone wise. All Studio's are PCB as you might know, but they seem reliable and well enough made, but only time will tell. Will they be running in 50 years? THAT is the question :). This review was entirely financed by me, and Fair Deal is mentioned because I like them... I bought my Gibson Jimmy Page from Gary way back at musical exchanges in about 1996 or thereabouts... and FDM are brillaint at Marshall gear... thanks.

[@Wooburnmusic]

Was getting tempted but I'm not sure that PCB mounted valves and controls are a good thing, my pair of 79 Marshall mk 11 master volume combos 50w have gigged almost non stop over the decades and not one problem so far, if we are to purchase PCB mounted gear then we might as well go for Marshall MGs, they are PCB wired not good and I'm sure that their lifetimes are limited, electrical engineers are finding good work with some of the marshall PCB boards.

[@michaelkarlsson5966]

@@Wooburnmusic hi! I'm a "newbie" sort of. What is a "PCB", what does it mean? If you can explain I would be grateful! Thanks! :)

[@Wooburnmusic]

@@michaelkarlsson5966 Printed circuit boards Michael 🙂👍🇬🇧

[@charlydaytona]

Just like to reflect others sentiments Tony. I’ve been subscribed to your channel for some time. Excellent reviews, no punches pulled. It’s helped me on several occasions to understand gear I may be considering better. Now I want one of these Marshall’s. 😂 Hope you hang on in. I think you’re great 👍🏼

[@tonymckenziecom]

I appreciate those kind words indeed. It's great to know that my little videos do help - because that's really why I make them. Thanks.

[@lewischappell335]

Fantastic review, i am wanting to re train as an amp tech/ repairer. Your videos are fantastic 🤟🏻

[@tonymckenziecom]

Well thanks for those kind words and for watching...

[@TonePriest]

Thank you, Tony. Excellent video!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Very welcome

[@johnsmith-hf1hm]

Thanks for showing the things innerds, that's what sold me. Just found yer channel, am subscribing !

[@tonymckenziecom]

Awesome! Thank you! its exactly why i show them all and thanks for watching...

[@rickmckee8270]

Hi Tony, Thank you for another through review of the Marshall JTH 20 I appreciate the work you put in to give us a in depth review of your amplifiers especially when you delve into the internals to see the build quality,and the quality components used to manufacture the amp. Keep up the good work Tony we do appreciate it.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad it was helpful! That's why I make them... and thanks for the kind words and for watching.

[@TommySG1]

Hi Tony, I haven’t seen one of your videos in some time now but it’s nice to see you back. I enjoy your videos, I’m on an amp kick myself here and I actually just purchased a Friedman Dirty Shirley and I do love the tone I’m getting out of this, especially with the Ox and it’s cabinet app I’ve also been using too. Now you’ve got me considering this Marshall head too…… LOL! 🤣

[@tonymckenziecom]

Sadly... I have been making videos but for amps there are far less out there that are new... even this one in some while. Some tell me that they don't get the notifications either like you mention. It can be frustrating when to create the videos costs me much time and effort really. I reported to YT but never really got any sensible solution from them. I guess my little contribution is too small for them to bother? But in any case, great to see you. I did try the Friedman but that sadly went back and I don't really trust buying amps at twice the price of this one after my experience with them sadly. I'm sure they do make some great amps, but I doubt I'll ever go back and try another. Thanks for watching.

[@carpediem4413]

Awesome review. Thanks Tony ! Hang in there and don’t let the haters get you down. 👍

[@tonymckenziecom]

It's OK, its that sometimes I don't really care for the internet... I work on the internet in my day job and it can be a sad place sometimes... I'm still here though :) and Hey Marshall come on guys I really need something to review... thanks for watching.

[@rottalmusik6563]

Thanks very much for this review ❤🤘

[@tonymckenziecom]

Any time and thanks for watching.

[@RobynNeundam]

After every Influencer or dealer is/was going crazy about this Amp this seems to be the first independent review. Thank you very much for this solid hands on and hands in!

