Metallica’s Iconic “Crunch Berries” Amp Returns: Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ Reissue Announced!

The legendary Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ amplifier head, famously dubbed the “Crunch Berries” amp by Metallica, is back for a highly anticipated, limited-edition run. This is your chance to own a piece of rock history and capture that quintessential mid-80s Metallica tone.

Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++

The return of the revered Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ has been an open secret among gear enthusiasts, with online whispers and social media teasers from Gibson (Mesa/Boogie’s parent company) fueling anticipation.

Today, the official announcement confirms its release, but with a significant catch: only 200 units will be produced worldwide. This exclusive availability is expected to ignite a fervent rush among collectors and players alike, creating a classic “fear of missing out” (FOMO) scenario.

A Tone Shaped by Legends

The story of the Mark IIC++ is deeply intertwined with the sound of thrash metal. In the mid-1980s, Mesa/Boogie collaborated with guitar icons like Def Leppard’s Vivian Campbell and, notably, Metallica’s Kirk Hammett.

These collaborations led to modifications of the standard Mark IIC+ amps, aiming for an overdrive tone that was less shrill and more focused on a powerful, mid-range punch.

Crunch Berries

This modified amp became famous as Metallica’s “Crunch Berries” head, a nickname derived from the whimsical sticker James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett affixed to their unit. Acquired around March 1985, this specific amplifier became a cornerstone of Metallica’s early sound, contributing significantly to their defining albums.

Historically, only about 20 original “++” modified amps were ever built, making them exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors.

What Makes the Mark IIC++ So Special?

The “++” modification is the heart of this amplifier’s legendary status. While the CLEAN Mode retains the sparkling clarity that Mesa/Boogie is known for, the LEAD Mode receives a significant enhancement. This modification boosts gain, creating a thicker, more saturated sound with enriched low-end frequencies and increased top-end gain, cut, and harmonic layering. It’s this specific voicing that delivered Metallica’s iconic “crunch.”

The reissue faithfully replicates these highly desirable characteristics. Here’s a look at the key features:

• Power Output: Selectable Simul-Class (75 Watts) for robust power or Class A (25 Watts) for a different tonal character and feel.
• Preamp: Footswitchable Dual Mode design.
• Tube Complement: Powered by 5x 12AX7 preamp tubes and 4x Mesa 6L6 power tubes.
• Controls: Comprehensive control set including Volume, Treble, Bass, Middle, Master, Lead Drive, Lead Master, 5-Band EQ, Presence, and Reverb.
• Versatility: Includes a built-in footswitchable tube-driven spring reverb and a footswitchable 5-Band Graphic EQ for precise tonal sculpting.
• Connectivity: Features a Slave Output for integration with Wet/Dry/Wet rigs or external IR readers, alongside a Series Buffered Effects Loop.
• Dimensions & Weight: Measures 476 x 262 x 235 mm (W x D x H) and weighs 17.7 kg.
• Aesthetics: The limited run IIC++ is visually identical to the current IIC+ production model, with the “++” notation etched on the back panel and a distinctive IIC++ plaque on the front grille as distinguishing marks.

Limited Run

The Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC++ reissue represents a unique opportunity for both collectors and active musicians. For those chasing that elusive mid-80s Metallica tone, this limited-edition head promises to deliver it with authenticity.

For collectors, the scarcity of only 200 units ensures its status as a highly desirable and potentially valuable piece of musical history.

MSRP –  £3899/€4499

US

Available at Sweetwater

UK

Available at Andertons

Will you be one of the lucky few to get your hands on this legendary amplifier? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!