Marshall electronic LR300, LR230, LR150 User Manual

LR150, LR230

& LR300

Linear Response Combos

AUDIOSTATE

ENGLISH

1

From Jim Marshall

I would like to thank you personally for selecting

one of our Linear Response amplifiers.

From my early teens right up to the present day I
have spent the majority of my time around other
musicians. My own musical career started as a singer
and moved shortly afterwards into the world of
drumming. As well as playing drums professionally I
also taught a vast number of drummers, many of whom
went onto become professional drummers in their own
right.

I began building Marshall guitar amplifiers in 1962
and have been doing so ever since. Throughout this
time I have met many different musicians, of all levels
and of all abilities and not just guitarists. It is by
listening to these musicians that I have ensured that we
have continued to make the products that are needed
and it is by continuing to listen, that we always will.

As a direct result of this experience with musicians
in general, we have launched the Linear Response
Range. Though Marshall is normally associated with
dedicated guitar amps, in many circumstances a multi­purpose amp is needed to allow a number of different
people to plug in different instruments and microphones
at once. The LR300, LR230 and LR150 are multi­purpose, multi-input amps which can be used for just
about any instrument, (including guitar on the LR300
thanks to the inclusion of our acclaimed speaker
emulation circuitry).

You can rest assured that each Linear Response amp
comes with the reliability you would expect from
Marshall Amplification, plus a superb range of features
and of course, great tone.

I would like to wish you every success with all of
your musical endeavours and also your new Marshall
amp. I am sure that you will find it a pleasure to play
for many years to come.

Yours sincerely,

ENGLISH

2

Introduction

LR300

The Marshall LR300 is a combination of a 5 channel mono mixer, high quality 300
Watt RMS power amp with distortion reducing limiting circuit and a compact high
quality loudspeaker system, intended to provide a very versatile single unit solution
to all applications where linear stage amplification is required. Let us just take a
moment to understand what we mean by Linear Response. Linear response
essentially means getting out what we put in, only louder, without any undue
colouration, distortion, or undesired frequency changes, just as you would expect
from a good PA or HiFi system. Those qualities are desired in a guitar amp, for
instance, but NOT when you are amplifying keyboards, sound modules, pre-recorded
music or vocals. The LR300 allows you to do this with ease as it is self contained in
one package, rather than carrying around (and finding stage space for) the minimum
of three units that would make up a normal PA type set up.

The LR300’s 5 channels come equipped with a variety of input and sound forming
options, plus the power and sonic quality to enable many different live sound uses to
be performed. For instance, the LR300 can be used to mix and amplify up to 5
keyboards, sound modules and/or sequencers, as either a main system at club level
or as a monitor system on louder concert stages. Want to use a guitar as well? No
problem! With the inclusion of the reknowned Marshall loudspeaker emulation
system on channel 4, not only is great clean guitar sound possible, it also allows the
use of external distortion generating effects, i.e. stomp boxes or preamps, without the
sound being harsh and fizzy, unlike a normal PA system or mixer. Great for keyboard
players who double on guitar!

Besides the normal jack line inputs on all channels, channels 1 and 2 also feature
balanced XLR inputs for low impedance microphones for vocal or acoustic instrument
amplifying duties, plus channel 5 also has phono inputs for tape, CD, or even a
computer sound card! Channel 1 also features a dedicated series FX loop, so that you
can add specialised FX to that channel, i.e. how about a harmonizer on your vocals?

With so much versatility on tap the creative horizons of the LR300 are quite
boundless. For example, how about using it as a percussion monitor - miking and
mixing both electronic and acoustic drum sources. Or as a “band in a box” used by
solo/duo artists (or even a full band!) for bar, lounge and cabaret functions where
space and transport is limited, but high quality sound is the order of the day. For the
more technically minded the LR300 also features a 15” premium bass driver and

WARNING!

Please read the following list carefully.

A. ALWAYS ensure that a good quality mains plug is fitted to your Audio State™ conforming to the latest
B.S.I. standards (UK only) lead supplied.
B. ALWAYS ensure that the plug is wired in accordance with the regulations of your country.
C. DO NOT attempt to remove the chassis. There are no user serviceable parts inside your Audio State™.
D. ALWAYS have your Audio State™ serviced or repaired by competent, qualified service technicians.
E. NEVER use your Audio State™ in damp or wet conditions.
F. DO NOT obstruct airflow around the amplifier, a clearance of 30cm is required at the top, back and sides.

