the marshall mode four is different from most marshall amps tone. it's a high gain metal amp, along with the dual recto.

I've played both amp maybe once or twice each. I remember liking the tone of the mesa a bit more though. But if you're shelling out this kind of cash for an amp, make sure you play them first and decide which YOU like better. also, don't forget to try out the B-52 AT-100 as well, it has a great high-gain metal tone that I fell in love with instantly that I may have even liked more than the mesa!