You mean power tube saturation.
And honestly speaking, this thing is pointless. Without the EL34s or 6L6s in the power section, you're not going to get the full Mesa Boogie Rectifier experience. Not to mention, it's missing the rectifier tubes that makes the point of this amp.
Not sure your comment above is out of experience actually playing it - or just your opinion.
Anyhow, tried this Mini Rectifier out a few days ago. We have them in Malaysia. I was blown away by the sound from such a small package. I don't know how they do it - but the Rectifier sound is there. Trust me. Few observations:
1. This thing is extremely light - 16 pounds only.
2. It's extremely loud with lots of clean head room.
3. The clean channel is really nice.
4. The crunch is really good also.
5. The Vintage Lead Channel is pure hot rodded Marshall sound.
6. The Modern Lead Channel (which I don't usually use) is full on Mesa Rectifier sound. Lots of tight bass with low end and of course the distinct Mesa sound.
Just for reference - I've been playing for the last 16 years - about 6 of it professionally. Gear I used to test was, Gibby LP - Menatone Fish Factory - BJFE DRD, Chili Picoso, Strymon Timeline. Let's just say I am quite the-very-particular when it comes to tone. I've played a bunch of boutique amps before - and this amp can hold it's own - I could not believe such a small amp can churn out such great sounds - I went there a big skeptic, but went back a big believer. I will be getting this soon