G. WARNING This apparatus must be earthed.

ENGLISH

3

compression driven Constant Directivity high frequency horn with a pro grade
crossover and horn protection circuit. Each channel has 3 band EQ, gain and FX send
controls, whilst the master has a parallel FX loop, spring reverb and line outs to send
the mixed signal to a larger PA system or tape recorder if required.

The LR300 features a protection device fitted to the cross over filter to protect the
horn. If pushed too hard into distortion, the horn will be automatically de-activated.
Once the protection device has cooled down sufficiently it will re-activate the horn.

Besides the rugged side carrying handles, the LR300 has built in castor inserts to suit
the optional Marshall castors, available from your Marshall dealer.

LR230

The Marshall LR230 is a stereo 30 Watt 2x10” combo and is ideal for home practice
use providing the user(s) with the opportunity to mix up to 2 stereo sources such as
keyboards, drum machines, tape decks, CD players and sequencers. Other features
include an internal limiter to prevent distortion, a parallel effects loop and an in-built
spring reverb.

LR150

The Marshall LR150 however is ideal for rehearsals and gigging. This 1x15” with
piezo horn combo provides 150 Watts of power and allows a mix of up to 4 different
inputs. The user(s) can send the mixed signal via the Line Out to a P.A. which is
independent of the combo’s master volume allowing the combo to be used as an
onstage monitor. Other features include an internal limiter to prevent distortion, a
parallel effects loop and an in-built spring reverb.

This handbook is designed to help you get the most from your Marshall Linear
Response amplifier. We would suggest that you read this carefully before plugging in.

AUDIOSTATE

LR230

LR230 Front Panel Features (page 36)

Channel 1

1. Phono Input Left

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.
Typical uses of Line Inputs are drum machines,
C.D. players, tape deck, 4 tracks and computers.
This is for connection to the left output of
external device used.

2. Phono Input Right

This is a high impedance unbalanced input. This
is for connection to the right output of external
device used.

3. Left / Mono Jack

This is for either a mono input or the left side of a
stereo input if item 4 is used as well. This is a
high impedance unbalanced input. Typical uses

of Line Inputs are Keyboards, drum machines
and sequencers.

4. Right Jack

For use with the right side of a stereo input when
used in conjunction with item 3. This is a high
impedance unbalanced input.

5. Volume

Controls individual volume level for channel 1.
Overall volume will be governed by the Master
Volume control (item 20).

6. Effect & Reverb

When using the in-built reverb on the LR230 this
control will adjust the amount of reverb on
Channel 1. When using an external effects
processor this will control the amount of effected

ENGLISH

signal through Channel 1, as it dictates the
amount of signal to the Effects Send (item 12).

Note - this will be effected by the Effect Return
control (item 15) and the Master Reverb control
(item 16).

Channel 2

7. Mic Input XLR

Unbalanced low impedance for microphone
input.

8. Left / Mono Jack

This is for either a mono input or the left side of a
stereo input if item 9 is used as well. This is a
high impedance unbalanced input. Typical uses
of Line Inputs are Keyboards, drum machines
and sequencers.

9. Right Jack

For use with the right side of a stereo input when
used in conjunction with item 8. This is a high
impedance unbalanced input.

10. Volume

Controls individual volume level for channel 2.
Overall volume will be governed by the Master
Volume control (item 20).

11. Effect & Reverb

When using the in-built reverb on the LR230 this
control will adjust the amount of reverb on
Channel 2. When using an external effects
processor this will control the amount of effected
signal through Channel 2, as it dictates the
amount of signal to the Effects Send (item 12).

Note - this will be effected by the Effect Return
control (item 15) and the Master Reverb control
(item 16).

Effects

The LR230 features a parallel effects loop to
allow you to use external effects processors.

12. Send Jack

For connection to the input of an external effects
processor (mixed to mono).

13. Return Left / Mono Jack

For connection to the left output of a stereo
external effects processor or from the output of a
mono effects processor.

14. Return Right Jack

For connection to the right output of a stereo
external effects processor.

15. Effect

Controls the ratio of effected to dry signal in your
overall tone. Further control is given by Effect &
Reverb controls on Channel 1 and Channel 2
(item 5 and item 10).

Reverb

16. Reverb

Controls master level of internal reverb.

17. Remote Jack

Allows you to switch internal reverb on and off
from remote footswitch (optional extra, model
no. PEDL-00020)

Master

18. Low

Controls overall low frequencies of combo.

19. High

Controls overall high frequencies of combo.

