volume pedal boost

[johnr]

Hi ;I have a K&K pure mini in my Larrivee OM . I don't use any effects pedals .Just straight into my Fishman Soloamp. Sometimes I play at a noisy brewery with a few friends ;it's all low key but sometimes I need a quick boost for a solo. What is a good clean pedal boost ? no distortion .Thanks

[ducktrapper]

Hi ;I have a K&K pure mini in my Larrivee OM . I don't use any effects pedals .Just straight into my Fishman Soloamp. Sometimes I play at a noisy brewery with a few friends ;it's all low key but sometimes I need a quick boost for a solo. What is a good clean pedal boost ? no distortion .Thanks

I use a Jim Dunlop Volume Pedal low friction band drive. Doesn't seem to have a model number. It's big and sturdy and works really well. I don't know about the newer ones. They look like they might be more plastic.  I generally use it with my electric rig. I've actually never used it with an acoustic guitar. I think an active DI might be better for that purpose. Something along the lines of this.

https://www.guitarcenter.com/Used/Tech-21/SansAmp-Para-Driver-DI-Preamp-Pedal-Pedal.gc?cntry=us&source=4WWRWXGP&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAjrarBhAWEiwA2qWdCA0Ft7wrfk0eCTaAx7SxtHvB_HD6Pg4DxLMThTCk2ZdrtPLANSebDhoCvkIQAvD_BwE

[B0WIE]

There's 2 types. One is a volume pedal that attenuates the volume so you use that if your amp/PA can give more than enough gain. This is the same as a vol knob on a guitar. If playing at a lower average volume is a problem you want the 2nd option.

The 2nd is an overdrive/boost and that doesn't necessarily mean distortion. A lot of traditional overdrive/boost pedals can simply give you extra gain. If you have the headroom to spare in your amp/PA you can use one of these and set it so that you get a clean boost when needed.

[ducktrapper]

There's 2 types. One is a volume pedal that attenuates the volume so you use that if your amp/PA can give more than enough gain. This is the same as a vol knob on a guitar. If playing at a lower average volume is a problem you want the 2nd option.

The 2nd is an overdrive/boost and that doesn't necessarily mean distortion. A lot of traditional overdrive/boost pedals can simply give you extra gain. If you have the headroom to spare in your amp/PA you can use one of these and set it so that you get a clean boost when needed.

Yes, the Dunlop is basically an external foot controlled, volume knob. It's great with a lap steel if you want to make pedal steelish sounds. As for boost, the Sansamp will do that. Personally, I'd use it before an overdrive. It's cleaner, or should be, once you figure it out. It's got a bit of a learning curve (and it's a little pricey). Try both?   

[johnr]

Hi not a fan of Volume pedals. what would be a good choice as far as a DI, or preamp.

[ducktrapper]

Hi not a fan of Volume pedals. what would be a good choice as far as a DI, or preamp.

I have the SansAmp Para Driver DI. It works with passive and active pickups and with electric guitars, as well. It's really a dandy little box.

[johnr]

I have the SansAmp Para Driver DI. It works with passive and active pickups and with electric guitars, as well. It's really a dandy little box.

Thank you D ; I'll look it up sir !

[ducktrapper]

Thank you D ; I'll look it up sir !