Description
The Fairfax Class A Output Stage Drive Pedal is for players who want more than just overdrive. It's essentially a full analog tube amp circuit, shrunken down to pedalboard size. Designed for intermediate to advanced players chasing organic saturation and dynamic response, it was inspired by the original Garnet Herzog amp unit Randy Bachman used in the '60s. This isn't a "more gain" pedal. It's something richer, more touch-sensitive, and a whole lot more amp-like.
Inside, you've got a tube-style preamp, Class A power amp behavior, and a clever transformer emulation circuit that adds that thick harmonic glue you usually only get from cranked vintage amps. The Sag control is where things really get interesting. Turn it up and it mimics a power supply under load, letting the signal sputter, choke, or compress depending on how you play. There's also a Bright switch for tailoring your highs and internal voltage conversion to 40V for wide headroom. From sweet edge-of-breakup tones to wild, fuzzy sagged-out chaos, it's all here.
Playability-wise, it feels more like an amp than a pedal. The touch response, sustain, and clarity across settings are top notch. And if you're using a switcher or rack rig, there's even an internal jumper to have it power on automatically. We've tried this one in a variety of setups, and it always brings something musical to the table. If your current drive setup feels a little too "pedal-y," this'll be a refreshing change.
Specifications:
- Circuit: Fully analog
- Bypass: True Bypass
- I/O: Mono in/out
- Dimensions: 4.53″ D x 2.83″ W x 2.33″ H (11.51 cm x 7.19 cm x 5.92 cm)
- Power Requirements: 9V DC center-negative (500mA minimum; power supply not included)
Sku: FAIRFAX
