Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

[OlinMusic]

I have a chance to trade my Mark IIB for a Rect-o-verb series 2.

any thoughts?

I recently started hot plate-ing my Mark 2 and am actually a bit thrilled with the distortion. The CLEAN is the best clean ever - YES, BETTER THAN FENDER! Esp with different speakers and amp combos.

The Rect-o-verb to my memory had a good sound, was modern, and tight.

 

[seafoamer]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

u kid, right?

that's like trading a 1963 Gibson L-5 for an 1981 Aria Pro.

 

[some_dude]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

Of the two, I'd probably take the MkIIB. I remember it had a very fat, vintagey sorta high gain to it....not at all modern sounding. I also remember that due to the shared EQ that it didn't channel switch worth a sh*t.

I woudn't have a problem with the shared EQ thing, since I rarely switch channels....but if I wanted a channel switcher I'd get the Rectoverb.

If I was in your position, and I really wanted a Rectoverb, I'd keep the MkIIB and save up for the Recto.

 

[That90'sGuy]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

Yep, stick with the Mark 2B

 

[Guitarist]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

It really depends on what sound you're looking for. You say that you are "a bit thrilled with the distortion" and are thoroughly impressed by its clean...

...but now a trade offer comes up and you're questioning it? I would keep the amp, just from what you've stated about it. The Rectoverb's clean will be alright, but it won't touch your IIB's... The gain channels are completely different with completely different vibes...and I'd be very careful about ditching an amp that you're starting to get thrilled with. Work with it some more and enjoy the fact that you own a vintage Boogie.

Though, I would consider what your IIB is loaded with...Simulclass? EQ? Reverb? That will also play into the whole value thing.

Overall, I don't think I would do it. My suggestion to you is to simply go down to your local Boogie dealer with your IIB and A/B the two amps. Simple and then you don't have to take a stranger's opinion for it.

I hope you do the right thing for YOU!

 

[JeffB]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

u kid, right?

that's like trading a 1963 Gibson L-5 for an 1981 Aria Pro.

+10 Bazillion.

Rectoverb is a neat amp, but keep that IIB.

 

[OlinMusic]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

You guys have some great thoughts.

My mark 2b is the 100/60w with wood/wicker and EQ, no verb. I have Mesa 1x12 90w cabs AND a recto 2x12 along with its built in 1x12. I have run it with a Hot PLate and Variac and it's great. The clean is as I stated.

The only thing I really like with the Recto is it can do more metal, and it has a solo boost function, and built in verb. I mainly like that it is convenient for playing holes in the wall. With my Mark, I have to be careful with it, have to use a Variac and extension cabs, etc. Then again, we are all tone freaks.

I might have one easy cure. I just picked up a Rivera Knucklehead with Reverb (old series), so maybe I should keep the Mark 2b. That's what my lady says I should do.

My only fear with Rectos is that they don't have that blank canvas thing - like the Mark 2 which works amazing with pedals, pods, different speakers, and it has a BROWN sound to it. The EQ does a lot. The Recto has a clean and distortion that could (note, I said COULD) be labeled sterile. It doesn't have the 5u4 "sag", and it's not necessarily a great jazz or blues amp like the Mark.

I have used a Pod XT live with the Mark and gotten a very passable metal tone, if you ask me.

 

[Nite_Maresz_25]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

Totally different amps! Olin made most great points is his post.

 

[HamerPlyr]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

Hey, Olin.

I have both. Well, my Mark II is actually an A instead of a B, but close enough.

I have both because they are totally different. The old guy in me likes the vintage tones of the Mark II. The cool-features guy in me likes the Rectoverb. The Mark II sounds better, but I find myself using the Rectoverb more.

 

[Boogie Bill]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

Olin, why don't you check with Mesa and see if your 2B could have a reverb tank and circuit fitted to it, if that's an issue for you?

Just a thought.

Bill

 

[OlinMusic]

Re: Mesa Mark 2b vs the Rect-o-verb

It costs like 3- 400 plus shipping. OUCH!
If they could mod the circuit easily I might consider it.

Most people tell me what I kn ow is true - new Mesas are a dime a dozen, these old wood/wicker ones are special in terms of pure tone. Esp the cleans.