As a musician and a ham radio operator I'm really enjoying the history. I'll never forget being in a studio in LA in 1978 getting to use a MK1 I believe it was and saying - this is the sound I'm looking for. Yep I got busted by the "official" observers (ham radio volunteers) a couple of times in my Novice days too. Thanks for making such fantastic gear!
I was a SF South Bay area musician during my working career as a Sheet Metal worker (among other things) and made good money for the time. I always had old tube amps until I could afford a Marshall and I had many. I mostly shopped at Guitar Showcase in Campbell. CA. (I think) and they always had a great selection of trending gear. That's where I saw my first Mesa Boogie but due to Boogies hardcore policy regarding discounting their amps I refused to even try one. I always got a (deal). Then one day I plugged into a model on the sales floor and things changed. The next day I purchased a Studio Preamp and a Mesa 50/40 amp. A few days later I traded in the 50/50 and bought a Simul 295. AWESOME Amp!! I have had a 50 cal, a mk4, a mk3, a dual rectifier and currently have a "Ractifier" and a Triple Recxtifier (modded).Plus a Marshall JMP 1 and a Satriani 100 watt head. I'm retired from work now but still playing in the Reno/Tahoe area and must say Thank You for all you've done to elevate and inspire me and SO many others to enthusiastically do more and enjoy more than otherwise possible. I LOVE all your gear and your courageous spirit. This world is far better for your contributions. Steve. 530 386-4115
Thank you, Randall, for sharing the fascinating history of Mesa Boogie and giving us a glimpse into the evolution of such iconic gear! It's amazing to hear the stories behind the innovations. ❤ I have a question about one of your prototype preamps called 'Nunya.' Could you share how it came to be, what the design goals or inspirations were, and what expectations you had for it during development? I'd love to learn more about its story! Thank you again for everything you do! Cheers!
My Grandpa, a WWII Navy veteran taught all of us scouts how to tie every knot to create our boards for the Pioneering merit badge. Every chance I had to spend time with my Grandpa in his workshop was pure joy. We made a telegraph set once for a school science fair. He was such a craftsman that these things were on beautiful oak bases with beveled edges, stained perfectly, the electromagnets were done with a drill turning slowly so that every turn was absolutely perfect. One of the judges gave me a bad score because “you aren’t supposed to use a store-bought kit.” 😡 I have them proudly displayed in my office, where every visitor stops to ask about them and what they are. I’m 57 now, my Grandpa long passed, but every day I get to see a part of him and something that we built together when I was just a kid. Not sure if there will ever be another generation like his.
Clarification:: I previously mentioned Mesa Boogies hardcore policy regarding discounting their amps. I meant not allowing dealers to discount their amps or risk losing the franchise.
Love hanging out with you Randy ! Thank you for sharing your stories. I wanted to say that it's so cool being able to communicate with you here and to be able to tell you thank you for all your dedication to excellence. I know that you were doing something that you loved doing, but in doing that you also have given joy to so many people.
My little Mark IIa is a special amp to me, because of what it is and also because of it's / your story! In 1970 I was just beginning college when I I first heard your Boogie on Santana's Abraxas album. From then on I wanted one. I spent my twenties looking at your ads in guitar magazines... and finally in my mid 30s I was able to order one, which at that time was a Mark III (blue stripe) model. I loved and owned that amp for about 20 years and have owned quite a few Mesa Boogies since then. It's pretty amazing to me to remember my twenties, which were the years of the Mark I and IIa time period... and then, here these years later, looking back at all that you guys created since that time. After you first created /built what was one of the best amps (if not the best) in the world at that time. It's really very mind boggling ! And it seems like you have always been able to surround yourself with amazing people to help with these visions. Much respect !
Okay, i'm really enjoying these !! And i am one of those guys ,that you are talking about ! I have my original paper work right here. Basic super 60 was $400.00,reverb-$85-Hundred watt--$85...Graphic was $120...Wood case was $100....Altec-417-8h...$85...JBL k-120 was $85...Vinyl cover was $25....Anvil case was $140....my Boogie was a 60 watt with reverb,graphic pull boost ,cover and case and i sent you .....$1097.00 !! Which was a ton of money back then !!!! I used it for years and years , in all kinds of different gigs without a problem !!! Cheers to your Vision and artistry and hard work ! Thank You. George
Randall, thank you so much for doing this channel, it is absolutely wonderful to hear all of these stories about your journey building a great American company that left its mark on music. I look forward to all of the latest tales. It would be amazing to hear stories about the guitarists and bands that you dealt with, like when the Metallica guys came down to the shop, and when you guys built John Sykes’ custom 180 watt Coliseum with the Mk3 preamp section! I played a mid 90’s Dual Rec half stack after saving my money for two summers as a teenager…and recently ive been revitalizing an ‘88 MK3…just an uncaged animal of an amp, versatility and tone wise! Greetings from NJ…I come from a family of electricians, and in 1937 my great grandfather and grandfather ran the power to W2XMN in Alpine…you might say that has a bit of radio history !🎸🎸
Always a fan of small businesses and ultimately successful business - and those folks that start and build them - this is literally fascinating to hear and get schooled on how it was done.
