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Hatsubai « Evolution of the F series »
Published on 04/03/11 at 18:35The Mesa/Boogie Express series is a new series of amplifiers that Mesa released to replace the highly successful F series they used to have. The 5:25 version is the EL84 version of that amplifier. It features two independent channels with multiple voicing switches, an effects loop and reverb. These amps also come in three forms -- the head, the rackmount model and the combo. The combo version of this amp only comes in a 1x12 format.
UTILIZATION
Mesa/Boogie did a great job packing everything in this amp, especially the rackmount model. The switches feel sturdy, the knobs feel great and everything is laid out very intuitively. The Mesa/Boogie manuals are always some of the best. It features various ways on how to dial in the amp, the sweet spots of the controls, how to take care of the amp and clearly explains every feature in an easy to understand manner.
SOUNDS
While the 5:25 doesn't have as much power, it makes up for it in this raw tone. The EL84s give this amp an awesome Class A vibe, but don't be fooled. This amp can actually do everything from country to metal. The amp has some decent gain on tap, but I really preferred boosting it to make it shine. The Burn channel on this is really cool. However, I can't help but feel that the F series amps were a little better. Maybe it's just because I'm a little more familiar with them.
OVERALL OPINION
For the price of the amp, these aren't too bad. However, it might be better to find a used F series that these amplifiers replaced. If you're looking for a new, do-it-all amplifier and love that EL84 sound, I recommend checking this amp out. I'm especially fond of the rackmount model, but that's because I'm a fan of the small, compact series. It reminds me a lot of the old school Mark amps.
UTILIZATION
Mesa/Boogie did a great job packing everything in this amp, especially the rackmount model. The switches feel sturdy, the knobs feel great and everything is laid out very intuitively. The Mesa/Boogie manuals are always some of the best. It features various ways on how to dial in the amp, the sweet spots of the controls, how to take care of the amp and clearly explains every feature in an easy to understand manner.
SOUNDS
While the 5:25 doesn't have as much power, it makes up for it in this raw tone. The EL84s give this amp an awesome Class A vibe, but don't be fooled. This amp can actually do everything from country to metal. The amp has some decent gain on tap, but I really preferred boosting it to make it shine. The Burn channel on this is really cool. However, I can't help but feel that the F series amps were a little better. Maybe it's just because I'm a little more familiar with them.
OVERALL OPINION
For the price of the amp, these aren't too bad. However, it might be better to find a used F series that these amplifiers replaced. If you're looking for a new, do-it-all amplifier and love that EL84 sound, I recommend checking this amp out. I'm especially fond of the rackmount model, but that's because I'm a fan of the small, compact series. It reminds me a lot of the old school Mark amps.