Tube Screamers: you love ’em or you hate ’em, so far as I can tell. The stock ones that I’ve played have never really overly impressed me much (although I’ve never had the opportunity to play one of the old classics from the early 80s) – they’re nice overdrives, but nothing too spectacular, in my book. The 808 we’re reviewing today is one of the reissues, but it has been modded by Analog Man, and sounds just about awesome.
You probably know about the Tube Screamer legacy by now (if you don’t, you should), so let’s focus on the improvements this mod happens to bring to the table. One thing that guitar players seem to agree on is that Tube Screamers have a TON of midrange, and while that works perfectly for some, a lot seem to take issue with it, and that’s where mods like the True Vintage come into play. Analog Man has taken this pedal apart, put in some better components and put it back together, for a sound just like you’d hear from one of the classic Screamers! Adding in the original type JRC4558D IC chip is the first step, then they upgrade the output resistors and fix any cracks, weak solder joints or other circuitboard problems that may be present in a used pedal. To finish it off, the AC adaptor is beefed up with more solder, and all pots and jacks are tightened up, ensuring years of life out of your rad (new) pedal.
After this mod is complete, your TS-808 will be less noticeable on your guitar’s tone, and will sound warmer and much more transparent than it ever was before. This thing really came alive through my Mesa/Boogie, and was present without being overbearing, which I love in a good overdrive pedal. Analog Man Mike and his team know what they’re doing when it comes to pedals, especially Tube Screamer mods, and this is just another example of their attention to detail, both aesthetic and sonic. If you come across one of these, or have a stock version yourself, go for the upgrade – you will be ecstatic that you did.
Submitted by Mike B, Website
Demo Rock pedalboard by West Coast Pedalboard