My grandfather was a navy guy in ww2 and did radio work as well as an organ player. His passing in 2015 is how I ended up getting a bunch of gear to start getting into tube electronics. I have his old electronics books from the 40s still with his radio id in it still. I wish I could go back in time and get into all this stuff while he was still here to teach me. I learned on my own but it could've been a great way to connect with him much further and thats a bug regret of mine. He was a wonderful man who lived to a good age of 90 but I wish it could've been much much longer
Yup! Bought my 1st Mesa in the 80’s from Skips Music in Sacramento. Sadly he (Skip) passed away recently, he was a great guy who will be missed! It was about $900! Mark iii w/graph and Reverb! It was a 60watt! Killer amp! Sold it to by a 2 channel Dual Rec revG that I still own. Had to buy another Mkiii red strip simul-class loaded! Mike B made it a ++ now it’s insane.
Hey Randall. I remember when I got my first Mark 1 back in 1983. I was playing in a LA club band at the time and I had seen another band with the guitarist using a Mesa boogie Mark 2C not the c+yet. Well I found that Mark 1 used how to Hollywood music store and tried it out with the 112 cabinet that it had and it sounded pretty darn good. But when I got it to the club and plugged it into my 412 it was so muddy and I had such a hard time dialing in the sound. But I worked with it to get it on the way I wanted to sound. Eventually sold bad amp and use Laney for a while. Then after seeing anthrax I decided to go back out to Mesa boogie. A friend of mine sold me his simull class long head and it was easy to dial in because I had the previous experience with the other boogie. But then 2 months later I found another old Mesa boogie for $500 in a shop. This one was just the regular Mark II or the mark 2A. Had a graphic eq but no reverb. Anyway about that second hit I bought I noticed the same problems with muddiness on that that I had on my original Mark 1. But instead of selling that Mark II a guy I knew told me he could get a rid of that boomy Bass by replacing a capacitor on the EQ sliders and changed it from a .3 microferet to a point 1. I finslly got the amp to sound the way i wanted to without using an external eq. Sounds great when I run it in tandem with my simul class head. Also managed to find me another Mark 2 c+ when looking for a tremoverb. But that one was a HRG model. They're all great amps that I have and very simple to operate.
I owned a v twin pedal once thru a super reverb.. Not.Reallya fan or want a boogie Amp. BUT, I respect the history and love these videos and Stories. keep em coming . Awesome .
One of my favorite amps of all time is the Mark V 90w Head. I would love to see a Mark V version that would be digitally controlled (similar to the Diezel VHX) to have all features of the Mark V 90w with relays to recall settings, save presets and recall them by MIDI program change, and maybe even some post-amp onboard effects (like the VHX or the H&K GrandMeister 40 Deluxe). Unfortunately, I don’t expect Gibson to ever design and release such amp… Maybe Randall Smith could still design it and make it build by Boutique Amps Distribution under the Randall Smith name. I would buy it… I’m just sayin’
Our Man Dan (designed TriAxis) was about 70% through designing an all-tube motorized preamp featuring all of our best circuits. Had it working and largely de-bugged so the motors re-set the simple one-row of controls quietly and almost instantly. After take-over, Corporate decided not to complete it. No doubt dodged some problems but also dodged big potential.
Hi Randall. A luthier (Claudio Pagelli Swizerland) who run allmost out of mony, sold me his 100W Mkll-B 15" in 1983+/-. I was Mark Knopfler fan:-). The schematic that came with it, was my first (Tube Amp) one i got my eyes on. From there I learned all I know today. It also was the base to build a 19" Preamp version 1988. No beauty but it worked. The brutal loud ton of this Boogie was the benchmark for all later works and repairs. A lot of crap is/was out in the marked allways, and poeple like to buy snake oil :-) Thanks to your great work and workmanskills. Matthias
Randall, so cool you used to build that stuff. I find it fascinating! As far as craftsmanship, I found that mesa/boogie had/has the best build quality.
