MARSHALL JCM800 VS MESA DUAL RECTIFIER: Which one?
Our pick: The Mesa Dual Rectifier
These two amps are some of the best that money can buy, so a comparison seems kind of unfair. But if we had to choose, we think the Dual Rectifier is going to be a better fit for more people. It's more flexible, cheaper, and has three channels compared to only one in the JCM800. The number of channels is often a deal breaker for us.
Splitting hairs between two fantastic amplifiers is difficult, and I always hate to sound like I'm criticizing one for dumb reasons. But in our comparison articles I'm trying to give a recommendation that makes the most sense for the most people.
In this case, I think the Mesa Dual Rectifier is a better option for primarily the following reasons:
- Three channels
- More stylistically flexible
- More control overall
- Significantly cheaper than the JCM800
The number of channels is often a deal breaker.
Note that exact versions and specs are subject to change. We've made an effort to get you as much up-to-date information as possible, but discrepancies can be presents depending on where and when you buy, especially if you buy used.
But in this comparison we'll focus on the new retail models and get you the consistent differences between the Marshall JCM800 and the Mesa Dual Rectifier.
Once we've done that, you can decide which one is right for you.
JCM800 VS Dual Rectifier Comparison Table
This is a simple comparison table with the Dual Rectifier and the JCM800. Use the compare buttons to see basic specs and live pricing. If you want more detailed specs and pricing, I'll expand on both below.
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Amp | Name | Rate | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Rectifier | n/a | |
 | JCM800 | n/a |
Compare More Amps (Marshall, Mesa, or other brands)
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Audio Demos of Both Amps
Ola Englund does a fantastic job with his demos. Luckily we have both from him set up in the exact same format (his In the Room series). You can hear a lot of similarities between these amps, and the JCM800 sounds particularly good. Though it's more for the additional flexibility, specs, and price in the Rectifier that gives it the edge. I have zero tone complaints about either amp.
Detailed Spec Table
The detailed spec table below gives us some insight into the nuanced differences between these two amps. It's not often that I make a choice from technical differences alone, but I put a premium on getting amplifiers with multiple channels, especially when you're relying on that amplifier as your source of clean and distorted tones.
 | | |
|---|---|---|
Circuit Type | Tube (preamp and power amp) | Tube (preamp and power amp) |
Form | Amp head (no speaker cab) | Amp head (no speaker cab) |
Preamp Tubes | 3 x ECC83 | 5 x 12AX7 |
Power Amp Tubes | 4 x EL34 | 4 x 6L6, 2 x 5U4 (Rectifier) |
EQ | 3-band EQ, Presence | 3-band EQ, Presence |
Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (high sensitivity), 1 x 1/4" (low sensitivity) | 1 x 1/4" |
Outputs | 2 x 1/4" (4/8/16 ohms) | 5 x 1/4" (4/8/16 ohms), 1 x 1/4" (slave), 1 x 1/4" (tuner) |
Style lean | Rock, classic rock | Metal, rock, modern rock |
Quality category | High end | High end |
Lead/Rhythm | Both (leans lead) | Both (leans rhythm) |
Gain profile | Aggressive, crisp | Aggressive, percussive |
Footswitch support | No | Yes |
Ideal skill level | Advanced | Advanced |
Price Comparison
In this section we have live pricing for both amps from the larger retailers that carry the JCM800 and Dual Rectifier. Note that these prices are updated live but are subject to change depending on the retailer and when you're viewing them.
Price updated Wed, September 27th, 2023.
Multiple Vendors
Amazon Only
Which one is better for metal?
Both of these amps can handle a metal tone really well, but the Mesa Dual Rectifier is particularly good on this front and popular among modern rock and metal artists.
As you can tell from Ola's demo, the JCM800 has a really aggressive high gain tone as well, that's competitive with the Rectifier. Neither amp is a bad choice if you're after this kind of sound.
Again, tone quality is not an issue here.
Which one is better for classic rock?
On the other side, the JCM800 is a better option if you're focused on classic rock. It's a legacy amplifier that has been around for decades, and used in both a classic and modern rock context. On lower gain settings, the JCM800 produces a lot of fantastic rock tones, similar to AC/DC and Eddie Van Halen.
Can the JCM800 handle modern metal?
The JCM800 can also handle modern metal, as we alluded to earlier. Because of its classic appeal, it's not the first amp you think of in this context, but it has a monstrous high gain sound that gives you plenty of low end and percussive thickness.
Which one is brighter?
Marshall amps are known for their brightness and more lead-focused tone. In this comparison, the JCM800 definitely has a more natural bite and chime-like quality while the Dual Rectifier is warmer, overall.
Dual Rectifier Pros and Cons
Pros
- Tone flexibility
- Known for handling high gain and distortion really well
- Very well-made and durable
- High-quality components (electrical, casing, etc.)
Cons:
- Expensive (still cheaper than the JCM800)
- Has a bit of a learning curve, especially the back panel
JCM800 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Classic and vintage rock sound
- Versatile gain profile
- Very durable with high quality components and materials
- Time tested
Cons
- Very expensive
- Only one channel
Conclusion
I'll cast my vote for the Mesa Dual Rectifier, but there are a lot of variables that could impact your decision. Consider primarily the following:
- Are you into classic or modern rock styles?
- How do you feel about the channel situation?
Base your decision on these two questions. Both amps are great and you can't make a bad purchase between them. You should take our advice with a grain of salt, and decide what's going to be best for your situation.
Or, you could just blindly take my word for it and buy the Dual Rectifier.
Comments below.
Fire away.
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