The F-Pedals Nikaos is a dynamic distortion pedal in a mini-format enclosure, introduced in August 2017. F-Pedals, a California-based maker, designed it for Greek producer Nikolas Farmakalidis, and it arrived with an RRP of USD 1191. It sits in the distortion family: a compact drive unit intended to respond to playing dynamics rather than deliver one fixed level of grit.
Controls and layout
The Nikaos keeps its top panel simple, which is typical of a mini pedal where space is tight1:
- Two mini pots, labeled Growl (volume) and Bite1
- A single footswitch to engage the pedal1
- Two bright blue LEDs that form the eyes of the wolf emblazoned across the front of the pedal, lighting brighter according to playing dynamics1
That LED behavior is more than decoration: it gives a visual read on how hard the pedal is being pushed, matching its dynamic-distortion character1.
Power
Because the enclosure is really small, the Nikaos needs to run off an external power supply, and the review implies no battery operation1. On a pedalboard, that means budgeting a power output for it rather than expecting a battery compartment.
On the front of the case, two bright blue LEDs form the eyes of the wolf emblazoned across the pedal, and F-Pedals says they light brighter according to playing dynamics1.
What reviewers said
Writing at gearnews.com in August 2017, reviewer Jef was positive about the pedal's fundamental sound1:
"I do quite like the core tonality of this distortion pedal"
The same review summed the Nikaos up as "a new dynamic distortion mini-pedal with piercing blue eyes" and judged the overall sound worth a punt1.
Videos
F-AudioLabs
F-AudioLabs
Questions
Who designed the F-Pedals Nikaos?
The Nikaos was designed for Greek producer Nikolas Farmakalidis, according to gearnews.com's 2017 review. F-Pedals, a California-based pedal maker, introduced the pedal in August 2017 as part of its range of mini-format effects.
Does the F-Pedals Nikaos run on a battery?
No. The pedal is very small, and the gearnews.com review notes that it needs to run off an external power supply, with no battery operation implied. Plan for a dedicated power output or a supply with enough current headroom on your board.
What does the Growl knob do on the Nikaos?
Growl is the volume control. The Nikaos has two mini pots, labelled Growl for volume and Bite, plus a single footswitch to engage the pedal.
How much does the F-Pedals Nikaos cost?
The Nikaos carried an RRP of USD 119 when it was introduced in August 2017.
Sources (1)
- F-Pedals' Nikaos mini distortion pedal: Howling at the moon?, gearnews.com, 2017-08-14