Marshall DSL40CR 40-watt 1 x 12-inch Combo Amplifier
Overview
The Marshall DSL40CR (Dual Super Lead) is a versatile, all-tube combo amplifier designed for guitarists needing both rich tone and practical flexibility. It’s ideal for home practice, studio work, and live stage performance.
Power & Speaker
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Output power: 40 watts, with a selectable low-power mode at 20 watts, enabling cranked, dynamic tones at lower volumes.
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Speaker: 1×12" Celestion V-Type, delivering the classic Marshall response with clear midrange and punchy highs.
Tube Configuration
Channels & Tonal Flexibility
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Two channels, each with two voicing options:
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EQ section: Shared 3-band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble), plus Tone Shift (for mid-frequency scooping), Presence, and Resonance controls—this offers nuanced tone shaping.
Effects & Connectivity
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Reverb: Studio-quality digital reverb, independently adjustable for each channel.
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Effects loop: Series FX loop (send/return) for integrating pedals or processors.
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Emulated output: Softube-modeled speaker emulation for headphones or direct recording.
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Auxiliary input: 1/8" aux-in for playing along with external audio sources.
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Speaker outputs: Multiple speaker jacks (4 Ω, 8 Ω, internal 16 Ω) for flexibility.
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Footswitch: Includes a 2‑button footswitch (channel and reverb control), with optional 6‑way footswitch available.
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MIDI compatibility: Allows control via MIDI-capable gear.
Size & Build
Usage tip: It's hefty—about 50 lbs—so consider a wheeled amp case or minimize frequent transport.
Summary Table
| Feature |
Details |
| Power |
40 W (switchable to 20 W) |
| Speaker |
1×12″ Celestion V-Type |
| Tubes |
4×ECC83 (preamp), 2×EL34 (power) |
| Channels |
2 (Classic Gain: Clean/Crunch; Ultra Gain: OD1/OD2) |
| EQ & Controls |
3-band EQ + Tone Shift + Presence + Resonance |
| Reverb |
Digital, per-channel |
| Effects Loop |
Series |
| Emulated Out |
Softube cab emulated output |
| Aux Input |
Yes |
| Footswitch |
2-button included |
| MIDI |
Yes |
| Outputs |
Various speaker outs |
| Weight |
~50 lb |
| Construction |
Black Tolex combo amp |
Final Thoughts
The Marshall DSL40CR is a sophisticated, tone-rich combo amp that delivers classic tube Marshall character with modern versatility. Its dual-channel, multi-mode setup, combined with power scaling and handy amenities like MIDI, FX loop, and a speaker-emulated output, make it a standout choice for both modern and traditional players. Whether you're tracking in a studio, rehearsing quietly at home, or hitting the stage, the DSL40CR adapts while maintaining that unmistakable Marshall vibe.
