Choosing between the Marshall Origin 20 and 50 can be a tough decision for guitarists. Both amps offer that iconic Marshall tone, but with different power ratings and features. This article will delve into the key differences between the Marshall Origin 20 and 50, helping you decide which amp best suits your needs, whether you’re a bedroom player, a gigging musician, or a studio enthusiast.
Power and Headroom: 20 Watts vs. 50 Watts
The most obvious difference between these two amps lies in their power output. The Origin 20, as the name suggests, packs 20 watts of power, while the Origin 50 delivers a significantly louder 50 watts. This power difference translates to headroom – the amount of clean volume an amp can produce before distorting. The Origin 50 has considerably more headroom, meaning you can crank it up louder and maintain a cleaner tone before it starts to break up. For smaller venues and practice sessions, the Origin 20 provides ample volume. However, if you’re playing larger gigs or need pristine cleans at higher volumes, the Origin 50 is the better choice.
Features and Controls: Subtle Yet Significant Differences
Both the Origin 20 and 50 share a similar control layout, featuring gain, bass, middle, treble, and master volume knobs. However, the Origin 50 incorporates a tilt control, which allows you to shift the tonal emphasis between the bass and treble frequencies, providing a wider range of sonic possibilities. This added control makes the Origin 50 more versatile for different genres and playing styles. Both amps include a Powerstem switch, allowing you to reduce the output power for lower volume practice or recording. The Origin 20 offers power reduction to 3 watts, whereas the Origin 50 reduces to 10 watts.
Tone and Character: Classic Marshall Crunch
Both the Origin 20 and 50 deliver that signature Marshall crunch, albeit with subtle differences. The Origin 20, with its lower wattage, breaks up earlier, offering a rich, saturated overdrive at lower volumes. This makes it ideal for home practice and recording scenarios where you want that classic overdriven tone without deafening your neighbours. The Origin 50, on the other hand, maintains a cleaner tone at higher volumes, allowing you to push the amp harder and achieve a tighter, more controlled overdrive.
Speaker Size and Projection: Impact on Overall Sound
The Origin 20 typically features a single 10-inch Celestion speaker, while the Origin 50 often comes equipped with a 12-inch Celestion speaker. The larger speaker in the Origin 50 contributes to a fuller, more resonant tone with improved bass response and greater projection. This makes the Origin 50 a more suitable choice for gigging musicians who need their amp to cut through the mix.
Which Marshall Origin is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Marshall Origin 20 and 50 comes down to your individual needs and playing style. For home practice, recording, and smaller gigs, the Origin 20 is a fantastic option, offering that classic Marshall tone in a compact and affordable package. If you need more headroom, greater versatility, and a bigger, bolder sound for larger gigs and rehearsals, the Origin 50 is the clear winner.
“The Origin 20 is a perfect bedroom amp, but when I need that extra punch on stage, I always reach for my Origin 50,” says Alex Thompson, a session guitarist based in Nashville.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Marshall Tone
Both the Marshall Origin 20 and 50 are excellent amplifiers that deliver the iconic Marshall sound. By carefully considering your power requirements, desired features, and playing environment, you can choose the amp that best suits your needs and helps you unleash your inner rock star. Whether you opt for the Marshall Origin 20 Vs 50, you’re guaranteed a tone that’s both classic and inspiring.
Close-Up of Marshall Origin Control Panel
FAQ
-
Can I use the Origin 20 for gigs?
Yes, the Origin 20 is suitable for smaller gigs and rehearsals. -
What’s the difference between the Powerstem settings?
The Powerstem allows you to reduce the amp’s output power for lower volume playing. -
Does the Origin 50 have an effects loop?
Yes, both the Origin 20 and 50 feature an effects loop. -
What type of music are these amps best suited for?
These amps excel at rock, blues, and hard rock. -
Can I use pedals with these amps?
Yes, both amps work well with a variety of pedals. -
Which amp is better for recording?
Both are suitable, but the Origin 20’s lower wattage can be easier to manage in a studio setting. -
What speakers come with these amps?
The Origin 20 typically has a 10-inch speaker, while the Origin 50 usually features a 12-inch speaker.
For further assistance, please contact us at Phone Number: 0902476650, Email: [email protected] Or visit us at: 139 Đ. Võ Văn Kiệt, Hoà Long, Bà Rịa, Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu, Việt Nam. We have a 24/7 customer support team.
