Friedman JEL-20 Head
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Friedman
JEL-20 Head
Product Info
Article Number:
570268
Brand:
Friedman
Model:
JEL-20 Head
Category:
Tube Guitar Heads
Price:
$2,033.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The Friedman JEL-20 is a fantastic tribute amp, nailing Jake E. Lee's signature sounds from his glory days. It's a great option for players seeking that '80s hard rock/metal vibe at a manageable volume, and the built-in cab sim is a real boon for home recording. It’s a premium-priced, focused amp – not a do-everything platform, but it excels at what it’s designed to do.
Product Description
- Friedman JEL-20 Head
- Tube Head for Electric Guitar
- Jake E. Lee Signature Model
- Combines both of Jake's specific sounds in one amp: a sweet and warm classic Plexi and an aggressive '80s master volume amp
- Both tuned to Jake's taste
- SAT switch for additional gain
- compression and saturation
- Internal load resistor and XLR output with cabinet simulation for live use and silent recording
- 2 Channels
- Power: 20 W
- Preamp tubes: 3x 12AX7
- Power amp tubes: 2x EL84
- Controls: Plexi Gain
- Plexi Volume
- JEL Gain (Push-Pull Lo/Hi)
- JEL Master
- Bass
- Middle
- Treble
- Presence
- Switches: Plexi Bright
- Ground Lift
- Cab Sim
- Axis und Level
- 8/16 Ohm
- Loudspeaker outputs: 2 x 6.3 mm jack
- FX loop: Series
- Ultra-Transparent Buffered
- Input: 6.3 mm jack
- FX Loop Send / Return: 2 x 6.3 mm jack
- Foot switch input: 6.3 mm jack
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 457 x 216 x 210 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Colour: Red
- Includes foot switch for channel selection
- Made in USA
PROS
- • Jake E. Lee's signature tones, Plexi warmth and aggressive master volume.
- • SAT switch adds substantial gain and harmonic complexity.
- • Built-in load resistor & XLR output simplify recording and live use.
- • EL84 power tubes provide a uniquely British, chimey high-end response.
CONS
- • 20 watts might be limiting for players needing serious stage volume.
- • Channel switching isn't as seamless as some more modern amp designs.
- • Limited EQ flexibility compared to amps with more extensive control options.
Product Video
Key Features
Power (Watts)
20W
Tubes
3x 12AX7 Preamp, 2x EL84 Power
Channels
2 (Plexi & JEL)
Effects
Series FX Loop, Buffered
Speaker Output
2 x 6.3 mm Jack (8/16 Ohm)
Weight
Approximately 28 lbs (estimated - Friedman doesn't publish exact weights)
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Frequently Asked Questions
The cab sim is surprisingly decent for basic recording, but it won't fully replicate the depth and complexity of a proper 4x12. It's best considered a convenience feature, not a replacement for a real cab.
The JEL channel, especially with the SAT switch engaged, gets quite aggressive and can handle a surprising range of heavier styles. It won't be as tight as a modern high-gain amp, but it has plenty of bite.
It's a bit more responsive to pick attack than some other 20-watt amps; the EL84s break up earlier, offering a more dynamic feel. You'll get usable crunch at lower volumes, but it's not a 'clean' platform like some others.
