Mesa M6 question

[zwkoch]

First, let me apologize for the ignorant nature of this question. I love my Mesa M6, and have used it for several years. I recently switched from a Tech21 VT bass deluxe to a Microtubes B7K as my primary tone shaper. When I run through my Mesa to either my 2x12 or 4x10 Mesa cabs, the character of the lower strings is lost. I plugged into a friend's Ampeg B115, and the tone and bite of all the strings came through beautifully. It is the dream tone I have been looking for. The amp EQ was flat with the exception of using the #2 voice setting. This setting provides a -12db cut at 500hz. I use circle K strings on a MusicMan Sterling 5. I do not want to get rid of my M6 for any reason. My question is the following: Is getting this tone as simple as setting up my EQ pedal to cut 500hz by 12db, or is there a better alternative. Any advice from Mesa owners would be appreciated.

[CL400Peavey]

1.) Start with everything flat
2.)turn eq knobs until it sounds like you want
3.) ?
4.) Profit!

[RickenBoogie]

I wouldn't cut those mids, but otherwise, tone is personal and subjective.

[zwkoch]

I have attempted that. I am wondering if the passive mid control in the M6 isn't going to allow me to create the same waveform. I should have laid that out in my question.

[KJung]

Originally Posted by zwkoch

I have attempted that. I am wondering if the passive mid control in the M6 isn't going to allow me to create the same waveform. I should have laid that out in my question.

That 'position 2' on the mid voicing knob is just a MASSIVE scoop. It will effect the meat of the low end of your tone, as well as sucking out the complexity of the midrange. Set that control to 'neutral', and adjust the mid response using the variable mid control versus bass ratio. You should be fine.

[Gearhead17]

Set the Voice control to "3". That is the flat setting - no mid scooping or other weirdness. Download the manual from Mesa's site and read about the Gain knob. If you have it set too low, more midrange tones will be sucked out. No matter what you think, a soloed bass tone that sounds midrangey and mean by yourself will cut through beautifully in a band mix. The Mid knob is also a boost only, test it at different positions.

[zwkoch]

Thanks Gearhead. I got exactly what I wanted by pushing the gain to 1:00, and making an adjustment on the back of my cabs. Thanks for helping a dummy out.

[Gearhead17]

Originally Posted by zwkoch

Thanks Gearhead. I got exactly what I wanted by pushing the gain to 1:00, and making an adjustment on the back of my cabs. Thanks for helping a dummy out.

I am glad it worked for you.