MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection

US IK Multimedia captures features 5 iconic amplifiers for TONEX 16/02/24

IK Multimedia has released MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection for TONEX. A spokesperson told us, "This continues IK's near decade-long partnership with MESA/Boogie and expands the TONEX signature series with 70 electrifying new Tone Models."

Here's the full details direct from IK Multimedia...

The MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection features 5 iconic amplifiers including an exact recreation of Carlos Santana's original "Budokan" Mark I. Carefully preserved in MESA's Tone Lab, these "reference amps" are essential to maintaining historical accuracy, while providing invaluable insights to shape future designs and guide the MESA legacy forward.

All 5 amps were fine-tuned to their sweet spots by legendary "Tone Boy" Doug West, MESA's in-house tone guru for over 40 years, in a range of styles. Meticulously captured with IK's Advanced AI Machine Modeling at a world-class studio in Northern California, the results are an unparalleled collection that IK is proud to present today.

Collection Overview

An exceptional Tone Model collection for use across the entire TONEX ecosystem

70 Tone Models of 4 reference amps and 1 limited-edition King Snake™ amp: 46 with cab, 24 without

Captured using 2 different MESA/Boogie reference cabs: a 4x12 Slope and a 1x12 Widebody Extension

All Tone Models were fine-tuned by MESA's own Doug West and ex-Artist Relations Manager now Recording Engineer Sean Beresford to multiple sweet spots

Captured at a world-class studio with ideal acoustics and the perfect gear

Created using cutting-edge AI Machine Modeling™ technology with advanced training

Compatible with all TONEX versions including the free TONEX CS and TONEX App

All Tone Models can easily be loaded to TONEX Pedal and used for live performance

What Makes a Reference Amplifier?
A reference amplifier epitomizes sonic excellence, embodying the essence of its unique design and sound. They aren't prototypes, but production models that were recognized as being exceptional, and then were meticulously scrutinized component by component to unlock the secrets of their sonic brilliance. These amplifiers perfectly represent the Series and are the gold standard for their model and sound, as well as for shaping the sound of potential future amplifier designs.

The Reference Cabs
Two notable reference cabs were used to capture the thick rich tone of the 4 MESA reference amps. These cabinets have been used by Randall and Doug over several decades and offer a unique "broken in" experience that's smooth, dynamic and touch-sensitive. The King Snake combo is loaded with a Jenson Blackbird 100 Alnico for a warm, clean and singing vocal-like quality when turned up.

Doug West, the "Tone Boy"
Doug joined MESA in 1981 as a Sales/Product Specialist, swiftly earning the nickname "Tone Boy" for his collaboration with Randall Smith in R&D. With a deep passion for guitar tone and a rich history in the Bay Area music scene, Doug ensures every Boogie® product resonates with soul and excellence. He played an integral role in capturing the MESA/Boogie Tone Models and his ear, passion and insistence on "vibe and feel" were critical in the creation of the models represented in this truly unique collection.

The Featured Models
1984 Boogie® MARK IIC+™
The MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ is revered by guitarists for its legendary tone, versatility and build quality. It has left a significant mark on the world of guitar amplification and continues to be sought-after by musicians seeking iconic rock and metal tones. This Mark IIC+ Reference amp is the embodiment of the Mark II sound, an amp that has graced the fingers of many top artists and studio players. Includes 14 Tone Models: 9 with cab, 5 without.

Early '90s Boogie® Mark IV™
The Mark IV Reference amp is a very special amp with a slightly thicker lead tone than the Mark IIC+. It's been used by countless professional guitarists across a wide range of genres. Its distinctive tone and versatility have made it a staple in studios and on stages around the world. It has also influenced the design of countless other amplifiers, cementing its place in the pantheon of iconic guitar gear. Includes 10 Tone Models: 7 with cab, 3 without.

Early '90s MESA Engineering® DUAL RECTIFIER® (2 channel)
This early '90s MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier is an iconic 2-channel guitar amplifier known for its immense, rock tone and high-gain capabilities. The Dual Rectifier changed the sound of rock with its thick gain layers favored by many metal bands such as Metallica and Tool and ruled rock radio for well over a decade after its release in the early '90s. It remains a staple in heavy rock and metal music. Includes 9 Tone Models: 6 with cab, 3 without.

Early '90s MESA Engineering® TRIPLE RECTIFIER® (2 channel)
This early MESA/Boogie Triple Rectifier is another legendary 2-channel guitar amplifier renowned for its authority, tight low end and layers of harmonically rich overdrive. The Triple Rec takes the Rectifier sound even further toward bombastic via its bigger power section boasting 6x6L6s and is well-hunted for its giant sound and stop-on-a-dime dynamics, being ever-popular among hard rock and metal guitarists. Includes 25 Tone Models: 16 with cab, 9 without.

Boogie® Limited Edition King Snake™
This limited-edition King Snake™ is an exact recreation of the original MESA/Boogie amp Carlos Santana Mark I toured with in the early '70s. With only 600 examples produced, this amp was designed to be a single-channel tone monster delivering the iconic Latin rock tones heard on countless records and stages and reproducing the electrifying energy of Santana's historic performance at the legendary Budokan arena. Includes 12 Tone Models: 8 with cab, 4 without.

The MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection is a unique opportunity to experience the sound and feel of rare amplifiers built with components and transformers no longer available. Whether it's with the volume down for pristine clean tones, or cranked up to unleash crushing metal tones, playing these amps is a must for any MESA/Boogie fan.

Pricing and Availability:

MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection is available now to purchase via ToneNET and within any version of TONEX for Mac/PC for $/€99.99*. It is also available from the IK Multimedia online store and from IK authorized dealers worldwide.
*Pricing excluding taxes.

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