[@tonymckenziecom]

I agree... it's almost with some of those reviews that they all have the same script... ha maybe they do? Thanks for watching

[@blackfrancis33]

Sorry to hear you are not getting a good service from KZbin. I have to say, I just discovered your channel today and find your videos to be really excellent. I hope you keep it up!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks and welcome - yes it goes up and down on YT. I've been on here since 2009 and made currently 426 videos in total and some very long indeed. Glad you like the stuff, I have many Marshall and other amps reviewed - fave subject but amps are not coming out as quick as they used to sadly. Thanks again and have a great new year...

[@f33fifofum]

Killer overview, great video

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching...

[@tyroneenglish8396]

Hello Tony. I find the work you do with these videos unique, you provide an incredible amount of information for us and I for one and incredible grateful for it. Any chance of the orange OR30 being reviewed?

[@tonymckenziecom]

Oh I don't know... maybe or not - can't commit either way... health stuff right now...

[@joybuzzer]

thanks for posting a gut shot of the innards.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Any time thanks.

[@jackleyton5504]

I love your Channel, passion and honesty, Tony. I own many amps like yourself but don't have the knowledge you do. One of my amps is a Friedman BE 100. I would love to have your thoughts on it although you probably never want to see one again after all the BS people put you through with your honest review of the JC. I know I speak for your loyal fans ( like me ) when I say we appreciate your honesty and if we can't handle your honesty then we should watch reviews that only tell us what we want to here lol. I just ordered the Mezzabarba ES M-Zero Overdrive. Great review. Thanks and take care of yourself.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Oh man... the Mezzabarba is a brilliant amp... PLEASE come back and let me know what YOU think of that amp - it matters... and thanks for the kind words etc... and of course watching.

[@Thomasdgolden]

Great, succinct review as always…..

[@tonymckenziecom]

Trust you're doing OK Thomas... good to hear you... been a bit off lately but this amp sort of came along so I thought I should take a look. Regards...

[@BOBBRADLEYCHANNEL]

Nice video Tony ✊🏼

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thank you BB.

[@GenetNasty]

Your Strat sounds fantastic through this outfit, great demo !

[@tonymckenziecom]

Noted and thanks for watching... 2008 Strat basically stock except for the pick guard...

[@swtorseneca]

Great review! Thanks

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching!

[@philomcca]

I'm back❤ love your vids tony. Right back to the triaxis

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ah those were the days TriAxis :) a cool product for sure. Some of this other stuff is cool too though :) Great to hear you :) and thanks for watching...

[@simonwarner3601]

I always appreciate your videos, Tony. It would be a shame if you left KZbin. Thanks for showing the build quality. Not knowing was what was holding me back. Cheers.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Yes its not a bad amp and has a great sound too especially with those tubes... Thanks for watching.

[@pmoiteiro]

I would hate to see you go, Tony but if you decide to, I’ll respect your decision. I won’t miss this opportunity to thank you for all the free content that you have provided all of us. I’m subscribed to your channel and I got the usual notification when you released the video, just thought I’d let you know.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for that great support.... and for watching too!

[@Chasetenny]

New subscriber. Great content, really enjoyed this video. Might get one of these when they come back in stock.

[@allanmacuser]

hi Tony well yet another great video, this shows the thought that has going to this amp right down to standing the components off the board,,,,, heat is not good for any amp,,, loved the video. WELL DONE

[@tonymckenziecom]

Exactly... and sorry not been around for a short while... medical stuff. T

[@robphillips8351]

Really good review.. really like the chime of the strat through it..

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you liked it! and thanks for watching.

[@matthewhirt6092]

I've watched 12 reviews of this thing over the last week and this one is easily the best and most in depth by a mile. Just subscribed! Thanks for the excellent content!!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks you Matthew... and check out all my other amps and pedal reviews all just as in depth. Thanks.

[@maryannmoran-smyth3453]

Great review laddy,this amp would really reach out and grab me if it were point-to-point wiring… Anyway, good to see you’re still in the game… Keep on rockin

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad it was helpful! and thanks for watching. Maybe they will make a p2p at some stage?

[@ralfjung]

that video was a major piece of work - and I enjoyed it all the way….because of your age and your wisdom that goes along with that….well done Sir. Thank you very much!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Appreciate your kind words and thanks for watching. My channel has many more Marshall (and other tube amps) reviewed in a similar way...

