Rare and highly sought-after vintage amplifier, the Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++, renowned for its role in shaping 1980s metal sound by Metallica, finally seeing a production release for the very first time
In the world of heavy metal music, the Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ stands as an exceptionally rare and influential guitar amplifier, particularly revered for its role in shaping the sound of iconic bands like Metallica[1].
### Origins and Rarity The Mark IIC++ originated in the mid-1980s from a custom request by Vivian Campbell when he was playing in Dio. He wanted a modded version of the Mark IIC+ with added gain and girth[1]. Not an official factory model initially, the Mark IIC++ was created mostly on an ad hoc basis for artists, making it extremely scarce. It is estimated that only about 20 units were originally produced, putting it in the realm of ultra-rare and collectible amps, comparable to the rarity of notable boutique amps like Dumble[1].
Later, Mesa/Boogie released the Mark IIC++ as a limited production model to make it accessible to more players[1][5]. Despite this, all 200 units of the latest production have already sold out.
### Impact on Metallica's Sound The Mark IIC++ played a crucial role in the development of Metallica's tone, providing the high gain and thick distortion that became a hallmark of their sound[1]. Metallica’s guitarist James Hetfield famously used the Mark IIC++ during the 1980s to achieve his aggressive rhythm tone, contributing to the band’s signature style.
### Mark IIC++ vs Mark IIC+ While the Mark IIC+ is already a legendary amplifier, the Mark IIC++ represents a rarified, intensified evolution of that platform. The Mark IIC++ is essentially a heavily modified Mark IIC+, incorporating circuit changes to boost gain and tonal thickness, tailored specifically for heavy metal players like Vivian Campbell and Metallica’s James Hetfield[1][3]. The Mark IIC++ offers increased gain in the preamp, affecting only the Lead mode.
### Legacy The Mark IIC++ is one of the rarest and most coveted vintage amplifiers, almost as rare as a Dumble amp. Its influence can be heard in many iconic rock songs, making it a staple in heavy metal music history. Metallica's Kirk Hammett has stated that the Mark IIC++, along with EMG pickups, defined Metallica's sound. The Mark IIC++ quickly became popular among Mesa/Boogie circles and A-list players, with Metallica's Mark IIC++ affectionately dubbed "Crunch Berries" due to a sticker they used on their model.
In conclusion, the Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ is more than just a rare amplifier; it's a symbol of the golden era of heavy metal, a testament to the power of custom modifications, and a reminder of the role of innovative technology in shaping the sound of music.
- The Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++, a scarce and revered guitar amplifier, originated from a custom request by Vivian Campbell, particularly desirable for its enhanced gain and girth.
- This amplifier, created mostly on an ad hoc basis for artists, can be compared to the rarity of boutique amps like Dumble, with only about 20 units originally produced.
- In the realm of heavy metal music, the Mark IIC++ played a crucial role in shaping Metallica's sound, providing the high gain and thick distortion that became a hallmark of their tone.
- The Mark IIC++, representing an intensified evolution of the Mark IIC+, offers increased gain in the preamp, tailored specifically for heavy metal players, making it a sought-after gadget among music enthusiasts and entertainment industry professionals.
- The Mark IIC++ amplifier, almost as rare as a Dumble amp, is a staple in heavy metal music history, with its influence heard in many iconic rock songs thanks to its role in defining Metallica's sound.
