Marshall Model 1983 P.A. Column Cabinet
Compact yet capable, the Marshall Model 1983 was designed for clarity, simplicity, and ease of deployment. As a 2x12 column speaker, it occupied a unique spot in the Marshall P.A. lineup—bridging the gap between larger columns and more portable, low-wattage vocal reinforcement cabinets.
Technical Overview
Each 1983 cabinet is loaded with: 2 x 12-inch Celestion speakers with a power handling capacity of 50 watts per column, the 1983 was tailored to pair with Marshall’s 50-watt P.A. amplifiers, including the Model 1985, Model 1963, and Master P.A. Model 2002. The 12" drivers offered a warm low-mid response, making them ideal for vocals, acoustic guitars, and general-purpose live sound in small venues or rehearsal studios.
Dimensions and Design
According to the May 1971 catalog, the cabinet dimensions are:
Height: 40 inches (101.60 cm)
Width: 14 inches (38.10 cm)
Depth: 10 inches (24.76 cm)
This compact size made the 1983 easy to position on stage or in practice spaces while still providing strong forward projection. Its narrow column shape and vertical orientation allowed it to stand alone or work as part of a stereo or dual-mono P.A. rig.
Setups and Applications
Marshall’s catalogs featured the 1983 in a number of 50-watt P.A. system pairings:
50PA/1 – with Master P.A. Model 2002
50PA/2 – with 8-input Model 1963
50PA/3 – with 4-input Model 1985
Each configuration was ideal for bands or venues that needed clean, low-distortion sound without the size and volume of the larger 4x12 columns. Its 12" speakers made it a more robust option than the 4x10 1991 cabinets, especially when a bit more bass and vocal body was required.
Build Quality
The 1983 featured Marshall’s trusted construction formula:
Seasoned wood cabinet
Black vinyl covering
side handles
Supplied with dual 21' speaker leads and waterproof covers
Despite its smaller size, it was built for life on the road and frequent use, standing up to the demands of daily stage setups or fixed installations.
Collector Notes
The 1983 is among the less commonly seen P.A. cabinets from the early '70s. Its two-speaker layout and relatively low profile made it easy to overlook, but for collectors interested in assembling original Marshall P.A. systems, the 1983 is a valuable piece. Cabinets with original Celestion 12-inch speakers and intact tolex are particularly sought after.
Have a rare Marshall P.A. column like the 1983?
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