The Mark IIC+ is pure “Vintage Boogie®” and based on the original Mark II (now called the Mark II-A) design, the world’s first “Dual Mode” amplifier containing independent performance modes dedicated to clean and overdrive sounds. The IIC+ model represents the 3rd generation of that game changing single channel/dual mode layout and includes all the refinements made to that original format over its nearly five influential years. It was also the last model in its family, as the subsequent model would contain three performance modes and be dubbed the MARK III. The IIC+’s single row of controls is shared by its two modes (preamps), one for Rhythm (clean) and one for Lead (overdrive). Independent, though still interactive, sets of gain and volume controls help optimize each gain structure while shared Tone controls handle the broad stroke voicing. Finetuning of the sounds is accomplished by the PULL SHIFT voicing features – some Mode specific – fitted to the simple controls and further shaping via the on-board 5-Band Graphic EQ. Though the “Q” of the individual Bands (Slider Pot frequencies) is fairly wide around their Centre Points, they provide a surprising degree of surgical-level sculpting quickly and musically.

The Rear Panel of the C+ provides the important features that keep this amp as relevant as ever 40 years after its initial run. Global PRESENCE and REVERB controls are cantered for easy navigation from the Front in stage environments. A series buffered Effects Loop provides a seamless interface for your time-based processing. The Power Select switch at the far right (left from the Front) allows for your choice of the full 75 watts of “SIMUL-CLASS” power for richness, authority, and max headroom or “CLASS A” for 25 watts of reduced power and low end along with easier, smoother power clip at lower volumes. One 8 Ohm and two 4 Ohm Speaker Outputs provide for a wide array of cabinet impedance matching. And though not a compensated Direct Output for Consoles or Interfaces, a SLAVE tap off the speaker outputs captures the entire sound of the amp – preamp and power section – to produce a non-compensated feed for IR Readers or external processors that might even serve an era-appropriate “dry/wet/wet” rig.

Out of production for four decades, Mesa welcomes back this icon and celebrate its impact on the incredible guitar heroes and timeless recordings they made during one of rock guitar’s biggest decades. The Mark IIC+ legacy is one that Mesa don’t take lightly or for granted and recreating it in today’s world with today’s available components and rigorous worldwide Compliance Regulations was no easy feat. If you seek to own a legend, don’t want to chase vintage relics in who knows what condition, want the fieriest, most articulate, and nuanced Tone possible, don’t really need the galaxy-wide versatility of the Mark VII, and prefer a more classic layout and look, the Mark IIC+ is waiting. Be warned, though, once you play a C+, you may never feel the same about other guitar amplifiers. A bold statement, to be sure, but it’s backed up by 40 years of iconic Tone and the passionate faithful who’ve made it mythical.