Help Identifying 100w Head

[darknesscrown]

So here's a head-scratcher (for me anyway).

I've spent a ton of time on various websites trying to get to the bottom of this regarding an amp I've owned since I was 17 (bought it used in like 1996 or 1997), but think I'm missing some piece of this puzzle.

I am confident it's a JCM800 and the year is 1983, see the pics attached for what it looks like. The ink on the "Model" block is really worn away, but it LOOKS like it could be 2203. From my research, this model number was used for 100W heads, so that would make sense, but really hard to tell. The serial number is S/A 09421R, which confuses me a bit because, according to Marshall daters, "S/A" indicated a 50W circuit...but it's 100W with four (4) EL34s and it is made in England.

It has 6 knobs on the front, consistent with what an '800 2203 had from what I have found, however, there is no labeling on the front panel at all. There are two (2) input jacks positioned vertically, not horizontally. Also consistent with the '800 2203s. There is NO FX LOOP on the back at all. Only two (2) speaker outputs, but the other typical controls like impedance setting and your power rating, etc..

Anyone here an expert (or really knowledgeable) on these things? Would appreciate the input.

 

[ricksconnected]

.

 

[mickeydg5]

That is a model 2203, Master Volume; what they call vertical inputs

 

[ricksconnected]

knew it would take ya long mickey.

 

[EL 34]

congratulations. you have the 2203. my favorite marshall.

 

[darknesscrown]

That is a model 2203, Master Volume; what they call vertical inputs

Thank you sir!

 

[darknesscrown]

congratulations. you have the 2203. my favorite marshall.

Yeah, it's a GREAT sounding amp. Unbelievable.

 

[GIBSON67]

Yes , a 2203 but let's have close up pics of the faceplate and gut shots, too.

 

[darknesscrown]

Yes , a 2203 but let's have close up pics of the faceplate and gut shots, too.

Don't think that should be a problem. Will do it later tonight and post shots.

 

[jmp45]

Really odd no labels on front panel. Is it possible original owner could have removed the front panel and flipped front to back? Hard to tell without a close up what is going on there.

 

[darknesscrown]

Really odd no labels on front panel. Is it possible original owner could have removed the front panel and flipped front to back? Hard to tell without a close up what is going on there.

I suppose anything is possible. The residue on the front is actually tape I used to identify which pots were what. It was on there so long it didn't come off easily. That was all done by me, so will need to get some Goo-Gone to get rid of it. When I originally purchased this amp it was residue-free and flat gold on the front. This thing sounds absolutely glorious when let loose though. It's unmistakably a Marshall just by hearing it.

 

[jmp45]

Be careful with goo gone or worse goof off. The later can remove the top coat finish off the face plate. An owner of my 72 major used a magic marker on all the indicators.. 6 knobs, hard to remember I guess. I used goof off on a q-tip to remove, it did but started to take off the top coat under.

 

[darknesscrown]

Yes , a 2203 but let's have close up pics of the faceplate and gut shots, too.

Without taking it completely apart, here's what's under the hood.