The Return of a Titan: Mesa/Boogie Brings Back the Legendary Mark IIC+ HRG
Dec. 13, 2025, 9 a.m.
Mesa/Boogie has revived one of the most celebrated high-gain amplifiers ever created — the Mark IIC+ HRG, releasing it alongside the reborn 1x12 Vintage Thiele Cabinet. This is far more than a nostalgic nod: it’s a resurrection of an icon that shaped the sound of modern heavy music.
Born in the Lagunitas Shop Era
The original HRG roots trace back to Mesa’s Lagunitas workshop, where Randall Smith crafted highly customized amps based on the flexible Super Sixty platform. Players could request features from an expanded tonal menu, and the HRG emerged as the ultimate blend of the most desired options.
A 100-Watt Monster Built for Professionals
The new HRG stays true to its heritage, delivering a massive 100 watts of articulate tube power.
The amp features:
• tube-driven reverb
• graphic EQ
• effects loop
• Rhythm and Lead channels
• power section with four 6L6 tubes
• preamp section with five 12AX7 tubes
• silicon rectifier
This combination of high output, huge headroom and versatile EQ is exactly what made it a go-to weapon for John Petrucci, appearing in both his Dream Theater and solo rigs.
Mesa describes the reissue as “a beast”—
— commanding authority,
— tight low end,
— lightning-fast response,
— massive clean headroom,
— and an aggressive, articulate lead voice.
The HRG’s punch and clarity helped it secure a respected spot among heavy rock and metal musicians.
Half Power When Needed
When full volume isn’t ideal, the Global Half Power switch reduces output to 60 watts while preserving the character and punch.
The Revival of the Vintage Thiele 1x12 Cabinet
The reissue is paired with the classic Vintage Thiele 1x12, a cabinet revered in the ’80s for delivering huge, chest-thumping low end in a shockingly compact form.
Highlights include:
• front-ported design
• marine-grade Baltic birch plywood
• 8-ohm impedance
• parallel out
• premium Celestion driver built exclusively for Mesa in the UK
• hand-wired assembly in Petaluma, California
Finish choices include Black Vinyl or the elegant Wicker grille.
Why It Matters
Mesa/Boogie didn’t just reintroduce an amplifier — they revived a cornerstone of rock and metal history. For players craving gigantic clean headroom, crushing rhythm punch and razor-sharp lead tones, the Mark IIC+ HRG stands tall once again.
