and dynamics in a way that makes
the playing experience much more
fun and interactive. Unlike a lot of
the dubious claims made by pedal
makers about the supposed benefits
of various fancy or “vintage correct”
circuit components, the hype that
surrounds germanium is absolutely
legitimate. It really does have a
tangible and audible magic.
The benefits of germanium are
most often touted in the context of
classic, ‘60s-inspired fuzz and treble
booster circuits, but modern times
have seen this famed metalloid
applied to a variety of preamps,
overdrives, and other devices one
can plug a guitar into to generate
some grit. Though germanium has
a few minor drawbacks, including
a notable instability in the face of
temperature and environmental
changes, the benefits are well
worth the small amount of trouble
incurred. Every guitarist needs a
germanium-based dirt box in his or
her lineup (right at the beginning
of the chain, as that’s where they’re
usually happiest). Here are a few of
our favorite boxes of germanium
magic for livening up the front end
of your rig.
ToneReport.com
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