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Description

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp is a powerful and versatile tool for guitarists seeking rich tonal variety and precise control. Designed to cater to both studio and live performance needs, this preamp combines the best of vintage and modern technology. It houses dual independent preamp channels, each offering a wide range of sonic possibilities. From clean and sparkling tones to heavy, saturated overdrive, the Quad Preamp delivers a dynamic spectrum of sounds tailored to suit any musical style.

This preamp features four distinctive modes per channel, allowing the user to explore a vast array of sonic landscapes. The comprehensive EQ section provides deep tonal shaping options, enabling players to sculpt their sound with precision and finesse. Furthermore, the built-in effects loop offers seamless integration with other effects units, enhancing the overall versatility of the setup.

Constructed with high-quality components and housed in a robust chassis, the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp ensures reliability and durability. Whether you're seeking to expand your tonal palette in the studio or looking for a reliable companion on stage, this preamp stands as a testament to Mesa/Boogie's commitment to quality and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Dual independent preamp channels with four modes each
  • Comprehensive EQ section for precise tonal control
  • Built-in effects loop for seamless effects integration
  • High-quality construction for reliability and durability
  • Suitable for both studio and live performances

Product specs

Brand Mesa Boogie
Model Quad Preamp with FU-2A Footswitch
Finish Black
Year 1980s
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Preamps
Color Family Black
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Pedal Format Rackmount
Reverb Spring Reverb

FAQs

What type of tubes does the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp use?

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp utilizes 12AX7 tubes, known for their high gain and dynamic tonal range, which contribute to the preamp's versatile sound capabilities.

How many channels does the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp have?

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp features two channels, allowing for a variety of tonal options and seamless switching between different sound settings.

Is the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp is well-suited for live performances, offering robust sound shaping capabilities and a rackmount format for easy integration into stage setups.

Does the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp include reverb?

Yes, the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp includes spring reverb, adding depth and dimension to your guitar tone.

Can the Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp be used with a footswitch?

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp comes with an FU-2A Footswitch, allowing for convenient channel switching and reverb control during performances.

Asheville Guitar and Mike Barnes

Asheville Guitar and Mike Barnes

Mesa Boogie Quad preamp and simulclass 295 power amp demo

Video thumbnail for Mesa Boogie Quad preamp and simulclass 295 power amp demo by Asheville Guitar and Mike Barnes

Mesa Boogie Quad preamp and simulclass 295 power amp demo

Asheville Guitar and Mike Barnes

Asheville Guitar and Mike Barnes

Video thumbnail for Mesa Quad Preamp by Thaymz

Mesa Quad Preamp

Thaymz

Thaymz

Video thumbnail for Axe FX Ultra Vs Mesa Quad Preamp Lead 2 (Mark III) by Thaymz

Axe FX Ultra Vs Mesa Quad Preamp Lead 2 (Mark III)

Thaymz

Thaymz

Reviews

PROS

  • Two channels with two modes each, offers versatile tone shaping

  • Pre-assignable 5 band graphic equalizer enhances sound customization

  • Exceptionally sweet clean tones, surpassing Fender's

  • Wide range of Mesa tones, from crunch to singing sustain

  • Separate foot switchable EQ for each channel for precise control

  • Stereo effects loops with outputs for expanded setup options

  • Enables achieving desired sound without need for pedals

  • Quiet operation in lead mode, even without external noise gates

  • Compatible with various Mesa power amps for optimal performance

  • Supports combining MkIIC and MkIII tones for unique sounds

CONS

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Quad Preamp's channel one is often compared to the 2c+ preamp, with mixed opinions on its similarity to the 2c.

    Source
  • The Mark III's red stripe version is often cited as the closest to the IIC+ by both users and technicians, emphasizing its tonal proximity.

    Source
  • The Mark III offers Simul-Class power amp switching, which isn't available in the Quad Preamp, but can compensate if used with a compatible power amp.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Mark IIC+'s unique compression character in its power amp is difficult to replicate with other amps.

    Source
  • The clean channel of the Quad Preamp excels with pedals and delivers Fender-like glassy tones, making it versatile for diverse musical styles, including 80’s pop.

    Source
  • The Quad Preamp allows running both channels in parallel, offering unique layering possibilities not found in single-channel amps.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The EVM-12L speaker is crucial for achieving the classic IIC+ and III tone, especially in half-back cabs.

    Source
  • The Quad Preamp can be used with a Fryette Power Station or connected via an amp's effects return, offering flexibility in setup.

    Source
  • Running the Quad Preamp through a Mark IV's power amp in triode mode optimizes it to replicate a IIC+ simul class power amp configuration.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The reverb tanks on some units may be non-functional, but the reverb sound is highly praised; owners suggest considering a repair for the unique twin tank setup.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Prices for the Quad Preamp have surged from under $1,000 to between $1,500 and $2,000 over a few years, reflecting its increasing desirability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners spend extensive periods playing on the Quad Preamp, noting its ability to inspire a shift in musical exploration and enjoyment.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the flexibility of independent controls and graphic EQs for each channel on the Quad, contrasting with the integrated setup of other amps.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users suggest modding the Quad's channels to match specific Mark versions by adjusting component values, requiring removal of 20 chassis screws.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Atoragon's Guitar Nerding Blog: Review: Mesa Boogie Quad Preamp

atoragon.blogspot.com

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp is a revered piece of gear, known for its all-tube design and vast tonal flexibility, making it a staple on legendary albums from artists like Metallica and Dream Theater. Its dual channels offer a spectrum of tones, from pristine cleans to dark, growling overdrives. The unique graphic equalizer allows for precise sound shaping, ideal for achieving iconic "V-shaped" tones. While it boasts a robust build and features like MIDI switching and recording outputs, its substantial weight and limited MIDI integration may be drawbacks for some. Nevertheless, it remains a standout in the Mesa Boogie legacy, praised for its versatility and enduring appeal. Thumbs up for this classic preamp!

