Product: Marshall 3505 Micro Bass Stack
Price Paid: Pounds Sterling # 99 used
Submitted
10/02/1998
at
01:30pm
by
Paul Knight
Email: paul dot knight<at>gmx dot de
Features
:
8
The Marshall 3505 30W Micro Bass stack was introduced in 1987 and remained in production until 1991. My particular 3505 is a 1988 production model and would have cost new around GBP # 220 at that time. I bought mine used in 1993 and it has proved an invaluable addition to my bass setup.
Being a 30W amp, I use it mainly as a second amp for practising and for that purpose it is just fine. The compact size ( approx. 37 cm wide, 95 cm high ? including cabs) means that you can take it just about anywhere. It sounds good whatever I play through it ? after all it's a Marshall ! The 3505 isn't really intended as a stage amp ? so unless you are at a very small venue, it's going to need miking up to the PA.
The front of the 3505 head features two input jacks (one high Z, one low Z), standard rotary knobs for Gain, Volume, Treble, Mid and Bass, a Line Out jack and the on/off rocker switch. I have a BOSS TU-12P tuner permanently hooked up the Line Out for convenience.
The rear panel contains two speaker output jacks (for the two 1x10 cabs which come with it), a headphone jack which mutes the speaker outputs (a useful feature sometimes when practising) and the mains power connector.
The only feature that I really miss is an effects loop ? everything else found on a bass amp in this class is already there.
Sound Quality
:
8
I play mainly two basses through my 3505 ? a cheap and nasty fretless Vantage and a somewhat exquisite Jaydee Supernatural active bass. Both basses sound great and the two 1x10 cabs give a good punchy sound when slapping the Jaydee. The amp doesn't hiss or buzz much and I've never had any major feedback problems.
Reliability
:
10
It's a Marshall ? and the 3505 Micro Bass is just as robust as the full-size Marshall amps. The casing is rock solid and it would probably survive toppling off the stage without any problems. My 3505 has been practically in daily use for the last 5 years and I've never had any problems ? not even a blown fuse.
Customer Support
:
10
Marshall UK are great for support. Soon after I bought my 3505, I contacted them and they sent me details such as year of manufacture, list price, wiring diagrams etc. They are also very helpful and friendly when it comes to sending brochures etc. I've never had a breakdown, and don't expect one either.
Overall Rating
:
9
I would certainly try and replace my 3505 Micro Bass if it got lost or stolen ? however they appear to be quite rare on the used market. I find it the ideal bass amp for practising because the 30W output is sufficient for that and if I want to go to a quick jam session, it's easy to transport given its compact size and relatively light weight. For live stuff however, it is too underpowered without a PA and I recommend that you consider getting something else ? probably a bigger Marshall bass amp.
