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Average Price: $2,197

High-end/Boutique

$300

$701+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Mesa/Boogie Mark II is a legendary combo guitar amplifier that embodies the transition from vintage tone to modern rock power. Introduced between 1978 and 1985, this amp retains the classic design and layout of its predecessor, the Mark I, while enhancing your sound with updated circuitry. It’s an icon in the world of amplifiers, favored by renowned artists like Ron Wood, Carlos Santana, and Keith Richards for its ability to deliver both rich, clean tones and roaring overdrive.

With its dual-channel flexibility, the Mark II offers musicians the freedom to seamlessly switch between sparkling cleans and dynamic distortion, catering to a wide range of musical styles. The graphic EQ adds a new layer of tonal customization, allowing for pinpoint precision in sculpting your sound. Whether you're playing in a small club or on a large stage, the Mark II's robust build and versatile nature make it the perfect companion for any gig.

Its enduring legacy is a testament to Mesa/Boogie's commitment to quality and innovation, providing a timeless piece of gear that continues to inspire musicians across generations. The Mark II isn't just an amplifier; it's a cornerstone of tone history.

Key Features:

  • Dual-channel design for versatile sound options
  • Graphic EQ for precise tone shaping
  • Built-in spring reverb for classic ambiance
  • Compact combo design for easy transportation
  • Legendary tone used by iconic musicians

Product specs

Brand Mesa Boogie
Model Mark II 2-Channel 100-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
Finish Various
Year 1978 - 1980
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Built-In Effects Built-In Effects
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Impedance 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 100
Power Tube Type 6L6
Reverb Spring Reverb
Speaker Configuration 1x12"

FAQs

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Mesa/Boogie Mark II amplifier?

The Mesa/Boogie Mark II is known for its versatile tone, offering both clean and high-gain sounds. It provides a smooth, creamy overdrive, making it suitable for genres ranging from jazz to rock and metal.

Does the Mesa/Boogie Mark II take pedals well?

Yes, the Mesa/Boogie Mark II is known for handling pedals effectively, especially overdrive and distortion pedals, enhancing its already rich tonal palette.

Is the Mesa/Boogie Mark II loud enough for gigging with a drummer?

With its 100-watt power output, the Mesa/Boogie Mark II is more than capable of keeping up with a drummer in live performance settings, providing ample volume and headroom.

How does the spring reverb in the Mesa/Boogie Mark II sound?

The spring reverb in the Mesa/Boogie Mark II offers a classic, lush reverb sound, adding depth and ambiance to both clean and distorted tones.

What type of tubes does the Mesa/Boogie Mark II use?

The Mesa/Boogie Mark II uses 6L6 power tubes, known for their robust, warm sound and dynamic response, contributing to the amp's signature tone.

Elmo Karjalainen

Elmo Karjalainen

Mesa Boogie Mark II A (Playing a Vintage Mesa)

Video thumbnail for Mesa Boogie Mark II A (Playing a Vintage Mesa) by Elmo Karjalainen

Mesa Boogie Mark II A (Playing a Vintage Mesa)

Elmo Karjalainen

Elmo Karjalainen

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mesa/Boogie Mark II.

Build quality

  • Some owners express concerns about the Mesa/Boogie Mark II C+ reissue's use of underrated capacitors and poor layout, leading to high repair costs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The reissue lacks the C+/C++ switch found in the JP-2C, which modern players value for versatility.

    Source
  • The Mark IIC+ is known for its challenging dial-in process, yet it offers a wealth of tonal options making it a favorite studio amp.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners note that the Mark VII and JP-2C cover similar sonic territory, suggesting the reissue appeals more to collectors.

    Source
  • The Mark series amps are based on modded/hi-gain Fender-style preamps, contrasting with the Marshall-like Dual Rectifier tone.

    Source
  • The Mark III's lead tone is highly praised, and its "simulclass" feature is highlighted as exceptional compared to the Mark V 25's fewer modes.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The reissue is priced similarly to the Mark VII, but some argue it offers less value given modern advancements in amplifier technology.

    Source
  • It's noted that the value of Mesa amps, like the Mark III, is expected to rise quickly now that Gibson owns them, making them a potentially wise investment.

    Source

User experience

  • Long-term users of Mesa amps express a desire for custom options like Emerald Green with a Wicker grille, though this extends the wait time significantly.

    Source
  • The Mark V 25 head paired with a 2x12 Recto or Orange cab provides a versatile and powerful setup for various playing environments.

    Source
  • The Mark III, while excellent, is expected to require maintenance due to its complex circuitry and aging components.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Mark IIC+ is praised for its versatility, handling genres from Metallica to punk rock and Santana's styles effectively.

    Source
  • The Mark V 25 is described as a "Swiss army knife of sounds," suitable for both home use and band practice without needing excessive volume.

    Source

Other

  • Historically, the Mark IIC+ had schematics with intentional errors to prevent circuit copying, adding to its mystique and rarity.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Awesome

GUITAR This was the only guitar amp I had for ages very old mines been revalved and a new speaker in it.

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Michael Gurley uses Mesa/Boogie Mark II

Michael Gurley

Singer, Guitarist

Dada

...
Verified via Photo

Michael Gurley can be seen playing live in the attached picture with his Mesa Boogie Mark ii combo behind him. He later switched to Dual Rectifier heads and a Mesa cab but I don't remember exactly when that was. (I think around the time of their 4th self titled Album Dada.)

See how Stephen Magnusson uses Mesa/Boogie Mark II

Stephen Magnusson

Guitarist

MAGNET

...
Verified via Stephen Magnusson

This amplifier is mentioned in the first picture of his gear page.

Album Usage

The Mesa/Boogie Mark II 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 Mark II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Mesa/Boogie Mark II, curated by the Equipboard community.

Tech 21 Character Series California

 

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

An analog amp sim pedal, inspired by the Mesa Boogie Mark II amplifier.

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