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Confusingly, 1962 is the model number, rather than the year that this amplifier was born. That was in 1965, when a young Eric Patrick Clapton requested that Jim Marshall make him a combo amplifier with tremolo that would fit in the boot of his car for use with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers.

Based on a JTM45, unlike later Marshalls, Clapton’s amp was powered by KT66 valves. In combination with a Les Paul, it sounded outrageous. For some, Clapton’s work on The Bluesbreakers’ ‘Beano’ album in 1966 is still the high watermark for electric blues. Find out how to get some of Clapton’s classic Gibson/Marshall tones in our video lesson which features a modern Bluesbreaker reissue.

Also try:

Marshall’s Class 5 combo is one of the best solutions out there when it comes to Bluesbreaker-style tone in a smaller, low-powered package. If KT66 valves are key then the Vintage Modern 2266C combo has plenty of ‘60s Marshall flavour. As you might expect, an amplifier as iconic as the Bluesbreaker has its fair share of boutique clones. One of our favourites is the Route 66 from Dr Z Amplification, and here’s another killer KT66 combo from Divided By 13.

Your votes:

"While it might not be the most accurate reissue, the Marshall 1962 (the Bluesbreaker) can deliver deafness and defness in equal measure with the channels jumpered and the volume cranked. The only potential problem is that it looks so smile-inducingly good, it could play havoc with your downtrodden, bluesman image." (Thanks, Clecko)

"Can't go wrong with a Fender Blues Junior or a Marshall Bluesbreaker." (From Connor via Facebook, thanks)

“Marshall Bluesbreaker re-issue. Weighs a ton, but this is the Voice of God. Everyone should experience it at least once...” (Thanks, BlindLemonAde)

“Marshall Bluesbreaker - sounds of The Beano Album, not a saturated mushy overdrive but valves and speakers being driven hard.” (Thanks, AlexHunter)

"If you must settle on an amp, it depends on the guitar really. Maybe a Fender Super Reverb for singlecoils, and a Marshall Bluesbreaker or Silver Jubilee for humbuckers." (Thanks, guitarsimon)

"Fender - Deluxe Rev, Super Rev, Bassman 4 x 10. Marshall - Bluesbreaker, 2041 18-Watt combo."(Thanks, basspete)

Buy:

Marshall 1962 Bluesbreaker currently available from Andertons Music Co., Soundslive and PMT Online

Next: Fender Super Reverb