Ceriatone Forum

British Style => 18 Watt => Topic started by: jimeff on October 16, 2009, 12:15:13 AM



Title: 18 Watt TMB or JTM45
Post by: jimeff on October 16, 2009, 12:15:13 AM
I'm new to this forum so sorry if this question has already been asked. I searched the forum and did not see any postings too similar...

I was one mouse click away from ordering an 18 Watt TMB from Nik but I opted to do more research first. I was originally considering a JTM45, but I already have a 59 Bassman LTD and from what I hear, the JTM45 is similar to the Bassman - at least the circuit is similar...

I'm on the fence about the 18 Watter because I hear that it's not "truly a Marshall" clone, and more along the lines of something else. But the biggest factor is that I'm concerned about whether the 18 Watter will have enough clean headroom. I don't need clean headroom too often, but when I need it I need it. I play mostly blues-rock but occasionally I have the need for clean.

And as I ramble on...the other concern I have is that the JTM45 might be too brutally loud for me. I mean, if you can't turn it up to 3:00 to get the natural distortion what good is it? 

Can anyone chime in on the goods/bads and differences between the 18 watt TMB and the JTM45? Thanks.



Title: Re: 18 Watt TMB or JTM45
Post by: cmoore on October 16, 2009, 05:19:49 PM
Just two completely different amps.   If you have (and like) a '59 Bassman, I think you would have more versatility with the 18 Watt.  Just from the perspective of having two very different amps that also have a pretty big disparity in volume.   As you said, the JTM-45 (or your Bassman) will be too loud for some occasions.   It would be nice to have a lower watt amp to cover yourself when you encounter a "volume sensitive" situation.
Good Luck


Title: Re: 18 Watt TMB or JTM45
Post by: Jennings on December 23, 2009, 11:22:16 AM
What did you go for in the end?!  I've got an 18w which I use for most gigs etc (I play similar stuff to you), but I also have a JTM45 too.  The latter I most ofthen have yo use a power soak with, or I get arrested by the noise police!  Haha!!!


Title: Re: 18 Watt TMB or JTM45
Post by: jimR8 on December 24, 2009, 02:11:46 PM
I have the 18 / 36 watt TMB.  I usually run it on 36 watt just for the headroom.  I really like it!  Great cleans and dirt with an OD pedal.  I miss having an effects loop, but other than that its great.  I rarely use just the TMB portion of the amp.  I will jump the channels to get more of a "Voxy" feel from time to time.  It does take pedals very well.