20. Volume

Controls overall volume of combo. This also
controls the level of the Line Out on the rear
panel.

21. Power Switch

Switches the mains power to the combo and
indicates power status.

LR230 Rear Panel Features (page 36)

1. Mains Input

For connection to the mains. We would always
recommend that your plug is wired in accordance
with your country’s regulations.

2. Headphone Jack

For headphone input when silent practice is the
call of the day.

Note - connecting headphones will disconnect
internal speakers.

Line Out

In some instances you will want to connect the
LR230 to a P.A. system or to recording
equipment. The Line Out level on the LR230 is
controlled by the Master Volume (item 20).

3. Left

For connecting the left hand signal to a P.A.
system or recording equipment.

4. Right

For connecting the right hand signal to a P.A.
system or recording equipment

4

5

LR150 Top Panel Features (page38)

AUDIOSTATE

LR150

ENGLISH

Channel 1 & Channel 2

1. & 5. Low

Controls the low frequencies on Channel 1 and
Channel 2 respectively.

2. & 6. High

Controls the high frequencies on Channel 1 and
Channel 2 respectively.

3. & 7. Effect

When using the in-built reverb on the LR150 this
control will adjust the amount of reverb on
Channel 1 and Channel 2 respectively. When
using an external effects processor this will
control the amount of effected signal, as it
dictates the amount of signal to the Effects Send
(item 10) on the rear panel.

Note - this will be effected by the Effect Return
control (item 19) and the Master Reverb control
(item 20).

4. & 8.Volume

Controls individual volume level for channel 1
and 2 respectively. Overall volume will be
governed by the Master Volume control (item

21).

Channel 3 & Channel 4

9. & 14. Low

Controls the low frequencies on Channel 3 and
Channel 4 respectively.

10. & 15. Mid

Controls the mid frequencies on Channel 3 and
Channel 4 respectively.

11. & 16. High

Controls the high frequencies on Channel 3 and
Channel 4 respectively.

12. & 17. Effect

When using the in-built reverb on the LR150 this
control will adjust the amount of reverb on
Channel 3 and Channel 4 respectively. When
using an external effects processor this control
will control the amount of effected signal, as it
dictates the amount of signal to the Effects Send
(item 10) on the rear panel.

Note - this will be effected by the Effect Return
control (item 19) and the Master Reverb control
(item 20).

13. & 18. Volume

Controls individual volume level for channel 3
and 4 respectively. Overall volume will be
governed by the Master Volume control (item

21).

Master Section

19. Effect Return

This is the master Effects Return and is an effects
mix control, allowing you to decide when using
an external effects processor how much of your
overall sound will be effected. Further control is
given by the individual Effect control which
features on each channel.

20. Master Reverb

The LR150 comes complete with an in-built
spring reverb. The overall reverb level for the
combo is set here, with independent controls
featuring on each channel allowing you to set
independent levels for each channel.

21. Master Volume

The overall volume of the combo is set here. As
with effects and reverb, there is an independent
control on each channel allowing you to set
independent volume levels for each channel.
This will not however affect the level of the Line
Out Jack on the rear panel (item 12).

22. LED

Indicates operating status of combo.

ENGLISH

1, 6, 11, 16 & 23. High

Controls the high frequencies on Channel 1, 2, 3,
4 and 5 respectively.

2, 7, 12, 19, & 24. Effect

When using the in-built reverb on the LR300 this
control will adjust the amount of reverb on
Channel 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. When
using an external effects processor this will
control the amount of effected signal, as it
dictates the amount of signal to the Effects Send
on the rear panel.

Note - this will be affected by the Effect Return
control (item 28) and the Master Reverb control
(item 29).

3, 8, 13, 20 & 25. Mid

Controls the middle frequencies on Channel 1, 2,
3, 4 and 5 respectively.

4, 9, 14, 21 & 26. Vol

Controls individual volume level for Channel 1,
2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Overall volume will be
governed by the Master Volume (item 30).

5, 10, 15, 22 & 27. Low

Controls the Low frequencies on Channel 1, 2, 3,
4 and 5 respectively.

17. Switch - Speaker Emulator

Switches Speaker Emulator on.
The LR300 features Marshall acclaimed speaker

emulation circuitry on Channel 4. When in
operation, this will re-voice this channel to suit
guitar.

18. LED

Indicates when Speaker Emulator is on.

LR300 Top Panel Features (page 40)

AUDIOSTATE

LR300

N.B. Reads from right to left on panel.

