Anasounds Freq Up Boost / Overdrive

Boost pedals can be extremely easy-to-use, or they can be a bit more complex, with loads of options and controls. Each type works well for different players, and not all of us will understand each boost pedal we happen to come across. Fortunately, Anasounds out of France has created an excellent combination of these two types of boost, one that also doubles as a great little overdrive pedal, something I think a lot of boosts strive to do but sometimes just fall a bit short. The Freq Up Custom Boost will not only add shimmer and sparkle to your tone, but it will make it a bit mean if you want it to as well.

At first glance, the Freq Up looks very simple, but there are a multitude of internal controls that will allow you to really dial in the sound that fits your style and other gear, too. The Out knob controls the overall output of the pedal, and there is a LOT to be had here if you want it, up to +24dB! No shortage of power and boosting ability in this stunning little wooden-top stompbox. The Gain knob works when the 3 internal dip switches are set to overdrive, and packs quite a punch (more on that in a minute). There’s a toggle switch present here too, that selects between 3 different kinds of tone: Bass (for lows), Mid and Treble (for highs). This toggle works with the other controls to shape and sculpt the perfect sonic cornucopia.

Inside, there are more controls and switches to be found, and this is where the real magic happens with the Freq Up. There are the 3 Clean/Fat switches I mentioned earlier, which can be used in a number of combinations to dramatically alter your sound. There’s a diode dip switch as well, that clips the overdrive signal, or allows for a less compressed, more open sound. Two trimpots also dwell here in the guts: one controls the saturation, going from soft and creamy to a big distorted sound; the other controls the brightness of the LED when the signal is bypasses, another cool option that has been popping up on pedals as of late.

This pedal does have a bunch of options, but can be a simple one-knob boost pedal as well, for the best of both worlds. Boost, low-drive, overdrive and bordering on distortion, so many tones are available from this pedal, you’ll have a blast figuring out which one(s) will suit your style the best. Thanks to Alexandre and all the staff at Anasounds for putting this great stompbox in our hands – they’re making a whole line of beautiful pedals (that sound great, too), so be sure to hit ’em up and discover what the French are doing in the world of effects today!