Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $3,440

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Dive into vintage soundscapes with the Carr Mercury, a combo guitar amplifier that seamlessly bridges the gap between classic tones and modern versatility. This boutique amplifier is renowned for its ability to deliver rich, tube-driven sound, making it a favorite among purists and contemporary musicians alike. The Carr Mercury features a single-channel design, providing you with straightforward control over your sound, while its integrated attenuator allows you to achieve cranked amp tones at any volume level.

One of the key highlights of the Carr Mercury is its hand-wired circuitry, which ensures superior sound quality and reliability. This amplifier is equipped with four different power settings, ranging from 8 watts down to just a fraction of a watt, so you can tailor your output to suit any environment—from intimate studio sessions to live performances. The Mercury's impressive tube complement includes a pair of EL84 power tubes, which contribute to its dynamic response and tonal richness.

With a meticulously crafted cabinet housing a 12-inch speaker, this amplifier is designed to deliver a full-bodied sound that captures the essence of your guitar's character. Whether you're chasing the smooth sustain of blues, the grit of classic rock, or the clarity of jazz, the Carr Mercury offers a versatile platform for exploration.

Key Features:

  • Hand-wired circuitry for superior sound quality
  • Single-channel design with straightforward controls
  • Integrated attenuator for cranked tones at any volume
  • Four power settings: 8 watts to less than 1 watt
  • Tube complement includes EL84 power tubes
  • 12-inch speaker for full-bodied sound

Product specs

Brand Carr
Model Mercury V 16-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Finish Various
Year 2017 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 16
Power Tube Type 6V6
Reverb Spring Reverb
Speaker Configuration 1x12"

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Carr Mercury V for blues and rock music?

The Carr Mercury V offers rich, warm tube-driven tones ideal for blues and rock. Its 6V6 power tubes provide a smooth overdrive and creamy sustain, while the spring reverb adds depth and ambiance to your sound.

Is the Carr Mercury V suitable for home practice and small gigs?

Yes, the 16-watt output of the Carr Mercury V is perfect for home practice and small gigs, offering ample volume without overwhelming your space. Its single-channel design and built-in effects make it versatile for various settings.

How does the spring reverb in the Carr Mercury V enhance the sound?

The spring reverb in the Carr Mercury V adds a classic, lush ambiance to your tone, enhancing depth and dimension. It's particularly effective for creating spacious, atmospheric sounds in both live and studio settings.

Does the Carr Mercury V take pedals well?

Yes, the Carr Mercury V is known for its pedal-friendly nature, allowing effects pedals to integrate smoothly with its natural tube tone. This makes it a versatile choice for guitarists who rely on external effects.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Carr Mercury

Video thumbnail for Carr Mercury by ProGuitarShopDemos

Carr Mercury

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Carr MERCURY V Amplifier Demo! Classic Tones from Rodney Gene Junior by Rodney Gene Junior

Carr MERCURY V Amplifier Demo! Classic Tones from Rodney Gene Junior

Rodney Gene Junior

Rodney Gene Junior

Video thumbnail for Carr Mercury | A Look Beneath the Hood by Psionic Audio

Carr Mercury | A Look Beneath the Hood

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound at quiet volumes due to effective attenuator

  • Versatile tone, good for clean and high-gain sounds

  • Unique blend of Fender and Marshall characteristics

  • Interactive tone stack and reverb enhance sound quality

  • Multiple gain settings provide extensive sound shaping

  • Built-in attenuator maintains tone at lower volumes

  • 12” speaker offers big sound, comparable to 2x12 cabinets

  • High-quality build, described as "built like a brick house"

  • Takes pedals excellently for expanded sound possibilities

  • Effective EQ options to match any guitar or style

CONS

  • Some hiss noticed at higher gain settings

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Carr Mercury.

Comparisons

  • The Mercury V is noted for superior high-gain performance compared to the Suhr Badger 18, with a similar midrange tone.

