Jetter Gear Gain stage Black Update

[claptonisgood]

Howdy y'all. I have spent the last week scrutinizing the Black pre-production prototype and to make a long story short, I decided to see if I could make it better. The short answer is, wow! I have coaxed things out of this design that I really didn't expect. The essence of the Black, that was first beta-tested, is intact. This design has now been enhanced with a switch that bumps the gain up...a lot! Think of the original Black maximum gain as classic Angus Young. Think of the new Black max gain, when switched in, as classic EVH. The gain structure is choosen via a switch on the pedal. There is a second switch now that adds a moderate mid-boost that fattens up a Strat's bridge pickup and really adds girth to humbuckers. Again, the original circuit remains intact and there are still no clipping diodes anywhere in sight (no MOSFETS either for any techno-minded folks). This is one dynamic roaring beast now! I am sending out a few beta-test Blacks tomorrow and within a week or two, the production process will restart. I am guestimating about 4 weeks out.
Brad

[Guitar Josh]

That's cool to hear Brad. I like the tone of the Black but was concerned that it didn't have enough gain for me. Looking forward to getting the chance to try one of these out at some point!

[Rumblefish]

What timing! I had just emailed you about progress and some other related questions.I guess everybody wants more gain but I plan to run my Scary Face
in front of it.

[fast ricky love]

I'm real keen to try this puppy...!

[wire 247]

I was over at Brads last friday trying out the pedals. I left with the red and am awaiting the black. It is very Marshall like and it stacked well with the red. I am going to review the red on tgp but wanted to give it a few days but, I have to say it sounds great and is very chewy. The black is a definite rocker. I am planning on selling my cot 50 and replace it with the Jetter black, it is easier to control the gain on the black than the cot 50. All of Brads pedals are winners.......

[rreiser]

Hi Brad, Great review in Guitar Player for the Red. I love mine. I found it funny that they felt it didn't have enough volume. I run mine around 10:00 o clock. I can't imagine running it much higher than that. If you need a beta tester for the Black let me know. Thanks

[kingsxman]

Hi Brad, Great review in Guitar Player for the Red. I love mine. I found it funny that they felt it didn't have enough volume. I run mine around 10:00 o clock. I can't imagine running it much higher than that. If you need a beta tester for the Black let me know. Thanks

Whatttt? I havent seen that review yet but for GP to say it didnt have enough volume is ludicrous. Who do they have testing things over there...? They must be looking for lead boost only. I run mine at unity also which is about 10:00 for me. (gain at 2:00). I love it.

[claptonisgood]

It has been a while since I have provided an update on the Gain Stage Black. The main reason is that I have been spending a lot of time reevaluating the performance and features. I think that the time and effort has really paid off! The Black is now finalized and just about ready to proceed to production!

I want to give some details now about the pedal and, importantly, what to expect from it. The physical layout is idendical in size as the Red and the Blue. The Black sports Volume, Gain, and Presence controls plus two switches (same layout as the Blue.) Under the hood, the Black is different from a lot, if not most, dirt pedals in that it doesn't use any clipping diodes...nada, none, zip! Also, there isn't a MOSFET to found in it either!

I really put on the thinking cap with this one and pursued unconventional paths to get what I was after. The Black has two distinct modes of operation; one being the Marshall-type overdrive/distortion and the other a pretty versatile boost with special sauce. I'll start with the Mashall-type mode as it is pretty straight forward and easy to explain.

I should mention that the sound, tone and feel of clips that are on my website (done with the original Black prototype) are still produced by the final version. What has changed with this mode is that there is now a whole new realm of gain on tap that pushes the Black to early EVH or JCM800 territory. One of the switches controls the overall gain structure of the pedal. Roughly speaking, one position might be thought of as classic JTM45 gain, the other JCM800. Low and High gain in other words.

With humbuckers, the Black will positively scream at max gain settings. Because there are no clipping diodes, you can use the volume control on your guitar just as though there were no pedal between it and the amp. When you turn the guitar down, the pedal tracks smoothly in a linear fashion all the way down.

The Presence control is just that: I purposely designed the Black with the "tone" of the pedal maximized to what my ears consider the critical guitar voice range. The presence control therefore, just as it operates on an amplifier, is in the neutral position fully counter-clockwise. I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH! What the Presence will do is add "cut" and "bite" to the overall tone of the signal. This is the most evident when you switch to the boost mode.

When in boost mode it is VERY IMPORTANT to understand that the pedal is operating very differently! THE NEUTRAL POSITION is with the Gain OFF, Presence OFF and the Volume ALL THE WAY ON! You then bring the Gain control up to achieve the level of boost desired. One very cool thing that everyone who has tried the pedal noticed about the Boost mode is that it makes single coils just jump...in other words, it makes a Strat sound like a super Strat! Fans of SRV and Blackmore will find some very cool tones here! That Boost mode switch can certainly be used in the Marshall-type mode, it is just going to be very aggressive as the gain increases.

