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Marshall DSL40CR 40W 1x12 Tube Guitar Combo Amp

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Amp Showcase | DSL40CR | Marshall Amps

DSL Series | Official Demo | Marshall

Reintroducing the DSL series.

Josh Landau | The Shrine | DSL Playthrough | Marshall

Description
The Marshall DSL40CR 40W combo guitar amplifier delivers the classic Marshall sound with modern versatility, making it a go-to choice for players looking to explore rich tube-driven tones. Featuring a 12" Celestion V-Type speaker and powered by EL34 tubes, this 40W combo amp offers full-bodied sound, ranging from warm cleans to aggressive overdrive. With independent channel controls and built-in reverb, the DSL40CR lets you craft tones tailored to your playing style. Its adjustable power output ensures that you maintain dynamic tube response whether you're practicing at home or playing on stage. Advanced features like Softube emulated outputs and refined EQ circuitry make this amp ideal for both studio recording and live performance. Combining heritage tone with forward-thinking design, the DSL40CR offers players the best of classic Marshall sound and modern functionality.
Adjustable Power Output
The DSL40CR's adjustable power settings ensure you get authentic tube tone at any volume. Unlike traditional attenuation methods, this amp reduces power by adjusting the signal to the EL34 tubes rather than bypassing them. This means you get the same dynamic response and harmonic richness whether you're playing at bedroom levels or pushing the amp to full stage volume. Whether you're recording, rehearsing, or performing live, this feature guarantees consistent sound quality and feel across all settings. The result is an amp that adapts to your environment without compromising the distinct Marshall character players love.
Emulated Outputs for Silent Practice and Recording
Developed in collaboration with Softube, the DSL40CR's emulated headphone and line outputs deliver accurate modeling of Marshall's iconic 1960 cabinet tone. This feature allows players to enjoy the full-bodied sound of a cranked amp without disturbing their surroundings, making it perfect for silent practice or direct recording. The emulated output captures the nuanced dynamics of the DSL's all-valve power section, ensuring your tone stays rich and detailed even when playing through headphones or direct into a DAW. This modern addition bridges the gap between analog warmth and digital convenience, giving players flexibility without sacrificing tone.
Built-In Reverb and Tone-Shaping Controls
With onboard spring reverb and resonance controls, the DSL40CR provides ample options for customizing your tone. The reverb can be dialed in to add subtle ambiance or lush depth to your sound, while the resonance control enhances low-end response for a more impactful presence. Independent channel volume controls let you balance clean and overdrive tones precisely, offering seamless transitions between styles. Combined with intuitive controls for master volume, gain and EQ, this amp delivers a refined and tailored playing experience. These features make the DSL40CR a powerful tool for crafting tones that feel cohesive and dynamic in any performance setting.
Rugged Build for Reliable Performance
Marshall designed the DSL40CR with durability and tone in mind. Its robust construction features a solid chassis and high-quality components that ensure long-term reliability. The 12" Celestion V-Type speaker delivers consistent performance, whether you're practicing at home or touring with your band. The amp's compact design makes it easy to transport, while its sturdy build ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use. From its premium materials to its road-ready design, the DSL40CR is built to handle the demands of professional musicians without compromising sound quality or playability.
Designed for Stage and Studio Players
The Marshall DSL40CR combines classic valve tone with modern functionality to meet the needs of gigging musicians and recording artists alike. Its adjustable power output and Softube emulated outputs make it adaptable for both home practice and studio work, while its rugged build ensures reliable performance on stage. With versatile tone-shaping controls and a rich, dynamic response, this amp provides the tools you need to create your signature sound. Whether you're dialing in vintage warmth or pushing aggressive overdrive, the DSL40CR is your ultimate companion for capturing and delivering iconic Marshall tone.



