IK Multimedia releases MESA/Boogie Reference Signature Collection for TONEX, continuing IK's near decade-long partnership with MESA/Boogie and expanding the TONEX signature series with 70 electrifying new Tone Models.[/b]
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.
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. For the best experience, users should update TONEX and AmpliTube to the latest versions via IK Product Manager before using the new Signature Collection.
Click here to learn more
Hear the Tone Models in action:
https://youtu.be/_8baud3KPhI
