Fusion 550 or Mesa M6 Carbine??

[sowegafly]

I've played an 800RB for a long time. its really the only real bass amp I've ever had. I Recently got an Avatar 212 and I like both the amp and the cab but I've been wanting a new amp. I'm in a cover band that plays a wide variety of music but mainly blues and classic rock. I play a passive jazz bass. I just want a change and I've really been eyeballing either a Fusion 550 or a Mesa Carbine M6. has anyone ever compared the two and can tell me a little bit about them. There isnt a music store close to where I live that has both so I can't really compare them like I would like to. I like that the M6 can go to 2ohms since my cab is a 4ohm cab and one day I might want to add another cab

[jmattbassplaya]

I haven't played the fusion, but the m6 is incredibly aggressive sounding and punchy (which may or may not be good for what you're doing).

[B-string]

I still have my 800RB, the Fusion 550 is my new ride. The six stage high voltage tube section of the Fusion is killer. So many different "voices" are possible and most room changes I can tune into with the mid shift switch selection. Occasional Bass and low mid adjustments. Volume.......never a problem!

No charge for the GAS.......

[lomo]

The M series are superb heads. They can get warm with minimal peach fuzz, but they won't get dirty. If you need true dirt from your head, the M6 isn't for you. If you want fast, powerful, wide and deep, however, it will deliver in spades. If you have any thoughts of adding another cab, why pidgeon-hole yourself with a 4 Ohm head?

[JGR]

I've owned both (as well as the 800) and they are two great choices. Both are very powerful.

The Mesa is much cleaner but can do a great, growly rock tone with the right bass Great, powerful EQ that is easy to dial in. Sounds great flat. Huge low end that worked well with my Berg NVs. A bit too much upper mid with the Bag Ends.

I was blown away with the tone of the GK tube preamp. It sounds a lot like my own. Thick, rich and clear with a lot of nice harmonics. While I don't like the GK EQ as much as the Mesa's, it sounds great with tube preamp and you don't have to deviate far from flat to get great tones. I could do without the motorized knobs but they are cool assuming they don't act up. I am down on GK QC and customer support at the moment, so I'd give Mesa the edge there.

[Crabby]

The motorized knobs on the GK worry me. I owned an 800rb for many years and now have an M9 Carbine. Its a dramatic step up in tone, in addition to the added power, punch, clarity and earth shaking depth!

[willsellout]

I would prefer the MB Fusion. I am not a fan of the motorized knobs and the lightweight brother of the Fusion 550 is very close, soundwise, and very well built. I am simply not a fan of the Mesa Carbine stuff.

[KsPiNeSh]

Carbine for me... not a fna of motorized knobs, and the punchy, full tone just hits the spot. And I'd personally spring for an M9.