DRV - Blackout

Crafted with a distinctive steel casing and high-quality components, this pedal reflects my commitment to excellence. Understanding that there isn't always a definitive choice in guitar gear, I selected my favorite parts, featuring Switchcraft 11 open frame jacks and an exceptionally quiet soft touch switching system powered by an internal relay. This project has been in the works for nearly three years, developed in collaboration with Jon Ashley of Bondi Effects. I believe the pedal offers a design and sound that is unparalleled, particularly in its lower gain and boost settings. It possesses a subtlety that evokes the essence of vintage pedals rather than merely being a modern reinterpretation. The pedal houses two circuits: one for distortion and another for preamp boost, operating at 18v thanks to an internal voltage regulator. My intention was to carve out a unique sound for myself, and I discovered that it serves as a versatile tool for achieving a variety of tones. I take particular pride in the lower gain section, which stands out as the most distinctive part of the pedal, but I must also mention that the gain section delivers a beautifully rich sound, especially with heavy and intricate chords. There's a midrange punch that I adore, along with a warmth and thickness reminiscent of a ribbon microphone. As this pedal evolved into something truly original, it became the spark for launching 1981 Inventions, making it my first official release.