1. Mains Input

For connection to the mains. We would always
recommend that your plug is wired in accordance
with your country’s regulations

2. Power

Switches the mains power to the combo

Channel 1

3. Line Input Jack

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.
Typical uses of Line Inputs are Keyboards, drum
machines and sequencers.

Channel 2

4. Line Phono Input

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.
Typical uses of Line Inputs are drum machines,
C.D. players, tape deck, 4 tracks and computers.

5. Line Input Jack

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.

Channel 3

6. Mic Input XLR

This is a low impedance balanced input for use
with microphones.

7. Line Input Jack

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.

Channel 4

8. Mic Input XLR

This is a low impedance balanced input for use
with microphones.

9. Line Input Jack

This is a high impedance unbalanced input.

10. Send Jack

For connection to the input of an external effects
processor.

11. Return Jack

For connection to the output of an external effects
processor.

12. Line Out Jack

The Line Out jack can be used for connection to
recording equipment for direct recording or for
connection to a P.A. system. This is not effected
by the Master Volume (item 21).

13. Remote Jack

Allows you to switch internal reverb on and off
from remote footswitch (optional extra, model
no. PEDL-00020).

LR150 Rear Panel Features (page 38)

6

7

1, 5, 7, 8 & 9. Line Input Jack

This is a high impedance unbalanced input for
channels 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 respectively. Typical uses
of line jack type inputs are drum machines and
keyboards.

2. Mic Input XLR - Channel 1

This is a low impedance balanced input for use
with microphones.

3. Effects Send Jack

For connection to the input of an external effects
processor. For use on Channel 1 only.

4. Effects Return Jack

For connection to the output of an external effects
processor. For use on Channel 1 only.

6. Mic Input XLR - Channel 2

This is a low impedance balanced input for use
with microphones.

10. Line Inputs Phono

These are high impedance unbalanced inputs.
Typical uses of Line, phono type inputs are drum
machines, C.D. players, tape deck, 4 tracks and
computers.

11. Line Out Phono

The Line Out can be used for connection to
recording equipment for direct recording or for
connection to a P.A. system. This is not affected
by the Master Volume.

12. Send Jack

For connection to the input of an external effects
processor.

13. Return Jack

For connection to the output of an external effects
processor.

14. Remote Footswitch

Allows you to switch internal reverb on and off
from remote footswitch,
(optional extra, model no. PEDL-00020).

15. Power

Switches the mains power to the combo.

16. Mains Input

For connection to the mains. We would always
recommend that your plug is wired in accordance
with your country’s regulations.

LR300 Rear Panel Features (page 40)

ENGLISH

28. Effect Return

This is the master Effects Return and is an effects
mix control, allowing you to decide when using
an external effects processor how much of your
overall sound will be effected. Further control is
given by the individual Effect control which
features on each channel.

29. Master Reverb

The LR300 comes complete with an in-built
spring reverb. The overall reverb level for the
combo is set here, with independent controls
featuring on each channel allowing you to set
independent levels for each channel.

30. Master Volume

The overall volume of the combo is set here. As
with effects and reverb, there is an independent
control on each channel allowing you to set
independent volume levels for each channel.
This will not however affect the level of the Line
Out Phono on the rear panel (item 11).

31. LED

Indicates operating status of combo.

CHANNEL 2 EFFECTS REVERB MASTER

LINEAR RESPONSE AMPLIFIER

CHANNEL 1

010

010

VOLUME

EFFECT

& REVERB

RIGHT

MIC

LEFT/ MONO

R

010010

010

010

-10dB+10dB

-10dB+10dB

010

RIGHT

LEFT/ MONO

RETURN RIGHT

RETURN LEFT/MONO

VOLUME

SEND

REVERB

EFFECT REMOTE

LOW

HIGH

VOLUME

L

POWER

01

LINE INPUT

EFFECT

& REVERB

AUDIOSTATE

LR230

WARNING!:

SHOCK HAZARD. DO NOT OPEN. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE. THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.

AVIS!:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR. POUR EVITER LES
RISQUES D’INCENDIE ET DE DECHARGES ELECTRIQUES, N’EXPOSEZ JAMAIS CET
APPAREIL A L’HUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE. CONNECTER CET APPAREIL A LA TERRE.

CAUTION!:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE
COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.

ATTENTION!:

POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE DECHARGES
ELECTRIQUES, NE PAS OUVRIR LE COUVERCLE. CET APPAREIL NE COMPORTE
AUCUNE PIECE SUSCEPTIBLE D’ETRE REPAREE PAR VOS SOINS. FAITES
TOUJOURS APPEL A UN TECHNICIEN QUALIFIE POUR TOUTE REPARATION.

