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Detailed list of the JEL-20 amplifier's technical features, power, tubes, and dimensions.
Comprehensive guide to understanding and using each control on the JEL-20's front panel.
Information on all rear panel jacks, impedance selector, presence control, and fuse types.
Explanation of warning symbols and essential safety guidelines for operating the amplifier.
Details on the 5-year amplifier warranty, tube warranty, and the process for product returns.
How to contact customer support, register your product, and find assistance.
Detailed list of the JEL-20 amplifier's technical features, power, tubes, and dimensions.
Comprehensive guide to understanding and using each control on the JEL-20's front panel.
Information on all rear panel jacks, impedance selector, presence control, and fuse types.
Explanation of warning symbols and essential safety guidelines for operating the amplifier.
Details on the 5-year amplifier warranty, tube warranty, and the process for product returns.
How to contact customer support, register your product, and find assistance.
The Friedman JEL-20 is a 20-watt all-tube amplifier head designed in collaboration with Jake E. Lee and Dave Friedman, offering a compact package for Lee's signature tones. It's engineered to deliver both the sweet, warm sound of a classic Plexi and the more aggressive, boosted tones reminiscent of 80s master volume amps, all tweaked to Jake E. Lee's personal taste. The amplifier is praised for its ability to capture the "70s heart" of rock tones while providing the "aggression and scream" needed for 80s sounds.
The JEL-20 features a two-channel design, allowing users to switch between a "Clean" (Plexi) channel and a "Dirty" (JEL Drive) channel. The front panel controls are intuitive and designed for easy tone shaping. The POWER SWITCH turns the unit on, initiating the amplifier's operation. The SAT SWITCH is a key feature, primarily intended to add gain, compression, and saturation to the sound. When engaged, it's normal for the volume level to drop, which can be compensated for using the amp's master volume. This switch works on both channels, offering versatility in tone sculpting.
Channel selection is managed by the CHANNEL SELECTOR SWITCH, which toggles between the Clean and Dirty channels when a footswitch is not connected. This allows for quick changes between different tonal characteristics. The BRIGHT SWITCH is a three-position switch that adjusts the overall brightness of the Plexi Channel, providing further control over the high-end response.
Each channel has its own volume control: MASTER-2 CONTROL for the JEL Drive channel and MASTER-1 CONTROL for the JEL Plexi channel. This independent control allows users to balance the volume levels between the two channels effectively. The amplifier also includes a shared EQ section with TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS controls. The TREBLE CONTROL adds or removes treble, with a recommended starting point of 5. The MIDDLE CONTROL adjusts the midrange, with lower settings scooping the mids and higher settings allowing the guitar to cut through the mix. The BASS CONTROL manages the bottom end, and users may want to reduce it at louder volumes, with a starting range of 7-10 for bedroom volumes.
Gain controls are also separate for each channel. The GAIN-2 CONTROL adds gain and distortion for the JEL Drive channel, allowing users to dial in their desired level of overdrive. The PULL GAIN SWITCH on the JEL Drive channel offers a choice between a lower-gain, 800-esque sound and a higher-gain boosted tone. The GAIN-1 CONTROL adds gain and distortion for the JEL Plexi channel. The INPUT jack is where the guitar is connected.
Beyond the front panel, the JEL-20 incorporates several advanced features for modern players. It includes an internal load and a cab-simulated XLR output, allowing for direct recording or sending a signal to a front-of-house mixer without needing a speaker cabinet. This analog circuit is designed to provide a high-quality direct output, comparable to intricate computer-based IRs. The ability to play "silently" means the amp can be safely operated without a speaker cabinet connected, making it ideal for studio work or practice where volume is a concern. The XLR output features a ground-lift, level control, and switches for center/edge of speaker cone simulation, offering flexibility in shaping the direct sound.
The JEL-20 is also designed to integrate seamlessly with pedals. It handles boosts, ODs, phasers, flangers, tremolos, and wahs exceptionally well. The ultra-transparent buffered, series effects loop is the same one used in Friedman's other amplifiers, including the BE-100, and is optimized for time-based effects pedals and rack units.
Maintenance and safety are emphasized in the manual. Users are instructed to keep the manual for future reference and to heed all warnings. The amplifier should not be opened or serviced by unauthorized personnel due to the risk of electrical shock. All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel or an authorized Friedman dealer. The manual provides detailed instructions on fuse replacement, specifying the correct type and rating for both the HT FUSE (power tube related) and the MAIN FUSE (overall power supply). Persistent blowing of fuses, even with new tubes, indicates a serious problem requiring professional diagnosis.
The amplifier is constructed with a solid Baltic Birch cabinet and features a distinctive red tolex with white piping. The rear panel includes the FOOTSWITCH JACK for channel selection, SEND and RETURN jacks for the effects loop, BALANCED OUT (XLR), SPEAKER OUT JACKS (two), and an IMPEDANCE SELECTOR switch (8 or 16 Ohm). The PRESENCE CONTROL on the rear panel adjusts the upper mids and highs in the power amp section globally across all channels, with a note that this control may be "scratchy," which is normal. The MAINS INPUT is for the IEC power cord.
Friedman offers a limited 5-year warranty to the original purchaser, covering defects in material and workmanship, with a dated sales receipt required for coverage. Tubes are covered by a separate 90-day warranty. The warranty is voided by unauthorized repairs or modifications. Return procedures for defective products involve contacting Friedman for a Return Authorization Number and shipping the product, freight pre-paid and insured, in its original packaging. Customer support is available via email for warranty and product questions.
General| Type | Tube |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 20 Watts |
| Preamp Tubes | 3 x 12AX7 |
| Power Tubes | 2 x EL84 |
| Weight | 22 lbs |
| Effects Loop | Yes, Series |
| Footswitchable | No |
| Channels | 1 channel |
| Speaker Impedance | 8 or 16 Ohms |
| Controls | Treble, Middle, Bass |
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