Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,832

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

For bassists seeking a powerful and authentic tube-driven sound, the Mesa Buster Bass 200 amplifier head stands as a steadfast companion. Built for those who appreciate the nuances of vintage tones, this amp head provides a robust 200 watts of all-tube power, ensuring a warm, organic sound that purists crave. The Buster Bass 200 stays true to its roots, offering a straightforward three-band EQ for precise tonal shaping, while the inclusion of a master volume control allows you to dial in the perfect balance for any venue or recording session.

This amp head is designed with a focus on performance and reliability, featuring six 6L6 power tubes and three 12AX7 preamp tubes to deliver that rich, full-bodied sound. Its durable construction ensures that it is ready for the rigors of the road or the demands of studio work. Whether you're laying down tracks or commanding the stage, the Mesa Buster Bass 200 provides the clarity and punch needed for a standout performance.

Key Features:

  • 200 watts of all-tube power
  • Three-band EQ for detailed tone control
  • Master volume control for flexible sound management
  • Six 6L6 power tubes and three 12AX7 preamp tubes
  • Durable construction for touring and studio use
  • Direct output for seamless integration into PA systems or recording setups

Product specs

Brand Mesa Boogie
Model Buster Bass 200-Watt 2x10" Wedge Bass Combo
Finish Various
Year 1997 - 2000
Made In United States
Categories Bass Combo Amps
Built-In Effects No Built-In Effects
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 200
Power Tube Type None
Reverb None
Speaker Configuration 2x10"

FAQs

What type of tone can I expect from the Mesa Buster Bass 200?

The Mesa Buster Bass 200 delivers a warm, rich tube tone with plenty of headroom, making it ideal for both vintage and modern bass sounds. Its 2x10" speaker configuration provides punchy low-end response suitable for various musical styles.

Is the Mesa Buster Bass 200 loud enough for live performances?

With 200 watts of power, the Mesa Buster Bass 200 is well-suited for live performances, providing ample volume to cut through a band mix, including with a drummer.

Does the Mesa Buster Bass 200 have built-in effects?

No, the Mesa Buster Bass 200 does not include built-in effects, allowing you to use your own pedals and effects for greater tonal flexibility.

What are the connectivity options on the Mesa Buster Bass 200?

The Mesa Buster Bass 200 features a single input, designed for straightforward plug-and-play use with your bass guitar.

How portable is the Mesa Buster Bass 200 for gigging musicians?

As a combo amp with a 2x10" speaker configuration, the Mesa Buster Bass 200 offers a balance of power and portability, suitable for musicians who need reliable performance without excessive bulk.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mesa Buster Bass 200.

Features and functionality

  • The Mesa Buster Bass 200 offers a clean, warm sound with a scoop compared to SVT, lacking the preamp gain and grit of D180/400 preamps.

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  • This amp is relatively lightweight for an all-tube model and provides multiple output options, beneficial for various performance setups.

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  • To eliminate buzz, users have found setting the EQ to "In" with sliders down and adjusting low, mid, and high dials can be effective.

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User experience

  • Owners report the amp cuts through well in a mix with heavy drummers and multiple guitars, especially emphasizing mid-lows.

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  • Master Volume above half may reintroduce buzz, indicating sensitivity to volume levels in affected units.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some users experienced switch issues over a long ownership period, but overall reliability remains high after 15 years of use.

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  • Preamp tubes should be checked if there's a buzz, as the noise may relate to them rather than the power tubes.

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  • The 7-band EQ is solid-state, and if buzzing occurs with EQ bypassed, the issue likely lies in the preamp section.

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Comparisons

  • The Mesa Buster Bass 200 is contrasted with the Ampeg V4B for those seeking similar EQ styles but with different grit and response characteristics.

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Artist usage

Add artist
C

Cris Kirkwood

Bassist

Meat Puppets

...
Verified via Premierguitar

In an interview with Premier Guitar, Cris Kirkwood of the Meat Puppets discusses using the Mesa Buster Bass 200 amplifier head.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Mesa Buster Bass 200, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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