The Vertex Landau Boost is a transparent clean boost and volume controller in one, built to the specifications of session guitarist Michael Landau. Vertex describes it as providing total volume control over your signal with zero degradation, from 0 to +16dB over unity gain, so the tone remains open and full-range and, in the maker's words, it "feels like you're plugged straight into your amp."1
What it does
The Landau Boost is designed around two jobs: pushing the front of an amp with up to +16dB of clean gain, and acting as a volume controller for the signal path. Vertex states the circuit delivers this gain with "ZERO degradation (from 0 to +16dB over unity gain)," meaning the boost is meant to add level without changing the character of your tone.1
When the boost is off, the pedal is in True Bypass mode and the Volume/EXP control is out of the circuit, so the pedal does not color the signal in bypass.1
Expression control
A dedicated EXP function gives what Vertex calls "Total Control of Boosted Output Level via EXP," letting a player sweep the boosted output level in real time, for example riding swells or fading solos with a foot while keeping both hands on the guitar.1 For expression pedal options, see Expression Pedals, and for more units in this category, see Boost Pedals.
Background and related Vertex boosts
The Landau Boost is part of a line of boost pedals from Vertex, including the Vertex Boost and the Vertex Boost (Fiesta Red). The Landau Boost itself is a signature design: Vertex describes it as "built to Michael Landau's specific[ations]," tying the circuit to the working preferences of the guitarist it is named for.1
Support
Vertex backs the Landau Boost with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee return policy.1
Videos
Kutub Khanah
Questions
How much gain does the Vertex Landau Boost add?
The Landau Boost provides up to +16dB of clean boost, adjustable from 0 to +16dB over unity gain. Vertex states the circuit adds this gain with zero degradation, so the tone stays open and full-range, and the pedal can also serve as a master volume controller for your signal.
Is the Vertex Landau Boost true bypass?
Yes. When the boost is off, the pedal is in True Bypass mode and the Volume/EXP control is taken out of the circuit entirely, so your guitar signal passes to the amp untouched.
Can the Vertex Landau Boost be controlled with an expression pedal?
Yes. The pedal has an EXP control that gives total control of the boosted output level, so you can sweep the boost amount or volume in real time with an expression pedal.
Is the Vertex Landau Boost analog?
Yes. Vertex describes the Landau Boost as using 100% analog circuitry.
Where is the Vertex Landau Boost made?
Vertex states the Landau Boost is handcrafted in California.
What warranty does the Vertex Landau Boost have?
The Landau Boost carries a lifetime warranty, and Vertex offers a 30-day money back guarantee return policy.
Sources (1)
- Vertex Landau Boost, www.vertexeffects.com
