Mesa Boogie, founded by Randall Smith in the late 1960s, revolutionized guitar amplification by modifying small Fender amps to produce powerful, high-gain sounds in a compact form.
 
The company’s groundbreaking Mark I series, launched in 1971, quickly garnered a loyal following, thanks to its punchy, overdriven tone and high-gain preamp that guitarists had never experienced before. Legendary guitarist Carlos Santana was among the first to use the amp, famously saying that it "boogied," which led Smith to adopt the name "Mesa Boogie."
 
This particular 1976 Mark I, inspected in August 1976 and signed by DC inspector, is a 60-watt powerhouse with two channels and a reverb option. Equipped with its original Electrovoice 12inch Black Shadow speaker. Its export-ready design includes a distinctive red switch on the back, allowing players to switch from 117V to 220V for international use. The amp’s serial number, though faded, seems to be either A594 or A591, marking its authenticity as a vintage piece. The blond tolex finish adds a unique aesthetic to this model, which remains in excellent condition despite being nearly 50 years old.
 
Adding to its allure, this amp was previously owned by Belgian guitarist Tjenne Berghmans, known for his work with influential bands like *Clouseau*, *Betty Goes Green*, and *The Scabs.*
 
Mesa Boogie’s Mark I amplifiers are celebrated as pioneering pieces of music equipment that helped shape the sound of rock and blues throughout the 1970s.
 
This 1976 cream tolex model not only embodies the quality craftsmanship and innovation that Mesa Boogie is known for, but it also carries the spirit of the era’s rock and roll legacy, making it a treasured find for collectors and musicians alike.
 
Working as it should, this beast is ready to rock!!!!