Roland JC-120

The Roland JC-120, also known as the Jazz Chorus, is a legendary solid-state guitar amplifier that has made a significant impact on the music world since its introduction.

History of the Roland JC-120

• Introduction (1975): The JC-120 was launched in 1975 by Roland Corporation as one of the first amplifiers to feature built-in chorus and vibrato effects. It was designed to provide a clean, high-fidelity sound that could withstand the rigors of live performance. The JC-120 utilized solid-state circuitry, which was a departure from the tube amplifiers that dominated the market at the time.
• Design Features: The JC-120 is powered by two 60-watt amplifiers driving dual 12-inch speakers, providing a total output of 120 watts. Its signature sound comes from its unique chorus effect, created by modulating two separate signals—one dry and one wet—resulting in a lush, spacious sound. The amp also includes reverb and distortion effects, making it versatile for various musical styles.
• Legacy: Over the years, the JC-120 has become a staple in both live and studio settings, known for its reliability and clean tone. Its ability to handle pedals effectively has earned it a reputation as a "pedal platform" amp, making it popular among guitarists who use various effects. The JC-120 has been embraced by numerous genres, from rock and jazz to reggae and metal.
• Cultural Impact: The JC-120's clean sound became synonymous with many iconic recordings and performances from the late 1970s onward. Its built-in effects were groundbreaking at the time, influencing countless musicians and leading to its widespread adoption in professional settings.

Popular Settings

• Clean Tones:
  • Set Volume around 5-6 for warm, clean sounds.
  • Treble at 6, Mid at 5, and Bass at 4 for balanced clarity.
  • Ideal for jazz or clean rock styles.
• Chorus Settings:
  • For lush chorus effects: set Depth around 5 and Speed around 3-4.
  • This configuration enhances the spaciousness of the sound without overwhelming it.
• Overdriven Tones:
  • Increase Volume to 7-8 for natural tube-like saturation.
  • Treble can be set higher (7-8) for brightness while keeping Bass around 4-5.
  • Great for blues-rock or classic rock tones.
• Reverb Settings:
  • Use Hall reverb with approximately 1500ms delay for added depth.
  • Adjust Level to taste based on room acoustics.

Notable Players

• Pat Metheny: The jazz guitarist is known for his use of the JC-120 in both live performances and recordings, appreciating its clean tones and effective built-in effects.
• Andy Summers (The Police): Summers used the JC-120 extensively during his time with The Police, contributing to their signature sound with its lush chorus effect.
• James Hetfield (Metallica): Hetfield has been known to use the JC-120 for clean tones on tracks like "One," showcasing its versatility in heavy metal contexts.
• Kirk Hammett (Metallica): Hammett has also utilized the JC-120 in his rig for its reliable clean sound and ability to handle effects well.
• Johnny Marr (The Smiths): Marr's use of the JC-120 helped define The Smiths' jangly guitar sound and remains influential among indie rock musicians.
• Other Artists: The amp has been embraced by numerous artists across genres, including Robert Smith (The Cure), Joe Strummer (The Clash), and Wes Borland (Limp Bizkit), further solidifying its status as an iconic amplifier.

Summary

The Roland JC-120 continues to be celebrated for its innovative design, rich tonal capabilities, and versatility across genres. Its legacy as one of the most influential solid-state amplifiers endures as new generations of musicians discover its unique sound.