What speakers are used in the Roland JC-40?

The JC-40 is equipped with two 10-inch custom-designed speakers. These are configured to deliver a true stereo output for the onboard effects.

What is the power output of this amplifier?

The amplifier provides 40 watts of power. This output is designed to be loud enough for live performances while maintaining the clarity the Jazz Chorus series is known for.

Does the JC-40 come with a cover?

Yes, this specific model package includes a protective cover. This helps prevent dust and scratches during transport to gigs or studio sessions.

What onboard effects are included?

The JC-40 features Roland's signature Dimensional Space Chorus, as well as vibrato, reverb, and a built-in distortion circuit. These can be adjusted via the front panel controls.

Is the Roland JC-40 a stereo amplifier?

Yes, it is a true stereo amplifier. It features stereo inputs and two speakers to properly project its internal stereo effects and external stereo signals from pedals.

How does the JC-40 compare to the JC-120?

The JC-40 is a more compact and manageable version of the JC-120. It offers 40 watts and 10-inch speakers compared to the JC-120's 120 watts and 12-inch speakers, making it easier to transport.

Does the JC-40 have an EQ section?

Yes, the amplifier includes a 3-band EQ. This allows the user to adjust the bass, middle, and treble frequencies to suit their guitar and room acoustics.

Is this amplifier suitable for studio use?

Yes, its versatile connectivity and clear, low-noise clean tone make it a popular choice for studio recording. The stereo outputs and inputs are particularly useful for modern production.

Can the JC-40 handle external pedals well?

The JC-40 is considered an excellent 'pedal platform' because of its high-headroom clean tone. Its stereo input is specifically designed to accommodate stereo delay and modulation pedals.

What is the typical price for the JC-40 with a cover?

The typical price range for this specific amplifier and cover bundle is approximately £719. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

What kind of sound character does the JC-40 have?

It is known for a very bright, clear, and transparent clean sound. It does not colour the guitar's tone as much as traditional valve amplifiers, providing a 'hi-fi' response.

How heavy is the JC-40 compared to traditional combos?

Because it is a solid-state amplifier in a reimagined compact size, it is significantly lighter and more portable than the original JC-120 or many 2x12 valve combos. The included cover further aids its portability.

Gear article

Roland JC-40 Jazz Chorus Stereo Guitar Amplifier

The Roland JC-40 Jazz Chorus is a compact, 40-watt stereo guitar combo amplifier based on the legendary JC-120 architecture. Featuring two 10-inch custom speakers, it delivers a signature clean tone and genuine stereo effects, packaged with a protective cover for transport.

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Background and Design

The Roland JC-40 serves as a modern reissue and compact reimagining of the classic JC-120 Jazz Chorus, a staple of guitar amplification since the 1970s. While the original JC-120 is known for its immense volume and weight, the JC-40 offers the same renowned stereo circuitry in a more manageable form factor. This model is specifically designed to provide the 'Dimensional Space Chorus' sound that defined the series, while meeting the needs of modern guitarists who require portability for gigging and studio work.

Technical Features

The amplifier delivers 40 watts of power through a pair of 10-inch custom-designed speakers. It is a true stereo amplifier, allowing for wide spatial effects that take full advantage of the dual-speaker setup.

The control interface includes: * 3-Band EQ: For precise tonal shaping of the clean signal. * Built-in Effects: Dedicated controls for the iconic Stereo Chorus, Vibrato, and Reverb. * Distortion: An integrated distortion circuit for adding grit to the clean base. * Connectivity: Versatile inputs and outputs suitable for stereo pedalboard integration, studio recording, and live performance.

Sonic Character

The JC-40 is celebrated for its 'transparent' clean tone, providing a flat and honest reproduction of the instrument's character. Unlike valve amplifiers that introduce natural compression and harmonic saturation, the JC-40 remains clear even at higher volumes. The onboard stereo chorus provides a lush, immersive modulation that utilizes both speakers to create a sense of physical depth. Its wide soundstage makes it an ideal platform for guitarists who rely heavily on external effects pedals, particularly delays and modulations.

Practical Application

Included with this specific package is a dedicated protective cover, facilitating safer transport to and from venues. The combination of 40 watts and dual 10-inch speakers ensures the amplifier has sufficient headroom to 'slice through the mix' in a live band setting, yet it remains small enough for home practice or controlled studio environments. It is positioned as a professional-grade tool for those who prioritise the classic Roland clean aesthetic over high-gain valve saturation.

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Frequently asked questions

What speakers are used in the Roland JC-40?: The JC-40 is equipped with two 10-inch custom-designed speakers. These are configured to deliver a true stereo output for the onboard effects.
What is the power output of this amplifier?: The amplifier provides 40 watts of power. This output is designed to be loud enough for live performances while maintaining the clarity the Jazz Chorus series is known for.
Does the JC-40 come with a cover?: Yes, this specific model package includes a protective cover. This helps prevent dust and scratches during transport to gigs or studio sessions.
What onboard effects are included?: The JC-40 features Roland's signature Dimensional Space Chorus, as well as vibrato, reverb, and a built-in distortion circuit. These can be adjusted via the front panel controls.
Is the Roland JC-40 a stereo amplifier?: Yes, it is a true stereo amplifier. It features stereo inputs and two speakers to properly project its internal stereo effects and external stereo signals from pedals.
How does the JC-40 compare to the JC-120?: The JC-40 is a more compact and manageable version of the JC-120. It offers 40 watts and 10-inch speakers compared to the JC-120's 120 watts and 12-inch speakers, making it easier to transport.
Does the JC-40 have an EQ section?: Yes, the amplifier includes a 3-band EQ. This allows the user to adjust the bass, middle, and treble frequencies to suit their guitar and room acoustics.
Is this amplifier suitable for studio use?: Yes, its versatile connectivity and clear, low-noise clean tone make it a popular choice for studio recording. The stereo outputs and inputs are particularly useful for modern production.
Can the JC-40 handle external pedals well?: The JC-40 is considered an excellent 'pedal platform' because of its high-headroom clean tone. Its stereo input is specifically designed to accommodate stereo delay and modulation pedals.
What is the typical price for the JC-40 with a cover?: The typical price range for this specific amplifier and cover bundle is approximately £719. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
What kind of sound character does the JC-40 have?: It is known for a very bright, clear, and transparent clean sound. It does not colour the guitar's tone as much as traditional valve amplifiers, providing a 'hi-fi' response.
How heavy is the JC-40 compared to traditional combos?: Because it is a solid-state amplifier in a reimagined compact size, it is significantly lighter and more portable than the original JC-120 or many 2x12 valve combos. The included cover further aids its portability.