Yngwie Malmsteen is a legendary guitarist known for his virtuosic playing style and his use of the scalloped fretboard. He is also known for his use of the Marshall amplifier, which has become a staple of his tone over the years. In 1996, Marshall released the YJM100 Yngwie Malmsteen signature amplifier, which was designed to capture the unique tone and playing style of the guitar virtuoso.
The YJM100 is a 100-watt, all-tube amplifier that features a number of modifications and upgrades that were made specifically for Yngwie. These modifications include a unique preamp design that is based on the classic Marshall JMP 2203 amplifier, as well as a specially designed output transformer that is designed to deliver Yngwie’s signature sound.
One of the most distinctive features of the YJM100 is its built-in distortion circuit, which is based on the classic Marshall Guv’nor pedal. This circuit is designed to deliver the kind of high-gain distortion that Yngwie is known for, and it can be easily engaged with the amp’s footswitch. The distortion circuit also features a “boost” mode, which can be used to push the amp into even higher levels of distortion for solos and lead playing.
Another unique feature of the YJM100 is its built-in noise gate, which is designed to help eliminate unwanted noise and hum. The noise gate can be adjusted to different thresholds, and it can be easily turned on and off with the amp’s footswitch. This feature is particularly useful for high-gain playing, where unwanted noise and hum can be a problem.
In addition to its unique features and modifications, the YJM100 also offers a number of classic Marshall features that have made the brand a favorite of guitarists for decades. These include a three-band EQ, a presence control, and a series effects loop that can be used to connect external effects pedals.
The YJM100 also features a distinctive visual style that is inspired by Yngwie’s love of baroque art and classical music. The amp features a gold chassis, a black grille cloth, and a custom “Yngwie Malmsteen” badge on the front. The amp also features a custom-designed speaker cabinet that is loaded with four Celestion Vintage 30 speakers.
So, what does the YJM100 sound like? As you might expect, the amp is capable of delivering a wide range of high-gain distortion tones, from classic Marshall crunch to more modern metal tones. The built-in distortion circuit is particularly impressive, delivering a tight and focused distortion that is perfect for fast, precise playing.
But what really sets the YJM100 apart is its ability to deliver Yngwie’s signature tone. The amp’s preamp design and output transformer are specifically designed to capture Yngwie’s unique playing style and tone, and the amp does an excellent job of delivering the kind of dynamic, expressive sound that he is known for. The amp’s scalloped fretboard design also helps to accentuate the clarity and articulation of Yngwie’s playing, making it a great choice for players who want to emulate his tone and playing style.
Of course, the YJM100 is not without its drawbacks. Like many high-powered amplifiers, it can be quite loud, and it may not be the best choice for players who need to keep the volume down. It is also a fairly expensive amplifier, with a price tag that may be out of reach for some players.
However, for those who are willing to invest in their tone and are looking for an amplifier that can deliver Yngwie’s signature sound, the YJM100 is definitely worth considering. It offers a unique blend of classic Marshall tone and modern high-gain distortion, along
with a number of features and modifications that are specifically designed to capture Yngwie’s unique playing style and tone.
It is worth noting that the YJM100 is not the only Yngwie Malmsteen signature amplifier that Marshall has produced over the years. In fact, Marshall has released a number of different signature amps that have been designed in collaboration with the legendary guitarist.
One of the earliest Yngwie Malmsteen signature amplifiers was the Marshall YJM800, which was released in 2000. This amp was based on the classic Marshall JCM800 amplifier, and it featured a number of modifications and upgrades that were made specifically for Yngwie. These modifications included a built-in distortion circuit, a noise gate, and a specially designed output transformer.
Another Yngwie Malmsteen signature amplifier that was released by Marshall is the YJM50. This amp is a 50-watt, all-tube amplifier that is based on the classic Marshall JMP 1959 amplifier. Like the YJM100, the YJM50 features a number of modifications and upgrades that are designed to capture Yngwie’s unique playing style and tone. These include a built-in distortion circuit, a noise gate, and a specially designed output transformer.
While all of these amplifiers are designed to deliver Yngwie’s signature tone, they each have their own unique characteristics and features. The YJM100 is perhaps the most versatile of the bunch, offering a wide range of distortion tones and classic Marshall features, along with a number of modifications that are designed specifically for Yngwie’s playing style. The YJM800, on the other hand, is based on a classic Marshall design, and it offers a more traditional, vintage tone. The YJM50 falls somewhere in between, offering a blend of classic and modern features and a tone that is somewhere between the YJM100 and the YJM800.
In conclusion, the Yngwie Malmsteen signature Marshall amplifiers are some of the most sought-after amplifiers in the world of guitar. They offer a unique blend of classic Marshall tone and modern high-gain distortion, along with a number of features and modifications that are designed specifically for Yngwie’s playing style and tone. Whether you are a fan of Yngwie’s music or simply looking for an amplifier that can deliver high-gain distortion tones with precision and clarity, the YJM100 and other Yngwie Malmsteen signature amplifiers are definitely worth considering.