When the conversation turns to high-end boutique tube amplifiers revered by guitar heroes across the genres, one name consistently rises to the top: MESA/Boogie. A maker with its roots steeped in the rule-breaking California tradition, it was founded by Randall Smith, who made a name for himself hot-rodding Fender Princeton combo amps out of Prune Music’s repair shop in Mill Valley, California, during the late ’60s. After Smith convinced Carlos Santana to play one of these seemingly run-of-the-mill “Princetons,” a pleasantly floored Santana famously proclaimed, “Man, that amp really boogies!” MESA/Boogie was born, going on to produce a continuing succession of celebrated designs beloved by the likes of Frank Zappa, The Who, Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, Todd Rundgren, Prince, Lamb of God, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Sublime, Blink-182—all the way to nu metal acts like Korn and Linkin Park—and well beyond. Check out our article delving into the history of MESA/Boogie for more intriguing historical tidbits from the minds behind the brand.

In this guide, we’ll take a series-by-series look at MESA’s current amp head, combo and cabinet offerings, spanning the California Tweed, Fillmore, Mark and Rectifier Series. No matter your style, whether you’re chasing the sounds of your idols in your bedroom studio or embarking on a world tour, there’s a MESA rig—or multiple (who’s counting?)—to suit your pursuit of tone.

Table of Contents

Comparing MESA/Boogie Amplifiers by Series
MESA/Boogie California Tweed Series Amps
   MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6V6 4:40 1x12” Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6V6 2:20 1x12” Tube Guitar Combo Amp
MESA/Boogie Fillmore Series Amps
   MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 1x12" 18/23W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 1x12" 50W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 Tube Guitar Amp Head
   MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 Guitar Tube Amp Head
MESA/Boogie Mark Series Amps
   MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ Tube Guitar Amp Head
   MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 1x10" 25W/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Mark V: 35 1x12" 35/25/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 Tube Guitar Amp Head
   MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12" 90W Tube Guitar Combo Amp
   MESA/Boogie Mark VII 90W Tube Guitar Amp Head
MESA/Boogie Rectifier Series Amps
   MESA/Boogie Mini Rectifier 25W Tube Guitar Amp Head
   MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier 100W Tube Guitar Amp Head
MESA/Boogie Rectifier Speaker Cabinets
   MESA/Boogie Mini Recto 19 1x12" 60W Slant Guitar Speaker Cabinet
   MESA/Boogie Horizontal Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet
   MESA/Boogie Vertical/Slant Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet
   MESA/Boogie Rectifier Standard Slant 4x12" 240W Guitar Speaker Cabinet
MESA/Boogie is Your Home of Tone

Comparing MESA/Boogie Amplifiers by Series

Series	Sonic Qualities	Channel Count	FX Loop	Reverb
California Tweed	Crystalline cleans and growly edge-of-breakup tones based on classic American amps	1	Fully buffered series	Lush, tube-driven spring reverb on 40-watt models in the series
Fillmore	Vintage-style voicing ideal for blues, rock, indie and more	2 with three voices per channel	Fully buffered series	Lush, tube-driven spring reverb
Mark Series	Exceptionally versatile with chimey cleans, ferocious high gain and anything in between	2–3 with up to nine modes	Fully buffered series	Lush, tube-driven spring reverb
Rectifier	Rich high gain with prominent lows and a thick midrange for all things heavy rock/metal	2–3 with up to eight modes	Fully buffered series	No

MESA/Boogie California Tweed Series Amps

Why It’s Cool: California Tweed amps feature a five-way power attenuator and a cathode-biased design, allowing for a smooth response that retains clarity even at lower wattage settings.

Things to Consider:

• Single-channel layout provides unmatched simplicity to those who know they’re after cleaner tones
• Fully buffered, tube-driven series effects loop makes an incredible pedal platform for stompbox enthusiasts
• 6V6 power tubes deliver vintage-style cleans and slight overdrive, but may not befit guitarists seeking high-gain distortion

Let’s start with the newest full-fledged series of the MESA/Boogie family. At NAMM 2019, MESA unveiled the ’50s-inspired California Tweed series of amps, featuring a minimalistic control panel and single-channel setup—an enticingly enigmatic rarity for the Petaluma-based company with a penchant for extra. Engrained in vintage American tones, California Tweed amps are a throwback to the glory days of clean, lush and touch-sensitive tube amplification. Captain Kirk Douglas, lead axe slinger of the Roots, has been known to play through a California Tweed 6V6 amp for its silky-smooth sonic signature. If you're after pure tone without the extra bells and whistles, this series is where you should start your search.

MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6V6 4:40 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

The first model to be released under the California Tweed umbrella, this amp is all about clarity, richness and dynamics. This flagship California Tweed 6V6 4:40 model features four 6V6 power tubes and a 12" Jensen Blackbird Alnico speaker, making it ideal for players seeking classic, warm tones with incredible responsiveness. An all-tube, spring reverb circuit also elicits lush, vintage-style ambience with deep dimension. The five-way power switch offers wattage settings of 40, 30, 20, 10 and 2, making this amp versatile for the studio, practice and live performances of any size. It’s perfect for players who crave pristine cleans and slight breakup.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6V6 4:40 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6v6 2:20 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

The 2:20 version delivers the same beloved tone as its bigger sibling but in a smaller package. With two 6V6 power tubes and the same Jensen Blackbird speaker, this 20W amp can be dialed down to 10W or 1W, making it ideal for home or studio recording. It’s an ideal choice for players who love the sound of cranked 6V6 tubes without deafening volume.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie California Tweed 6V6 2:20 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Fillmore Series Amps

Why It’s Cool: Fillmore amps bring you two identical channels, each with three voicing modes: Clean, Drive and Hi—letting you dial in two completely different tones and seamlessly switch between them.

Things to Consider:

• Depending on the model, loaded with EL84 or 6L6 valves
• Classic voicing is perfect for blues to overdriven rock
• Built-in long-tank spring reverb adds a vintage-inspired warmth

Inspired by the iconic music venues, San Francisco’s Fillmore and NYC’s Fillmore East, this series pays tribute to MESA's Bay Area origins while flaunting a tonal alter ego—apropos for an amp series that prides itself on supremely versatile two-channel performance. And one look at the Fillmore chassis hearkens to the early Fender Black Panel-modding days of the company, as well as the Mark I. Released in 2018, Fillmore amps are designed for players who hanker for flexibility without sacrificing tone quality. With a distinctly late ’60s to early ’70s-inspired voicing, they deliver everything from fat cleans to classic overdriven tones reminiscent of Carlos Santana’s signature breakup. Fillmore amps are a great pairing for everything from roots rock to modern indie, alt-country and beyond—there are no rules.

MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 1x12" 18/23W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

The Fillmore 25 embodies compact power with exquisite versatility. Its two-channel, three-mode design lets you explore opulent cleans, dynamic overdriven tones and a high-gain option all in one amp. Powered by EL84 tubes, the Fillmore 25 offers two independent channels, each with three voicing modes: Clean, Drive and Hi. With selectable power ratings, this amp is ideal for studio use or intimate gigs, delivering a thick, warm tone that’s easy to control at lower volumes.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 1x12 18/23W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 1x12" 50W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

When more muscle and tonal adaptability are required, the Fillmore 50 offers an expanded tonal palette. With 50 watts of all-tube power, this head is a perfect match for larger venues or players needing more headroom and punch. It offers the same three-mode flexibility on each channel, but with more authority.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 1x12" 50W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 Guitar Tube Amp Head

The Fillmore 25 amp head delivers the same tonal tweakability as its combo sibling, but in a head format that allows you to pair it with your favorite cabinet. Whether you need shimmering cleans, fat midrange drive or smooth overdrive, this head has you covered. With a lightweight design and switchable between 18 and 23 watts, it’s perfect for small gigs, studio sessions and players who need classic rock tones in a well-rounded setup.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Fillmore 25 Guitar Tube Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 Guitar Tube Amp Head

The Fillmore 50 amp head uses 6L6 power tubes for a fuller, punchier sound with more headroom. Its two-channel design with three modes per channel opens a world of sonic possibilities, while the head format allows you to pair it with your cabinet of choice. And with its deep reverb tank, this amp is excellent for sessions and performances where you need expansive, immersive soundscapes.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Fillmore 50 Guitar Tube Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Mark Series Amps

Why It’s Cool: With up to three channels, up to nine sonic modes, graphic EQ and the onboard CabClone feature for silent recording, the Mark Series allows artists to craft a signature sound for any style of music.

Things to Consider:

• Graphic EQ and multiple channels mean limitless tone discovery and fine-tuning capability
• CabClone feature allows for direct recording and silent practice
• High-gain prowess is perfect for rock and metal

The ultimate Swiss Army knife of amps, Mark Series is synonymous with the cutting edge, being the flagship of the MESA/Boogie legacy since the late ’70s. From the groundbreaking Mark I to today’s Mark VII, these amps have been a favorite of genre-defining artists like Dream Theater, Metallica and The Offspring. Now, Mark V and Mark VII models continue the tradition of offering an infinitely wide range of tones. With advanced EQ controls and channel switching, Mark Series amps are known for their endless versatility—from immaculately articulate cleans to unrelenting-and-unrepenting high-gain ferocity—making them a drool-worthy option for any ambitious player.

