EarthQuaker Devices has partnered with guitar amp expert Dr. Z for the ZEQD-Pre – a tube-loaded preamp that might just be the pedal that digital modeler users have been dreaming of.
It’s a pretty big collaboration. On the one hand, you have one of the gear world’s pre-eminent effects pedal makers. On the other, you have a boutique amp manufacturer whose builds have been championed by the likes of Joe Walsh.
The ZEQD-Pre Tube Pre Amp, then, is enticing indeed. Effectively, it aims to replicate the sound, feel, and response of an all-analog tube amplifier. Simple on paper, but there’s more to it than that.
I new about the Electro Harmonix one. Always wondered how long it would last on stage - supposed anyone would have the nerve. I guess these pedals are strictly for bedroom use. The tube being displayed in such a prominent (and idiotic) place looks a lot like that.
Edit: “Balanced XLR output” - ok. This thing isn’t even meant to be connected to an actual amp…