The Goodrich Sound 7A SS Matchbox is a line buffer and driver with adjustable gain from 0 dB to 15.5 dB. Goodrich describes it as delivering maximum clarity, sustain, and control, and calls it a longtime staple among steel guitar players worldwide. It is an updated design, which the maker says brings improved performance and usability1.
What it does and how it is controlled
The 7A does two jobs at once. As a buffer, it keeps the guitar's signal intact on its way to the amp; as a driver, its adjustable gain lets the player add level, from unity at 0 dB up to 15.5 dB. Goodrich specifies ultra-low distortion at 0.03% THD1.
Two controls cover the front panel:
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| Gain | Adjustable from 0 dB to 15.5 dB1 |
| Tone | Full-range tone control for precise EQ shaping1 |
Battery life and the disconnect switch
A built-in battery-saving switch disconnects power without unplugging cables. With it used, Goodrich says the 7A offers up to one year of battery life under typical use, which the maker defines as 5 hours per day, 6 days per week1.
Mounting and stage use
Rather than sitting on a pedalboard, the 7A mounts directly to the guitar leg for quick, easy access during performance. That puts the gain and tone controls within reach of a seated player, which is part of why the design has held on among steel guitar players1.
Price and availability
Goodrich's product page lists the 7A SS Matchbox at $285.00 USD as of 26 October 2026, down from an original price of $390.00 USD1. It includes a one-year warranty from Goodrich Sound1.
How it compares
Most buffers on the market are set-and-forget pedals that sit on a board, such as the JHS Pedals Little Black Buffer or the TC Electronic Bonafide Buffer. The 7A differs in combining buffering with adjustable gain and a tone control, and in its leg-mounted form factor aimed at steel guitar players. Players comparing it with other boost-capable buffers can look at the EarthQuaker Devices Buffer/Preamp or the Radial Elevator, and the wider range of options is covered on the Buffer Pedals type page1.
Questions
What is a Goodrich Matchbox used for?
The Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox is a line buffer and driver. It keeps the signal clear over cable runs and into long chains, with adjustable gain from 0 dB to 15.5 dB and a full-range tone control for EQ shaping. Goodrich describes it as a longtime staple among steel guitar players worldwide, and it mounts directly to the guitar leg so the controls sit within reach during a performance.
How long does the battery last in the Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox?
Goodrich says the 7A offers up to one year of battery life under typical use, which the maker defines as 5 hours per day, 6 days per week, when the built-in battery disconnect switch is used. The switch cuts power without unplugging cables, so the battery is not drained between sessions.
Does the Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox have a tone control?
Yes. The 7A SS Matchbox has a full-range tone control that Goodrich describes as allowing precise EQ shaping, alongside its adjustable gain and buffering.
How much gain does the Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox give?
The gain is adjustable from 0 dB to 15.5 dB, according to Goodrich's product page, so it can run unity or add a substantial push to drive long cable runs or feed the front of an amp.
How much does the Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox weigh?
Goodrich lists the weight at 2 lbs, with dimensions of 8 x 7 x 6 inches.
What warranty does the Goodrich 7A SS Matchbox have?
The 7A SS Matchbox includes a one-year warranty from Goodrich Sound.
Sources (1)
- Goodrich 7A Match Box Buffer & Driver, Goodrich Sound Company
