Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $948
High-end/Boutique
$300
$801+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus guitar amplifier head is a powerhouse of sound versatility, offering a dynamic range suitable for various musical genres. Born from the acclaimed lineage of Mesa/Boogie amplifiers, this head is a favorite among musicians seeking both power and precision in their sound. The dual-channel design allows for seamless transitions between clean and overdriven tones, providing the flexibility to explore a wide sonic palette.
The 50 Caliber Plus is revered for its robust build and reliability, making it a staple both in the studio and on stage. Its all-tube circuitry ensures a warm, rich tone, while the intuitive controls allow for quick adjustments, catering to the needs of both novice and experienced players. The built-in graphic EQ adds another layer of tonal customization, perfect for crafting your unique sound signature.
With a power rating of 50 watts, this amplifier head delivers ample volume for small to mid-size venues, yet can easily be dialed back for practice sessions without losing tonal integrity. The inclusion of a footswitchable channel selector further enhances its live performance capabilities, enabling guitarists to effortlessly shift gears during a set.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel design for versatile sound options
- All-tube circuitry for warm, authentic tones
- 50-watt power output suitable for various settings
- Built-in graphic EQ for precise tonal shaping
- Footswitchable channel selector for live performance ease
- Robust construction for durability and reliability
Product specs
| Brand | Mesa Boogie |
| Model | .50 Caliber Plus 2-Channel 50-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo |
| Finish | Various |
| Year | 1988 - 1993 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Guitar Combo Amps |
| Built-In Effects | Built-In Effects |
| Electronics | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 2 Channels |
| Number of Inputs | 1 Input |
| Output Power (Watts) | 50 |
| Power Tube Type | 6L6 |
| Reverb | Spring Reverb |
| Speaker Configuration | 1x12" |
FAQs
-
What kind of tones can I expect from the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus for rock music?
-
The Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus is known for its versatile tone, offering rich, warm cleans and aggressive overdrive suitable for rock. Its 6L6 power tubes provide a robust low-end and smooth high-end, making it ideal for classic and hard rock genres.
-
Is the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus suitable for gigging?
-
Yes, with its 50-watt output and 1x12" speaker configuration, the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus is powerful enough for gigging in small to medium venues, delivering ample volume and projection.
-
Does the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus take pedals well?
-
The Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus handles pedals effectively, particularly due to its tube-driven design, which complements effects like overdrive, delay, and modulation, allowing for a wide range of tonal possibilities.
-
What are the core tonal characteristics of the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus?
-
The amp features a classic Mesa/Boogie sound, characterized by its dynamic response, clear articulation, and a smooth, creamy overdrive. Its two channels provide flexibility for both clean and high-gain settings.
-
How does the spring reverb in the Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus enhance its sound?
-
The built-in spring reverb adds depth and dimension to the amp's sound, offering a natural ambiance that enhances both clean and overdriven tones, making it a versatile choice for various musical styles.
Videos
Nikolay Karageorgiev
Mesa Boogie Caliber 50 plus Sound Test
Reviews
PROS
-
Versatile sound range from clean to heavy metal tones
-
Exceptional build quality with USA-made craftsmanship
-
Ideal volume for both practice and live gigs
-
Distinct punch and saturation for powerful sound
-
Excellent reverb adds depth to performance
-
Not overly heavy, easy to transport
CONS
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus.
Setup and maintenance
-
The amp chews through power tubes annually, and the first preamp tube might need replacing with similar frequency, indicating some upkeep costs.
Source -
Replacing underrated components like 400v orange drops on the phase inverter can boost reliability; $30 worth of parts needed for a recap.
Source -
Routine maintenance such as replacing filter caps and cleaning tube sockets, jacks, and pots with contact cleaner is recommended for optimal performance.
Source -
The shared EQ between channels necessitates finding a balance for clean and dirty tones, though adding an EQ pedal in the loop can enhance versatility.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The onboard reverb is highly praised, and an effects loop, standby switch, and recording out are notable features for a $600 price.
Source -
The amp supports stereo and combined outputs, and the graphic EQ can be set to only affect the high gain channel, useful for tone shaping.
Source -
The amp's clean channel is based on the Mark IV's ultra-clean tone, praised for its prog-rock/metal suitability, especially with a chorus effect.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
It's optimal with master volume high and gain low, using a Plumes overdrive with Tube Screamer settings for best sound.
Source -
It's noted to perform well in hard rock and old-school metal genres when paired with an OD9 overdrive pedal.
Source -
Owners note that the amp excels in hard rock and metal, especially with a gain setting around 2-3, which provides a touch-sensitive, expressive tone.
Source
User experience
-
Dialing in the amp is critical, with owners photographing settings due to sensitivity; slight knob turns can dramatically affect tone.
Source
Comparisons
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
459
My favorite Boogie
Great 2 channel Boogie from their classic years. Great cleans, and heavy overdrive. It'll go from Steve Lukather to Master of Puppets without breaking a sweat.
Artist usage
Add artist
This amp is THE rhythm sound on Down "NOLA" also during the early recordings of Corrosion of Conformity this was a favorite of his. He uses this a lot, and it creates a deep blues metal sound that you expect from Down.
Album Usage
The Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus 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 Mesa/Boogie 50 Caliber Plus, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Mesa/Boogie Guitar Amplifier Heads
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Guitar Amplifier Heads
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
Ccvictery1029Gear IQ 6
-