Features
- Adjustable power settings retain dynamic valve tone at any volume
- Emulated headphone and line outs deliver iconic cabinet sound for silent practice
- Spring reverb and resonance controls offer versatile tone-shaping options
- Independent channel volume controls balance clean and overdrive seamlessly
- Refined EQ circuitry provides precise tonal control for any musical style
- Presence and resonance adjustments enhance sound for greater depth and clarity
- Advanced valve technology ensures articulate and responsive performance
- Softube modeling delivers authentic Marshall sound without pushing air
Specs
- Power: 40W (tube)
- High- and low-output settings
- Tubes: Four 12AX7 (preamp); two EL34 (power amp)
- Two channels
- Single input
- Speaker: 1x12 Celestion V-Type
- Built-in reverb
- Softube emulated output
Warranty
Featured Articles
Reviews
4.43
138 Reviews
88%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend
Most Liked Positive Review
Better all around than previous model
I already had a 2014 DSL 40C, but the treble/highs seemed harsh. An emminence Cannibis Rex was a replacement that didn't make a big difference from original spkr. However, the 2018 DSL40CR has addressed the issue to my satisfaction. The two Master Volume controls make foot switching between rhythm and lead real smooth. They give you more control. The power level switch between 20 and 40 watt mode on the front stand-by switch is more accessible and practical whereas the older model had a pentode/triode switch on the back. The added input and emulated out should be useful, but I have yet to try them. I am having too much fun just getting used to all the goodies on the front. Power is no problem. hooked it to a two twelve cab and it really rocked - on the 20 watt setting! Can't wait to get a 4x12 cab to really turn it up. Reverb - unfortunately, is still the weakness - if it is that - as it is digital and I prefer the very deep/wet sound of a spring reverb. I will be ordering the available/compatible 6 button foot switch that comes with JVM 410 series so I can switch between more of the features. Then I can transition from setting to setting. I am one of the first to get to have this, ordered online in store because they had not hit the stores yet. I listened to the NAMM review of the series from Marshall and another NAMM source. I am absolutely sure I made the right choice in my price point! I considered the 100 watt version and cabinet combo, but couldn't swing or justify the extra coin and the 40 watt version is all I really need. If you HAVE to have the 100 watt head and cabinet, ok, I would recommend that for you, but 40 watts is plenty for me. The speaker differences between models is substantial as well. The DSL40C used the 80seventy 12 inch whereas the DSLCR uses a V series and it sounds warmer and smoother across the range. It is a better speaker and a better amp, so get your visa, cash or whatever out and buy one. Had it two weeks and I am impressed.
Most Liked Negative Review
Great Sound, Horrible FX Loop, Virtually Non-Existent Reverb
The sound is absolutely amazing for how much you are paying. Even without any pedals, you can get the classic rock n' roll tone easily by plugging a quality guitar directly into the amp. The simpler the setting, the less likely you'd hate it for any reason whatsoever. Then again, you only paid the bare minimum for a tube amp so there are catches. The most frustrating part about this amp is the FX Loop. So many bugs (seriously, Google "Marshall DSL FX Loop Problems" and you will see the amount of complaints. Sometimes the FX Loop doesn't turn on. Sometimes it will cut the volume by 70%. Even if it's working properly, the signal still gets a bit weaker in the FX Loop. The reverb is ridiculous. You can only start to hear it when you turn it all the way up. I don't know what reverb units they used, but I'm going to make an educated guess that it's cheap. Marshall hasn't been very responsive to these complaints. My guess is that they know the product has defects, but can't do anything about it because it will cost too much. They used poor quality materials for what they considered the "bells and whistles" so that they can deliver a great sounding amp for this much money. Bottomline: when you use the FX Loop "with caution" and add a reverb to your FX chain, you can make the amp sound like anything you've heard on records. This is why I give it a 3-star for what it is, but would still recommend it to anyone that wants the legendary Marshall sound.
- Home Studio83
- Performances83
- Outdoor Events / Games55
