Description
The Benson Preamp Overdrive is a pedalboard-friendly adaptation of the Benson Chimera 30-watt amp circuit, swapping the tubes for FET transistors while keeping the amp-like response and tone. If you're looking for a dynamic, touch-sensitive gain pedal that can move effortlessly from a clean boost to gritty overdrive or even fuzzy saturation, this pedal delivers all of that without losing clarity. It's ideal for players who want a true preamp-style pedal at the front of their chain or to add harmonic richness to a pedal platform amp.
The control layout is simple and familiar: Gain, Treble, Bass, and Volume. The EQ section is tuned for musical response-Treble acts as a low-pass filter, Bass as a high-pass-letting you shape the midrange punch or top-end chime without any harshness. With the gain turned down, it works beautifully as a boost or tone sweetener; crank it up, and it becomes a harmonically rich drive that holds together without getting muddy. Despite its size, this circuit has become a go-to choice for players chasing that "just right" always-on tone.
This version features the limited edition "Idol" artwork, a fun nod to builder Chris Benson, but under the hood, it's the same trusted circuit. Whether you're stacking it, using it standalone, or pairing it with a neutral amp, this is one of those rare overdrives that just makes everything feel more alive. We've had it in front of clean amps and mid-gain rigs-it always adds something good.
Specifications:
- Power Requirements: 9VDC via center negative barrel jack or battery, 50mA draw
- Controls: Gain, Volume, Treble (low-pass filter), Bass (high-pass filter)
- Circuit: FET-based, inspired by the Benson Chimera 30W amp
- Function: Clean boost, overdrive, and fuzz capabilities
- Enclosure: Limited Edition "Idol" artwork
Sku: BAPRE-IDOL
