Harby Pedals Wasabi Overdrive

Tube Screamers are certainly not for everyone, but I happen to LOVE the sound they make. And while there are many different iterations and models, one of the most highly sought-after versions is the mid-80s TS10. This one has grown in lore over the last couple of years, making it difficult to snag one unless you’re making 7 figures a year (not really, but close). Fortunately, our pals at Harby Pedals have created a wonderful pedal, the Wasabi Overdrive, that makes a big nod to that classic and unique (and somewhat unobtainable) sound…

Introducing the Wasabi Overdrive, a faithful recreation of the legendary 1986 Ibanez TS10 Tube Screamer. Enjoy the iconic, smooth overdrive that has defined countless guitar sounds, from Stevie Ray Vaughan to John Mayer. The Wasabi brings the same classic tone with a nod to Japanese craftsmanship, ensuring your music retains the timeless warmth and character of the original.

Following the TS808 and TS9 models, the TS10 emerged during the mid 1980s as part of Ibanez’s “Power Series” line. Despite being less well-known than its predecessors, the TS10 developed a cult following for several reasons:

• Sonic Characteristics: The TS10 offered a slightly different tonal profile compared to the TS9 and TS808. It had a more pronounced mid-range and a bit more output, making it distinct in its own right.
• Build and Design: The TS10’s construction was more compact and lighter than previous models, making it convenient for gigging musicians.
• Association with Iconic Guitarists: Notably, the TS10 was used by iconic guitarists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan during the later part of his career and more recently becoming the Tube Screamer of choice for John Mayer. These associations have added to its allure and historical value with current prices for original made in Japan models listing for $800+.

The Harby Wasabi is an accurate reincarnation of the TS10, taking every resistor and capacitor tolerance and value into consideration, built by humans in the United States using the highest quality parts:

• True to original audio signal path. Yeah baby!
• Gold plated circuitry, electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG).
• High precision Japanese resistors and capacitors.
• Genuine Japan Radio Company Co., Ltd. JRC4558 op-amp.
• NOS 2SC1815 through-hole transistors.
• True bypass with high quality soft-touch foot switch.
• Top mounted genuine Neutrik 1/4” – 6.35mm input/output jacks.
• Anodized enclosure and knobs milled from a solid block of aluminum.
• White standby light.
• Standard pedal center negative 2.1mm 9v DC power input.
• Made in the United States of America using domestic and imported parts.

As the aforementioned prices on original TS10 Tube Screamer pedals continue to skyrocket, it’s nice to know that companies like Harby Pedals are keeping this sound alive and affordable. I had an original and sold it like a dummy 5 or 6 years ago, and have regretted it ever since – now, I have that sound back in my arsenal, and it isn’t going anywhere. Be sure to head over to the Harby site for more info and to order a Wasabi Overdrive for yourself – but first, be sure to head to our YouTube channel (or just click below) to see and hear our demo video of this amazing silver creation – cheers!!