Marshall Unveils Exciting New amp-in-a-Box Pedals at NAMM 2025
NAMM 2025: In a thrilling announcement, Marshall has introduced a groundbreaking series of amp-in-a-box pedals, designed to infuse the legendary sounds of Marshall amplifiers directly into your pedalboard setup. This new Overdrive pedal line is set to redefine how musicians access classic tones.
While various third-party brands have attempted to capture the essence of Marshall’s iconic tube amps, this marks the first time the brand itself has released stompbox versions of its renowned amp heads. Previous attempts, like Crazy Tube Circuits’ Heatseeker and Global Audio’s Lion, have paved the way, but nothing compares to Marshall’s official offerings.
Earlier this week,Marshall hinted at the release,leading many,including Guitar World,to speculate about an update to their existing overdrive pedals. The unveiling of this new line has certainly exceeded expectations, signaling Marshall’s intent to make a notable impact at NAMM after a five-year hiatus.
Introducing the New Pedal Lineup
The new series features five analog overdrive pedals: The 1959, DSL, JCM800, JCM900, and JVM. each pedal is elegantly encased in gold and black,showcasing the classic Marshall aesthetic with a modern twist.
Each pedal is equipped with four tactile rotary knobs,including Gain,Volume,and Tone controls that are consistent across most models. A fourth knob varies by model, offering unique functionalities. Such as, the JCM800 includes a Sensitivity control for enhanced playability, while the JCM900 features a Contour knob for precise mid-range adjustments. Additionally, illuminated footswitches ensure visibility during performances.
Detailed Features of Each Pedal
Starting with The 1959, this pedal aims to replicate the legendary 1959 Plexi sound, famously used by guitar icons like Jimi Hendrix and Randy Rhoads, as well as contemporary artists like Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro. Its controls mimic the original amp, allowing adjustments for High Treble, Normal, Tone, and Volume.
The DSL pedal captures the raw, focused tone of the Dual Super Lead, offering controls for Gain, Deep, Tone, and Volume, delivering unmistakable sonic clarity.
Next are the JCM800 and JCM900, both designed to bring the aggressive, sustain-heavy tones that defined rock and metal in the ’80s and ’90s. These pedals promise to unlock new sonic possibilities while honoring Marshall’s rich legacy.
the JVM pedal features a Gate dial to manage its powerful output,allowing for both thunderous riffs and subtle overdrives,making it versatile for various musical styles.
Practicality Meets Performance
marshall envisions these pedals as essential tools for both live performances and studio recordings. Each pedal operates on a standard 9V power supply, simplifying integration into pedalboards, and features straightforward jack inputs and outputs with true bypass functionality.
Battery operation is also an option, with each pedal boasting a minimum battery life of 25 hours. Notably, the JCM800 stands out with an impressive 35-hour battery life, ensuring longevity during extended use.
“These pedals honor Marshall’s rich history, merging classic sound with modern convenience,” states Marshall. “By celebrating the iconic amplifiers that have shaped countless musicians,these pedals provide the dynamic sound and performance that Marshall is known for.”
Marshall’s CEO, Jeremy De Maillard, who took the helm in 2023, hinted at exciting developments at NAMM 2025. He acknowledged that the brand’s recent offerings may not have resonated with contemporary players. “We recognize that we haven’t fully met the expectations of today’s guitarists regarding digital amplifiers and products,” he shared with Guitar World.“We are committed to catching up and over-investing to ensure we meet those needs.”
This launch appears to be a significant step in that direction, intensifying competition with smaller brands that have gained traction in recent years.
Each pedal is priced at $149, aligning with competitors as Marshall aims to reclaim its position in the market. For more details, visit Marshall’s official website.
