Guitar Effects Pedal Whore

Now that I’m playing a clean amp, I’m coming to depend on effects pedals for tonal changes. I’m really starting to discover the difference between pedals and boutique pedals. Yes I know this sounds snobby and others will disagree but the difference between £25 and a £400 drive pedal is amazing. The tonal quality, the buffers, the bypasses everything is just a light year better  (I’m sure there are exceptions to the rule) I first noticed this when I had a Boss BD2 pedal, its a nice pedal no question, I took a gamble and bought a Keeley modified Boss BD2. The difference is amazing, such a fuller sound, more range and better overall. If you’re playing a crappy or well driven amps I don’t think you notice it, but if your playing a good quality clean amp, it really matters.

I’ve really noticed the difference between a vintage Boss CE2 chorus – which at the time was mass produced and todays CE2 and CE3 pedals. Then we up the game to the more boutique market. I’m finding I’m turning into a real brand snob, depending on the likes of Robert Keeley, Analogman, Klon, Bob Sweet, Rogery Mayer and Mad Professor. That’s not to say others are not good, but I’m just really starting to appreciate the quality put into the higher priced kit.

I’m trying to find a smokey tubeless overdrive pedal at the moment and I’m on the waiting list for an Analogman king of tone version 4.

If you think I’m a gear snob, that’s fine, there is an element of truth in that, however if you read what I’m saying I think it’s worth trying a few of the higherend pedals and see if it makes a difference to your sound and the way you play. It certainly has done for me.