What is the Bender Royale?
The Tone Bender, a legendary fuzz pedal originating from the UK in the 1960s, has seen numerous iterations and brand variations over the years, a trend that continues as modern pedal manufacturers innovate based on its classic circuitry.
The latest iteration is the Electro-Harmonix Bender Royale, inspired by the Mk III Tone Bender, which utilized three germanium transistors in its design during the late ’60s. Electro-Harmonix has enhanced the original three-knob layout,introducing a more refined six-knob configuration along with two toggle switches.
While the traditional Volume and Fuzz controls remain, the Bender Royale features separate Treble and Bass knobs instead of a single Tone control. Additionally, a Bias knob allows for adjustments to the input bias voltage of the fuzz circuit, and a Blend knob enables a mix of the full fuzz sound with a dry signal as you dial it back.
A Fat switch enhances low-end and mid-range frequencies,while another switch provides two options for biasing diodes in the final fuzz stage using germanium transistors.
Specifications
- PRICE: $149/£149
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Fuzz pedal
- FEATURES: True Bypass, adjustable series impedance into the fuzz circuit, latching and momentary footswitch action
- CONTROLS: Volume, Fuzz, Treble, Bass, Bias, Blend, Fat On/Off, Clip (Ge/LED) switch, internal impedance trimmer, bypass footswitch
- CONNECTIONS: Standard input, standard output
- POWER: 9V DC adaptor (included) 12mA
- DIMENSIONS: 70 (w) x 111 (d) x 50mm (h)
- CONTACT: Electro-Harmonix
Performance and Sound Quality
Upon connecting the pedal, the unmistakable Tone Bender essence is evident, offering two distinct yet equally valuable tonal options through the Fat switch, which thickens the basic sound reminiscent of the vintage Mk II Professional.
the second toggle switch introduces a more nuanced alteration, with the LED option providing a grittier texture compared to the smoother germanium setting.
With thes four tonal combinations, the Bias knob allows for further customization, delivering the classic Tone Bender sound around the noon position while also enabling a gated, sputtery drive-like crunch without going overboard.
Incorporating the effective Tone knobs and blend options results in a versatile fuzz sound with extensive versatility.
Final Thoughts
Rating: ★★★★½
The Bender royale, while rooted in the Tone Bender lineage, offers a rich array of features that elevate it beyond a mere homage to its predecessor. This Electro-Harmonix model can be classified as a versatile fuzz pedal, and we mean that positively.
Guitar World verdict: The sheer amount of customizable options in this fuzz pedal is a delightful surprise, catering to a broad spectrum of fuzz requirements, from lush and smooth to gritty and aggressive – all packed into a compact unit for your pedalboard.
Video Demonstrations
Electro-Harmonix
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R.J.Ronquillo
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