Marshall DSL5CR 1x10-inch 5-watt Tube Combo Amp
Overview & Key Features
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All-Tube, Two-Channel Design: The DSL5CR houses two ECC83 preamp tubes and one ECC99 (also labeled 12BH7) power tube, delivering authentic tube warmth in a compact form.
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Power Output & Switchable Volume: It offers 5 watts of output—perfect for small venues or home—and includes a Low‑Power mode reducing output to 0.5 watt for quieter environments without sacrificing tonal richness.
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Speaker: Equipped with a Celestion Ten‑30 10‑inch speaker, which shines at both low and higher volume levels.
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Channels: You get two foot-switchable channels:
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Classic Gain – from clear, shimmering cleans to mild crunch (akin to a JCM800 breakup)
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Ultra Gain – higher distortion suited for more aggressive tones.
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Tone Controls: Shared 3‑band EQ (bass, middle, treble), with added Tone Shift and Deep (or Bass) switches for tonal shaping—ideal for scooped mid modern metal tones or vintage crunch.
Onboard Effects & Connectivity
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Reverb: Built-in digital reverb brings ambient depth without needing pedals.
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Effects Loop: Includes a rear-panel series FX loop, allowing seamless integration of external effects like delays or modulation.
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Emulated Output: Features a Softube‑modeled line/headphone output, emulating the iconic 1960 Marshall 4×12" cab—great for silent practice or direct recording.
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Aux Input & Footswitching:
Build & Form Factor
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Dimensions & Weight: Compact and sturdy—approximately 17.9″ wide × 9.4″ deep × 16.9″ high (455 × 240 × 425 mm) and around 27.9 lbs (12.7 kg).
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Design: True to Marshall’s legacy—but scaled down for personal practice or studio space. It maintains the classic aesthetic while delivering powerful tube tone.
Summary: Who Is It For?
| Feature |
Benefit/Use Case |
| Low-power (0.5 W) mode |
Ideal for bedroom use without overwhelming volume |
| Dual channels |
Covers everything from clean tones to heavy distortion |
| Tone Shift + Deep |
Flexible tone shaping, suits modern or vintage styles |
| Emulated output |
Perfect for direct recording or rehearsal |
| Compact and lightweight |
Easy to carry and fits small spaces |
| Onboard reverb & FX loop |
Extra depth and pedal integration without clutter |
In short: The Marshall DSL5CR is a wonderfully versatile, all-tube combo amp in a compact package. It delivers true Marshall tone—from clean shimmer to searing gain—at manageable volumes, and with features that make it both studio- and bedroom-friendly.
Let me know if you’d like audio demos, details on available footswitches, or how it compares with similar boutique models!