I had to pick up my Boogie at the St Louis Airport. Early 70's with Rev and Eq. It was expensive at the time, but I didn't care. I jumped into the hype, hoopla, and sustain for days.
Mesa is known for their high gain sound but I must say my DC-5 when set on channel 1 with the gain at 3 and pulled out is about the greatest tone you can get. Clean as a bell when you use a light attack but breaks up perfectly when smacked. It never gets mushy or muddy. Absolutely perfect sound for pretty much everything besides metal, which I no longer play. For leads I use a clover overdrive to push it and get more break up and sustain. No need for channel 2 for me. Every sound I could need with simply the guitar volume knob, pick up switch, my hands and an overdrive pedal. I have never understood why this model of Boogies doesn’t get more love. Other than the original Mark II C+ IMO this amp is one of Boogie’s best. Much love Randall. Keep ‘em coming.
Thanks!! We never should have discontinued the Dual Calibers. Top players noted correctly, that in Gain settings, every guitar sounded about the same (downside). After it was gone, dealers eulogized that "no mater how shitty the guitar, it still sounds great!" (upside). Then, when they get home and the (shitty) guitar no longer sounds so good, he comes back and buys a DC !! (double upside!) Our mistake was listening to the complaints and not the praise!!
@@RandallSmith2G Wow Randall, thank you for responding. Quite the honor. Well...the ears don't lie apparently. I haven't shopped by brand or what is popular for many, many years. Simply what works/ sounds good and what doesn't. My DC-5 was purchased new in I believe 1993. I was going off to college and needed a smaller amp so I traded in my Tri-Axis (another amazing amp/ pre-amp), Peavey tube power amp and Marshall 4 x 12 cabinet for the DC-5. Over the years I've purchased other amps as a back up to the DC-5. I've returned them all. I think what I need to do is buy another used DC-5 as a back up. I think I should probably jump on this as now that you've given your endorsement of them, the price is about to sky rocket ;-). Keep them coming Randall these stories are priceless. 🙏
I sure would enjoy reading your life story done up right. There is such a dearth and depth of experience, knowledge and wisdom - it would make a thrilling & fun read for this life-long musician & guitar amp tech of 25 years. Love your channel and love learning more about your journey. Thank You!
@@RandallSmith2G What a treat for all of us that you enjoy this enough to share your stories. Now that I see others chiming in with their MB stories, I'll just say that in 1987 my band opened for JG Band at Golden Gate Park before 20K people, and my crappy (brand new) Fender Stage Lead amp died onstage during sound check. JG kindly offered me the use of his gorgeous-sounding BF Twin Reverb + JBLs and I got through the gig (thanks Jerry!). The very next week my dad co-signed for me to open a line of credit so I could gear up like a pro (thanks Dad!). The amp I bought? A MKIII 60/100 head driving a pair of EVs in 1x12 cabs. It sounded like GOD and I never had a single issue with it for the 7-8 years I owned it. I also picked up the Midi Matrix, which was totally boss, easy to use/program & loads of fun. Thanks again Randall! Gotta go watch part 9 now...
We all used Fender, Ampeg and Sunn and then came the Mk. 1 which didn't require an MXR Distortion + in front of it. It was our American Marshall then and still is today.
By the time I ordered my IIB, it was a $1000 to get on the waiting list, and the balance when your name came up. But the turn around was quick after that. I bet I have the original receipt here somewhere.
I currently have 3 Mark amps (the IIB mentioned that I bought new, and 2 Mark III's i got used) . I have made the vast majority of my living since I got that first one in '79 with Mesa Boogie amps. My Mark IIB had all the bells and whistles except the power converter. Teak cabinet, EQ, 60/100, Reverb and a anvil flight case. It is still in "like new" condition.
Randy, thank you for all the great stories. I was just learning about guitars, amps and music just a little after the Boogies came out. A good friend had a Boogie (later known as a Mark I) and from the first time I heard it, I knew I wanted one and eventually got one or two...
I don't get to play guitar every day but I did today & damn did the Mark V 90w sound badass tonight. Had it going into a 4x12 rect cab & also fed from a 5050 power amp into a 2x12 rect cab & cheap 4x12 cab. I only wish I had a drummer to jam with.
Man i wish i could go back in a time machine and order a Mark 1. Perfect amount of gain for fusion. Hey Randall, did anyone ever ask for a lower wattage Mark 1? like a 12 or 20 watt Mark 1 so it wouldn't weigh so much? My Princeton with a Jensen C12Q weighs so little it needs to be weighed down with a sandbag or it scurries away haha, i just wish it had the Boogie gain, it would be perfect. All the best - Al.