- Amateur Recording54
- Professional Recording54
- Poor Sound Quality6
- Heavy4
- Difficult To Use3
- Weak3
- Limited Functions1
- Experienced89
- Professional Musician20
- Novice16
- Excellent Sound116
- Good Power Output97
- Easy To Use91
- Warm / Comfy88
- Portable56
Reviewed by 138 customers
Best Amp!
Verified Buyer
submitteda month ago
bysteve
fromCleveland, TN
Submitted as part of a sweepstakes
This is a great amp for all occasions. It has great sound quality on all channels. The best amp I have ever owned! I would recommend this
Great Marshall Amp
Verified Buyer
submitteda month ago
byChip
fromFlorida
Submitted as part of a sweepstakes
I love this amp!! Great sound and features!!
Surprisingly great sound in a small package
Verified Buyer
submitted5 months ago
byRyan
fromWaco, TX
Submitted as part of a sweepstakes
This sounds way better than any of my solid state amps. It has 20w and 40w settings and they both sound great. Turning on the ultra gain channel gets you sounds like AC/DC, and if you crank it all the way up it almost sounds like Scorpions. I recommend using that channel with no pedals, sounds great. The classic gain channels sound really warm and I recommend using these if you're using pedals. Although it's one of the only amps I've played that sounds good clean, we all love to add effects in don't we? The Boss DS1 sounds great, you can get some sweet Steve Vai sounds on the classic gain channel with just a DS1. This amp sounds good paired with every guitar I have, but in my personal opinion it sounds the best with humbuckers. It mostly play my Ibanez RG 7 string and it sounds incredible. I'd take this amp to small to medium gigs, like a bar or a small outdoor venue, but I mostly use it in my home studio for recording. I prefer not to take tube amps to gigs just because a tube could go out, but I've heard this thing is pretty reliable and I personally haven't had any issues with it.
I can't stop smiling
submitted6 months ago
byLoren
fromKansas
Bought this DSL40CR for my wife to give me for Christmas. It arrived on my porch today so I of course had to give it a test drive. Wow! Just the sound I was looking for to play hard rock. My ears are bleeding a little, but it sounds awesome. I had to turn it to the lower power setting.
Dead-On-Arrival
submitted8 months ago
byMichael
fromAustin, TX
Just do an internet search and you'll see that this product line has, and now continues to have, manufacturing issues. Arrived as the newest model and sound is barely audible. It's a disposable amp it seems. I recommend trying something else. Instant planned return.
Just What I Wanted
Verified Buyer
submitteda year ago
bySpider
fromGlen Ellen, CA
Submitted as part of a sweepstakes
Great clean and amazing gain channels. Double master volume a great plus! Love playing my SG and Les Paul through it. Great for home practice thanks to great master volume control.
Q&A
Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.
submitted2 months ago
asked byJaws
fromMilwaukee WI
What are the dimensions of the cabinet?
Height: 19.29" Width: 24.4" Depth: 9.9" Weight: 50.4 lbs.submitted4 months ago
asked byVincent
fromBranchburg nj
What is the cabinet made of? On this and the 20 watt modle
The cabinet is plywood.submitted10 months ago
asked byB
fromNew Jersey
Can you play head phones thru the line out?
No, a line out is a line level signal- it can't power headphones.submitted10 months ago
asked byB
fromNew Jersey
So...Can you use headphones or no?
No , you can't.submitted10 months ago
asked byEdgar
fromJupiter, Fl
I thought you can use the Simulated Output for headphones? I see here it was stated that this was not an option.
You can.."The DSL40CR's emulated headphone and line outs "submitteda year ago
asked byWill
fromundisclosed
Can you use headphones with this amp?
Unfortunately, no.submitteda year ago
asked byIsa
fromHemet
How many speakers does this amp come with?
The Marshall DSL40CR 40W 1x12 Tube Guitar Combo Amp has one 12" speakersubmitted4 years ago
asked byKnihnicki
fromEast Longmeadow, MA
How much does it weigh?
The Weight is: 50.4 lbs.submitted6 years ago
asked byCucatti
fromBrazil
Is it 127V?
This would operate at 110 volts.submitted6 years ago
asked byJosh
fromKnoxville, TN
Is this better than a Vox amp? I understand that the reverb is digital but otherwise is this an all-tube amp? How does this compare to the Marshall Origin amps?
Both Marshall and Vox are very reputable amps. Whether one is better than the other is a matter of personal preference. Marshall tends to be a little more versatile with the genres of musicians who play them