[@paulsimpson7040]

Loved it Tony…thanks mate 👍👍👍 You have lot’s of Aussie supporters

[@tonymckenziecom]

Well thanks for watching paul... appreciated and I think its your summer there? Here its absolutely freezing :) oh well...

[@andrewfountain7566]

Hi, this was the review I was looking for!!! I wanted to know about the quality of design and build because Made in Britain (England) always meant something but it seems now to get blurred. Keep up the reviews, I’m now a subscriber and represent the generation that know if you can’t say some nice or constructive then …….

[@tonymckenziecom]

Yes I get that. This amp is pretty cool really and certainly does sound the part... It's 'made in the UK too' and like you, I know that means different things to different people, but as I understand it (after visiting the factory recently) this amp really IS made in the UK. Thanks for watching and that sub... appreciated.

[@markc1579]

I hope you continue Tony. Your reviews are the best in my opinion, honest and go farther than anyone else I've seen. More and more the "content creators" come off as fanboys and a paid promotional advert....not a review in the true sense of the word. The others seem more and more to be bought off by the manufacturers. Keep calm and carry on. :)

[@tonymckenziecom]

Indeed I also think along those sentiments. They have a living to make I suppose. I make review videos in general to try and help guys see the things that others never show anyone and I have been on that trail for years. Hopefully, it levels up the playing field a little. Thanks...

[@twlowe19]

nice and detailed as expected, great! I recently got the studio Sc20c and once the speaker decided to break in, the thing is fantastic! Shockingly diverse set of sounds for a single channel amp. This one really has me curious as well, be it the head or the combo. Really like to hear the difference between it and the 20w plexi guy in person, which I tried but kind of preferred the 800 studio.. but that was then, ha!

[@tonymckenziecom]

I think each has a place really. I have three models of Studio and all great + this one. I think it all comes down to the style you play and then choose best suited for those needs. Tanks for watching.

[@jordanpratt3821]

First time seeing your channel. I dig the pointer.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ha - some dislike it intensely! But I can't please everyone :). Thanks for watching.

[@incubism]

Great playing Tony.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Not really... but it shows the tones... my playing was feeble on this and even got chopped for copyright of the backing :(

[@donciseau]

Great video, very educational!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks.... and thanks for watching.

[@donciseau]

@@tonymckenziecom you're welcome! Will you do a blackstar ht iii in the future please?

[@w1zard0f0h]

Thank you for the great video.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you enjoyed it! Designed for you :) Thanks.

[@jamesrushton2333]

Excellent Tony…as per 💯

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks appreciated.

[@jaimeharding890]

This video was my introduction to you Tony. Absolutely excellent sir 👏👏👏 Please keep the videos coming 🙏 Some rotten apples in every barrel (ignore the jealousy of the morons 😡) Really enjoyed this, going to check out all your other videos now too. THANK YOU.

[@tonymckenziecom]

My playing was not great on this as currently have health issues, but well, here's me playing a bit better: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWW6fZtmq76Uf9U and sincerely I hope you like rock :)

[@vin9976]

Hello there! How do these 20w setups (ST20 and SV20) do for clean headroom? Like not super clean but like ACDC Rhythm/Malcolm style stuff? Wonder if they cut it or if they don't have enough of a sizeable transformer for it?

[@tonymckenziecom]

They tend to sound very good to me. Obviously cranked there is far less 'clean' but the series tends to be quite flexible... thanks.

[@GeorgeHeil-gg6wv]

Nice review . . . Cheers from Tejas

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching... appreciated.

[@AndrewSnowden007]

Great review. I plan on using amp in my flat. Lounge 4 meters by 4 meters. Which cabinet would you recommend for it? Standard one that it comes with? I see you have hand-wired 1960 one etc. Easy to purchase 1960 hard-wired cabinet for it? Thanks

[@tonymckenziecom]

Personally I have many 1960a cabs. But for this amp at the time I used the 1x12 that was designed for the Studio JCM800 Black amp I have... it worked well. Used a Vee speaker in it. Thanks.

[@Itaivarochik]

Great job 👏🏼 thank you

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for watching! appreciated.

[@robcobi]

Love the review, LOVE the guitars! All 3 killers!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks appreciated.

[@duncancartledge1667]

Always an in depth review, showing what others don’t even think off. What’s your view on the Solid state vs valve rectification? Does it make much difference. I have the handwired JTM45, often thought of having it converted to solid state rectifier like at JTM 50.