We also interviewed longtime Boogie devotee and Lamb of God guitarist, Mark Morton, who spoke to us about how he achieves his crushing, articulate tones using Mark Series amplifiers.

MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

If chasing the vintage vibe of early Boogie combos is your obsession, there are few amps that carry the cachet of the original Boogie Mark II. This Boogie Mark IIC+ combo reissue, based on the 1984 original, brings you the classic tones of the world's first single-channel, dual-mode amplifier without having to search the vintage market for your "Holy Grail" amp. Combining switchable 75W Class AB and 25W Class A operation with the legendary dual-mode preamp, the Mark IIC+ combo delivers all the fire and nuance you've been looking for.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ 1x12" Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ Tube Guitar Amp Head

One of the signature guitar tones of the ’70s issued from the Boogie Mark II. Four decades later, those tones are still in demand and this reissue of the 1984 Boogie Mark IIC+ head can put them in your hands. As the world's first single-channel amp with switchable dual-mode preamp circuits, it was a revolutionary step in the evolution of the guitar amp and the meticulously recreated head brings it all back to life. But, vintage lust aside, this SimulClass 75W/25W head still breathes all the fire you need to satisfy even the most modern musical sensibilities.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark IIC+ Tube Guitar Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 1x10" 25W/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

The Mark V: 25 offers players the smallest, most portable combo version of the Mark V with two power settings (25/10W) to choose from—depending on your volume needs. This combo delivers distinct voicings that yield sparkling cleans, rich mid-gain tones and searing leads. The onboard 5-band graphic EQ provides even more tone-shaping options, and the CabClone output ensures you can record directly without a mic.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 1x10" 25W/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Mark V: 35 1x12" 35/25/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

If the Mark V: 35’s stats have your interest piqued, but you just have to have the oomph of a 12" Celestion Custom 90 speaker, the V: 35 was made for you. Powered by two EL84 tubes, this amp features three fully independent channels, like its little sibling. It also comes with three uber-convenient power settings (35/25/10W) for stage, studio and home use.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark V: 35 1x10" 35/25/10W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 Tube Guitar Amp Head

The Mark V: 25 amp head delivers the same tonal flexibility in a more portable package. This 25-watt head offers everything from crystal-clear cleans to high-gain saturation. The built-in 5-band graphic EQ gives you ultimate control over your tone, while the switchable 25W/10W power settings make it adaptable for both stage and studio use. The head also includes a CabClone output for direct recording, making it an essential tool for progressive rock and metal players.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark V: 25 Tube Guitar Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12 90W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

The Mark VII takes the legendary Mark Series to new heights with 90 watts of power, three fully independent channels and an expanded EQ section. This model is ideal for professional musicians who need maximum tonal flexibility. The CabClone IR allows for direct recording with speaker simulation, making it a go-to for studio musicians who want pro-level sound without the hassle of miking a cab. The Celestion Custom 90 speaker provides rich, full-bodied tones at any volume.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark VII 1x12" 90W Tube Guitar Combo Amp

MESA/Boogie Mark VII 90W Tube Guitar Amp Head

The Mark VII head represents the pinnacle of MESA’s amplifier evolution, boasting 90 watts of pure power with three fully independent channels. Each channel offers its own unique voicing, from pristine cleans to tight rhythm crunch and liquid leads. The Mark VII also incorporates a CabClone IR, allowing for direct recording and silent practice with speaker simulation. Ideal for the most discerning pro-level players who love to tinker with their tone, this head delivers unparalleled flexibility and control.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mark VII 90W Tube Guitar Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Rectifier Series

Why It’s Cool: Boasting tight low end and thick, saturated midrange, Rectifiers have become synonymous with all things hard rock and heavy metal.

Things to Consider:

• Signature high-gain tones have made these a holy grail for headbangers, but may not be ideal for players seeking the breadth of California Tweed cleans
• Selectable power and rectifier modes allow for tonal and volume flexibility
• Like their sound, they can be heavy

Since its inception in 1991, which saw the dawn of the Dual Rectifier, the Rectifier Series has been the defining voice of modern metal and hard rock. With their aggressive, high-gain distortion and massive headroom, Rectos have become an industry standard for heavy guitar tones. From Metallica to Disturbed to Slipknot, these amps have helped shape the sound of modern metal. If you’re after brutal, face-melting distortion with tight low-end response, the Rectifier Series is your go-to. And while the Rectifier Series is officially known to encompass Dual and Triple Rectifier models, the Badlander line are technically single Rectifier models—so be sure to check those out as well.