HEADPHONE

LEFT RIGHT

LINE OUT

MAINS INPUT

230V ~ 50 Hz

100 Watts

OUTPUT

2x30 Watts RMS into 4 Ω

Manufactured in England by:

Marshall Amplification plc, Bletchley,

Milton Keynes, England.

1

1

2

3 4

2

4

5

6

7

9

10

11

12

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

3

8 13

LR230 - Front Panel

LR230 - Rear Panel

36 37

VOLUMEEFFECT

MID

EFFECTEFFECT VOLUME EFFECT VOLUME

-10dB +10dB -10dB +10dB

-10dB +10dB

-10dB +10dB

CHANNEL 1 CHANNEL 2 CHANNEL 3

CHANNEL 4

MASTER

LOW HIGH LOW HIGH

0 10 0 10 0 10 0 10 0 10 0 10 0 10 0 10

-10dB +10dB

-10dB +10dB

LOW MID

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

-10dB +10dB

-10dB +10dB

LOW

VOLUME

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

0 10

0 10

EFFECT

RETURN

MASTER
REVERB

0 10

MASTER
VOLUME

ON

AUDIOSTATE

LR150

LINEAR RESPONSE AMPLIFIER

LINE

MIC

LINE

MIC

CHANNEL 4 CHANNEL 3 CHANNEL 2 CHANNEL 1

REMOTE

LINE OUT

RETURN

SEND

LINE

POWER

LINE

LINE

OUTPUT

150 Watts RMS into 8 Ω

1 2

3 4

5

12

3

45678910111213

7

6

8

9

12 13

10 11 14

17

15 16

19 20 21

22

18

LR150 - Top Panel

LR150 - Rear Panel

38 39

4140

CHANNEL 4CHANNEL 5MASTER CHANNEL 3 CHANNEL 2 CHANNEL 1

FOOTSWITCH RETURN SEND RETURN MICSEND LINELINELINELINELINELINE

LINE
OUT

POWER

WARNING!:

SHOCK HAZARD. DO NOT OPEN. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT

EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.

AVIS!:

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR. POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D’INCENDIE ET DE DECHARGES

ELECTRIQUES, N’EXPOSEZ JAMAIS CET APPAREIL A L’HUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE. CONNECTER CET APPAREIL A LA TERRE.

CAUTION!:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS

INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

ATTENTION!:

POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE DECHARGES ELECTRIQUES, NE PAS OUVRIR LE COUVERCLE.
CET APPAREIL NE COMPORTE AUCUNE PIECE SUSCEPTIBLE D’ETRE REPAREE PAR VOS SOINS. FAITES TOUJOURS APPEL
A UN TECHNICIEN QUALIFIE POUR TOUTE REPARATION.

WARNING!:

DO NOT

OBSTRUCT GRILLES

AVIS!:

NE PAS

OBSTRUER LES GRILLES

OUTPUT

300 Watts RMS into 4 Ω

Made in England by:

Marshall Amplification plc,

Bletchley, Milton Keynes,

England.

MAINS INPUT

120V ~ 60 Hz
500 Watts

MIC

CHANNEL 1CHANNEL 2CHANNEL 3CHANNEL 4CHANNEL 5

AUDIOST ATE

LR300

MASTER

LINEAR RESPONSE AMPLIFIER

-10dB +10dB

MID

-10dB +10dB

LOW

0 10

-10dB +10dB

MID

-10dB +10dB

LOW

-10dB +10dB

MID

-10dB +10dB

LOW

-10dB +10dB

MID

-10dB +10dB

LOW

-10dB +10dB

MID

-10dB +10dB

LOW

EFFECT

RETURN

MASTER
VOLUME

MASTER
REVERB

0 10

EFFECT

0 10

VOL

0 10

EFFECT

0 10

VOL

0 10

EFFECT

0 10

VOL

0 10

EFFECT

0 10

VOL

0 10

EFFECT

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

POWER ON

SPEAKER

EMULATOR

-10dB +10dB

HIGH

VOL

1 6 11 16

20

21

22

25

26

27

231817

2

8

10

3

4

5

7

9

12

13

14

15

19 24

28 29 30

31

LR300 - Top Panel

LR300 - Rear Panel

15

16

14 13 12

11

10

9 8

7 6 5 4 3 12