I did this :) 1982 MK2b 60 watt with reverb black tolex combo !!!! wish I was smart enough to keep all the paperwork !!! mine was $900 + shipping ( 60$ USPS cash ) later grabbed a cream one from a friend that I kept till 2020
No, RIP. But his son Dave got a taste when I met him at a 50 year Scout reunion about 15 years ago. I owe them more than I can say!! . . and have tried to provide the same inspiration with the folks AT Boogie. BTW: I nick-named Stan "Machete Mike" (he carried one and used it all the time!) and that name stuck, so said Dave!! He and that scout leader Bill Cooper were of the Greatest Generation, no doubt about it!
Speaker brand was also an option when I bought mine. 1980-81 EV upgrade was $75. I think Altec was base speaker, I got hardwood, reverb, EV. I think my total was $1060
Hi Randal I am 66 and still love jamming with my buddies. Back in the late 70s or maybe early 80s I filled out an order form, mailed it out to you and your shop and waited patiently for my order to arrive. I ordered the 50watt 12” EVM speaker- equalizer and reverb. I’m wondering if you could help me out. There is felt pen initials next to the power cord input. First letter is an M second letter may be a 2 or maybe the letter R. I would like to know if my messa boogie amp is a mark 1,2,3,a B etc. nothing else like it when cranked! Thank you-
That was likely MB for Mike Bendinelli, our first employee still there after 49 years! On the main flat side of each chassis from that era and before are either an MB or RCS signatures. We were the techs who signed off after all our testing.
Good morning. I worked in the remodeled chicken coops in Sonoma building boxes and also did some work for you in the Petaluma building. Can you give some information on the process of how and who made those boxes possible? I’m not using names but he is a hell of a craftsman in every way. As you know he’s a private person that’s why I didn’t use names. Thank you.
Sounds like you were working with Rayven's Bro Roy who built our cabs for several years - - in an old chicken coop! They were great quality . . . but alway late! Thanks!!
@@RandallSmith2G yes I was. We are still friends to this day. Worked for Jake at the Petaluma building, built the tube testing booths and the second floor in the warehouse. The tardiness of deliveries I can’t speak to. But I can say there were times in those days time was a concept and knowing the time was a reality that escaped us. Definitely not speaking for Roy!
@ I do have to give Roy his just dues on his amazing work on the hardwood and exotic wood cabs. The continuous grain around the cab and the dovetail joints were amazing! Thanks for your reply.
Hello father, just wanted to let you know I have 1994 dual rectifier Rev G, that I modified to switch between a Rev G and Rev F, Would love to talk with you about the circuit if you have the time. Im so sorry that Gibson let you go, I think it's bullshit .
As a musician and a ham radio operator I'm really enjoying the history. I'll never forget being in a studio in LA in 1978 getting to use a MK1 I believe it was and saying - this is the sound I'm looking for. Yep I got busted by the "official" observers (ham radio volunteers) a couple of times in my Novice days too. Thanks for making such fantastic gear!
I was a SF South Bay area musician during my working career as a Sheet Metal worker (among other things) and made good money for the time. I always had old tube amps until I could afford a Marshall and I had many. I mostly shopped at Guitar Showcase in Campbell. CA. (I think) and they always had a great selection of trending gear. That's where I saw my first Mesa Boogie but due to Boogies hardcore policy regarding discounting their amps I refused to even try one. I always got a (deal). Then one day I plugged into a model on the sales floor and things changed. The next day I purchased a Studio Preamp and a Mesa 50/40 amp. A few days later I traded in the 50/50 and bought a Simul 295. AWESOME Amp!! I have had a 50 cal, a mk4, a mk3, a dual rectifier and currently have a "Ractifier" and a Triple Recxtifier (modded).Plus a Marshall JMP 1 and a Satriani 100 watt head. I'm retired from work now but still playing in the Reno/Tahoe area and must say Thank You for all you've done to elevate and inspire me and SO many others to enthusiastically do more and enjoy more than otherwise possible. I LOVE all your gear and your courageous spirit. This world is far better for your contributions. Steve. 530 386-4115
My Dad designed the motor drive for the periscope on the Nautilus with Kollmorgen Optical.
Thank you, Randall, for sharing the fascinating history of Mesa Boogie and giving us a glimpse into the evolution of such iconic gear! It's amazing to hear the stories behind the innovations. ❤
I have a question about one of your prototype preamps called 'Nunya.' Could you share how it came to be, what the design goals or inspirations were, and what expectations you had for it during development? I'd love to learn more about its story! Thank you again for everything you do! Cheers!
