Mark iv - first impressions

[GeoBull]

I'm trying out a used Mark iv; not sure what year but of relatively recent vintage; front and back panel match the current manual with a slight difference on the back.

First impressions (as an LSC, LSS, and Mkiic+ owner); these are based on about 20 minutes at home starting from the first suggested settings; so obviously very 'first'.

-Ch1 - Very much like the Mkiic+: aggresive, in-your-face, punchy, can be a bit brittle. Sounded actually more boxy than the Mkiic+; it is the small combo model but is about the same size as the Mkiic+ so that was surprising. Would obviously benefit from a cab.

-Ch2 - Didn't like it that well; the sample settings made it basically Lead channel lite; I will have to play with less over the top settings to see what the value is

-Ch3 - Great lead tone but no better than the Mkiic+ IMO. This is the channel that shines. In experience I just haven't been able to this great a Boogie lead tone from my LSC. Anybody have sample settings that get close?

So, the conclusion. Well, I have to play it more but: I'd have to sell my Mkiic+ (or something) to get it; that IMO would be a bad move. And I love the Lone Stars; cleans are much better than the Mkiv for me and between the two I get a lot of variety.

I honestly think that for what I play (rock/blues/jazz) Mesa has done itself much better than the Mark series with the Lone Stars.

 

[LnTh]

I agree that for blues/jazz/rock, Lone Stars are a better option.
If you really like the Mark tones though, I don't think you can go wrong with a Mark IV. It might take a while to adjust to the amp though. Dialing it in isn't a piece of cake for many people. Personally, I liked the tones I was dialing in in first 15 minutes but again, I've owned my share of boogies so I'm used to the active eq.

 

[srf399]

I had the MKIV I also agree... the Lone star has a better clean and if an OD is use the lead channel is good but not as good at tracking as the MK series.