A couple weeks ago, we reviewed a rad little fuzz pedal, the Muzz Fuzz, from an upstart company based out of Chile called Fuse Electronics. The fuzz was a pleasant surprise, being from such an unknown builder, and they sent us another pedal to test out as well: the Smooth Drive.
This golden box keeps in theme with most other 3-knob overdrive pedals, as far as the controls are concerned. Level (Volume) adjusts the overall output of the pedal. Tone adds or subtracts either low end or high end, depending which way you turn it, and Drive (Gain) boosts the overdrive sound produced by the pedal. These 3 knobs look simple enough, but have good enough range in each to keep things just a little more intriguing. Plenty of volume to be had using the Level knob, and great for pushing a tube amp to near break-up crunch. The Tone offers a nice, not-too-muddy low end that’s still clear enough for good tones, but dirty enough for some sludgy doom sounds. The high-end of the Tone control is bright but not ear-piercing, adding in just the right amount of sparkle and shine to your sound. Finally, the Drive knob will do clean boost, slight drive or crunchy and thick, with some tasty options splattered throughout the spectrum.
Nothing too fancy or new here, just a good old rock machine, great for nice, smooth solos and delicious rhythm sounds, and one that’s able to boost your other pedals and push you ramp as well. The Smooth Drive isn’t too light or too heavy as far as overdrive is concerned, either, making it a great addition to any guitar setup. Be sure to go check out the Fuse Electronics’ website, and see what they’re up to down in South America. Also, be sure to look for a review of a pedal from their sister company, Humboldt Endemic Pedals, coming very soon…
Submitted by Mike B, Website
Demo Rock pedalboard by West Coast Pedalboard
