Fender Mustang V V.2 HD – Modeling Head That Actually Works

Controls:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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Most ’serious’ amp heads are the ones that use tubes. That is the sentiment that hasbeen prevalent even to this day. However, modeling and solid state units have been making an advance in this context. One that really changed the game a little is Fender’s Mustang V V.2 HD. If you are trying to get a versatile amp head for less than $300 total, this is probably one of the best options you have at the moment. Let’s find out why.

Controls

In terms of controls, Fender wanted to keep things as conservative as possible for the most part. You have all your regular knobs. These include gain, volume, a three-band EQ and a master volume knob. What comes next is the purely modeling part of the business. There is a small display with a number of buttons underneath which you use to navigate and select various presets and effects. All things considered, Fender didn’t go too wild with these features. They kept things in balance so that performance is not sacrificed for additional flexibility. Using the interface might take some time to figure out, but compared to some other models on the market, it is pretty intuitive. Making adjustments mid-performance is fairly easy.

Features

From what we wrote above, you can probably come to a conclusion that this head packs a fair amount of heat. The head offers 150 Watts of power, which puts it right in the stage worthy category. There are 100 presets to work with, which include 16 amp models, a multitude of effects and more. As you would expect, USB connectivity comes as standard, which is great considering that you also get Ableton Live 8 Fender edition and Fender’s FUSE suite. In other words, not only can you record with this head but you can also customize presets. One great thing about the Mustang V V.2 is the fact that it features two XLR outputs. This means that you can hook it up to various gear aside from a speaker cab.

Performance

If you go in expecting a Marshall Plexi type of tone, you’re going about this the wrong way. That isn’t to say that Fender Mustang V V.2 sounds bad, but it does sound like a modeling amp. On the other hand, some of the presets have a pretty nice definition. Depending on which cab you use with the amp, you can really set up a great tone. This head was designed primarily as a versatile tool for performing guitarists who gig often but have a limited budget. As such, it is near perfect. It is easy to use, packs enough power to fill a pretty decent size venue with tone and allows you to cut through just about any mix. What more can we really ask for in this price range?

Conclusion

Fender’s Mustang V V.2 is one of those rare amp heads which really made it theirmission to give the user a serious amount of volume. Not only does it offer great output, but the presets and emulations you get are pretty organic for a modeling unit. Fender hit the golden middle with this Mustang, which is more or less evident from its recent popularity. Those who are looking for a versatile jet affordable solution should really look up this head.

For more info about the Fender Mustang V V.2 HD, click here.
For more guitar amps under $300, click here.