Inspired
by the rich tones of the Bell and Howell Filmosound 385 projector, the
reimagined 385 MKII Overdrive offers dynamic, responsive, tube-like
drive with simple but effective controls. The MKII adds an A/B switch to
toggle between two sets of volume and gain knobs that can be used
like a preset to change volume and/or gain for specific parts, as well
as a 385+ switch that slams the front end of the circuit for added
high-gain saturation.
For years, guitarists seeking pure tone
have been taking the tube-powered audio sections of vintage film
projectors and using them as guitar amps. We fell in love with the
unique sound, and were inspired to capture it in a pedalboard-friendly
box when we created the original 385 Overdrive pedal.
The 385
was developed to have the same simple but effective tone control as its
grandfather. While the amp stacks bass and treble behind a single
knob, our design separates them, allowing for a much wider array of
tones to be achieved. The user is able to boost and cut bass and treble,
allowing them to be creative with mid-frequency scoops and bumps.
When
we released the 385 Overdrive in 2016, it was quickly adopted by
guitar players for the amp-like dynamics you could get at lower gain
settings. Soon though, players found that cranking the gain produced a
distortion-esque drive that was unique to the 385. To accommodate both
setups in a single pedal, we added an A/B switch along with a second
set of Volume and Gain knobs that share a single set of tone controls.
The
pedal is internally running at 18v, which helps us nail the same
dynamic feel of the amp in a stomp box. This means it is extremely
sensitive to how hard you dig in – just like the amp.
- The die cast enclosure’s exact size is 4.77" x 2.6" x 1.39” including knobs.
- Power requirements are 9VDC (100mA minimum).
- The use of an isolated power supply is recommended for powering all Walrus Audio Pedals.
- Daisy chain power supplies are not recommended. Power supply not included.
