Strategy 500 SwitchTrack™ Power Amplifier
Operating Manual
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WHAT IS SWITCHTRACK?
SwitchTrack is like having two stereo power amps in one: Track 1 can be set for clean while
Track 2 is set to enhance distortion. It's like having Channel-switching in your power amp only more - because SwitchTrack is not limited to switching between clean response and
distortion.
You can easily set it to switch between two different clean sounds. Or two different distortion
sounds (one for crunch, another for lead) with different lows, highs, power levels and gain
structures.
HERE'S HOW SWITCHTRACK WORKS:
Each of the stereo channels (labeled A and B) has two separate control Tracks: 1 and 2.
(Think of them as recording "tracks" so they don't become confused with the stereo
"channels").
Each Track has its own Level and Presence controls, so there are switchable settings for
loudness and top-end. Plus, the tonal response of each Track can be shaped way differently
by using the two small rocker switches:
DEEP EXTEND boosts the bass frequencies for a huge, tight low-end "chunk," and HALF
DRIVE produces power amp distortion at greatly reduced volume levels, perfect for smaller
rooms or recording.
Whether used separately or together, these tone shapers reconfigure the power amp's
circuitry and dedicate it to profound distortion response. And when switched out, the worldfamous clean power of this amp's predecessor is retained with all it’s shimmering detail and
breath taking three-dimensionality.
Three-position rocker switches let you select whether each effect is "off" in both tracks (OUT),
"on" in both tracks (1 & 2), or "switched" on automatically whenever Track 2 is called up
(TRACK 2).
Virtually any switcher will work when plugged into the "Track Switching" jack on the rear. Our
TriAxis™ MIDI Pre-amp even has programmable switching ports built in.
TYPICAL USES:
To demonstrate how the tone-shapers sound, just flip the rocker switches into the center
“1&2” position and you will hear how the sounds change on Track 1 (It is not necessary to
have a remote switcher plugged in until you want to switch back and forth between Track 1
and Track 2).
When using the DEEP EXTEND for distortion sounds, you should turn up the Presence
control for a radical but balanced blend of thickness and edge. And to get the most out of
HALF DRIVE, you may want to increase the Level setting to generate more power amp
distortion. Notice how Half Drive makes your guitar feel more fluid and easier to play. Also
note that using Half Drive reduces the strength of the Deep Extend. This is normal.
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The most common setting for SwitchTrack is to assign one or both of the rockers to Track 2
and coordinate your system so Track 2 is synched with your Lead playing. This maximizes
the distortion response while retaining the purity of Track 1 for clean rhythm performance.
But the unique design of the SwitchTrack system lets you switch between any two of the
many possible power amp sounds, so be sure to experiment with different settings for
various musical styles and room configurations.
The Strategy 500, at just under 200 watts per side, is the world's most three-dimensional
sounding musical amplifier. The 500 uses four 6L6's plus two 6550's in each channel. Its
shimmering clarity and bright dynamic headroom make it the choice for players
concentrating on their clean sound ... or playing the biggest venues. This amp is fast, punchy
and bold! And it’s greater articulation enables it to be layered with effects and still retain a
focused sound.
REPLACING THE TUBES:
Here's some good news. The tubes in the 500 should last a long time. Although the tubes
have a six month warranty, they should last an easy two years or probably more on average.
When the time comes for replacement - or if you want a traveling spare set - please use the
Half Price Coupon we've included and order direct from us. We want you to remain happy
with your hand-built MESA/Boogie for many years to come and we don't want you worrying
about excessive replacement costs.
BIAS ADJUSTMENT:
More good news: We've set up the bias circuit during manufacture and burn-in so that under
normal conditions, it should never need attention. In fact we've purposely eliminated any
adjustment so there'd be no mystery and tech charges in the future.
SPECIAL NOTE ON STRATEGY 500:
Tied off inside the chassis are two brown wires which are 2 ohm speaker leads. If needed,
these can be used in place of the 4 ohm tap if your standard speaker configuration is 2
ohms. Note that using two 4 ohm cabinets in parallel on the same channel results in a 2 ohm
load.
THANK YOU!
Thanks for trusting us with your sound. At MESA/Boogie we are tone fanatics dedicated to
your musical career. We appreciate your confidence in us and will do everything possible to
ensure your lasting satisfaction.
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