Using Mark IV as preamp/poweramp only?

[SeasonOfPain]

I'd like to start experimenting with my amps to try mixing and matching preamp/poweramp combinations between my Mark IV combo and F-50 head.

I mainly wanted to confirm that I set the two amps up properly in this usage pattern, so as to make sure that the OT of either amp doesn't get damaged.

From what I understand, there are three means to send the Mark IV's output to an external source:
a. the Slave Out (D.I.) output
b. the Satellite EQ & Send jacks
c. the FX loop
(I'm not considering the Recording Out in this situation.)

Given the the poweramp in question will be the F-50 via its FX return jack, what are the pluses and minuses of the above 3 output options on the Mark? I would have the combo speaker plugged in on the Mark in all 3 cases, with the silent recording pull switch active.

Also, if I wanted to use the F-50 as the preamp and the Mark IV as the poweramp, would I simply run a line from the F-50's FX send to the Mark's FX return, and engage the F-50's "Speaker Mute" switch to avoid needing a speaker load?

 

[screamingdaisy]

Use either the slave out into the FX return, or the FX send into the FX Return.

As for which is better, try both and see which you like more.

 

[Shep]

no matter wat you will need to have both heads pluged into a cab/load resitor...or damage will happen to your ot...