[@tonymckenziecom]

I think there is a difference - and you can get solid state tube bases with the solid state inside so flipping out the tube and fitting the base can do it... look and they are out there. Thanks for watching.

[@GuvnaOnSpotify]

Keep going Tony - you are the only guy on this platform that does reviews like they should be done. They should put your archive links on a Wikipedia page, right next to Johan Segeborn

[@tonymckenziecom]

When you speak of Johan... you're talking of gods! He is a really great presenter - I have watched him for many years off and on... but I'm not really like him, in my humble view. But very kind of you to surmise that... always remember, if you're looking for me, it's down here :). Thanks for watching and have a great new year.

[@Brett6165]

Hi Tony. I love that you take the amp apart and walk through things like lead dress, circuit boards and transformers, and build quality. I think you are the only one that does that - and its super cool. Being an amp nerd, I love to see those kinds of details and it makes a huge influence on me dropping real money on one of these expensive models. I agree with you about some of the boutique amps being lax on some of the things like putting power resistors snug to the board, instead of raised up for airflow, and provoking burnt circuit boards failures. There are a couple of things I would love to see in your reviews. 1. A side by side comparison between these MINI style heads and the original big heads - do they really sound the same or close enough? 2. An objective measure of relative volume - which is super important if you play live gigs with drummers versus at bedroom volume levels. My rational is that its super hard to gauge useable volume (especially in non-master vol amps) for things like clean, breakup, and heavy distortion based on videos. It would be cool is to measure things like what is the max volume level can you hit cleans tones with before the amp goes from clean to breakup (xxx dB, assuming no drive pedals). Anyway - thanks so much for your review - keep doing it, I really appreciate your work!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Great post and thanks for taking the time to do it. I have a Marshall 1959 Hand Wired head, but trying to compare that with the studio ST Vintage would be VERY hard to do. Sure I can use the loading on the 100 watt to bring down the volume, but that alone changes the tone and feel. All I can say is that the 1959HW through a 4x12 Marshall cab turned up really can't be compared in the way you mention (no matter what any of them out there tell you). Having said that, the ST does sound like the 1959 but unless you have the same volumes and drive (not really possible) it won't sound exactly the same or feel the same, but it IS inspirational and certainly gives the feel that can inspire of that there is no doubt. While I really like the JTM ST20 shown here, really I prefer other Studio models because of the style I actually play. I could use pedals etc. but I tend to only use a wah and rarely anything else. So the preamp drive is important to me... but that's just me. Other guys really love this amp more than I do, but I always try and offer a view that is genuine and my own shortcoming through style should not really affect the review. These amps although you might not think so, can be very loud... but in a different way than say that 1959 HW. The best answer as always is to try one if you can, and if you can't always buy from where you can return it!. Thanks for the post and for watching too.

[@guitardave]

I’d love to see you do a review of the Soldano SLO-30. Not cheap, but a really great amp - would be interesting to hear your take on it.

[@tonymckenziecom]

I don't have one :( but I did review a Mezzabarba M-Zero 1 which is similarly built to a Soldano 100 amp here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWW6fZtmq76Uf9U and if you really want to see one of the best amps there is, then watch that video because honestly, its got the lot... but sadly (like most top end stuff) also has the price to match. Piereangelo made that amp for me some while back after discussing with him and my old friend Asim Can Gunduz (Awesome John - check him out) and what a brilliant amp that is. I released that review in June 2018. Check it out and I actually show the playing on there with some other guys I know who I invited along to 'have a go' :). Thanks for watching.

[@markreid4154]

Thank you Tony 🙂

[@tonymckenziecom]

You are very welcome

[@michaelbellino6826]

Sounds great!

[@tonymckenziecom]

This was not a great playing section, but I did want to try and get the tones across - hence no effects like reverbs or delays etc. which would have IMO destroyed the amp tone maybe a little. Thanks for watching.

[@Whokilledjohnhenry]

I just found your channel. And just for the fact i can kick a donkey i am now a subscriber, i love that you are an no bullshit person, thanks from downunder

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ha great comment and thanks for the sub and for watching...

