A classic piece of late-'70s British amp design, this 1977 Marshall JMP 2204 Master Model 50W MkII Lead head is an early incarnation of the now-legendary 2204 circuit—a game-changing moment in the evolution of rock guitar tone.

Introduced just a couple of years earlier, the 2203 and 2204 models were Marshall’s first amps to feature a master volume, allowing players to achieve overdriven tones at manageable levels without losing the amp’s signature bark and harmonic complexity. The result is a tight, focused crunch with plenty of clarity and sustain, while still capable of snarling aggression when pushed. It's a touch-sensitive, expressive amp with the unmistakable midrange punch and articulation that defines so many great classic rock and punk recordings of the era.

This particular example is from 1977, right at the dawn of the model’s production, and features the desirable vertical input layout. Internally it’s in great shape with the original Drake transformers intact and all key components original. At 50 watts, it's more manageable than its 100W sibling while still delivering all the punch and stage power you’d expect from a proper JMP.

Cosmetically, it shows signs of real-world use but is overall in very good condition as the photos suggest, and it retains it's original cover.

Getting ever more desirable, these amps are a great buy if you’re looking for vintage Marshall rock tone that bridges the gap between the rawness of early Plexis and the saturation of modern high gain. It's easy to see why this mode became the blueprint for decades of rock tone!