Practicing with your guitar at home can be challenging. There’s no amp around, and no matter what you do, you just can’t get the same level of control achieved in professional studios or on stage.
That’s where the Roland 30-watt JC-22 Jazz Chorus comes into play. It’s a compact yet powerful amp that features the remarkable built-in analog chorus effect, in addition to other perks like a bright switch and stereo speakers.
But will the Roland JC-22 live up to the hype? Let’s find out in our comprehensive Roland JC-22 review!
Roland JC-22 Review: At a Glance
Whether you want to practice at home or play for a small audience, the Roland JC-22 Jazz Chorus should be at the top of your list with its stereo speakers and chorus effect.
Pros
- Built-in analog chorus effect
- 2x 6.5” stereo speakers
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy controls
- A wide array of connectivity options
- Retro design
- Switchable stereo/parallel loop
Cons
- Doesn’t provide the best distortion
Analog Chorus Effect
Let’s kickstart our feature roundup with the Roland JC-22’s strongest selling point: the analog chorus effect. It’s the feature that makes the JC-22 stand out from the crowd and the reason why the whole series has been popular for decades.
But what’s so special about the chorus effect, anyway? Put simply, the chorus effect is when the signal comes out thickened by creating multiple copies of the same signal.
In other words, the amp makes it feel like there are multiple guitarists playing in the room playing the same song. It even creates a small delay between each copy to imitate the effect even more.
On top of that, the amp lets you control the chorus effects using the speed and depth knobs, allowing you to pick from a wide array of chorused sounds. You can even use the reverb and chorus together for more pedal-free varieties.
Clean Tone
The Roland Series is known for its iconic clean tone, and the JC-22 proudly carries the legacy of its predecessors with its authentic guitar amplification while keeping its footprint small. Additionally, you get a reverb knob that allows for a more expansive tone.
Stereo Sound
The Roland JC-22 is equipped with two 6.5” stereo speakers that provide a crystal clear stereo sound. The speakers, coupled with the stereo input and the two independent power amps, allow for true-to-life stereo sound with modeling devices and stereo effect pedals.
All-Inclusive Front Panel
The Roland JC-22 is equipped with volume, speed, depth, treble, bass, and reverb knobs, in addition to a bright switch. The panel features a classic design that gives the amp an aesthetically pleasing look, so you can use it as part of your home decor.
Versatile Rear Panel
The Roland JC-22’s back panel is loaded with various connectivity choices. You can either use serial or parallel connections. You also get an effects loop that makes it easier for you to make mono and stereo effects.
What’s more, the headphone inputs and line-outs let you connect the amp to mixing boards of all kinds.
Effects Loop
The JC-22 comes with an effects loop that lets you add effects like reverb, delay, and rotary speaker. The loop works flawlessly with both stereo and mono devices. You can even choose between parallel or serial connections.
Footswitch Control Support
While the Roland JC-22 doesn’t come with a footswitch, you can still get one and use it to switch between presets effortlessly while playing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Pair the Roland JC-22 With a Cabinet?
Definitely! Just like other amps on the market, the Roland JC-22 can be paired with a cab.
Does the Roland JC-22 Produce an Audible Hiss?
Not really. The hiss/distortion that the JC-22 is capable of achieving isn’t that great compared to other tube amps.
Final Thoughts
We hope this Roland JC-22 review was helpful! The Roland JC-22 is the perfect choice for home practice or even small-scale, intimate performances. The speakers are loud enough for home use, and the wide variety of effects makes it an attractive option for anyone who wants to practice at home without getting restricted.
All in all, we’re definitely impressed with the sounds that the Roland JC-22 is capable of achieving. We can’t really think of anything that even comes close to it at this price range. The chorus effect alone makes it a must-have for solo guitarists.