I have had more than one person tell me that it is really two pedals in one box and, for that matter, two very different pedals as far as operation. The suggestion has been made several times that I should seperate it into two pedals. I am not going to do that because I think most players will figure it out pretty quickly!

What I wanted to achieve with the Black was the immediacy and dynamics of a great tube amp and one of the defining characteristics of those amps is the output stage being pushed hard, not the preamp. That in-your-face slam of some really cooking output tubes. As a result of this, the Black may interact with some amplifiers differently that other pedals because of its dynamic capabilities. I have found less than pleasing matchups with overly bright balanced, mid-scooped amps that incorporate under-filtered power supplies and also combo amps with whimpy-ass speakers. This all goes back to something that is a mission statement of sorts with all my pedals: Designed at and for professional volume levels (at least bar-band volumes.)

Obviously, I don't have access to every amp in the world but here are some that I have played the Black with with great results: Marshall JTM45, 1974X, 1959, 1987, 1986, Bluesbreaker combo, JCM800; Fender Twin Reverb, Super Reverb, Vibroverb, Blues Jr, Pro Jr; Fargen Miniplex, Machless DC30, Custom Audio Amplifiers OD100, OD 50; Budda Twinmaster,Stringmaster; Soldano SLO 100; Peavey Classic 30, Classic 50, Bandit 65, Special 130. That is the latest! I am in the process of getting production going and currently have boxes out for fabrication.

[Guitar Josh]

Well Brad, I guess I have to buy one now after that write up. Darn you.

[Macaroni]

I've got the latest prototype unit and it's all that for sure. One of the nicest most powerful boosts I've played, and I love the power amp OD tones - it really sets it apart from other OD pedals.

[BillyK]

Brad,
It'll be on my X'mas list for sure!
-bk

[muddy]

less guestimating, more gesticulatin'! :D


ml

I am guestimating...

[Macaroni]

Muddy - you will absolutely love the GS Black!

[TRW]

Hmmm I smell a black and red in my future...that sounds cool.

I'm pretty sure about the red but the black has just popped up on my radar now I realise it has a dedicated boost function. Initially I was thinking two reds or I saw Mr. Jetter mention the possibility of a dual red type pedal maybe with switchable boost/channels. However I'm thinking black and red could be cool.

Would buying it for the boost mode be like buying a ferarri and driving it at 30MPH everywhere? I'm not after the heavy OD as such but the boost sounds enticing...seems like a lot of pedal for boost only. Does the boost remain kinda clean or will it get really overdriven too - without being in Marshall mode?

In terms of stacking a red and black - are you guys liking the black first?

Can you set the red for mild/smooth lead tone breakup and spank the front of it with the black to get it into higher gain territory for big lead push without the whole shebang getting too 'balls to the wall' heavy?

Thanks a lot
-Tom

[Macaroni]

Would buying it for the boost mode be like buying a ferarri and driving it at 30MPH everywhere? I'm not after the heavy OD as such but the boost sounds enticing...seems like a lot of pedal for boost only. Does the boost remain kinda clean or will it get really overdriven too - without being in Marshall mode?Just using it for a clean boost is limiting yourself. But there is a nice range of clean boost before it gets too gainy. You can set the boost for very clean and it is super, your clean tones will be like BOLD CAPS! If you increase the Gain, you can push your amp's front end accordingly. Amazing SRV cleanish on the edge type tones.

In terms of stacking a red and black - are you guys liking the black first?I didn't try much stacking, but I would put the Black before the Red and goose the Red. I sent my Black prototype back to Brad today to get it updated to the final specs.

Can you set the red for mild/smooth lead tone breakup and spank the front of it with the black to get it into higher gain territory for big lead push without the whole shebang getting too 'balls to the wall' heavy?Sure. But wait until you hear the Black's med-high gain tones! This is not like any other pedal I've tried or heard. It's pure power amp OD, not saturated preamp OD. As such, it remains detailed, clear, IN-YOUR-FACE, liquid molten glass tones that are really inspiring to play with.

My guess is that once you play it and discover its full range of capabilities, you will be inclined to use it in more than one mode.

I encouraged Brad to consider making it a dual pedal, as did other testers, because I'm willing to be that lots of people will want 2, for direct access to both modes.

[Lucidology]

Which pedal would go better with a very, very clean solid state,
such as a JC-120... the Black or the Red one?

