Metal Preamp Shootout: Engl e530 vs Myasnikov IIC+ (Remix)

Comparison of the Engl e530 preamp against the Myasnikov IIC+ preamp (a Russian clone of the classic Mesa Boogie amplifier).
Using Schecter JL7 guitar, Engl 840 power amp, Torpedo load box, and Ownhammer and York Audio impulse responses.
This is a remixed version as I don't think the previous version of this video really did the Myansnikov preamp justice. It can be hard to get the EQ right on Mesa Mark style amps, especially if they don't come with their own graphic EQ!

[@daysthrumycam]

ENGL kills it.

[@orlandovoskion3151]

I have to say the Russians crushed the Germans on this one ! But then again my ears have always loved the variety of Myasnikov preamps (even though I'm not too fond of Russia currently) !!!

[@techniqueswithtodd]

Well said! love my myasnikov super lead

[@jdw2150]

Really hard to get a grip when there is a bass line under them. But, they both are fairly great. Engl was a bit smoother and maybe more processed sounding? Myasnikov was more raw sounding, maybe more bite. Neither was bad really. Depends what sounds you are going for. Quite similar for the most part.

[@tomcootemusic]

On the bit where the drums drop out there's no bass, just 7 string guitar. As the Myasnikov is a Mark style amp, it's far less intuitive to dial in than most amps, but you can get them to sound quite similar with right post EQ for the IIC+.

[@kimseniorb]

myas has that chewy petrucciesque percussive attack that I like, but needs post eq scoop. the engl has a better freq curve, but the character is more bland

[@kennethjolley]

Price wise what’s the difference? Myasnikov I know aren’t to pricey. I also know he will customize it for you as well

[@tomcootemusic]

The Engl e530 isn't that much more expensive and has two channels, stereo outputs, a stereo FX loop, and includes a 3 watt solid state power ampl for playing in your bedroom. The power amp is actually far louder and sounds far better than you could resaonably expect! But the Myasnikov clones only cost a fraction of some of the classic preamps they are based on, such as the Soldano, Bognor or Mesa ones.

[@kramerbc8482]

Hi Tom, I have this Myasnikov, too, but on mine, the Gain control has no effect on the sound. This is called Volume on my MB Quad Preamp, where one of the channels is supposedly the IIC+, and which has a big effect on sound. Does your Gain control behave as it should? Mine seems stuck on 10 regardless of position. I've tried contacting Myasnikov a few times, but to no avail.

[@tomcootemusic]

Hi, all the controls on my one seemed to work as you would expect them to. Could just be a loose connection or a dry joint? Have you tried just using some switch cleaner on the control (in and out)? This can work surprisingly well!

[@kramerbc8482]

@@tomcootemusic Thank you for the quick reply. It's as you said, a loose connection of the pot's legs to the PCB. After 30 mins of Ohming it out, and a suggestion from Oleg, I found no contact between the ground leg to ground. With a little bit of solder, it's functioning as it should.

[@tomcootemusic]

@@kramerbc8482 Excellent! Glad you got it sorted.

[@dariusmaroszyk283]

As much I like Myasnikov products, Engl sounded more punchy.

[@tomcootemusic]

Yes, I think the Engl has a bit more weight to it for the high gain sounds but I think it's easier to get a pristine clean tone with the Myasnikov IIC+.

[@satarello]

engl sounded better for me. more definied..but Myashnikov is also good.

[@tomcootemusic]

Yes, I prefer the Engl as well. The Myasnikov is based on an older style Mesa Boogie IIC+ amp and it's difficult to get the same kind of gain out of it without really pushing the front and using post EQ, Mesa style.

[@lostinpa-dadenduro7555]

I like the Engl better.

[@Bcwilderness]

engl mids cut clarity wins