EarthQuaker Devices Plumes Small Signal Shredder Pedal

Plumes is an overdrive based around that classically overdone tube-like circuit you all know, and amps crave. While this particular circuit has been done to death, we here at EarthQuaker Devices brand of special effects pedals think the Plumes offers an original take on the old, tired dead horse everyone loves to beat on. You can’t get enough of it, so we are giving you some more. Doctor’s orders and what not….

For starters, we’ve done away with the sacred 4558 IC and the classic BJT transistor buffers

Circuit and Concept:

• Plumes overdrive pedal is built on a classic tube-like course
• EarthQuaker Devices adds an original spin to the well-known concept.

Component Upgrades:

• Replaced 4558 IC and BJT transistor buffers with JFET operational amplifiers.
• Increased input impedance to ~10 megaohms.
• Benefits: Reduced noise, better signal integrity, enhanced high-frequency clarity.

Power Enhancement:

• Internal conversion of 9v input to +/- 9v for increased headroom.
• Result: Three-dimensional sound, improved transparency, ideal for tube amps.

Clipping Options:

• Mode 1: Symmetrical clipping using light-emitting diodes.
  • Provides the crunchiest tone.
  • Emulates a classic British valve amp.
• Mode 2: Clean boost mode.
  • No soft clipping diodes, pure OpAmp drive.
  • Pushes clean sound forward or gently drives overdriven amps.
• Mode 3: Asymmetrical silicon diode setup.
  • It is similar to a screamer but with higher output and clarity.
  • Adds warmth and slightly merged tones.

Tone Control Enhancement:

• Improved classic tone control while maintaining familiarity.
• Effective across the entire range.
• Balanced low end, lively high end, and preserved mids.

Overall:

• Plumes offers a refreshing approach to classic overdrive.
• Enhanced components, clipping options, and tone control.
• Aims to deliver a rich, multidimensional tone for guitarists.