The Kasha Overdrive is a four-channel analog overdrive pedal from boutique amp builder Kasha Amplifiers, announced as available in August 2009 with an MSRP of $200.001. Its distinguishing feature is the channel count: four voices, each with its own voicing and gain structure, plus a master 10dB turbo switch that applies to all four. Kasha described the design as maintaining transparency through a wide frequency range1.
What it does
Each of the four channels carries its own voicing and gain structure, so the pedal works as four separate overdrive settings rather than one1. On top of that, a master 10dB turbo switch lifts all four voices, and the pedal also provides a 10dB clear boost1. Kasha's stated aim was transparency: the company said the pedal would set itself apart "by truly maintaining transparency through a wide frequency range"1.
For a player, the appeal is having several gain levels on one pedal, in the territory covered by Overdrive Pedals and, at higher gain settings, Distortion Pedals. How it stacks up against the standard single-channel designs, like the Boss SD-1 vs Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer, comes down to that multi-channel layout.
Power and practical details
The pedal draws 3mA, which the announcement called very low power consumption, and it runs on a single 9V battery1. True bypass switching keeps the signal path clean when the pedal is off1. The enclosure carries a high gloss mirror black powder coat finish1.
The details here come from the pedal's August 2009 announcement. Kasha Amplifiers is described as a boutique builder, and the pedal was hand made in the USA1.
What players and reviewers said
Guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. gave this reaction to the pedal:
"Wow, it has all the clarity and sparkle I was hoping for. I was able to hear every note and the sustain is great," said Paul Jackson Jr.1
Questions
Does the Kasha Overdrive run on a battery?
Yes. According to the announcement, the pedal has very low power consumption and runs on a single 9V battery. Its 3mA current draw is low enough that battery power is practical, and it also suits pedalboard power supplies that other pedals can overload.
Is the Kasha Overdrive true bypass?
Yes. The pedal uses true bypass switching, so when it is off, the signal passes through without the overdrive circuit loading it.
How much current does the Kasha Overdrive draw?
The pedal draws 3mA, which the maker describes as very low power consumption. That figure is low enough for a single 9V battery to power it.
Where is the Kasha Overdrive made?
The pedal is hand made in the USA by Kasha Amplifiers, a boutique amp builder.
What was the list price of the Kasha Overdrive?
The MSRP was $200.00 when the pedal was announced as available in August 2009.
Sources (1)
- Kasha Announces Four-Channel Overdrive Pedal, Premier Guitar, 2009-08-24
