Soon after its launch In the 1960s, Marshall already was having trouble keeping up with demand for its amplifiers. Things were so busy that no one had time to keep records on the company's early history. The firm's amplifiers were designed to compete with Fender amps. In 1962, the first JTM45 models featured black coverings, white grill cloths and no rear panel. A year later, Marshall added twin speaker outputs and an angled cabinet option. In 1965, 100 watt amplifiers made their debut in larger cabinets, and 200 watt models took the stage two years later. The 1970s saw a period of colored amplifiers, with customers being able to choose from hues such as blue, purple and orange. In 1981, the famous JCM 800 series was launched, following by the JCM 900 in 1990. The Valvestate series was introduced a year later.
Marshall continually has made changes and improvements to its models. In the 1960s, the logo changed frequently, as did the inside of the amplifiers, including speakers, valves and transformers. In 1967, the chassis on the amps was upgraded from aluminum to steel. Serial numbers had little rhyme or reason until 1969, when a new dating system emerged. After 1976, thicker wood finishes appeared on Marshall amps. Another logo change also occurred that year.
Marshall currently offers several series of amplifiers. The JCM 600 series amps are built with modern features and designed to offer an musician maximum flexibility in a 60 watt compact format. Acoustic players may prefer the AS80R series, which is designed for acoustic or acoustic-electric instruments. Bass guitar players aren't left out of the mix, as the Dynamic Bass System amps are designed for them.
Marshall is known to reissue versions of its classic amplifiers. One of the most popular reissues was the Model 1959-SLP. The 1987X was also a reissue; it is a 50 watt version of a 100 watt amplifier. The JCM 900 4100 and the JTM45 2245 were made famous by Eric Clapton.
The Marshall amplifier is a defining image in music. Guitarists such as Pete Townsend helped contribute to the legacy of stacked Marshall cabinets. In fact, the first 100 watt amplifiers were designed for him. Other notable performers who contributed to Marshall's success were Cream and Led Zeppelin.