[jlagrassa]

Just using it for a clean boost is limiting yourself. But there is a nice range of clean boost before it gets too gainy. You can set the boost for very clean and it is super, your clean tones will be like BOLD CAPS! If you increase the Gain, you can push your amp's front end accordingly. Amazing SRV cleanish on the edge type tones.

I didn't try much stacking, but I would put the Black before the Red and goose the Red. I sent my Black prototype back to Brad today to get it updated to the final specs.

Sure. But wait until you hear the Black's med-high gain tones! This is not like any other pedal I've tried or heard. It's pure power amp OD, not saturated preamp OD. As such, it remains detailed, clear, IN-YOUR-FACE, liquid molten glass tones that are really inspiring to play with.

My guess is that once you play it and discover its full range of capabilities, you will be inclined to use it in more than one mode.

I encouraged Brad to consider making it a dual pedal, as did other testers, because I'm willing to be that lots of people will want 2, for direct access to both modes.

Just curious does the low end stay real tight when the drive is cranked!

[Macaroni]

Which pedal would go better with a very, very clean solid state, such as a JC-120... the Black or the Red one?

My tests were limited to a tube amp, but the GS Red will sound great for sure. The GS Black might be more fussy.


Just curious does the low end stay real tight when the drive is cranked!

Absolutely! That's one of Brad's signature achievements in the Red & Black (Blue too). No mush or fluff - just a tight, thick, stout, detailed, punchy low end, even with a neck HB, which is a good test for all pedals.

[fast ricky love]

When will orders start to be taken? I'm ready! ;-)

[TRW]

Just using it for a clean boost is limiting yourself. But there is a nice range of clean boost before it gets too gainy. You can set the boost for very clean and it is super, your clean tones will be like BOLD CAPS! If you increase the Gain, you can push your amp's front end accordingly. Amazing SRV cleanish on the edge type tones.
Thanks Mac...sounds interesting...basically looking for something to goose the inputs of my Blueverb to go from clean to crunch without having to revoice the amp controls...probs get the Red for lead tones at lower volumes rather than having the amp cranked in the house.

This power stage style-OD in the black sounds interesting...I remember reading that the Blue is designed for gig level amps...the Black demo on the Jetter site is into a lower level clean amp...is the Black designed for use at gig level as well? or is it still at max potential into a clean, quiet amp?

I didn't try much stacking, but I would put the Black before the Red and goose the Red. I sent my Black prototype back to Brad today to get it updated to the final specs.

What are the final specs?

It's pure power amp OD, not saturated preamp OD. As such, it remains detailed, clear, IN-YOUR-FACE, liquid molten glass tones that are really inspiring to play with.

Hmm you should do Jetters marketing! LOL sounds enticing...

Thanks for the info - really appreciated.
Cheers Tom

[Macaroni]

is the Black designed for use at gig level as well? or is it still at max potential into a clean, quiet amp?

Gig levels are best.

What are the final specs?

More tone sculpting refinements - Brad's obsession. Maybe he'll chime in.

Hmm you should do Jetters marketing! LOL sounds enticing...

I'm just relating my direct experiences with the pedal - MHO, YMMV. :D

[kingsxman]

I need something to go with my 59 Bassman LTD to get me into Marshall territory. Looks like it'll be a GSB. My GSR going into Bad Monkey last night just didnt cut it at all. GSR is great for the lower gain/bluesy stuff..but when I get into that 80's rock territory I need something else.

Cmon Brad...lets start taking orders already! ;)

[Melodic Dreamer]

Wanting to order one, when are they coming out?

[claptonisgood]

The Black is finalized! I verified this over the weekend. I had a couple of my A+ beta-testers give it the acid test and it came through with flying colors! I am now just waiting for fabricators to finish up with the powder coating, then the silk screening.
Oh, and I thought I would add that the Suhr Badger combo is an amazing amp! The Black just crushed with it!

[Droptop]

Hi Brad,
Rough ballpark, how long are you thinking till they are available?

[claptonisgood]

Hi Brad,
Rough ballpark, how long are you thinking till they are available?

It is all up to the fabricators getting those boxes into my hands! If everything goes as planned, I should be able to start assembling in about three weeks.
Brad

[Dave_C]

Thanks for the update, Brad. I am still enjoying the hell out of my GSRs. I have two on my pedalboard and have loaned my third unit to a friend. I just picked up a Suhr Badger last week and the GSRs sounded absolutely glorious into that amp. They blend quite nicely with Badger preamp and power amp distortion...a very nice "stew" indeed. I'll probably pick up a Blue and a Black at some point in the future. Keep up the amazing work!

:AOK

- Dave

[claptonisgood]

Hey Dave! As I mentioned, I was very impressed this past weekend with the Badger Combo. It sounded stellar with the Black. I was surprised by the amount of clean headroom--the best I have heard from the myriad of 18W amps I have played. John really did a great job with this amp!
Brad



Thanks for the update, Brad. I am still enjoying the hell out of my GSRs. I have two on my pedalboard and have loaned my third unit to a friend. I just picked up a Suhr Badger last week and the GSRs sounded absolutely glorious into that amp. They blend quite nicely with Badger preamp and power amp distortion...a very nice "stew" indeed. I'll probably pick up a Blue and a Black at some point in the future. Keep up the amazing work!

:AOK

- Dave

[malabarmusic]

The GSBlue is a treasure. It does SO much more than violin leads -- just awesome for supertight megacrunchy chords.

I'm wondering if the GSBlack will stack nicely with the Blue -- Blue -> Black? Out of the blue and into the black... :RoCkIn

Seriously, though, on paper it sounds like a cool 2-pedal/3-tone setup. Clean (both off), crunch (black), over the top (both on).

- DB

[Rod]

and just when I thought I had it all covered with the Red and Blue!!!!!!!!!!!1

[claptonisgood]

Powder Coating for the Black is done and I am taking them to the silk screeners Friday.
Brad

[bluesdoc]

So Brad, what day might you expect GF to have a Buy Now button for the Black??

Damn I love my Red!!!!!

jon

[claptonisgood]

So Brad, what day might you expect GF to have a Buy Now button for the Black??

Damn I love my Red!!!!!

jon

I will definitely post here when I have a firm date. If things go well, I should have the boxes finished in a week to 10 days? I already have a bunch of boards loaded and ready to go, so, once the silk screening is done, it will be quick to completion.
Brad

[Dave_C]

Hmmm I smell a black and red in my future...that sounds cool.

I'm pretty sure about the red but the black has just popped up on my radar now I realise it has a dedicated boost function. Initially I was thinking two reds or I saw Mr. Jetter mention the possibility of a dual red type pedal maybe with switchable boost/channels. However I'm thinking black and red could be cool.

Would buying it for the boost mode be like buying a ferarri and driving it at 30MPH everywhere? I'm not after the heavy OD as such but the boost sounds enticing...seems like a lot of pedal for boost only. Does the boost remain kinda clean or will it get really overdriven too - without being in Marshall mode?

In terms of stacking a red and black - are you guys liking the black first?

Can you set the red for mild/smooth lead tone breakup and spank the front of it with the black to get it into higher gain territory for big lead push without the whole shebang getting too 'balls to the wall' heavy?

Thanks a lot
-Tom

Hey Tom,

I'm using two Reds myself, into three different amps - a Suhr Badger, Fuchs TDS and Dr. Z Maz 18. I got one dialed in for an SRV style lower gain tone for my neck and neck/middle Kinman AVn-Trad PUPs and one dialed in for a JB bridge for a high gain RF/EJ smooth singing lead tone. Into the Fuchs clean channel, it's the RF Dumble tone in spades. Into the Badger, it's a bit more Marshall-esque. Into the Maz 18, it's just plain unique. In all cases, I find no need to stack pedals. The Red does it all for me...especially if you allow for some amp overdrive to get you into higher gain realms, if desired. (BTW, I am using a V2.0 OCD for crunch rhythms.)

Dave

[Dave_C]

I need something to go with my 59 Bassman LTD to get me into Marshall territory. Looks like it'll be a GSB. My GSR going into Bad Monkey last night just didnt cut it at all. GSR is great for the lower gain/bluesy stuff..but when I get into that 80's rock territory I need something else.

Cmon Brad...lets start taking orders already! ;)

You need to balance the pedal/amp distortion properly and the Red will take you into any rock territory you heart desires!

[Dave_C]

Hey Dave! As I mentioned, I was very impressed this past weekend with the Badger Combo. It sounded stellar with the Black. I was surprised by the amount of clean headroom--the best I have heard from the myriad of 18W amps I have played. John really did a great job with this amp!
Brad

Brad,

Another absolutely freakin' MAGIC combination is the Red into a Fuchs TDS clean channel with the Rock switch on. I've never heard anything like it.....probably the best tone and feel I've ever experienced....and even at pretty darn low volumes.....I'm still shock....

Dave

[kingsxman]

You need to balance the pedal/amp distortion properly and the Red will take you into any rock territory you heart desires!

Sure, but to do that on a bassman you gotta turn it up. I dont know about the guys you play with..but I have to at least TRY to keep my stage volume down... :rolleyes:

[Dave_C]

Sure, but to do that on a bassman you gotta turn it up. I dont know about the guys you play with..but I have to at least TRY to keep my stage volume down... :rolleyes:

Yep, you're absolutely right. I assumed you were using an attenuator and, after reading your post again, realized I had no reason to assume that! Sorry 'bout that. But, yeah, I wouldn't be able to turn up a Bassman either!

[TRW]

Hey fuchs_meister, thanks for the post, didn't see it earlier on.

I really want one of these Reds, am pretty set, one of 'dem and my Blueverb and I'll nail tones like Matt Schofield etc.

Brad are you doing a dual red, so one can switch between low gain and higher gains in one pedal?

Not too sure, think I'm looking at a Black and Red...Black instead of an OCD...

D'ya reckon GuitarFetish will ship to the UK? I haven't asked yet.
RoHS compliant?

-Tom

[claptonisgood]

Brad are you doing a dual red, so one can switch between low gain and higher gains in one pedal?

I am working on a two channel pedal but it is a long way off (The Black isn't even out yet!). It will not be two current pedals in one box.
Brad

[TRW]

Cool!

Red and forthcoming Black it is then...

Thanks Brad.

-T

[claptonisgood]

I dropped off the boxes to the silkscreeners this morning so the Black is (finally) close to being a reality!
Brad

[claptonisgood]

I just got off the phone with the silk screeners. The ink is in and they are setting up to start the run Monday at 11am (I'll be there to make sure it is correct.) If all goes well, the first Blacks will be completed by the end of next week.
Brad

[Guitar Josh]

I just got off the phone with the silk screeners. The ink is in and they are setting up to start the run Monday at 11am (I'll be there to make sure it is correct.) If all goes well, the first Blacks will be completed by the end of next week.
Brad

Dibs.

[tonecat]

I just got off the phone with the silk screeners. The ink is in and they are setting up to start the run Monday at 11am (I'll be there to make sure it is correct.) If all goes well, the first Blacks will be completed by the end of next week.
Brad

Brad,
Will you let us Gear Pagers know when the Jetter Blacks are
available to order?

[Macaroni]

I've just been playing the 'almost final specs' test unit and it is very nice. It has several sweet spots, and it's hard to leave on just one setting. :D

[claptonisgood]

This is getting VERY frustrating. The silk screener A**holes completely botched the Black boxes. The REALLY great part is that they used some kind of quantum mechanics ink that, once it touches the powder coating, it cannot be removed. So, to beg the question, if they knew they were doing it wrong from the get-go, why go ahead with all two hundred boxes? I now have to have them stripped to the metal and get them re-powder coated AND then find a new silk screener. Man! I knew it was a bad week to give up sniffing glue. And to drive the stake in and twist it, my (EX) powder coaters wound up destroying 126 out of 150 boxes that they were reworking by not using the proper stripping technique. Let me stress that these guys (both the PC's and the SS's) I am talking about have fairly well respected, large businesses (and one less customer). I have an appointment in the AM with another PC that is highly recommended as the go-to guy when others screw up jobs. ?He has state-of-the-art machines and seems to have the know how. I will keep anyone that is still interested posted. :FM:FM:FM:FM:FM:FM:FM

[Macaroni]

My sympathies Brad.

Hang in there!

All things must pass.

:YinYang

[BillyK]

Brad:

Breathe in.....

Breathe out....

There ya go.
Play some guitar.
-bk

[bluesdoc]

Brad, have you considered small claims court....... if they don't promptly pony up for your losses? I know that doesn't help the whole time-line issue, but still.... Sorry man. But great things are worth the wait and struggle to get there, no? We're here pullin' for you.

jon

[Sunsetamps]

bummer man. who is good at doing silkscreen positives?

[claptonisgood]

Thanks for the encouraging words! Small claims court...nah, just more money and time down the drain, neither of which I have extra of. I am just moving forward. One good thing about the seemingly endless delays is that I have designed a new pedal. Gain Stage Gold, tentively. It's a four knobber, no switches. This one WILL work at lower volume levels. I have only had two players try it but they both (and these are very well known "name" players) had very positive responses. I shouldn't even mention it but I wanted to say something positive today!

[claptonisgood]

bummer man. who is good at doing silkscreen positives?

the artwork and screens were fine...I checked them yesterday afternoon before they began (I wan't there when they actually started pulling ink). I could actually do the silk screening (I used to do the plexi panels for my amps way back when) but I can only wear so many hats at once.:bkw

[bluesdoc]

Thanks for the encouraging words! Small claims court...nah, just more money and time down the drain, neither of which I have extra of. I am just moving forward. One good thing about the seemingly endless delays is that I have designed a new pedal. Gain Stage Gold, tentively. It's a four knobber, no switches. This one WILL work at lower volume levels. I have only had two players try it but they both (and these are very well known "name" players) had very positive responses. I shouldn't even mention it but I wanted to say something positive today!

I'll take one, sight unseen! :) Name your price :D

jon

[Rumblefish]

Hey why not just offer the botched box pedals for less money?You get the product on out and I bet a lot of guys (like me)wouldn't care too much about the cosmetics.Yes I still want a black.

[BillyK]

Hey why not just offer the botched box pedals for less money?You get the product on out and I bet a lot of guys (like me)wouldn't care too much about the cosmetics.Yes I still want a black.

I like the way you think Rumble.

[claptonisgood]

Hey why not just offer the botched box pedals for less money?You get the product on out and I bet a lot of guys (like me)wouldn't care too much about the cosmetics.Yes I still want a black.

they were not what I would call cosmetically challenged, they were abortions...

[TimH]

hey Brad,

Maybe you could offer me some help...I need a pedal that does very fat later plexi type sounds through a clean fender amp at a moderate volume. Would you reccomend the GSBlue or Black? I had been using an 18 watter and a AM Sunface to achieve the tones I was after but need something with more cleans and more chording abilities.

[Dave_C]

they were not what I would call cosmetically challenged, they were abortions...

Brad,

Good news. I have TWO GSRs on my board that will delight again this Friday night and a THIRD on a friend's board doing the same! Love your pedals. Understand your pain and live through similar headaches on my own job! Hang in there!

Dave

[claptonisgood]

Progress is being made on resolving the issues I have been dealing with. I have found a new Powder Coating company that is top-notch. They will have boxes done for me tomorrow. I have also decided to setup to do my silk screening in-house. I am in the process of getting that all sorted out, purchase machinery and materials, etc. I decided that this was the only way to assure the quality I expect.
Brad

[KLB]

Progress is being made on resolving the issues I have been dealing with. I have found a new Powder Coating company that is top-notch. They will have boxes done for me tomorrow. I have also decided to setup to do my silk screening in-house. I am in the process of getting that all sorted out, purchase machinery and materials, etc. I decided that this was the only way to assure the quality I expect.
Brad

Good Move!

Good Luck.

[tonecat]

Brad ,
Will you and your pedals be represented at NAMM next month?
Any chance us Gear pagers will be notified when the Buy it now button
will be posted on the Guitarfetish site for the Jetter Black?
I think the Black has generated a lot of interest here and I would love
to get one of the first batch. Will the Gold and the Black be priced the
same as the red and the blue?
I believe there is a lot of interest in the Black by players who are like me
who have and love the GSR and would like to have the rock tones that
the Black seems to excell at.
I may have to get a second GSR as well so I can have two pre-sets
ala fuchs_meister. The GSR continues to blow me away . I thought the
Ethos might bump the GSR from my board. I have set aside the funds from the sale of my Ethos for a Jetter Black and maybe a gold ?



Progress is being made on resolving the issues I have been dealing with. I have found a new Powder Coating company that is top-notch. They will have boxes done for me tomorrow. I have also decided to setup to do my silk screening in-house. I am in the process of getting that all sorted out, purchase machinery and materials, etc. I decided that this was the only way to assure the quality I expect.
Brad

[claptonisgood]

Progress is being made on resolving the issues I have been dealing with. I have found a new Powder Coating company that is top-notch. They


Just got back from a 130 mile round trip to the "top-notch" powder coaters. They f**ked up the boxes worse than the last guys. I am sick to my stomach. Since late September, things have gone way past what I considered doomsday, worst-case scenarios with all fabricators. Again, these are pro shops with sota machines and people. I can't figure it out.

[Macaroni]

So sorry to hear that Brad. Can you at least get your money back?

[Guitar Josh]

Time to go Klon style brad. All I cares about is tone brotha.

[BillyK]

Brad,
Don't stress man. That's a crappy series of events, for sure, but accept it and let it pass.

Ya know, I'd buy that pedal in a freakin' bare Hammond box. I don't need no stink'in silkscreen!
-bk

[bluesdoc]

Brad, the universe is screaming at you. (I hate that when that happens to me :rolleyes: - and, we ALWAYS lose when we argue with the universe). I'd really consider popping the guts into the f*cked up boxes and issuing them as a first run 'special edition', clearly with collector's value :). I know, it doesn't fit the industry standard, but I think there'd be a lot of loyal customers here who'd be delighted to get one of these. Take a black magic marker and scribble the word BLACK on it :D. Am I right guys?? Content over form!!

In other words, we're pullin' for you, Brad.

jon

[Macaroni]

Mars is moving retrograde now, which makes it very difficult to start new ventures, among other things. Saturn is now retrograde too - more impediments. But the good news is that Jupiter is in Sagittarius, so success is inevitable, after the struggles. Just some esoteric factors at work.

[claptonisgood]

Okay guys, I am going to take a poll. I have been sitting on some boxes for a while now that I have never used. These were intended to be the original finish for the first Jetter Gear pedal but it didn't happen. They are powder coated a matte black. They are the same Hammond 1590B enclosures that all my pedals use. I have 30 of these enclosures that I can build. Is there enough interest to build these 30 pedals as a limited edition, never to be repeated, Gain Stage Black? It is up to you!
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb276/fftt1234/bluered001-1.jpghttp://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb276/fftt1234/bluered.jpg

[Guitar Josh]

Brad, I think this forum would buy 30 of anything you built.

I PM'ed you, I want on the list. I want #1 of 30!!!

[Cobra]

Hmmm... Lessee, take the Gain Stage Black, add black powder coated enclosures for an inititial limited edition run of 30 pedals???
Well allright!
This makes perfect sense to me, & I like the look of the black enclosures, a slight departure, but still keeping the Jetter cosmetics intact. I have no idea what the GS Black cosmetics were originally intended to look like, but I think these black enclosures look right snappy, & I'd consider making all the GS Black's look like this, but then that kinda shoots the limited edition run of 30 idea...
My vote?
Definitely use the black enclosures!

[malabarmusic]

Brad, you forgot the BUY IT NOW link ... that's my way of saying I'm in. :AOK

- DB

[bluesdoc]

I don't know, I'd rather have a Sharpie marked, powder coat disaster, limited run, collectors edition :eek:, but I'll GLADLY take what you're offering, Brad. Sign me up, stat! :)

jon

[franksguitar]

Geez Brad no wonder I haven't talked or seen you to you in while looks like Murphy's law has been in effect. Let's catch up after the holidays, like to stop by sometime and hear the new pedals and if you have any other cool ideas. I wonder if there is an alternative process to powder coating that can have a similar result? Frank

[kingsxman]

I'd be in.

[drjoel]

if there's a list- put me on it , please.:dude

[tonecat]

Brad,
You can count on me to purchase one of the 30 matte Black ones
Put me on the list or email me

[claptonisgood]

I am going to start a list. When the pedals are available, those on the list will be notified and given the option to purchase. Number 1/30 is already spoken for (you know who you are:)) If you want to be on the list, please send an email to support@jettergear.com I will confirm the emails I receive.

[Be-A-Dog]

Hey Brad,
Count me in, email sent.

Gary

[fast ricky love]

Email sent too...

[tonecat]

email sent as well

[Rhomco]

Email order sent.
Rob

[honduras]

email sent

[Dion]

Me too,
Email sent

PAYMENT SENT 1/03/08 WOOHOO!

[Rumblefish]

I think I emailed you a long time ago but put me on your list please.

[Mike33]

Count me in please, e-mail sent...

[claptonisgood]

Everyone who has sent me an email will be receiving a confirmation email from me by the end of the day. If you don't receive an email from me by tomorrow morning, please re-email!
thanks!
Brad

[Guitar Josh]

Brad, does that go for PMs as well or should I e-mail you too?

[claptonisgood]

Brad, does that go for PMs as well or should I e-mail you too?

Josh, if you wouldn't mind an email as well, that would make it a little easier for me to keep track.
Brad

[johndara]

Email sent to be put on the list for the Gain Stage Black, Brad...Thanks!
John

[fast ricky love]

OK, 2nd email sent... (didn't hear from the first one sent yesterday...) :)

[jim lavender]

Just a few words for those on the waiting list for the Gain Stage Black. Brad was kind enough to allow me to visit and play one of his prototypes today and I don't think anyone will be disappointed. In my opinion this pedal will compliment the Red perfectly as it has an aggressive(in a good way) nature with tons of gain. This pedal has the bite to go along with the smoothness of the Red and I dig the tone knob as it allows my tele to crunch without taking my head off. I'm happy to say I'll be slapping one down beside the GSR when my number comes up.

[claptonisgood]

Everyone that I have received an email from as of this morning has been sent a confirmation. If you sent me an email and did not receive a confirmation, please send another email. My mail server does tend to do strange things at times:crazy

[fast ricky love]

Yup, got the confirmation this time.... thanks!!

[KLB]

I have an early Gainstage BLUE in this black matte box that Brad is offering. The box is very well done.

Brad, lunch is on me the next time we get together. You've had way too much bad luck with these incompetent vendors!

I look forward to hearing/playing the GS Black & Gold. I'd be happy with a plain box and dymo labels.

[robyogi]

Email sent.

