Marshall MS-2 review

The classic mini amp

  • £30
  • €39
  • $60
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This tiny Marshall packs in tone and volume controls, plus an OD channel

MusicRadar Verdict

The mini Marshall with (a surprisingly) mighty volume!

Pros

  • +

    Decent clean tones. Excellent value for money.

Cons

  • -

    Distortion gets boxy.

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The Marshall MS-2 is ubiquitous for a reason, packing two channels for a modest outlay.

"It sounds good: the cleans stay clean, and the tone knob's range keeps things from getting mushy"

It sounds good, too: the cleans stay clean, and the tone knob's range keeps things from getting mushy or piercing.

Plus, switching to the OD channel gives you a crunch that - while boxy and lacking in bottom-end - captures the essence of that Marshall vibe with a bridge humbucker for classic-rock riffs.

The only snag is that the volume knob controls gain on this channel, and considering it sounds best with the volume up high, it could end up too loud for next door - you've been warned!

Michael Brown
Michael Brown

Mike is Editor-in-Chief of GuitarWorld.com, in addition to being an offset fiend and recovering pedal addict. He has a master's degree in journalism, and has spent the past decade writing and editing for guitar publications including MusicRadar, Total Guitar and Guitarist, as well as a decade-and-a-half performing in bands of variable genre (and quality). In his free time, you'll find him making progressive instrumental rock under the nom de plume Maebe.