• Transformer saturation circuit that adds low-end harmonics and a low-end bump.
• Passive saturation circuit that adds a lot of odd and even harmonics.
• Active germanium stage with a vintage sound and a mix of harmonics.
• Class-A stage with a pleasant British '70s sound.
• M/S function for separate processing of the mid and side channels.
• Illuminated switches and detented potentiometers for easy recall.

The first harmonic stage, TX Drive, is a transformer saturation circuit with a single control that adjusts the amount of transformer saturation while keeping the output level consistent. The circuit generates approximately 1% harmonic distortion in the low end, with a subtle presence of higher harmonics. It also introduces a slight 2 dB boost around 30 Hz. As you increase the drive, the boost and higher harmonics decrease, but the low-end harmonics remain steady at around 1%.

Following the TX Drive is a gain control, allowing you to push the subsequent Saturation and Germanium stages harder to generate more harmonics.

The second stage is a passive saturation circuit that primarily introduces odd harmonics. Engaging the Even switch adds even harmonics as well. The amount of harmonic content depends on how hard this stage is driven.

The third stage is an active germanium circuit that emphasizes even harmonics, delivering a rich vintage character with a smooth, slightly rounded high end. Like the Sat stage, the harmonic content increases as the stage is driven harder.

A final output trim control allows for fine-tuning the signal level before it enters the blend section.

The Blend control lets you mix the processed signal from the harmonic stages with the dry signal, giving you precise control over the overall tonal balance.

A M/S (mid/side) function enables separate processing of the mid and side channels. For example, you can apply TX Drive to the mid channel for enhanced low-end harmonics while using the Sat and Ge stages to add harmonic richness to the side channel.

After the blend and M/S processing, the signal passes through a transformer-coupled class-A stage, which imparts a warm, punchy sound with a midrange presence and silky high end, reminiscent of classic British class-A designs from the early ’70s.

 

This stage also includes an HF boost option, subtly enhancing the top end for added air and openness.

Note that the Class-A stage is positioned after the M/S encoder/decoder and cannot be used in M/S mode.