The Chicago Rat is a two-stage op amp gain pedal from Daredevil Pedals with selectable modes for high gain distortion or nasty over clipped fuzz. Despite the name, the maker is explicit that this is not a RAT circuit: the product page states in capital letters, "THIS IS NOT A RAT CIRCUIT!!", describing it instead as a circuit created from scratch1.
The pedal came out of a collaboration. Daredevil calls it "a true collaboration, and experiment if you will, with fellow Chicagoan Rob Scallon," the Chicago-based guitarist and YouTube creator1. Every unit is built in Chicago by Johnny at Daredevil HQ1.
Two modes: Normal distortion and Rabid fuzz
The pedal splits its character across two selectable modes:
- Normal: the distortion side, described by Daredevil as "hot rodded crunchy gain with lots of output"1
- Rabid: the fuzz setting, which "adds gain and tons of clipping along with engaging the Bleed section to allow ample adjustment"1
In Rabid mode the pedal produces what Daredevil calls "nasty over clipped fuzz with a starve control knob to take it all the way to sputtering filth"1. The Bleed control shapes how hard the fuzz is pushed: "You'll hear the texture and gating increase as you turn it clockwise"1. In Normal mode the Bleed control is defeated, so it only affects the fuzz side1.
Controls
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Mode switch | Selects Normal (distortion) or Rabid (fuzz)1 |
| Bleed | Starve control, active in Rabid mode only; clockwise increases texture and gating1 |
Build and power
The Chicago Rat houses through hole components with true bypass switching and an external 9V DC jack for power supply1. Daredevil also offers a blem option: enclosures with very minor paint blems sold at a discounted rate, with the pedals brand new internally1. A limited run Chicago Rat themed tee shirt is available as an add-on with free shipping1.
Videos
BRENT henderson
Questions
Is the Daredevil Chicago Rat a RAT clone?
No. Daredevil Pedals states plainly on the product page that the Chicago Rat is not a RAT circuit, but a circuit created from scratch. The name is a nod to its Chicago origins rather than a claim of lineage. It is a two-stage op amp gain pedal designed as a collaboration with fellow Chicagoan Rob Scallon, with selectable high gain distortion and fuzz modes.
Is the Daredevil Chicago Rat true bypass?
Yes. The pedal uses true bypass switching, housed in an enclosure with through hole components, and takes power from an external 9V DC jack rather than an internal battery compartment.
What does the Bleed control do on the Chicago Rat?
Bleed is a starve control that only works in the Rabid fuzz mode. Turning it clockwise increases texture and gating, taking the fuzz from over clipped to sputtering. In the Normal distortion setting the Bleed control is defeated, so it has no effect on the distortion side.
What voltage does the Daredevil Chicago Rat use?
The Chicago Rat runs on 9V DC through an external power supply jack on the pedal. Daredevil does not list a current draw figure on the product page, so check the supplied documentation for that detail.
Where is the Daredevil Chicago Rat built?
Every Chicago Rat is built in Chicago at Daredevil HQ by Johnny, the maker behind Daredevil Pedals. The company is based in Chicago, and the pedal's name and design reflect that local character.
What is a blem enclosure on the Chicago Rat?
Occasionally Daredevil has enclosures with very minor paint blems. These are offered at a discounted rate through a pull down option on the product page. The pedals inside are brand new internally, so only the finish differs from a standard unit.
Sources (1)
- the Chicago Rat, Daredevil Pedals