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Flickr

In the film "Psychedelic Sexfunk Live from Heaven," John Frusciante is shown using a Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp. This is supported by a photo from Daisuke Hirata on Flickr.

See how Johnny Marr uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Smithsonguitar

“The The live amplification is a racked set up based around two Boogie Quad preamps, a Boogie 295 poweramp, and a tc 2290. The tc's effects loop takes in a Yamaha GEP50, Roland GP8 and Korg A3 guitar processors, an Eventide H300 Harmoniser and a tc spatial expander. Speakers are two Marshall 2x12" cabs loaded with EVs, and the whole set-up is doubled for live work in case of breakdowns.“

See how John Petrucci uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

John Petrucci

Guitarist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

At 5:04, John Petrucci and Doug West reveal that in the album "Images and Words", John used a Mesa Boogie Quad Preamp

See how John Squire uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

John Squire

Guitarist

Oasis

...
Verified via Pdmcauley

In 1989/90 Squire had firmly grounded his liking of mesa boogie amplification. This was a company who were arguably leading the field in valve amp technology. Squire had ditched the limitations of the twin reverbs and wanted to immerse himself in the more versatile mesa boogie tone. Having used a Mesa combo for the past few years. Squire decided to rack mount his set up with even more versatility. Mesa Boogie had released a rack pre-amp called the 'Quad'. This encompassed almost all the tones available from mesa amps. It had rhythm and lead channels of the Mark II and Mark III amps built into one.

See how Fredrik Thordendal uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Fredrik Thordendal

Guitarist

Meshuggah

...
Verified

In this Instagram post showcasing Fredrik Thordendal’s rack, you can see a Mesa Boogie Quad Preamp just underneath a Fractal Axe-Fx unit.

See how Reeves Gabrels uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Reeves Gabrels

Guitarist

The Cure

...
Verified via Guitarmoderne

"With Tin Machine I was using a Steinberger through a Mesa Boogie Quad Preamp and the Boogie Simul-Class Stereo 295 power amp and two 4x12s."

See how Dann Huff uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Dann Huff

Guitarist, Music Producer

Giant

...
Verified via MusicPlayers.com

Huff has been known to use a wide variety of equipment. Within the Tyler brand he has been known to use the Tyler Classic Signature Model and the Tyler Ultimate Weapon with active mid-boost circuitry, a recessed Floyd Rose Locking Tremolo and dual humbuckers that give off a “warm fat sound.” (James Tyler himself has described it as “a sort of Les Paul-meets-Telecaster.”)

For his other acoustic/electric guitars, Huff uses a range of Stratocasters and Telecasters, a Tom Anderson Classic T, and Gibson Les Pauls. When it comes to amps and effects, Huff has more gear than most mortals. Some of the featured gear from the Giant days includes:

Peavey 5150 Mesa/Boogie Quad preamp with VHT stereo tube power amp Mesa/Boogie Mark II TC Electronic 2290 Yamaha SPX90 Roland SDE3000

See how Rolf Kasparek uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Rolf Kasparek

Singer, Guitarist

Running Wild

...
Verified via Photo

Spotted in Rolf's rack case.

See how Tommy Denander uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Tommy Denander

JK’s All Star Experience

...
Verified via Photo

According to this gear photo, which is found under Denander's gear photos, one of the units is the Mesa Boogie Quad Preamp.

See how Tom Petta uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Tom Petta

Guitarist

Bigwig

...
Verified via Photo

The Quad Preamp can be seen in the rack below the IIC+.

See how Andreas Bruhn uses Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp

Andreas Bruhn

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Sisters of Mercy

...
Verified via Myheartland

Sisters of Mercy gear list, circa 1991:

Tim Bricheno Squire Strat, 2x Squire Tele, Gibson 'Chet Atkins', 2xJC120, 2x4x12 Marshall cabs, 1x50w Marshall amp, Ibanez Tube Screamer, 2xBoss DD-3, Boss MZ-2 Andreas Bruhn 2xKramer Focus 1000 (with DiMarzio PAFs), Mesa Boogie Strategy 400, Mesa Boogie Quad pre-amp, 2xMarshall stero cabs, Quadraverb FX, Rat distortion, Morley wah-wah, Boss CS-3 Tony James WAL Custom bass, WAL MIDI Custom bass, 2xAMPEG SVT amps, 2xAMPEG 8x10 cabs, Korg A3FX Sequencing Compac 386 portable PC, running Voyetra software, 2xAkai S1000, with external hard drives

Album Usage

The Mesa/Boogie Quad Preamp 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 Quad Preamp, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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