Tape Audio launches TWO overdrive and distortion pedal
May 13, 2022 · 2 sources
Tape Audio has launched its second guitar effects pedal, TWO, an overdrive and distortion unit that pairs a germanium circuit with a silicon one1. MusicRadar reported the launch on 13 May 2022; Guitar.com reported it on 14 May 202212.
The pedal has three dials and no tone controls12. Pre controls the output of the germanium drive circuit, which then feeds the silicon circuit, governed by the Gain control; Master controls overall output volume1. Tape Audio says it used simple, discrete transistor gain topology in both sections of the circuit2. MusicRadar describes the range as running from light coloring to searing distortion, and Guitar.com says the pedal sets out to offer light coloring, medium grit and bite, and sharp distortion bordering on fuzz12. Guitar.com describes the EQ as balanced, so that despite having no tone controls the three gain dials are enough to shape the sound2.
Inside are NOS Carbon Comp resistors, NOS Philips, Sprague, GE or similar capacitors, and NOS germanium transistor and diodes, with Switchcraft and Lumberg jacks12. Internal trim pots adjust bias and clipping diode level on the germanium circuit1. The machined aluminum dials sit in what MusicRadar calls a retro hi-fi aesthetic1. The pedal takes a 9V DC pedalboard power supply1.
"Tape Audio say they used simple, discrete transistor gain topology in both sections of the circuit to achieve a dynamic and interesting drive pedal that covers a lot of ground"
TWO is available now direct, priced $199, in a choice of black or white enclosures1. Guitar.com reports that buyers get 15 percent off when purchasing ONE and TWO together2. ONE, Tape Audio's first pedal, is a silicon fuzz with horizontal sliders controlling volume and compression and a Light/Dark switch for EQ1.