Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,900

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head is a powerhouse amplifier head designed for bassists who crave both versatility and robust performance. Known for its 500 watts of all-tube power, this amp head delivers a rich, full-bodied sound, making it a reliable choice for both stage and studio settings. Its flexibility lies in its ability to switch between 250, 465, and 465 watts, catering to different venue sizes and tonal demands.

The Eight:88 is equipped with three fully independent channels, allowing you to craft your sound with precision. Whether you’re after a clean, punchy tone or a gritty, overdriven growl, this amp head has you covered. The onboard 9-band graphic EQ ensures that you can fine-tune your sound to perfection, while the footswitchable features provide seamless transitions during live performances.

With its rugged construction and attention to tonal detail, the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 is built to withstand the rigors of road life while delivering consistent, high-quality sound. This amp head is not just about raw power; it’s about providing the nuanced control and dynamic range that professional musicians demand.

Key Features:

  • 500 watts of all-tube power
  • Three fully independent channels
  • Selectable power settings: 250, 465, and 465 watts
  • Onboard 9-band graphic EQ
  • Footswitchable features for live performance adaptability
  • Rugged construction designed for stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand Mesa Boogie
Model Bass Strategy Eight:88 465-Watt Bass Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2013 - 2018
Made In United States
Categories Bass Heads
Built-In Effects No Built-In Effects
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Impedance 2 ohms, 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 465
Power Tube Type KT88
Reverb None

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88?

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 delivers a powerful and punchy tone with rich tube warmth, thanks to its KT88 power tubes. It's versatile for a range of genres, providing a clear low-end and articulate mids suitable for rock, jazz, and more.

Is the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with 465 watts of power, the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 is more than capable of handling live performances, even in large venues. Its robust output ensures it can compete with other instruments in a band setting.

What are the impedance options for the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88?

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 offers multiple impedance options, including 2 ohms, 4 ohms, and 8 ohms, allowing for flexible pairing with a variety of bass cabinets.

Does the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 include built-in effects?

No, the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 does not include built-in effects, allowing you to use external pedals and processors to shape your sound.

What type of power tubes does the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 use?

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 uses KT88 power tubes, known for their high output and clear, dynamic tone, making them ideal for bass amplification.

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Mesa Bass Strategy Eight:88 | Big Amp, Big Problems, No Schematic

Video thumbnail for Mesa Bass Strategy Eight:88 | Big Amp, Big Problems, No Schematic by Psionic Audio

Mesa Bass Strategy Eight:88 | Big Amp, Big Problems, No Schematic

Psionic Audio

Psionic Audio

Video thumbnail for Mesa Boogie Bass Strategy Eight Tube Bass Amplifier Head Demo | Full Compass by Full Compass

Mesa Boogie Bass Strategy Eight Tube Bass Amplifier Head Demo | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Tube Tone Mesa Boogie Strategy Eight 88 - Andy Irvine by Andy Irvine

Tube Tone Mesa Boogie Strategy Eight 88 - Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Reviews

PROS

  • Combines full tube character with powerful output

  • Offers tonal versatility and clarity

  • Features low, half, and full power settings for volume control

  • High-quality construction built to last

  • EQ allows for precise sound shaping

  • Maintains clean tone at high volumes

  • Comparable or superior to renowned amps like Ampeg SVT

  • Service and support guaranteed by Mesa

CONS

  • Discontinued model, may be hard to find

  • Premium pricing, considered expensive

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head.

Use cases and applications

  • The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 is praised for its heavenly tone by those who have played through it, indicating its strong performance in live settings.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The amp head's design is noted for delivering exceptional clean tones, with multiple users appreciating its massive, beastly sound output.

    Source
  • The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 is noted for its substantial reserve power, which ensures every note played has significant punch and clarity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users favor the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 for its tonal capabilities over other high-end models, though specific alternatives weren't detailed.

    Source
  • Some users prefer Mesa amps over Ampeg models due to perceived differences in power and reliability, with Mesa providing a more consistent performance as a backline.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners often describe the sound as thunderous and muscular, ideal for rock and heavier genres, pointing to its suitability for powerful stage presence.

    Source
  • The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 is favored for its punchy sound, providing a thick dynamic foundation that complements other instruments in a band setting.

    Source
  • Owners report that adjusting just a few knobs per venue allows for quick setup and consistent sound across different locations.