My Grandpa, a WWII Navy veteran taught all of us scouts how to tie every knot to create our boards for the Pioneering merit badge. Every chance I had to spend time with my Grandpa in his workshop was pure joy. We made a telegraph set once for a school science fair. He was such a craftsman that these things were on beautiful oak bases with beveled edges, stained perfectly, the electromagnets were done with a drill turning slowly so that every turn was absolutely perfect. One of the judges gave me a bad score because “you aren’t supposed to use a store-bought kit.” 😡 I have them proudly displayed in my office, where every visitor stops to ask about them and what they are. I’m 57 now, my Grandpa long passed, but every day I get to see a part of him and something that we built together when I was just a kid. Not sure if there will ever be another generation like his.
You Gramps was My Kinda Guy!! Greatest Generation for sure!!
Clarification:: I previously mentioned Mesa Boogies hardcore policy regarding discounting their amps. I meant not allowing dealers to discount their amps or risk losing the franchise.
Man I still remember my dads license from when I was a little kid. WB8ROB. Maybe it was catchy?
Just like all the Apollo astronauts, the Boy Scouts was an essential part of your becoming who you are.
those hardwood, wicker cabinets were works of art
Thanks . . . all because I hated "tolexing"!!
Gibson principles: 1) Do not innovate 2) Reissue Reissue Reissue 3) Cut every corner and burn every bridge to maximize profit.
Nailed it.
Treat others how you would never want to be treated
From yesterday I am happiest man on the Earth with TC-50.
Thanks to You Mr. Randall.
Love hanging out with you Randy ! Thank you for sharing your stories. I wanted to say that it's so cool being able to communicate with you here and to be able to tell you thank you for all your dedication to excellence. I know that you were doing something that you loved doing, but in doing that you also have given joy to so many people.
My little Mark IIa is a special amp to me, because of what it is and also because of it's / your story!
In 1970 I was just beginning college when I I first heard your Boogie on Santana's Abraxas album. From then on I wanted one. I spent my twenties looking at your ads in guitar magazines... and finally in my mid 30s I was able to order one, which at that time was a Mark III (blue stripe) model. I loved and owned that amp for about 20 years and have owned quite a few Mesa Boogies since then.
It's pretty amazing to me to remember my twenties, which were the years of the Mark I and IIa time period... and then, here these years later, looking back at all that you guys created since that time. After you first created /built what was one of the best amps (if not the best) in the world at that time. It's really very mind boggling ! And it seems like you have always been able to surround yourself with amazing people to help with these visions. Much respect !
Okay, i'm really enjoying these !! And i am one of those guys ,that you are talking about ! I have my original paper work right here. Basic super 60 was $400.00,reverb-$85-Hundred watt--$85...Graphic was $120...Wood case was $100....Altec-417-8h...$85...JBL k-120 was $85...Vinyl cover was $25....Anvil case was $140....my Boogie was a 60 watt with reverb,graphic pull boost ,cover and case and i sent you .....$1097.00 !! Which was a ton of money back then !!!! I used it for years and years , in all kinds of different gigs without a problem !!! Cheers to your Vision and artistry and hard work ! Thank You. George
Thank YOU George! . . . for trusting us with your cash and your tone. And thanks for the price up-date!
Randall, thank you so much for doing this channel, it is absolutely wonderful to hear all of these stories about your journey building a great American company that left its mark on music. I look forward to all of the latest tales. It would be amazing to hear stories about the guitarists and bands that you dealt with, like when the Metallica guys came down to the shop, and when you guys built John Sykes’ custom 180 watt Coliseum with the Mk3 preamp section!
I played a mid 90’s Dual Rec half stack after saving my money for two summers as a teenager…and recently ive been revitalizing an ‘88 MK3…just an uncaged animal of an amp, versatility and tone wise! Greetings from NJ…I come from a family of electricians, and in 1937 my great grandfather and grandfather ran the power to W2XMN in Alpine…you might say that has a bit of radio history !🎸🎸
The merit badge story was great! Keep being you, kind sir.
Made a HUGE difference in my life! . . . and I deeply Thank the men who put up with us kids!
Always a fan of small businesses and ultimately successful business - and those folks that start and build them - this is literally fascinating to hear and get schooled on how it was done.
I think my next vid should honor my Pioneer Grandma. Stay tuned cuz THIS IS the real shit!! I'll do it Right Now, thanks to you Joe.
I loved hearing about your childhood. Great stuff as always
This was a good one! Thanks Randall
Amazing, insightful stuff.
