Marshall leaps into the affordable amplifier market with mixed results (Marshall MG15CD Guitar Amp)

Member Name: AaronHand

Product:	Marshall MG15CD Guitar Amp
Date:	07/06/09 (49 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Loud, Small, Reliable, Sturdy, Very Affordable

Disadvantages: Poor Sound Quality, No Effects Built In, No Footswitch

Features:
Solid State Amplifier
2 Channels- Overdrive (OD) and Clean
Volume and Tone Controls
Headphone Jack
CD Input Jack
It is lacking a footswitch unfortunately, which would be a nice addition.
It is also very easy to use.

Sound:
For a small amplifier, this packs a hell of a punch! Very loud for what you'd expect. Perfect for home use, although you will never need to go over 3. And this would also be okay for use at band practice, can easily compete with drums when cranked. However, when you go louder, sound quality will decrease dramatically. And this is not particulary useful, as sound quality is what this amplifier lacks. The cleans are fairly nice it must be said, nice, mellow and quality cleans can be achieved. But, the overdrive is very lacking. You can achieve plenty of gain for metal and rock, yet the overdrive is fairly poor, very muddy and bad quality. A pedal is advisable to help achieve a better sound. Yet, we have to allow for the fact that this is a beginner amp, and for what it is, and its price it isn't too bad. With pedals or effects processors, the sound can be vastly improved, so they're definately an option.

Reliability:
This amplifier is built like a tank. After countless knocks and accidents, this thing is still as sturdy as the day of purchase with no noticeable damage. Everything is still tight and clean looking, even after two years, very good in this department. And even after all these years, sounds exactly as it did when I first bought. No internal or speaker problems. This is definately built to last.

Overall:
We must take into account the fact that this is a very cheap, beginner amp. And for what it is, it is a respectable piece of gear. Poor sound quality can be overlooked for its affordability and reliability because beginners will not need a perfect sounding amplifier. It is very loud, perfect for home practice and band practices, however will not be enough for a small gig and above.

Summary: For a beginner amp, this is very good, very affordable and reliable, yet it is let down sound

Processing/Quality:
Reliability:
Ease of use:
Features:
Sound quality: