Here's a closer look at each of these amplifiers:
1. Marshall JTM45:
- This amplifier is considered a classic and was used by many legendary guitarists in the 1960s and 1970s.
- It features a simple design with two channels and a single 12-inch speaker.
- The JTM45 produces a warm, creamy overdrive that is perfect for blues and rock music.
- Angus Young used a modified version of the JTM45, which included a master volume control and a Variac to adjust the voltage.
2. Marshall Super Lead 100:
- The Super Lead 100 is another classic Marshall amplifier that was introduced in the late 1960s.
- It is a 100-watt amplifier with four EL34 power tubes and four 12-inch speakers.
- The Super Lead 100 has a powerful, aggressive sound that is perfect for heavy rock and metal music.
- Angus Young used the Super Lead 100 in the early days of AC/DC and contributed to the band's signature sound.
3. Marshall JMP Super Bass:
- The JMP Super Bass is a bass guitar amplifier that was introduced by Marshall in the 1970s.
- It features a 100-watt output, four EL34 power tubes, and four 12-inch speakers.
- Angus Young discovered that by cranking up the JMP Super Bass to overdrive the pre-amp, he achieved his signature high-pitched, sustaining lead sound.
- He would use a modified JMP Super Bass with higher-gain preamp tubes and a Variac for further voltage adjustment.
Additional Notes:
- In recent years, Angus Young has also used other amplifiers such as the Mesa/Boogie Mark V and the Bogner Ecstasy.
- He often uses a variety of pedals and effects to shape his guitar sound, including a wah-wah pedal, a chorus pedal, and a delay pedal.
- Angus Young's guitar sound is characterized by its high-pitched, sustained lead tone and powerful, crunchy rhythm tone.
- His playing style involves using a lot of vibrato, string bending, and aggressive picking techniques.
Angus Young's guitar sound has become an iconic part of AC/DC's music and has influenced countless guitarists over the years.