Traditional black and gold take the stage with the new Marshall Amplification MA-Series guitar amplifiers: the MA50H 50W Amplifier Head ($950), the MA50C 50W Combo Amplifier ($1,000), the MA100H 100W Amplifier Head ($1,100), and the MA100C 100W Combo Amplifier ($1,250). This series is said to provide the same classic valve amplification as other Marshall amps, but at a more affordable price.

Each of the two channels, Clean and Overdrive, features independent volume control and its own three-band EQ. The Overdrive Channel is equipped with an a Gain knob, Boost switch, and Crunch Balance knob. The Gain knob adds an additional level of gain staging for a "crunchy" Marshall sound, while the Boost switch delivers a "mean" Marshall grind for soloing or metal riffing. The Crunch Balance knob sets the level difference between the Overdrive and Boost levels to yield a three-channel sound.

The Master section, which has a built-in spring reverb, offers further control over presence, resonance, and reverb. The power amp stage features either two (50W models) or four (100W models) EL34 pentode valves (tubes), while the preamp stage uses three ECC83 (12AX7) dual triode valves. According to the manufacturer, these components are what deliver the authentic, heavy Marshall sound.

The rear panel offers Serial FX Loop In and Out jacks as well as both 8-Ohm and 16-Ohm speaker outputs. The footswitch also connects via the rear panel. Look for the MA-Series guitar amplifiers later this Fall.