How the Two Channels of the Fender Tweed Deluxe Work Together Understanding Channel Interaction in the Classic 5E3 Circuit If you’ve ever spent time with a Fender Tweed Deluxe- especially the legendary 5E3 circuit- you know it doesn’t behave like most modern...
1590B, 125B, 1590BB, and 1590XX When I start designing or building a new pedal, one of the first decisions is: what box is this going in? After building a lot of pedals for customers and my own line at KR Sound, I’ve...
Understanding the notorious safety flaw that put musicians and technicians at risk for decades If you've ever worked on vintage tube amplifiers from the 1940s through the 1970s, you've likely encountered one of the most dangerous components ever used in consumer...
In the landscape of music technology, few instruments have shaped the sound of popular music as profoundly as the humble drum machine. Among these rhythm pioneers, the Ace Tone Rhythm Ace stands as a foundational pillar - a device that...
As I sit at my workbench surrounded by tools, schematics, and the partially disassembled chassis of an Echoplex EP-2, I can't help but marvel at this piece of audio history. What started as an unexpected opportunity to restore this legendary...
The Tube Screamer is a guitar effect pedal that has been in constant production under one name or another for nearly half a century. It is, quite simply, the most popular guitar pedal in history, and there's a very good...
Setting up an electric guitar is a crucial process that directly impacts its playability and sound quality. At the core of guitar setup are three fundamental components: action, intonation, and pickup height. Each of these elements plays a significant role...
When comparing germanium and silicon transistors in the context of overdrive, distortion, and fuzz guitar pedals, a nuanced understanding of their performance characteristics is essential. Germanium transistors, renowned for their vintage appeal, introduce a warmth and smoothness to the signal that...
Sovtek and the Russian Sovtek Big Muff Pi Sovtek, an abbreviation for “Soviet technology,” was conceived by Mike Matthews in the late 1980s and early 1990s, building upon his success with Electro-Harmonix (EHX), an esteemed American effects pedal manufacturer. Matthews recognized...
The Klon Centaur is a highly sought-after and influential guitar overdrive pedal that has earned the status of a "holy grail" among guitarists. Its unique tonal qualities, rarity, and a rich history contribute to its lasting appeal and impact on...