MEsa Boogie Mini Rectifier VS Dual Rectifier (short comparison)
Our pick: Either, depending on your situation
The big ticket differences include channel count, wattage, power amp tubes, and outputs, making the Mini Rectifier a far more simplified version of the Dual Rectifier. Think of the Mini as a base model and the Dual Rectifier the full slate. Neither one is better or worse. It just depends on your budget and situation.
Outside of a significant price gap, there are a handful of differences between these two amps that we'll highlight first. They'll likely be the deciding factors when choosing between the two.
First the Dual Rectifier:
- Channels: Three
- Outputs: 5 x 1/4" (4/8/16 ohms), 1 x 1/4" (slave), 1 x 1/4" (tuner)
- Power amp tubes: 4 x 6L6, 2 x 5U4 (Rectifier)
- Wattage: 100W/50W
And the Mini Rectifier (same categories):
- Channels: Two
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" (4, 8 ohms)
- Power amp tubes: 2 x EL84
- Wattage: 25W/10W
These four features are accounting for most of the added cost in the Dual Rectifier, particularly the channel count and wattage. High-wattage amps also tend to be bigger (see weight comparison below), which further adds to manufacturing expense. If you want three channels and a louder amp, the Dual Rectifier is the better option. If not, downgrade to the Mini Rectifier and save yourself some money.
Comparison Table for the Mini and Dual Rectifier
The following table lets you compare prices and basic specs for the Mini and Dual rectifiers, along with a couple other amps in a similar price range.
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Amp | Name | Rate | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Mini | n/a | |
| Dual | n/a | |
 | VH2 | n/a | |
 | JCM800 | n/a |
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Differences in tone?
I think that most of the differences you're hearing in these two demos are attributable to the way they're recorded.
Ola Englund's "In the Room" demos always sound really good, and he uses a unique recording setup.
However, the EL84 tubes in the Mini and the 6L6 tubes in the Dual definitely make a difference. 6L6 tubes are warmer and punchier (used a lot in Fender amps), while El84s are known for more of a British sound, with some chime, which you can hear in these two demos.
Personally, I like the 6L6 sound better, but it's 100 percent a matter of preference.
What are the spec differences?
We've already covered the major spec differences, but here are all the specs of the Mini and Dual Rectifier, side by side. Note the difference in weight. This has a significant impact on the pricing of both amps.
 | Mini | Dual |
|---|---|---|
Circuits | All tube | All tube |
Number of channels | 2 | 3 |
Preamp tubes | 5 x 12AX7 | 5 x 12AX7 |
Power tubes | 2 x EL84 | 4 x 6L6, 2 x 5U4 (Rectifier) |
EQ | 3-band with Presence | 3-band with Presence |
Inputs | 1 x 1/4" | 1 x 1/4" |
Outputs | 2 x 1/4" (4, 8 ohms) | 5 x 1/4" (4/8/16 ohms), 1 x 1/4" (slave), 1 x 1/4" (tuner) |
Effects loop | Yes | Yes |
Footswitch i/o | 1 x 1/4" (channel) | 1 x 8-pin DIN (channel, mute, solo, FX loop), 4 x 1/4" (ch 2/3, solo, FX loop) |
Footswitch included? | Yes, 1-button footswitch | Yes, 6-button |
Dimensions | Height: 5.75" - Width: 12.62" - Depth: 6.75" - Weight: 12 lbs. | Height: 10" - Width: 25.5" - Depth: 9.87" - Weight: 41 lbs. |
Price Comparison Tables
This table includes live pricing for both the Mini Rectifier and the Dual Rectifier side by side. I've typically seen a $1200 to $1300 price difference here, but keep in mind this can change depending on when you're looking.
Price updated Fri, September 29th, 2023.
Multiple Vendors
Why you might want the Dual Rectifier
If your budget is higher and you want the louder, warmer, and more flexible amplifier, the Dual Rectifier is definitely going to be your better option. We'd also consider it a more advanced amp for high intermediate to pro guitar players.
Why you might want the Mini Rectifier
For more restricted budgets, the Mini Rectifier gets you the popular Mesa Boogie tone and an amp that can still hang in most high-gain situations. If you don't need three channels, don't care about the wattage, and are looking for a brighter, more flexible tone, go with the Mini and save yourself a lot of money.
Conclusion
Both of these amps are excellent choices. Make sure you take into account your own situation and preferences. We can set up the comparison for you, but in the end it's your call to make.
If you have questions about our Mesa Mini Rectifier VS Dual Rectifier comparison, or our methodology, feel free to hit me up in the comments section below.
I'll help out as much as I can.
Your time and attention is valuable, so thank you for spending it on our content.
I sincerely hope it's helpful to you.
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Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Amps & Reviews
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Amps & Reviews
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