Question

th0rr · Jul 29, 2009

How does the Mark V high gain channels compare to the F-50's channel 2 with contour mode on? I sold my F-50 some months back and I am researching a new amp. Overall I like the Mesa tone and I absolutely loved the clean channel on my F-50. But I came to really dislike channel 2.

When I played it in store it seemed satisfying but after working with it over some months I came to really dislike it. No matter how I dialed it in it always seemed "flubby", best way I know how to describe it, never tight or focused. I tried using 10 band EQ's, overdrive pedals, swapped tubes, etc... It was good for hard rock playing but whenever one ventured into modern rock territory it just couldn't keep up.

Some folks I've discussed this with suggested a Mark IV but I could never seem to find one to try. Can't seem to find a Mark V currently either but I'm sure one will arrive soon.

So what are your thoughts? Anyone own both? All comments appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

th0rr · Jul 29, 2009

thegaindeli said:
Welcome to the world of the "modern" MESA amplifier. Purchase a 60 watt Mark IIC+ w/o EQ... Best sounding MESA ever made!

Thanks for replying but that doesn't really answer my question.

theroan · Jul 29, 2009

Here's is a list of all the amps I have ever owned
F-30
F-50
Mark IV
Mark V.

I was once in your boat. I tried everything to get my F-50 dirty channel to sound good. EQ in the loop, dirt pedals, noise gates, comps etc. Nothing worked. If you liked your clean channel, you won't be disappointed with the Mark V clean. For dirty, it's not really even a fair comparison. The F-50 sucks and to me, all 6 Mark V gain sounds are amazing.

th0rr · Jul 29, 2009

theroan said:
Here's is a list of all the amps I have ever owned
F-30
F-50
Mark IV
Mark V.

I was once in your boat. I tried everything to get my F-50 dirty channel to sound good. EQ in the loop, dirt pedals, noise gates, comps etc. Nothing worked. If you liked your clean channel, you won't be disappointed with the Mark V clean. For dirty, it's not really even a fair comparison. The F-50 sucks and to me, all 6 Mark V gain sounds are amazing.

Great! Thanks for the reply. So basically you're saying that dirty wise they're not even in the same league. So, remember I have not had a chance to experience a Mark series first hand, would you say they're good for modern metal? Maybe even venturing into death metal a bit? I have been playing more & more metal lately than anything else.

theroan · Jul 29, 2009

I think it can handle that kind of stuff. The extreme mode to me sounds like a recto, 5150 and Mark all in one sound. The Mark excels at articulation, meaning super high gain yet complex chord voicings still come through. More than a typical high gain amp.

However, if metal stuff is the majority of what you're playing, there are much more affordable options ie Recto or 5150. I would choose a 5150 over a recto anytime. You have to remember the point of this amp is to not need any other amps. For me it makes sense, I play ambient, rock, praise and worship and metal. But for someone who only plays the brewtz, there are two channels that don't really need to be there.

I would thoroughly assess your needs before taking the plunge.

th0rr · Jul 29, 2009

Gotcha. Thanks for taking the time to reply. I also cover a wide variety which is why I thought the F50 would be ideal. But like I said after starting to play metal more an more I found that it could not keep up. I checked out the roadster and was pretty impressed but I think I want something a bit more versatile. So it sounds like the Mark V might be for me.

Now if I can just find one to demo!