Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine

The Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine is a high-performance bass amplifier head celebrated for its power, tonal versatility, and advanced features.

History of the Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine

• Introduction (2009): The M9 Carbine was introduced as an evolution of the M6 Carbine, offering increased power and enhanced tonal shaping capabilities. It was designed to provide bassists with a fast, punchy response and crystal-clear definition. The M9 features Mesa/Boogie's proprietary Trans-Class power section, combining the warmth of tubes with the efficiency of solid-state technology.
• Design Features: The M9 delivers 600 watts of power at 4 ohms and includes a tube-driven preamp for rich harmonic content. Key features include a 9-band graphic EQ for precise tonal adjustments, a compressor with Threshold and Ratio controls for dynamic management, and a 5-position Voice control for instant access to different EQ curves. The amp is housed in a compact 2U rackmount chassis, making it suitable for both studio use and live performances.
• Tonal Characteristics: The M9 Carbine is celebrated for its tight low-end response, articulate mids, and smooth highs. Its fast attack and dynamic range make it ideal for bassists seeking clarity and punch in their tone, whether playing fingerstyle, slap, or pick techniques.
• Legacy: The M9 Carbine quickly gained popularity among professional bassists for its reliability and tonal versatility. Though discontinued in later years, it remains highly regarded in the bass community as one of Mesa/Boogie's most innovative bass amplifiers.

Popular Settings

• Classic Rock:
  • Gain: Noon
  • Bass: Slight boost (1 o'clock)
  • Midrange: Flat or slight boost (12 o'clock)
  • Treble: Noon
  • Voice control set to Position 3 (midrange focus).
  • Ideal for punchy rock tones with clear low-end.
• Funk/Slap Bass:
  • Gain: 10-11 o'clock
  • Bass: Boosted (2 o'clock)
  • Midrange: Slight cut (11 o'clock)
  • Treble: Boosted (2 o'clock)
  • Voice control set to Position 1 or 2 (mid-scoop).
  • Perfect for tight lows and crisp highs.
• Metal/Heavy Rock:
  • Gain: 1-2 o'clock
  • Bass: Noon or slightly boosted
  • Midrange: Boosted (1-2 o'clock)
  • Treble: Noon or slightly boosted
  • Voice control set to Position 4 or 5 (mid-bump).
  • Suited for aggressive growling tones.
• Clean Studio Tone:
  • Gain: Low (9-10 o'clock)
  • EQ flat or slightly scooped mids.
  • Compressor engaged with Threshold and Ratio at 9 o'clock.
  • Suitable for jazz or pop styles.

Notable Players

The Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine has been used by numerous professional bassists across genres:

• Jason Black (Senses Fail): Known for his aggressive yet articulate tone in punk rock settings.
• Juan Alderete (The Mars Volta): Appreciates the amp's fast response and tonal flexibility.
• Justin Chancellor (Tool): Utilized the M9's powerful low-end and precise EQ capabilities during live performances.

Summary

The Mesa/Boogie M9 Carbine remains a highly respected amplifier in the bass community due to its innovative design, tonal clarity, and ability to handle demanding performance environments. Its legacy lives on as a favorite among discerning bassists worldwide.