[@CBGypsy03]

Great great stuff :). Have you done a review of the morgan dual 20 ? Would love to see that bad boy. Thanks for your hard work. Cheers

[@tonymckenziecom]

I did a review of a Morgan many years ago and honestly it was that loud it made the recordings sound bad... it was really loud - not my amp but probably one of the loudest amps I had used. Loud was really loud!

[@CBGypsy03]

@@tonymckenziecom ok thank you. I do own a dual 20 and it has power scaling so it's not that crazy loud haha. Was curious what you thought of them from the inside... I don't know much about electronics. I know it sounds damn good ! Thanks for the response:)

[@MarshallAmpMan]

Excellent review. Can you do one on the combo version? What do you think of that one? Could you also do a review on the BlackStar St. James amp?

[@tonymckenziecom]

Sorry I don't own the combo! And neither do I own a Black star, but in the case of the Black star those are not for me... I have seen with others and prefer the Marshall amps. Thanks for watching appreciated.

[@pitpuz]

Many thanks Tony, excellent video!! Can you refer to the DI output in the amplifier? It seems that there is not much explanation and videos about it and how it sounds... Is it recommended to connect it (in terms of sound) to the console during a performance? How much is the sound damaged (if at all) in this case? what do you think? Even electrically - from which part of the board does this port come out? I would appreciate it if you could address this.

[@jjjddd231]

I'm considering this amplifier and the review was very helpful. As I have never bought a Marshall head before, can I ask does it come with a speaker cable to attach the head to a speaker cabinet?

[@tonymckenziecom]

Indeed it does come with a speaker cable and a mains lead, and that important 3 year warranty :). Thanks.

[@sonnyseabury4051]

Thanks so much brother, for making this very interesting and highly informative video. I own two Marshall Studio Series 20 watt tube ampheads that I love. 1 SV 20 mini 1959SLP, and 1 Mini Silver Jubilee. Plexi Amps and Modded Plexi Amps have always been my favorite amps to play on. I've always had the opinion that both Plexi and Modded Plexi Amps sound the absolute best when played through Celestion UK Made Greenbacks. The Greenbacks compliment those 2 amps so well . They are my alltime favorite speakers, be they in a 2x12, 4x12, or Full Stack, in the event that a person might want to do some enjoyable house demolition, ripping neighbirhood houses, off their foundations! 😂😮😊, particularly when playing Plexi and/or Modded Plexi. My favorite speaker combination, in a 4x12 closed back cabinet is 2 UK Made Greenbacks on Top, and 2 Vintage 30's on the bottom. I'm glad that I just discovered and subscribed to your channel on You Tube. Greetings and Much Love and Respect From Sonny, in New Orleans, La. PS. Do you live in England. Thanks Again for this awesome video.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Ha I DO live in England. I have used Marshalls since 1971. And I have bought/used most including all those you mention. Presently I'm going to show a JVM410HJS (Satch head) which is also very interesting. On cabs I just stick with 1960a, and the old 100w head (hand wired they said) and a vintage modern cab too. Those all cover the 30s, 70/75w and other speakers - I have about 6 Marshall cabs and those are used for all my amps (about 20 inc Marshall, Diezel, Mesa, EVH and many more) and I find those all brilliant speakers... yes they are all Celestions and as I have owned them for years will all be UK made... Thanks for the sub and check my videos - I have LOADS on inside and out amp reviews... rather like this review. I really appreciate you taking the time to post too... and thanks for watching...

[@Cwilliams2109]

I've stumbled across this channel as I'm looking at buying this particular amp. This guy is brilliant, he's like a guitar version of Fred Dibnah 😊 (love Fred btw). Excellent review and you've made my mind up on buying this amp. Thank you!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks for the kind words - appreciated, and do check out my other amp reviews - there are many as well as simulators, guitars and more. Thanks for watching.

[@figueiredomarcelobe]

Helo from Brazil!!! I love your videos!!!

[@tonymckenziecom]

Glad you like them! and thanks for watching... appreciated.

[@fon267]

In detail and professional… old school British review as always

[@tonymckenziecom]

Thanks...

[@SPARKLEJET]

Excellent. I subscribed.

[@tonymckenziecom]

Well thank you its appreciated and check my channel I have loads just like that amp review. Thanks for watching.