Starting up with Mesa

[steeldragonjovi]

I am about to buy my first Mesa Amp and have decided to get the Roadster for the huge amount of capability and rectifier tone it has. However, I've been reading some topics on how they don't have such a great lead tone (maybe these are just bias). But, I was wondering how I can reach a great lead tone with this amp?

I heard a lot of good things about the Triaxis lead tone...any suggestions on adding that to my "list of Mesa" for making a perfect lead tone?

 

[steeldragonjovi]

I guess I should also say, is there a good foot pedal to give a leading tone?

 

[visualrocker69]

The Mark series has the best lead sound in my opinion. Triaxis from what i heard is based on it. Get a Mark IV. ******* amazing amp

 

[PRSKILLER]

I never did find a singing lead from the Rectifier series. Mark IV sings and screams.

 

[steeldragonjovi]

The Mark is sweet, but I don't think it has the capability of the Roadster, and that's what I'm in search of.

Is there a pedal, maybe a tube screamer or something, that can help replicate the Mark IV lead tone?

 

[visualrocker69]

Exactly what capability are you referring to?

 

[steeldragonjovi]

4 channels, watt choice, power choice, independent settings (reverb, tubes, etc.), 12 modes, so on.

 

[18&Life]

There's no such a thing like replicate the Mark IV lead tone?
If you want its lead tone you have to have it.
You can buy a thousand crap stuff like pod,vamp whatever.
None of them even come closer to the amp. :wink:

 

[devilrob1979]

With all of the power choices (Class A/Simulclass, Tweed/Full, etc), the ability to use different types of tubes (6L6, EL-34, 6V6, 5881, KT77, etc), the switchable EQ, all of the different pull switches, etc. I don't think there's any less capability in a Mark IV than a Roadster. Besides Marks actually sound good.

 

[visualrocker69]

With all of the power choices (Class A/Simulclass, Tweed/Full, etc), the ability to use different types of tubes (6L6, EL-34, 6V6, 5881, KT77, etc), the switchable EQ, all of the different pull switches, etc. I don't think there's any less capability in a Mark IV than a Roadster. Besides Marks actually sound good.

Agreed. I hope you come around someday, steeldragonjovi ;p

 

[ToneAddictJon]

I would say you should be able to find some good lead settings in the roadster, the question is what tone do you want most and what are you willing to sacrifice for it. I have a DR 3 channel, Tremoverb and a Mark IV, and I would say the Mark IV by far has a sweeter tone, but the DR destroys it in heavy rhythm, while the Tremoverb is just sweet. I've never had a problem getting a decent lead tone on the DR, but the Mark IV has more definition. No matter what you get, just make sure you're happy with it and it does what YOU want it to do, especially for how much they cost!!! I would call the Mark IV a 4 channel head as well, with the ability to do Lead+EQ on the footswitch, which I use as another rhythm tone.

 

[Schmoog]

The Mark is sweet, but I don't think it has the capability of the Roadster, and that's what I'm in search of.

Is there a pedal, maybe a tube screamer or something, that can help replicate the Mark IV lead tone?

Regardless of what anyone (including mesa/boogie) says, it is my very strong personal belief that the mark IV is by and large the most versatile amp currently made by mesa boogie. Progressive linkage is all well and good, but the simul-class power amp really blows it away. the only power amp option you have with the roadster that doesn't exist on the IV is 4 el34's, but if you're playing really heavy music you wont want them. See, the thing is that the mark IV with its footswitching options, and extremely sensitive tone controls can allow you to get just about any tone period if you learn how to turn the knobs.

 

[steeldragonjovi]

I really wish I could test one out before I got one. I really love the heavy chording the Recto gets, and I haven't heard many tone samples like that from the Mark IV. On the other hand, I love the lead of the Mark.

I love Petrucci solos and Tremonti sounds as well. The thing is, everyone is trying to get the same tone as Petrucci, so that's why I think I might not want a Mark. I want something new and more original, not replicated and someone elses personal setting.

Any suggestions on being able to test one out (Mark IV)?

 

[guitarmaster]

:!:

 

[steeldragonjovi]

bwah!!! I don't know what to do ...bwaahhH!! Do they still make Mark IVs new, so I can get one to the store and check it out?

 

[steeldragonjovi]

I really am a rocker. For example, the tone I want is from Alter Bridge's first album. Also, Creed had some strong tones. Also, Petrucci uses very crisp and clean chords and liquid leads.

I'm more of an Alter Bridge guy though.

But, the lead in this sample is rockin'! Check it out...http://www.lightningmp3.com/live/52660_01roadkingclips.mp3

The guy says it's all from a Road King too. So, if I can get that tone with the Roadster, that's my choice. Tell me what you think he's using.

 

[steeldragonjovi]

I forgot to add that I know Tremonti uses Dual and Triple recs.

 

[guitarmaster]

:!:

 

[reo73]

Petrucci during the TOT and Octavarium albums/tours used the Roadking exclusively for Rhythm and Leads and I thought his tone sounded pretty darn good for leads. Listen especially to Trial of Tears off the Budokan DVD...that tone sounds very sweet and it was a Roadking. I say go ahead and get the Roadster.

 

[steeldragonjovi]

thanks guys. I think I am going to get the Roadster, despite what others may say. I know what I'm looking for, but I still want to thank you for your input! Rock on.