    Source

Other

  • While specific setup issues or mod recommendations were not detailed, the amp's overall positive reception highlights its reliability and strong performance in various musical contexts.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 for its robust construction, noting that it withstands wear and tear with minimal maintenance issues over several years.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • One owner reported replacing a master volume knob due to damage but found new parts readily available from Mesa, indicating good support for maintenance needs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Amp Lab: Mesa Boogie Strategy | Bass Gear Magazine

bassgearmag.com

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head is a powerhouse offering exceptional tonal versatility and robust construction. With its classic Boogie aesthetic, it delivers a rich, harmonically complex sound across its frequency range. The multi-watt feature and intuitive bias adjustment are standout additions, providing flexibility for different playing environments. However, the amp's significant weight and premium price might deter some potential buyers. Overall, this head is a solid choice for those seeking a high-powered, dynamic tube amp with extensive EQ options, making it suitable for various settings from gigs to studios.

positive

Mesa/Boogie Strategy and Prodigy Bass Heads and TRADITIONAL POWERHOUSE 410 and 810 Bass Cabs | Bass Gear Magazine

bassgearmag.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul McCartney uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

The image shows Paul McCartney using a Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head during a performance at Covent Garden.

See how Alex Venturella uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Alex Venturella

Guitarist, Bassist

Slipknot

...
Verified via Photo

In the May 2016 issue of Bass Guitar Magazine featuring Slipknot's Alex Venturella on the cover, on page 24, there is a photo of a stack of Alex's rack gear. Starting from bottom, this photo shows 2 Mesa Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head.

See how Ben Shepherd uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Ben Shepherd

Singer, Bassist

Soundgarden

...
Verified via Ben Shepherd | MESA/Boogie®

According to his artist page on the official MESA/Boogie® website, bassist Ben Shepherd Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head.

See how Alessandro Venturella uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Alessandro Venturella

Guitarist, Bassist

Slipknot

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Gear Rundown: Alessandro Venturella (Slipknot)" by Darkglass Electronics, Alessandro Venturella demonstrates using the Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head, which he incorporates into his setup following a DI and compressor.

See how Chris Kael uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Chris Kael

Bassist

Five Finger Death Punch

...
Verified via Fivefingerdeathpunch

The official website of American rock band Five Finger Death Punch (F.F.D.P.) lists the gear used by bearded bassist Chris Kael on the most recent 2015 tour. Among the items listed is the Mesa Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head.

See how Joe Principe uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Joe Principe

Bassist

Rise Against

...
Verified via MESA/Boogie®

Joe is listed as using this head on Mesa's website.

See how Daniel Kenny uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Daniel Kenny

Bassist

Suicide Silence

...
Verified via MESA/Boogie®

This head is listed on Mesa's website on Dan's page, and can also be seen in his rack on the pic on their website

See how Traa Daniels uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Traa Daniels

Bassist

P.O.D.

...
Verified via Traa Daniels | MESA/Boogie®

The artist page for Traa Daniels on the Mesa Boogie website shows a photo of Traa Daniels sitting with a stage rig which features four Mesa products. Both the photo and the site list the items he uses as the Mesa Bass Strategy Eight:88 Head, the Mesa Carbine M6 Rackmount Head, the Standard Powerhouse 4x12 Cabinet, and a Mesa Standard Powerhouse 8x10 Cabinet.

See how Adam Swan uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Adam Swan

Bassist

Monuments

...
Verified via MESA/Boogie®

Adam Swan is playing an Aristides 050 Aluminum Bass into the MESA® Bass Strategy™ Eight:88™ head

See how Cory Brandan Putman uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Cory Brandan Putman

Singer, Guitarist

Norma Jean

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:10 in the video you can see Cory playing through the Mesa Boogie Eight:88 into an Ampeg 8x10 during the recording of Norma Jean's All Hail album

See how Kyle Konkiel uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Kyle Konkiel

Bassist

Bad Wolves

...
Verified via MESA/Boogie®
See how Richard Lewis uses Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head

Richard Lewis

Bassist

Skunk Anansie

...
Verified via Photo

Official Cass Lewis Instagram: My new babies. Mesa eight 88s making my blakdog Woof.

Album Usage

The Mesa/Boogie Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head 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 Bass Strategy Eight:88 Bass Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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