MESA/Boogie Mini Rectifier 25W Tube Guitar Amp Head

Perfect for players who want the iconic Rectifier tone in a more compact format, the Mini Rectifier 25 delivers all the aggression of its larger siblings but in a lower wattage package. The 25W and 10W power switch makes it great for both stage and studio use. Despite its small size, this amp packs a punch, making it a favorite for metal players who need versatility without sacrificing tone.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mini Rectifier 25W Tube Guitar Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier 100W Tube Guitar Amp Head

This 100W Dual Rectifier is the present-day crown jewel of the Rectifier series. With three channels and selectable power settings, it’s built to handle anything from glassy cleans to bone-crushing distortion. The Dual Rectifier’s diode/tube rectifier switch lets you fine-tune the amp’s response for vintage sag or modern tightness. Its aggressive, high-gain voicing has made it a favorite for metal players worldwide.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier 100W Tube Guitar Amp Head

MESA/Boogie Rectifier Speaker Cabinets

MESA/Boogie Rectifier cabinets come in a variety of shapes and sizes for all manner of sound projection on stage or in the studio. Each model features a select number of Celestion Vintage 30 speakers, which are typically known for their assertive midrange and low-end punchiness. Recto cabinets are a top choice for hard rock and metal players, as the enclosures themselves are designed to make the most of the Vintage 30’s voice—especially under brutal, liquid saturation. Naturally, they pair perfectly with Boogie amps of the same series, as well as with other high-gain heads that need the power and intelligibility these speaker cabs are known for.

MESA/Boogie Mini Recto 19 1x12" 60W Slant Guitar Speaker Cabinet

The Mini Recto 19 cabinet is the perfect pairing for compact MESA heads, sending 60 watts of power through a single Celestion Vintage 30 speaker. Its slant design helps project sound clearly across the stage while retaining the tight, aggressive low-end response that Rectifier cabinets are known for. Despite its small size, this cabinet packs plenty of punch, making it a go-to for metal and hard rock players who demand massive tone in a trunk-friendly format.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Mini Rectifier 19 1x12" 60W Slant Guitar Speaker Cabinet

MESA/Boogie Horizontal Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

The Horizontal Rectifier 2x12" cabinet channels 120 watts of power through two Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. Designed for players who want the signature Recto punch in a more compact enclosure, this cabinet offers controlled low end and well-defined mids that cut through any mix. Built for players who need a more manageable size but refuse to compromise on tone, the Horizontal Rectifier is perfect for modern rock, metal and hard-hitting live performances.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Horizontal Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

MESA/Boogie Vertical/Slant Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

For players who crave versatility in both tone and design, the Vertical/Slant Rectifier 2x12" cabinet busses 120 watts through two Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. Its vertical design and slant construction allow for better sound projection on stage, while maintaining tight low-end response and aggressive mids. Whether you’re playing metal, hard rock or modern alt-rock, this cabinet provides the punch and clarity you need for live gigs or studio recording.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Vertical/Slant Rectifier 2x12" 120W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

MESA/Boogie Rectifier Standard Slant 4x12" 240W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

Sometimes, life impels you to stand in front of a 4x12" cab, strum a power chord and feel the air move. Roll in the flagship cabinet of the Rectifier series, the Standard Slant 4x12" cab. It delivers a colossal 240 watts of power through four Celestion Vintage 30 speakers. For the aforementioned reasons, this cabinet is a staple for metal and hard rock players who need the maximum volume and tonal clarity possible. Its slant design enhances sound dispersion, letting you and your audience in on the glorious waves emanating from your speakers the way they were meant to be heard.

Pictured: MESA/Boogie Rectifier Standard Slant 4x12" 240W Guitar Speaker Cabinet

MESA/Boogie is Your Home of Tone

Whether you’ve already made your decision or are still mulling over your choices, it’s easy to see why MESA/Boogie amplifiers have been at the forefront of guitar amplification for over five decades. With the vintage-inspired tones of the California Tweed, versatility of the Fillmore, precision of the Mark Series, and the crushing high-gain distortion of the Rectifiers at the ready here at Guitar Center, we’ve got a MESA amp that’s tailored to your playing style. Call or click to chat with a helpful Gear Adviser, or step into your local Guitar Center store, and we’ll help you navigate our selection to get you the tone of your dreams.