A seriously cool and unique 1972 Marshall JMP 1959 Super Lead 100-watt head, extensively modified by renowned Swedish amp technician Tommy Folkesson to his MK IV B specification.

The Folkesson conversion transforms the original two-channel Super Lead into a highly versatile four-channel amplifier, with dedicated Clean, Crunch, Crude and Lead channels. It also adds an effects loop, making this a considerably more flexible amplifier than a stock 1959 while retaining the huge sound, response and authority of the vintage 100-watt Marshall platform underneath.

The four channels cover a very wide range of gain levels:

• Clean – the cleanest and most open setting
• Crunch – classic overdriven Marshall territory
• Crude – heavier, more aggressive gain
• Lead – the highest-gain setting for saturated rhythm and lead sounds

The extensive additional controls are located on the rear panel, with the FX loop and footswitch connections on the front.

This is very much a player’s vintage Marshall rather than a collector-grade original example. The amplifier has seen plenty of use over its more than 50 years, and the Folkesson conversion substantially changes the original Super Lead circuit. The result, however, is an extremely versatile and powerful vintage Marshall with a character all of its own.

The original 1972 Marshall inspection/assembly label is still present inside the chassis.

Cosmetically, the amp shows significant honest wear from decades of use. There are various marks, scuffs and tears to the covering, particularly around the corners, as well as wear to the front and rear panels. Please study the photographs carefully – I have tried to show the condition as clearly as possible.

This is not the 1972 Super Lead for someone looking for an untouched museum piece. It is something rather different: a fascinating piece of Scandinavian Marshall history and a formidable player’s amp, combining an early-’70s 100-watt Marshall platform with one of Tommy Folkesson’s extensive multi-channel conversions.

If you want a completely original vintage Super Lead, this isn't it. If you want a vintage 100-watt Marshall that can take you from clean through classic crunch to seriously high-gain lead sounds – with an FX loop thrown in – this is a very unusual machine.

Please see all photos for details of the modifications and cosmetic condition.