The story is, Mesa Boogie Mark amps were offered with or without a 5-band graphic EQ at the time (it was an option). I once had an EQ-loaded one once and I remember the EQ was crucial to get the tones I wanted. Now I have the chance to buy another one, it's great but it doesn't have the onboard EQ. My question is: will putting a good EQ pedal in the fx loop have the same identical effect and quality in shaping the sound as having the on-board EQ ? Please tell me what do you think, thanks!
The crucial aspect is to have an EQ located downstream in the signal chain from where preamp distortion arises. So I'd say yes, it will have a very similar effect. Not identical of course, since the circuit will be slightly altered and it will be a different EQ. You can use any EQ, not necessarily a five-band one. You can even use a parametric EQ (which I prefer). EDIT: That said, I wouldn't buy an amp that necessitated any additional external equipment to get a good sound, myself. But YMMV.
One one gig I play a Dano, a strat and an old Goya with a D'Armond in the sound hole. Depending on the amp I can adjust the Goya to sound the way I need it. It can also be a nice clean boost. Usefull in both high and low volume situations. If you're playing some places for the first time it might be good to have one with you. I don't always use it but an EQ pedal but it has come in handy over the years...
I would suggest getting an Empress or other good parametric EQ instead of a graphic. Graphics tend to be noisy, except for expensive inductor based studio EQs that are in the graphic format but are otherwise different animals.
I would buy that TC EQ rack in the Emporium. Not mine, but it is studio quality and can store different presets.
