Ever the shrewd businessman, Jim Marshall signed a substantial distribution deal with Rose Morris in 1965, taking Marshal one step further to global powerhouse status. The downside was that it squeezed their margins and cut out many loyal distributors in the UK. One of these distributors was loyal friend Johnny Jones. The Rose Morris contract didnt prohibit Jim Marshall from building amps outside the brand so he set up Park, using Jones’s wife’s Maiden name, modifying the current Marshal circuits and cosmetics and distributing them separately. 

These amps, in particular the ones built between 1965 and 1980 have gained legendary status and are considered by some to be slightly hotter than their Marshall counterparts. This Lead 50 1239 Combo follows similar lines to the JMP Model 2144, itself a rare amp. Unlike the JMP, the lead 50 utilizes a single 2 inch speaker. 

Cosmetically this amp is in great condition with the expected marks but no repairs or torn patches of tolex. The faceplate is free of too much wear and the text is still clear.

On the inside things are as you expect, free of any modifications and as yet no need for components to be replaced. Both transformers are correct.

The speaker is correct and there are no signs of any modifications to the chassis.

The reverb tank has been replaced with a MOD Electronics unit.

Classic rock tone in a small package, unsurprisingly this delivers all the crunchy driven goodness you'd even need with plenty of power to work in any situation.

Rare and still undeservedly overlooked, Park amps should be your go to when looking for British tones without the hefty price tag.