Reviewer: Glenn
Testing Gear:
1969 Fender Precision
Trace Elliot Stack
DI'd into a Delta 66
Owen Electronics: BASS GREMLIN
Packaging is top class and the tough nylon protective bag is a very nice addition, along with a battery and manual.
Like the Space Charge Distortion, the BASS GREMLIN is very well constructed and housed in a sturdy casing that is similar to the new Guayatone FLIP SERIES effects. This pedal would I'm sure survive the toughest of foot stomping.
This unit can be powered by a nine volt battery and I was impressed by the novel way the battery is accessed from the right-hand side of the pedal in its own little drawer. A nice touch that provides for rapid battery changing.
Sounds:
The sound produced by the BASS GREMLIN is very unique and like the Space Charge Distortion guitar pedal, favours the mid-range.
As the manual states, the pedal will produce low to mid-overdrive sounds. Do not expect a heavy fuzz because the pedal will not provide it, even at its maximum settings. The overdrive sound is more like someone driving the input of a fully cranked stack hard. But of course with this pedal you wont upset your neighbours.
The Filter button swtiches between notch and bandpass, with an LED indication of which filter is operational. Both notch and bypass offer interesting tonal variations and the 2 mix switches operate in conjuction with the respective filter.
You wont run short of connection either with the BASS GREMLIN as it sports a pair of outputs and a Line Out that provides a low impedance straight signal.
Summary:
As I mentioned, the Overdrive is just that, it is not a Distorton or Fuzz. The pedal will add a growl to your sound without colouring the original tone. The Filters I did not personally find I had much use for but I could imagine scenarios where they could prove themselves indispensible.
Overall another very high quality hand-built effect pedal from Owen Electronics that will help you create your own unique sound. With a 14-day money back guarantee, I strongly suggest that you give the pedals a test-drive at home!
Owen Electronics offer customizing options for this pedal at extra cost.
