Youre essentially right that a Marshall is associated with heavy distorted sounds.
Fenders have a rep for being clean and bright.
I use a Fender amp for that reason. Whatever you use, if it has a reasonable `clean' channel, then you always have a choice, and have potential for a range of sounds. Its easy enough to add an effect or two (adding selective distortion), but you cant `take it away' if its built in.
In reality, these days, all amps try to offer both a clean & a coloured channel. When you check them out, try to do so at your `working volume'. ie: in a soundproof booth or else hire it for a gig.
lets us know how you get on. good luck