My grandfather was a navy guy in ww2 and did radio work as well as an organ player. His passing in 2015 is how I ended up getting a bunch of gear to start getting into tube electronics. I have his old electronics books from the 40s still with his radio id in it still. I wish I could go back in time and get into all this stuff while he was still here to teach me. I learned on my own but it could've been a great way to connect with him much further and thats a bug regret of mine. He was a wonderful man who lived to a good age of 90 but I wish it could've been much much longer
Yup! Bought my 1st Mesa in the 80’s from Skips Music in Sacramento. Sadly he (Skip) passed away recently, he was a great guy who will be missed! It was about $900! Mark iii w/graph and Reverb! It was a 60watt! Killer amp! Sold it to by a 2 channel Dual Rec revG that I still own. Had to buy another Mkiii red strip simul-class loaded! Mike B made it a ++ now it’s insane.
Hey Randall. I remember when I got my first Mark 1 back in 1983. I was playing in a LA club band at the time and I had seen another band with the guitarist using a Mesa boogie Mark 2C not the c+yet. Well I found that Mark 1 used how to Hollywood music store and tried it out with the 112 cabinet that it had and it sounded pretty darn good. But when I got it to the club and plugged it into my 412 it was so muddy and I had such a hard time dialing in the sound. But I worked with it to get it on the way I wanted to sound. Eventually sold bad amp and use Laney for a while. Then after seeing anthrax I decided to go back out to Mesa boogie. A friend of mine sold me his simull class long head and it was easy to dial in because I had the previous experience with the other boogie. But then 2 months later I found another old Mesa boogie for $500 in a shop. This one was just the regular Mark II or the mark 2A. Had a graphic eq but no reverb. Anyway about that second hit I bought I noticed the same problems with muddiness on that that I had on my original Mark 1. But instead of selling that Mark II a guy I knew told me he could get a rid of that boomy Bass by replacing a capacitor on the EQ sliders and changed it from a .3 microferet to a point 1. I finslly got the amp to sound the way i wanted to without using an external eq. Sounds great when I run it in tandem with my simul class head. Also managed to find me another Mark 2 c+ when looking for a tremoverb. But that one was a HRG model. They're all great amps that I have and very simple to operate.
I owned a v twin pedal once thru a super reverb..
Not.Reallya fan or want a boogie Amp.
BUT, I respect the history and love these videos and Stories. keep em coming .
Awesome .
One of my favorite amps of all time is the Mark V 90w Head. I would love to see a Mark V version that would be digitally controlled (similar to the Diezel VHX) to have all features of the Mark V 90w with relays to recall settings, save presets and recall them by MIDI program change, and maybe even some post-amp onboard effects (like the VHX or the H&K GrandMeister 40 Deluxe). Unfortunately, I don’t expect Gibson to ever design and release such amp… Maybe Randall Smith could still design it and make it build by Boutique Amps Distribution under the Randall Smith name. I would buy it… I’m just sayin’
The Triaxis was sort of that, though it predated the Mark V so was more based on the Mark IV.
Chech out hook amps- wizard model - close to what you want
Our Man Dan (designed TriAxis) was about 70% through designing an all-tube motorized preamp featuring all of our best circuits. Had it working and largely de-bugged so the motors re-set the simple one-row of controls quietly and almost instantly. After take-over, Corporate decided not to complete it. No doubt dodged some problems but also dodged big potential.
Hi Randall. A luthier (Claudio Pagelli Swizerland) who run allmost out of mony, sold me his 100W Mkll-B 15" in 1983+/-. I was Mark Knopfler fan:-). The schematic that came with it, was my first (Tube Amp) one i got my eyes on. From there I learned all I know today. It also was the base to build a 19" Preamp version 1988. No beauty but it worked. The brutal loud ton of this Boogie was the benchmark for all later works and repairs. A lot of crap is/was out in the marked allways, and poeple like to buy snake oil :-) Thanks to your great work and workmanskills. Matthias
Randall your reminiscing is awesome and inspiring
Randall, so cool you used to build that stuff. I find it fascinating! As far as craftsmanship, I found that mesa/boogie had/has the best build quality.
Thank you for doing these videos. I would love to hear some history on your bass amps, as well!
Good idea. Get to that . . . eventually.
I had to pick up my Boogie at the St Louis Airport. Early 70's with Rev and Eq. It was expensive at the time, but I didn't care. I jumped into the hype, hoopla, and sustain for days.
Gee this is the best thing in the world. Love these stories.
