Marshall Model 1988 Cabinet
The Marshall Model 1988 is one of the most distinctive speaker cabinets in the company’s history, known for its single 18-inch driver and specialized design tailored specifically for bass guitar. With its deep resonance, high power handling, and compact footprint, the 1988 carved out a unique niche among Marshall’s broader lineup of guitar-focused cabs.
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Technical Overview
The 1988 houses one 18-inch Celestion speaker, rated for 100 watts RMS. This large-format driver was designed to reproduce extremely low frequencies with authority, making it ideal for electric bass players needing deep, full-bodied tone in a smaller cabinet footprint than multi-speaker stacks.
According to the May 1971 catalog, the cabinet was capable of descending to 35 Hz in free air, making it one of the lowest-reaching enclosures in Marshall’s catalog at the time.
Dimensions
- Height: 30 inches (76.24 cm)
- Width: 26 inches (66.08 cm)
- Depth: 12 inches (30.48 cm)
The relatively compact footprint for an 18-inch enclosure made the 1988 a portable powerhouse, especially for players who didn’t want to haul a full stack but still needed serious low-end performance.
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Tonal Character
The single 18" speaker offered a smooth, focused bass response with natural low-end extension. Compared to 4x12 or 8x10 cabinets, the 1988 had a more rounded, less mid-forward tone, which made it perfect for reggae, jazz, funk, and early progressive rock bassists seeking a cleaner, more hi-fi character.
It was commonly paired with the Model 1989 50-watt organ amplifier in catalog-recommended setups but could easily support more powerful heads due to its generous power rating and speaker efficiency.
Construction and Features
As with all early-’70s Marshall gear, the 1988 featured seasoned wood construction, black vinyl covering, recessed side handles, and metal castors for mobility. The cab was closed-back for maximum projection and to support the resonant loading of the 18-inch driver.
Its modest height and deep sonic footprint made it an ideal companion for players who wanted to maximize their stage sound without sacrificing portability.
Collector Appeal
Model 1988 cabinets are rarely seen today, and those with original 18" Celestion bass speakers are especially prized. Because they were often used in heavy live rotation, many surviving units have been modified or repurposed. For collectors and bass players seeking a true piece of early Marshall low-end design, an original 1988 represents a unique opportunity.
Got a rare Marshall bass cab like the 1988?
Scruffs Vintage Guitars is actively buying original Marshall gear from 1962–1974. If you’re sitting on vintage low-end thunder, reach out today for a quick, fair appraisal from trusted experts.
If you wanna sell your vintage Marshall from 1963-1974 click here
