The GUP Tech Shark+ is a compact distortion pedal that can also work as a clean boost. GUP Tech, the small Canadian builder behind it, describes it as "our take on the old MXR Distortion +, DOD 250 and MXR Micro Amp", combining a classic distortion circuit with the boost function of the Micro Amp in one box1. For a player, that means one pedal that can push an amp into overdrive or simply add level to a solo, depending on how the knobs are set.
What it does and how to use it
The Shark+ covers two jobs. As a distortion, GUP Tech's pitch is simple: "Crank that classic distortion and get the tone"1. The circuits it draws on, the MXR Distortion+ and the DOD 250, are among the most copied distortion designs in pedal history, known for a straightforward drive sound rather than heavy modern gain.
As a boost, the maker gives a specific method:
"If you want to use as a Micro Amp, just crank volume to the max and control the overall output with the Drive knob"
In practice that breaks down into two steps:
- Set the Volume knob to maximum, so the pedal can push level the way the Micro Amp does12.
- Use the Drive knob as the overall output control1.
That makes the Shark+ a candidate for players who want one pedal that can go from a light level lift to full distortion without switching boxes. It sits in GUP Tech's range alongside other drive and boost designs such as the GUP Tech GrindR and the GUP Tech Donut Douche Edition12.
Power and practical details
The pedal runs on 9Vdc center negative and draws 5mA, so it fits any standard pedalboard power supply without stressing its budget1. The maker's page lists the price as £66.00 GBP1.
Versions and colors
The standard Shark+ comes in two color options, Dark Blue and Light Blue1. GUP Tech has also made a special edition, the Shark + - Douche, a limited special paint job version of the same pedal, announced on 15 December 20222.
| Version | Colors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shark+ (standard) | Dark Blue, Light Blue | Standard production pedal1 |
| Shark + - Douche | Special paint job | Limited edition, announced 15 December 20222 |
The Douche edition of the Shark+ is a limited run and is sold out, so the Dark Blue and Light Blue standard versions are the ones currently available12.
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Questions
How do you use the GUP Tech Shark+ as a Micro Amp?
GUP Tech says to crank the Volume knob to the maximum and then control the overall output with the Drive knob. That turns the pedal into a Micro Amp style boost: the Drive knob sets how much level the pedal pushes, and the distortion stage stays out of the way at low settings.
What power does the GUP Tech Shark+ need?
The Shark+ runs on a 9Vdc center negative power supply and draws 5mA. GUP Tech lists that supply as the requirement on the product page, so any standard center negative pedal power supply that delivers 9V will run it.
Where is the GUP Tech Shark+ made?
GUP Tech builds all of its pedals in Saguenay, Québec, Canada, and the Shark+ is made there as well. The company also offers pickup at its shop, with orders usually ready within 24 hours.
What circuits is the Shark+ based on?
GUP Tech describes the Shark+ as its take on three older circuits: the MXR Distortion+, the DOD 250 and the MXR Micro Amp. The first two are classic hard-clipping distortions, and the Micro Amp is a clean boost, which is why the Shark+ can do both jobs.
What colors does the Shark+ come in?
The standard Shark+ is offered in Dark Blue and Light Blue. GUP Tech has also released a special paint job edition called the Douche edition, announced on 15 December 2022, which is a limited version of the same pedal.
Sources (2)
- Shark +, GUP Tech (guptech.ca)
- Shark + - Douche, GUPtech (guptech.ca)
