The
OVERCATDRIVE,
with its strong metallic structure, includes a device able to offer a
discrete distortion, not invasive and very respectful.
Its typical application is the combination with tube amplifiers set on
"clean" or "crunch" sound, that means without exasperated
distortions: in this way, maintaining a high dynamics level, the Overcatdrive
can round the sound making it softer and more playable, increasing the
sustain.
When used together with tube amplifiers
set on "clean" sounds, the Overcatdrive permits to obtain that
delicate wrinkling of sound, very useful in case of arpeggio accompaniments,
where it is very important the order of notes and a natural sustain and
armonic richness.
Thanks to a traditional
push switch
with pure contacts, when not inserted,
the Overcatdrive results absolutely transparent or:
TRUEBYPASS .
The
OVERCATDRIVE structure is completely metallic with a solid weight of about
575 grams; this assures, besides a very good sound, an excellent mechanical
stability.
The front panel includes: a big push switch, a 5mm orange led and three
regulation knobs: OUT, TONE, GAIN.
GAIN regulates the amplification of the first step, that is the distortion
level.
TONE is a filter able to centre the tool working area.
OUT is the output level.
These controls, apparently simple, are very efficient and they work in
different ways according to the type of instrument connected. For example,
the GAIN control will work according to the type of pick-up connected,
that means that the distortion threshold will be very dependent from this.
The TONE control, for example, reacts in a different way with an "active"
guitar.
The OUT control, regulating the output level, drives the signal until
the further steps saturate, if connected to a very sensitive input, such
as an input of a "lead" step or af an amplifier "crunch".
This excellent Overcatdrive respects the original sounds: it could be
defined a "further channel" of the amplifier.
OTHER OVERCATDRIVE VERSIONS
Even if the caracteristics are similar to the "base" version
(ORANGE), there are other types of OverCatDrive, marked by different colours
that emphasize some features of distortion and tone.
The YELLOW version has
a less deep distortion but a great dynamics instead. It works as a
booster having its own distortion. For example, it can be used as
a "driver" with a tube amp in order to obtain a very aggressive
and excellent saturation.
The gain of GREEN version
allows to obtain a lightly deeper distortion, compared to the base
version,
with a good sustain and a light emphasizing of medium low tones. Soft
sound, ideal for a solo/melody use.
Inspired to the GREEN
version, the RED one has a good gain and an excellent push on medium
low tones. The use of germanium components gives a particular colour
to the sound and the saturation results very warm and malleable.
On the back of the Overcatdrive four anti-slippery rubbers guarantee
a high stability on the floor.
The dicitures indicate the signal route IN/OUT.
There are also some construction notes, the polarity for the connection
of an external power supply, the brand and the serial number.
According to the standard utilized by many producers, the jack
(IN) works as switch for the battery as well. Do not forget the
jack inserted after use to avoid battery discharging.
A 9V battery is placed under the metallic door visible in the
picture aside: the access is allowed removing a screw.
The Overcatdrive can also be powered through a DC adaptor having
suitable characteristics.
The power supply must be stabilized at 9Vcc giving a current of
at least 150mA. It must be also filtered in order to avoid annoying
noises.
To avoid earth loops, it is advisable not to utilize only one
power supply to serve more devices.
External power connection is realised with a standard 2,1mm coaxial
plug with the negative tip.
Technical characteristics
dimensions: mm 143 x 82 x 54 weight: g 575 power: 9V battery external power: 9Vcc 100mA / standard
2,1mm coaxial plug audio connections: standard jack
1/4"