Mesa is known for their high gain sound but I must say my DC-5 when set on channel 1 with the gain at 3 and pulled out is about the greatest tone you can get. Clean as a bell when you use a light attack but breaks up perfectly when smacked. It never gets mushy or muddy. Absolutely perfect sound for pretty much everything besides metal, which I no longer play. For leads I use a clover overdrive to push it and get more break up and sustain. No need for channel 2 for me. Every sound I could need with simply the guitar volume knob, pick up switch, my hands and an overdrive pedal. I have never understood why this model of Boogies doesn’t get more love. Other than the original Mark II C+ IMO this amp is one of Boogie’s best. Much love Randall. Keep ‘em coming.
Thanks!! We never should have discontinued the Dual Calibers. Top players noted correctly, that in Gain settings, every guitar sounded about the same (downside). After it was gone, dealers eulogized that "no mater how shitty the guitar, it still sounds great!" (upside). Then, when they get home and the (shitty) guitar no longer sounds so good, he comes back and buys a DC !! (double upside!) Our mistake was listening to the complaints and not the praise!!
@@RandallSmith2G Wow Randall, thank you for responding. Quite the honor. Well...the ears don't lie apparently. I haven't shopped by brand or what is popular for many, many years. Simply what works/ sounds good and what doesn't. My DC-5 was purchased new in I believe 1993. I was going off to college and needed a smaller amp so I traded in my Tri-Axis (another amazing amp/ pre-amp), Peavey tube power amp and Marshall 4 x 12 cabinet for the DC-5.
Over the years I've purchased other amps as a back up to the DC-5. I've returned them all. I think what I need to do is buy another used DC-5 as a back up.
I think I should probably jump on this as now that you've given your endorsement of them, the price is about to sky rocket ;-). Keep them coming Randall these stories are priceless.
🙏
It was good fortune but also your genius that created mesa/boogie.
Thank you for sharing Randall!
I sure would enjoy reading your life story done up right. There is such a dearth and depth of experience, knowledge and wisdom - it would make a thrilling & fun read for this life-long musician & guitar amp tech of 25 years. Love your channel and love learning more about your journey. Thank You!
Thanks! Stay tuned as this is the un-edited, spontaneous memory down-load . . . and I'm have fun sharing!!
@@RandallSmith2G What a treat for all of us that you enjoy this enough to share your stories. Now that I see others chiming in with their MB stories, I'll just say that in 1987 my band opened for JG Band at Golden Gate Park before 20K people, and my crappy (brand new) Fender Stage Lead amp died onstage during sound check. JG kindly offered me the use of his gorgeous-sounding BF Twin Reverb + JBLs and I got through the gig (thanks Jerry!). The very next week my dad co-signed for me to open a line of credit so I could gear up like a pro (thanks Dad!). The amp I bought? A MKIII 60/100 head driving a pair of EVs in 1x12 cabs. It sounded like GOD and I never had a single issue with it for the 7-8 years I owned it. I also picked up the Midi Matrix, which was totally boss, easy to use/program & loads of fun. Thanks again Randall! Gotta go watch part 9 now...
We all used Fender, Ampeg and Sunn and then came the Mk. 1 which didn't require an MXR Distortion + in front of it. It was our American Marshall then and still is today.
I’ve just got interested in the mesa boogies because of metallica ,definitely loving it
By the time I ordered my IIB, it was a $1000 to get on the waiting list, and the balance when your name came up. But the turn around was quick after that. I bet I have the original receipt here somewhere.
I currently have 3 Mark amps (the IIB mentioned that I bought new, and 2 Mark III's i got used) . I have made the vast majority of my living since I got that first one in '79 with Mesa Boogie amps. My Mark IIB had all the bells and whistles except the power converter. Teak cabinet, EQ, 60/100, Reverb and a anvil flight case. It is still in "like new" condition.
As I recall, the Waiting list was always $150.00. You may have sent in more all at once . . . and we Thank You!
Went to Mount Tamaplias, great experience
From what I recall it was a blue sheet of paper. I ordered the 60 watt head with reverb. I wish I still had it!
Randy, thank you for all the great stories. I was just learning about guitars, amps and music just a little after the Boogies came out. A good friend had a Boogie (later known as a Mark I) and from the first time I heard it, I knew I wanted one and eventually got one or two...
I don't get to play guitar every day but I did today & damn did the Mark V 90w sound badass tonight. Had it going into a 4x12 rect cab & also fed from a 5050 power amp into a 2x12 rect cab & cheap 4x12 cab. I only wish I had a drummer to jam with.
Thank you for your great stories. Keep 'em comin' please! I own a Lonestar Special 1x12, one of my favorite amps.