    Source
  • The Carr Mercury is noted for its unique EL34 single-ended sound, potentially described as tweed-like, differentiating it from the Mercury V's British voicing.

    Source
  • For those seeking a Fender-like clean and reverb, the Fender '64 Custom Deluxe Reverb is more suitable than the Carr Mercury V.

    Source
  • The Carr Mercury is a Marshall-inspired amp, unlike the Fender-voiced alternatives like Carr's Impala, Rambler, Skylark, or Telstar.

    Source
  • The Tone King Gremlin's Iron Man attenuator allows for cranked tones at low volumes, providing a different value proposition compared to standalone Carr amps.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Mercury V is praised for its versatility across different settings, making it suitable for varied musical styles.

    Source
  • The Carr Mercury offers a smooth transition into distortion, with balanced midrange, making it ideal for psychedelic rock with heavy pedal use.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Owners appreciate the line out option on the Mercury V, which enhances its functionality and versatility.

    Source
  • Carr Mercury offers effective power scaling, with some users noting it's even more efficient than other Carr models like the Telstar.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used Mercury V is listed at 3600 CAD, highlighting its premium pricing in the market.

    Source
  • Carr Mercury is noted for being hand-built, contrasting with the Tone King Gremlin's PCB construction, which may influence long-term durability perceptions.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Carr Mercury is praised for its exceptional craftsmanship, featuring high-quality components and a design with no limitations.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners find the Tone King Gremlin's cost is driven by its attenuator, suggesting a preference for a Fender Blues Jr paired with an external attenuator for better value.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Carr Mercury Guitar Amp | WIRED

wired.com

The Carr Mercury amp shines with its rich vintage tones and impressive power scaling that allows for low-volume play without sacrificing sound quality. Its hand-wired build and stunning design are standout features, making it a treat for any serious guitarist. However, the steep price tag and the tricky access to some jacks may deter casual players. While it excels in home use and recording, it may not be the best fit for larger gigs. Overall, it’s a sublime choice for tone aficionados willing to invest.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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1 star
M

Original Carr Mercury 8-Watt

There are three drive channels on this amp. An exquisite clean and two dirty options. The dirty options are a total tone suck. I keep the amp in clean mode at all times and use a Benson Preamp when necessary for drive. I haven't owned a Mercury V but I've played one at a local shop. These are two different beasts. I'm surprised the new version kept the name. I don't like the V as much as I do the Original 8-Watt.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Gustavo Cerati uses Carr Mercury

Gustavo Cerati

Singer, Guitarist

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via YouTube

En el documental sobre la grabación de Fuerza Natural (minuto 10:45) podemos ver el Carr Mercury V al lado del Vox AC30. Este amplificador también podemos verlo de fondo en una entrevista a Cerati hecha por Much Music en 2009.

See how Alan Sparhawk uses Carr Mercury

Alan Sparhawk

Singer, Guitarist

Low

...
Verified via Silbermedia

In an interview with Silbermedia, Alan Sparhawk discusses using the Carr Mercury amplifier during his performances with Low and Retribution Gospel.

See how Eric Cannata uses Carr Mercury

Eric Cannata

Guitarist

Young the Giant

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this June 26, 2013 Instagram post by bandmate Payam Doostzadeh. Given the post's date and its feature of producer Justin Meldal-Johnson, the Mercury may have been used on Mind Over Matter. It also appears in this June 26, 2014 Instagram post by Cannata.

@eric_cannata trying out his new mercury amp @justinmeldaljohnsen

See how Mitch Easter uses Carr Mercury

Mitch Easter

Singer, Guitarist

The dB’s

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

“'Break Through' is a ’68 SG Special plugged straight into a 1975 Marshall 100-watt Super Lead with 6550s, and the lead lines are a ’79 Tokai Les Paul Reborn through a Carr Mercury."

Album Usage

The Carr Mercury has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Carr Mercury, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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