Mesa/Boogie 400 manual Congratulations and Thank YOU, Vacuum Tube Audio, Description and Features

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CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU!

You've just become the proud owner of the world's most musical power amplifier: The Strategy 400™ Stereo. All of our efforts have been directed at making this a special piece of equipment -- a fine hand-made musical instrument -- that we hope you'll enjoy and treasure for many years to come. Your total satisfaction is our highest priority and we appreciate your good word-of-mouth referrals. So when people compliment you on your sound, you can smile knowingly and hopefully you'll tell them a bit about us.

VACUUM TUBE AUDIO

People who don't know about MESA/Boogie are usually surprised when they learn that we make amplifiers using vacuum tubes. They think tubes are some obsolete relic of a primeval electronic age, long ago faded from earth. And that's largely true-- but with two notable exceptions: TV picture tubes and Audio.

Have you ever heard of a tube amp claiming to have "that great transistor sound"'? Neither have we. So here's a clue that many knowledgeable types -- even the latest MOS-FET designers -- hold good tube sound as the standard for comparison. And now, with the introduction of the Strategy 400 Stereo, a new, higher level of musical performance has been made available -- and at a very affordable price when compared to the few fabulously expensive "esoteric" tube.

DESCRIPTION AND FEATURES

The Strategy 400 Stereo is a modern, all-tube power amplifier-hand-built in the musical instrument tradition. Producing 200 watts of mid-band power-- the Strategy excels in playback systems-especially home stereo--and is unequaled for musical instrument performance including guitar, bass, keyboards and electronic drums. In all of these applications the Strategy will deliver state-of-the-art performance and almost certainly sound much better than whatever is presently being used. You will enjoy an outstanding musical richness that is the result of year's of careful design and refinement spanning the range from individual components to overall concept.

INPUT CONNECTORS

Each channel of the Strategy includes a 1/4 inch input jack plus a female 3-pin XLR connector. The XLR is wired as an unbalanced input with pin 2 hot and pins 1 and 3 grounded. An additional 1/4 inch jack offers access to both channels simultaneously and is labeled "Parallel Inputs A+B". Located on the rear deck of the chassis, this is a mono jack with a built-in switch so that a single mono cable will drive both channels of the amplifier. It is vital when using this jack that both channels be connected to separate speaker loads or damage to the output tubes and/or transformers may result. You can listen to each channel individually by using the Standby switches although a slight distortion may occur when using the Parallel Input Jack if one channel is operating and the other channel is standing by. When both channels are ON, this slight distortion will go away entirely.

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Contents Strategy 400 Stereo Operating Manual Congratulations and Thank YOU Description and FeaturesInput Connectors Vacuum Tube AudioInput Circuitry LED Power IndicatorsPower and Standby Switches OutputsPower Tubes BiasDistortion and Negative Feedback Driver TubesTubes VS. Transistors Time LAG and Test Specs Harmonic DistortionLOW Order Distortion Conclusion

400 specifications

The Mesa/Boogie 400 is an iconic bass amplifier that has set the standard for power, versatility, and tonal quality in the world of professional music. Renowned for its robust construction and cutting-edge features, this amplifier is designed to meet the demands of both studio and live performances, making it a favorite among musicians.

One of the main features of the Mesa/Boogie 400 is its high wattage output, providing a staggering 400 watts of power. This ensures that even in the most demanding performance venues, the amplifier delivers a punchy and clear sound that can easily fill the space. The power handling capability enables it to drive various speaker configurations, making it adaptable to different setups.

At the heart of the Mesa/Boogie 400 is a sophisticated preamp design that utilizes a hybrid of tube and solid-state technologies. This combination allows for a warm, rich tonal character provided by the tubes, while maintaining the reliability and clarity that solid-state components offer. The amp typically features a dual-channel preamp, allowing players to switch between different tonal profiles or blend them for a more complex sound.

Another significant characteristic of the Mesa/Boogie 400 is its extensive EQ section. With multiple bands of EQ, musicians can sculpt their sound precisely to their liking, enhancing the low-end thump, mid-range clarity, and high-end presence. This level of control enables bassists to tailor their tone to fit various genres, from rock to jazz and beyond.

The amplifier is known for its durability, constructed with high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of touring. Its rugged chassis and reliable components ensure that it delivers consistent performance through years of use. Additionally, many models of the Mesa/Boogie 400 incorporate advanced cooling systems to prevent overheating and maintain optimal operation during prolonged gigging sessions.

Portability is another feature that cannot be overlooked. The Mesa/Boogie 400 often comes in a lightweight package relative to its power output, allowing musicians to transport it easily to rehearsals and performances.

In summary, the Mesa/Boogie 400 represents a pinnacle of bass amplification, known for its power, tonal flexibility, and durability. With its hybrid technology, comprehensive EQ options, and road-ready design, it delivers exceptional performance for serious bassists looking to elevate their sound.