FRONT PANEL: Controls & Features (Continued)

TREBLE: As in most tube guitar amplifi ers, the TREBLE control ( in both channels of your LONE STAR ) is the most powerful of the rotary controls and is next in line only to the GAIN control as a shaping tool. Because it is fi rst in the signal path of the tone controls - and from here the Middle and Bass receive their signal - it is by far the dominant tone control. For this reason the setting of the TREBLE control is very important for equal representation of the three frequency regions to appear at their respective controls.

Like most of the controls on your LONE STAR, there is an optimum region of

 

CH 1

 

 

 

 

the TREBLE control where ample top end is mixed in and yet enough signal

 

 

 

 

 

 

FT

SW

 

 

 

is still passed on to the MIDDLE and BASS controls.

 

 

 

INPUT

CH 2

 

 

 

 

 

DRIVE

CLEAN GAIN

TREBLE

As you might surmise, here is the sweet spot There are defi nitely great sounds

FT.SW

THICK

 

 

 

 

above and below this middle region ( 11:00 - 1:30 ), but the balance between

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOR

MAL

 

the TREBLE control and the other two tone controls is compromised.

 

 

 

 

 

 

THICKER

The TREBLE control can be used to dump extra gain into the mix. This is especially effective in CHANNEL 1 and Channel 2 with the DRIVE bypassed. When doing so, use the PRESENCE control to roll off some of the more than ample top end for a more compressed feel and fatter voice. As you might surmise, the BASS control’s effective- ness will be reduced, so you may have to run a much higher setting than you are used to seeing to achieve a balance.

MID: The MID control is responsible for the blend of midrange frequencies in the mix and though its effect is not as dramatic as that of the TREBLE control, it plays an integral part in achieving any sound in your LONE STAR. It is capable of changing the feel dramatically as it blends in a group of frequencies that tend to soften or stiffen the way a sound feels to play.

Most players tend to lean in the direction of lower MID control settings ( 7:00 - 11:00 ) where a scoop in this region produces girth ( by

letting the Bass become a little more dominant ) and a lack of punch lends a more compressed, even feel to the strings and therefore

 

 

 

 

 

 

less apparent resistance to the pick. As the MID control is increased, ( 11:30 - 1:30

 

CH 1

 

 

 

 

) the sound is rounded-out and fi lled-in with a focused mid attack appearing rather

 

 

 

 

 

quickly. As you would guess, the feel starts to change - becoming more resistant.

FT

SW

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Above this region the MID control could be used to compensate for either weaker

 

CH 2

 

 

 

 

CLEAN GAIN

TREBLE

MID

pick-ups or for times when a specifi c defi ciency is produced by either an extremely

 

THICK

 

 

 

high setting of other tone controls, or a physical anomaly in the room. While these

NOR

MAL

 

 

 

MID control settings ( 2:00 - 5:00 ) can introduce added gain and create enhanced

THICKER

 

 

 

focus, the trade-off will be a stiffer, more forward, less compressed feel.

BASS: The BASS control in your new LONE STAR works similarly in both channels in that it determines the amount of low fre- quencies present in a sound. However, the style of lows it mixes in changes from channel to channel. Like the MID control, it falls in line signal-wise after the TREBLE control and the same scheme applies. When the TREBLE control is set high, the effectiveness of the BASS and MID controls is reduced. If the TREBLE control is set low these two controls

become dominant.

 

 

 

For the most balanced sound and a balance of power between the three rotary tone controls,

TREBLE

MID

BASS

try to use the TREBLE control in its middle ranges. This scenario produces nearly equal repre-

 

 

 

sentation of all the frequencies on the tone controls and provides a great neutral starting point

 

 

 

for further tweaking.

PAGE 7

Page 11
Image 11
Mesa/Boogie LoneStar Amplifier Is still passed on to the Middle and Bass controls, Become dominant, For further tweaking

LoneStar Amplifier specifications

The Mesa/Boogie LoneStar Amplifier is a standout choice for guitarists seeking a high-quality, versatile tube amplifier that excels in both clean and overdriven tones. Designed for performers who require reliability and tonal variety, the LoneStar is a blend of vintage warmth and modern performance, making it ideal for various musical genres, from blues to rock to country.

One of the main features of the LoneStar is its dual-channel configuration, allowing players to toggle between pristine clean tones and rich, dynamic overdrives. Each channel offers independent tone controls, including bass, mid, treble, and presence, enabling precise sound shaping. The amplifier also includes a unique "Boost" feature on the overdrive channel, which provides an additional gain stage for solos or dynamic passages.

The LoneStar is powered by a quartet of EL84 power tubes, which deliver a sweet, harmonically rich output. This choice of tubes contributes to the amp's tonal character; the EL84s are known for their smooth breakup and dynamic response. Additionally, the amplifier can operate in either 30-watt or 15-watt modes, offering flexibility for both stage and studio environments.

A hallmark characteristic of the LoneStar is its use of the "CabClone" technology, which gives players the ability to silently record or practice by sending a speaker-emulated signal directly to a mixing console or recording interface. This innovation means you can achieve high-quality recordings without the need for a mic'd cabinet.

The amplifier also features a rugged design, with a sturdy chassis and durable tolex covering, ensuring it withstands the rigors of touring. Its aesthetic appeal, paired with its functional controls and footswitch capabilities, makes it a favorite among professional musicians.

With its distinctive tone, versatility, and advanced features, the Mesa/Boogie LoneStar Amplifier has established itself as a modern classic in the amplification world. Whether you are seeking lush clean sounds, soaring leads, or earthy mid-range overdrive, the LoneStar provides all the tools you need to shape your signature sound effectively. For players who appreciate quality craftsmanship and performance, this amplifier is an investment that pays dividends in tonal richness and reliability.