Hey there your interesting cat to listen to make your video longer at least an hour hour and a half .kicking ass and taking names I like it
Don't stop
hi Randy - great to see another video by you - will be cranking up my Roadster head little later - always enjoy these recollections by you!
Makes me Happy! Thanks!!
@@RandallSmith2G very welcome - the pleasure is all ours here - thank you for taking the time to make these and share
Man i wish i could go back in a time machine and order a Mark 1. Perfect amount of gain for fusion. Hey Randall, did anyone ever ask for a lower wattage Mark 1? like a 12 or 20 watt Mark 1 so it wouldn't weigh so much? My Princeton with a Jensen C12Q weighs so little it needs to be weighed down with a sandbag or it scurries away haha, i just wish it had the Boogie gain, it would be perfect. All the best - Al.
More history!!! Yes!😊
I did this :) 1982 MK2b 60 watt with reverb black tolex combo !!!! wish I was smart enough to keep all the paperwork !!! mine was $900 + shipping ( 60$ USPS cash ) later grabbed a cream one from a friend that I kept till 2020
What a kick - keep ‘em coming!
THANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOU!!!
Great story! Did Mr. Stillson see your success at Mesa Boogie and know the impact he had?
No, RIP. But his son Dave got a taste when I met him at a 50 year Scout reunion about 15 years ago. I owe them more than I can say!! . . and have tried to provide the same inspiration with the folks AT Boogie. BTW: I nick-named Stan "Machete Mike" (he carried one and used it all the time!) and that name stuck, so said Dave!! He and that scout leader Bill Cooper were of the Greatest Generation, no doubt about it!
Hi Randall. Do you have any Frank Zappa stories? He played a Mark I on stage in the late 70's/early 80's...
Only that I remember burning one and listening in a little "magic room" under the stairs in my friends parents house.
Interesting
Speaker brand was also an option when I bought mine. 1980-81
EV upgrade was $75. I think Altec was base speaker, I got hardwood, reverb, EV. I think my total was $1060
And thank you for wonderful videos. You have broadcast chops!
Hi Randal I am 66 and still love jamming with my buddies. Back in the late 70s or maybe early 80s I filled out an order form, mailed it out to you and your shop and waited patiently for my order to arrive. I ordered the 50watt 12” EVM speaker- equalizer and reverb. I’m wondering if you could help me out. There is felt pen initials next to the power cord input.
First letter is an M second letter may be a 2 or maybe the letter R. I would like to know if my messa boogie amp is a mark 1,2,3,a B etc. nothing else like it when cranked! Thank you-
That was likely MB for Mike Bendinelli, our first employee still there after 49 years! On the main flat side of each chassis from that era and before are either an MB or RCS signatures. We were the techs who signed off after all our testing.
¡Excelente!
$900US from then is about $5,000 today.
Back then, Marshalls went for over a thousand, FYI.
Do you still operate Ham radio? Would be awesome to do a live broadcast even if it was digital.
Sorry, no. That era has passed for me. But it was great and led (in)directly to Mesa/Boogie.
Good morning. I worked in the remodeled chicken coops in Sonoma building boxes and also did some work for you in the Petaluma building. Can you give some information on the process of how and who made those boxes possible? I’m not using names but he is a hell of a craftsman in every way. As you know he’s a private person that’s why I didn’t use names. Thank you.
Sounds like you were working with Rayven's Bro Roy who built our cabs for several years - - in an old chicken coop! They were great quality . . . but alway late! Thanks!!
@@RandallSmith2G yes I was. We are still friends to this day. Worked for Jake at the Petaluma building, built the tube testing booths and the second floor in the warehouse. The tardiness of deliveries I can’t speak to. But I can say there were times in those days time was a concept and knowing the time was a reality that escaped us. Definitely not speaking for Roy!
@@RandallSmith2G I was told I was born 2 weeks late. I'm still trying to catch up...
@ what’s begun is half done! I
@ I do have to give Roy his just dues on his amazing work on the hardwood and exotic wood cabs. The continuous grain around the cab and the dovetail joints were amazing! Thanks for your reply.
Hello father, just wanted to let you know I have 1994 dual rectifier Rev G, that I modified to switch between a Rev G and Rev F, Would love to talk with you about the circuit if you have the time. Im so sorry that Gibson let you go, I think it's bullshit .
Hopefully you get to show some other kid how to be a craftsman. I swear in 20yrs no one will be have the skills to work on a valve amp.
I just hope you come to Jesus.
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@@canaan_perry Or Jesus comes to YOU!