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Average Price: $3,440
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$701+
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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
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What kind of tones can I expect from the Carr Mercury V for blues and rock music?
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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.
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Is the Carr Mercury V suitable for home practice and small gigs?
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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.
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How does the spring reverb in the Carr Mercury V enhance the sound?
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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.
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Does the Carr Mercury V take pedals well?
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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.
Videos
ProGuitarShopDemos
Carr Mercury
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent sound at quiet volumes due to effective attenuator
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Versatile tone, good for clean and high-gain sounds
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Unique blend of Fender and Marshall characteristics
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Interactive tone stack and reverb enhance sound quality
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Multiple gain settings provide extensive sound shaping
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Built-in attenuator maintains tone at lower volumes
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12” speaker offers big sound, comparable to 2x12 cabinets
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High-quality build, described as "built like a brick house"
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Takes pedals excellently for expanded sound possibilities
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Effective EQ options to match any guitar or style
CONS
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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
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The Mercury V is noted for superior high-gain performance compared to the Suhr Badger 18, with a similar midrange tone.
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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.
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For those seeking a Fender-like clean and reverb, the Fender '64 Custom Deluxe Reverb is more suitable than the Carr Mercury V.
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The Carr Mercury is a Marshall-inspired amp, unlike the Fender-voiced alternatives like Carr's Impala, Rambler, Skylark, or Telstar.
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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.
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Use cases and applications
Features and functionality
Value and pricing
Build quality
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The Carr Mercury is praised for its exceptional craftsmanship, featuring high-quality components and a design with no limitations.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
55
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
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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.
In an interview with Silbermedia, Alan Sparhawk discusses using the Carr Mercury amplifier during his performances with Low and Retribution Gospel.
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
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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