About BREAK-IN, Advanced Features | Mesa/Boogie Vacuum Tube Audio

3 - 9 CONGRATULATIONS: (Continued)

the amplifier in order to avoid unwanted sudden volume surprises when you are ready to enjoy your music again. You now have successfully installed your new TIGRIS amplifier, enjoy and happy listening!

The following chapters include more in-depth coverage of technical issues and explain the advanced features - but if you’re impatient, go ahead and enjoy the music now! Changing the Pentode / Triode switches or the Negative Feedback selector is self-explanatory and will have immediate sonic effects - you should read up on it eventually, but you may postpone it for the moment.

TUBE BAY TOGGLE SWITCHES:

			2/3 PENTODE		2/3 PENTODE
POWER	POWER	2/3 TRIODE	ALL PENTODE	ALL PENTODE	2/3 TRIODE	COUPLED	ISOLATE
OFF	ON		POWER SELECT		POWER SELECT
	A.C. MAINS		POWER SELECT		POWER SELECT	AUDIO GROUND

Chapter 4 - ABOUT BREAK-IN:

Even though every Mesa amplifier undergoes a burn-in at the factory prior to shipping, a complete burn-in of all the internal compo- nents and the tubes will take about 100 hours. You may notice a slow and continuous improvement of the sound until this mechanical/ electrical burn-in is complete. Elevated playback levels will not accelerate this process. However, you may opt to set a CD on endless repeat during absent periods from home to hasten break-in while you are away from the system.

Break-in is equally necessary and noticeable with new speakers where the physical back-and-forth motion of the drivers softens the rubber surrounds to their appropriate compliance. Some audiophiles go as far as demagnetizing their systems periodically by using specially encoded Cds, holding that a system builds up an electromagnetic charge over time that interferes with optimum perfor- mance. Many parameters in the High-End industry are still not fully understood. Certain cause-effect relationships, even though established, cannot be fully explained yet. This creates an atmosphere where scientific reason and mumbo-jumbo combine to ad- dress, and sometimes exploit, our desire for ever greater performance and our ignorance in electronic matters. It is important to use common sense and to trust your own ears. If you can’t hear the difference, or if the difference is too negligible to matter to you, don’t spend your hard-earned funds.

We recommend to evaluate power cords, power line conditioners and interconnect/speaker cables by the same standards. Very often,the magic is not a function of fancy white papers and final funds spent, but a matter of trial-and-error which culminates in a synergistic effect that exceeds the sum total of the individual parts. The adaptability of the TIGRIS will help you make the most out of the components you already own!

Chapter 5 - ADVANCED FEATURES:

5 - 1 TANDEM STATE IMAGING:

A:TRIODE / PENTODE SWITCHING – Amongst experienced audiophiles, it is a foregone conclusion that in tubed components, the choice of tubes, their type and origin, will significantly impact the sound of the component. Direct-heated Triodes, Tetrodes, Pentodes, 6550s, 5881s, EL34s and 84s, Czech, Russian, Chinese... they all have unique sonic signatures, and audiophiles have favorites based on listening preferences as well as personal theories.

Some of the more advanced tube amplifiers allow the end user to switch between Pentode / Triode or Tetrode / Triode operation. But this always remains an either/or scenario. And that’s where Tandem-State Imaging differs.

Imagine, for a moment, a plant- or animal breeder who carefully selects and then cross-breeds different species to combine desirable

PAGE 9

Vacuum Tube Audio specifications

Mesa/Boogie is a revered name in the world of vacuum tube audio, renowned for its high-quality amplifiers that have shaped the sound of modern music. Founded in 1969 by Randy Smith in California, Mesa/Boogie began by transforming Fender amplifiers into customized, high-gain models, ultimately gaining a reputation for producing powerful, versatile, and low-noise amplifiers. The signature sound of Mesa/Boogie is characterized by a complex harmonic richness, warmth, and clarity that resonates with guitarists and audiophiles alike.

One of the standout features of Mesa/Boogie amplifiers is their all-tube design. Utilizing vacuum tubes as the primary amplification source, these amps deliver a dynamic range and tonal complexity that solid-state amplifiers struggle to match. The quality of the tubes used, often hand-picked or specifically designed by Mesa, contributes to the unique audio characteristics of each model. The use of EL34, 6L6, and 12AX7 tubes in various configurations allows for a range of tonal options, from lush cleans to searing leads.

Mesa/Boogie amplifiers are also distinguished by their innovative technologies. The brand pioneered the dual rectifier system, which allows players to switch between tube and solid-state rectification. This feature gives musicians the ability to tailor their sound to preference, enhancing the responsiveness and feel of the amplifier. The Contour controls found on many models further exemplify Mesa’s commitment to versatility, allowing for fine-tuning of EQ settings that adapt to different musical styles.

Another hallmark of Mesa/Boogie designs is their attention to build quality. Each amplifier is crafted with robust materials, ensuring durability and reliability even in demanding performance environments. The custom cabinets and speaker selections are optimized to complement the amplified tone, providing a cohesive sound that resonates in live settings.

Mesa/Boogie’s reputation is enhanced by their extensive lineup, including the Mark series, the Rectifier series, and the Lone Star series. Each line caters to different playing preferences and styles, from jazz to metal. The versatility of these amplifiers makes them suitable for diverse genres, allowing musicians to explore their sonic identities.

In conclusion, Mesa/Boogie remains a leading force in vacuum tube audio, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and tonal versatility ensures that they remain a favorite among guitarists seeking the ultimate sound experience. Whether in the studio or on stage, Mesa/Boogie amplifiers continue to inspire musicians to push the boundaries of creativity.

Mesa/Boogie Vacuum Tube Audio owner manual About BREAK-IN, Advanced Features, Congratulations

Models: Vacuum Tube Audio