J Rockett Audio Designs Launches the Broverdrive

May 16, 2020 · 3 sources

J Rockett Audio Designs announced a new overdrive pedal called the Broverdrive, a three-knob stompbox built around what the maker describes as an original overdrive circuit rather than a clone of an existing design¹². Guitar.com described the unit as a versatile overdrive that ranges from dynamic crunch to saturated gain³.

The pedal carries three controls, labeled LEVBRO, BROGAIN and BROTONE, covering level, gain and tone in the usual overdrive arrangement¹. Gearnews' reviewer took a dim view of the naming scheme, writing that "With controls labelled LEVBRO, BROGAIN and BROTONE, the joke wears thin pretty quick."¹

On the question of what it sounds like, the maker leaned on enthusiasm rather than description, saying "we have no clue how to describe it other than it is freakin killer"¹. Gearnews' own view of the official demo video was more measured, finding "some good tones, though, with a 'musical' sound that should be pretty" versatile¹.

The launch details as announced:

• Type: overdrive pedal, three-knob stompbox¹²
• Circuit: original overdrive circuit, not a Tube Screamer derivative per the maker¹²
• Bypass: true-bypass¹
• Power: 9-Volt negative tip adapter power socket, no battery¹
• Enclosure: stainless steel, made in the USA¹
• Switching: uses J. Rockett Audio Designs' replacement speed switch system¹
• Launch price: USD 199 RRP¹

The Broverdrive joined a crowded field of American boutique overdrives, a point Gearnews raised directly, asking "how many boutique overdrive pedals made in the USA can the market absorb?"¹