Need Advice Choosing a Dual Rectifier

[Leng]

I have narrowed my decision to two options:

1. A mid-1990's blackface two channel Dual Rectifier, owner doesn't know when the tubes were last replaced if they even have been. Has never been gigged with, comes with hardshell flight case.
Wants $1050. No pics, but it is in pristine condition as its always in its case, no dust.

2. A 1998 two channel Dual Rectifier with new tubes and had a VooDoo Deluxe Modification done to it in 2006. Has probably been gigged with a few times.
Wants $1400, as you can see in the pics its pretty dusty:

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02752.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02754.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/mesaserial1.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/Mesadate.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02749.jpg

I'm very torn between these two amps and advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

You guys rock.

EDIT: How much would it cost to replace the tubes in a DR, anyone know? Thanks again!

 

[jdurso]

honestly the best way to do it would be to play both. I liked the way my recto sounded when i had the voodoo mod done but thats a tough call to buy one if you dont know how it sounds. also when i had my mod i sat down with the guys there and they tuned the amp to my liking.... so you might just wnat to go with the unmodded one because i find each one is little different...... but the voodoo mods do make the rectos come to life a little more IMO

 

[siggy14]

Go with the mid 1990's, better bang for the buck and you can pretty much get the same results as the vodoo mod by keeping the gain down and throwing a boost pedal in front.

I have narrowed my decision to two options:

1. A mid-1990's blackface two channel Dual Rectifier, owner doesn't know when the tubes were last replaced if they even have been. Has never been gigged with, comes with hardshell flight case.
Wants $1050. No pics, but it is in pristine condition as its always in its case, no dust.

2. A 1998 two channel Dual Rectifier with new tubes and had a VooDoo Deluxe Modification done to it in 2006. Has probably been gigged with a few times.
Wants $1400, as you can see in the pics its pretty dusty:

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02752.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02754.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/mesaserial1.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/Mesadate.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e299/fragglerick/DSC02749.jpg

I'm very torn between these two amps and advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

You guys rock.

EDIT: How much would it cost to replace the tubes in a DR, anyone know? Thanks again!

 

[Leng]

I'm really stressed out over this decision and really appreciate the feedback so far, it means everything to me at this point.

Unfortunately, I won't be able to play either of these amps until I have purchased them, ARGH! I wish they were both in a local store and I could just test them first!

To everyone here: Your two cents is worth over $1000 to me right now and I would be ever so grateful for more advice!

 

[ibanez4life SZ!]

If you're REALLY stressing the situation, and want to have the best one, scrap together some temporary funds and buy both.

I'm completely serious too...at those prices, you will be able to take the one you like less, and sell it back...either making your money back or scoring a slight profit. Both are very fairly priced.

:wink:

 

[barneyc4]

hey ibanez,
when do we get to see a pic of your new rig with the stiletto slant cab?

 

[clutch71]

I'm really stressed out over this decision and really appreciate the feedback so far, it means everything to me at this point.

Unfortunately, I won't be able to play either of these amps until I have purchased them, ARGH! I wish they were both in a local store and I could just test them first!

To everyone here: Your two cents is worth over $1000 to me right now and I would be ever so grateful for more advice!

Why wouldn't you be able to test them first? eBay? If it's a private sale the person should have no problem letting you try it first. I'd be leary if that's the case.

Check out www.dougstubes.com or www.eurotubes.com

PM Recto-Robie he has tried a whole assortment of tubes and he's a really nice guy.

Tubes are definately a big factor. I was not sold on my Sovteks until today. Took my 4x12 cab and 2x12 to an auditorium and cranked it. I was impressed. I'll have some soundclips later.

Mine is a 3/98 BTW. I think you'd be happy with it. If the mid 90's has a small logo, serial loop, attached cord for $1050 that's what i'd go for though.

Good luck.

 

[ibanez4life SZ!]

As soon as I get the Mark IV in, there will be pictures averywhere :wink: