After getting the chance to review and demo the M-1 Ram’s Head Fuzz from Buffalo FX, we were looking forward to something a little milder from them, as the M-1 was a real powerhouse (in only the best of ways, mind you). They responded with the Carrera Overdrive, a low-to-mid gain boostable dirt pedal that was designed for clean and edge-of-breakup types of tones. Combining an easy-to-use control layout with impressive circuitry and a broad auditory range, we dove right into this one with gusto and a sense of wonderment.
The Carrera has a unique feature, in that it automatically adds in a boost to the low and upper mids, something that tends to be lacking with just a straight signal, or in a a number of drive pedals as well. This results in more dynamics in your playing, clearer note definition and a smoother overall sound. It’s a cinch to dial in a Klon-like boost, with the gain rolled back and the two EQ controls (Bass and Treble) around the 2:00 mark. Turn the Gain up slowly, and make any guitar you’ve got come alive, regardless of pickup configuration. The high-quality parts inside make your humbuckers brighter and your single coils bolder, shinier and more robust, making it relatively painless to drive your favorite amp into the sweetest of sonic spots.
While not super flashy or full of unnecessary options, the Carrera Overdrive doesn’t need to be. It’s a well-rounded, excellent first stage drive that will bring both your playing and your amplifier back to life, and make people ask you where you get that sick tone from. Designed and handmade with Neutrik fully enclosed panel mount signal and DC jacks, as well as high end parts from MMK, Wima, Epcos, Vishay and Panasonic, you can be assured that this black beauty will be a workhorse on your pedalboard for many years to come. Thanks to the folks at Buffalo FX once again, be sure to check out their lineup of other effects, and watch the demo below, too!
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