The Heptode Heavy Tone is a distortion pedal from the French builder Heptode. Guitar Interactive Magazine describes it as one of two pedals, alongside the Deep Crunch, that emulate the distortion characteristics and dynamics of a well known and much revered two channel amplifier1. Both pedals in the line include a cabinet simulator switch for direct input to a mixer or computer, which means the pedal can be recorded without a miked amplifier1.
What it does
The Heavy Tone sits in the distortion category, shaping a distorted tone intended to recall the character and dynamics of a two channel amplifier design that Guitar Interactive Magazine describes as well known and much revered1. Its sibling pedal, the Deep Crunch, covers the other channel of the same inspiration, so the two pedals together form a matched pair rather than competing alternatives1.
The cabinet simulator switch is the practical difference from many distortion pedals: with it engaged, the pedal can feed a mixer or computer directly, taking the place of a speaker and microphone in a recording chain1. That places it in the same territory as dedicated speaker simulation and preamp pedals, though here the cabinet simulation is built into the distortion unit itself.
Availability and price
European Musical Imports was named exclusive North American distributor for the Heptode line in June 2012, and the Deep Crunch and Heavy Tone became available to American guitarists at selected dealers for $2651.
The $265 price and the availability at selected US dealers date from June 2012.
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Questions
What does the Heptode Heavy Tone do?
It is a guitar effects pedal in the distortion category. Heptode describes it as one of two pedals that emulate the distortion characteristics and dynamics of a well known and much revered two channel amplifier, and both pedals in the line include a cabinet simulator switch for direct input to a mixer or computer.
How much does the Heptode Heavy Tone cost?
When the pedal became available to American guitarists in June 2012, it was priced at $265 at selected dealers, according to Guitar Interactive Magazine.
Can I record with the Heptode Heavy Tone without a microphone?
Yes. Both pedals in the Heptode line, the Heavy Tone and the Deep Crunch, include a cabinet simulator switch, which allows direct input to a mixer or computer for recording without a miked amplifier.
Sources (1)
- Heptode Deep Crunch and Heavy Tone Pedals Now Available in t, Guitar Interactive Magazine, 2012-06-26