[Macaroni]

Here's a short clip I did yesterday with my GS Black proto. It has that really sweet power amp OD that I love - a nice clean edge, with no fuzz, fat and articulate. This is becoming one of my favorite pedals. It's a perfect compliment to the GS Red.

Gain Stage Black in Marshall JTM 45 mode...

-Left switch up - Marshall mode (down is clean boost mode)
-Right switch up - med gain mode
-Volume @ 1:00
-Tone @ 12:00
-Gain @ 1:30
-Les Paul with Lollar Imperials
-Kingsley D32C, with 2 x Mullard EL84s + 2 x RCA 6L6GCs
-Power Scaling @ 3:00
-Celestion Gold panned left, Scholz panned right
-Reverb added in the mix - no fx, eq or compression

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=187271&content=songinfo&songID=6100067

[Rod]

Here's a short clip I did yesterday with my GS Black proto. It has that really sweet power amp OD that I love - a nice clean edge, with no fuzz, fat and articulate. This is becoming one of my favorite pedals. It's a perfect compliment to the GS Red.

Gain Stage Black in Marshall JTM 45 mode...

-Left switch up - Marshall mode (down is clean boost mode)
-Right switch up - med gain mode
-Volume @ 1:00
-Tone @ 12:00
-Gain @ 1:30
-Les Paul with Lollar Imperials
-Kingsley D32C, with 2 x Mullard EL84s + 2 x RCA 6L6GCs
-Power Scaling @ 3:00
-Celestion Gold panned left, Scholz panned right
-Reverb added in the mix - no fx, eq or compression

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=187271&content=songinfo&songID=6100067
Ron...Does the GS Black have more or less gain than the GS Red? Hard to tell from the clips...thankx, rod

[Macaroni]

Well, this clip was in the medium gain mode at 1:30. In the high gain mode, it has similar tones but just more intense gain. I haven't compared the two directly in that regard, but I would say that the GS Black probably goes into higher territory than the Red, in a Marshall vein.

[Rod]

Thankx Ron...I have a GS Red, and run the gain up full with the switch on hard, and it is without a doubt the best sounding OD sound I've ever gotten...It even sounds better than the OD channels on some of my channel switching amps!!

[kingsxman]

Here's a short clip I did yesterday with my GS Black proto. It has that really sweet power amp OD that I love - a nice clean edge, with no fuzz, fat and articulate. This is becoming one of my favorite pedals. It's a perfect compliment to the GS Red.

Gain Stage Black in Marshall JTM 45 mode...

-Left switch up - Marshall mode (down is clean boost mode)
-Right switch up - med gain mode
-Volume @ 1:00
-Tone @ 12:00
-Gain @ 1:30
-Les Paul with Lollar Imperials
-Kingsley D32C, with 2 x Mullard EL84s + 2 x RCA 6L6GCs
-Power Scaling @ 3:00
-Celestion Gold panned left, Scholz panned right
-Reverb added in the mix - no fx, eq or compression

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=187271&content=songinfo&songID=6100067

Thanks!! Sounds great. As always...great playin!

It'd be great to hear some chords also.

[tdh]

Hi,
Please put me down.
Tim DeHuff

[claptonisgood]

Gain Stage Blacks will be ready to ship by the end of next week. I have named these pedal the TGP Limited Edition Gain Stage Black. They will be numbered XX/30. Emails will go out as promised.
Brad

[Roodboy]

Is this the end of next week? Not trying to be a jerk but I haven't heard anything other than the original confirmation email & don't want to find out that a spam filter ate any email. Any news?

[claptonisgood]

Emails will go out tomorrow and the pedals should start shipping Monday or Tuesday at the latest. Your place is held by the email that was used to confirm, because of logistics managing the list, no exceptions to that rule.
thanks!
Brad

[Roodboy]

Thanks for the prompt reply, I'm psyched.

[stratmaniac]

Hey Brad, any news on the regular production?

[Joses]

Emails will go out tomorrow and the pedals should start shipping Monday or Tuesday at the latest. Your place is held by the email that was used to confirm, because of logistics managing the list, no exceptions to that rule.
thanks!
Brad

Awesome! I can't wait!! :)

[claptonisgood]

GS Blacks should start showing up today. PLEASE read the manual! There are two distinct functions engaged using the HARD/SOFT switch! Enjoy!

Also, I wanted to give a general update. As of late last week, the powder coating issues seem to be finally settled. I am also finalizing the move to bring the silk screen operation in-house. The art work for both the Black and the Gold are at graphics house and screens for them will be ready this week.
Brad

[WienerDog]

GS Blacks should start showing up today. PLEASE read the manual! There are two distinct functions engaged using the HARD/SOFT switch! Enjoy!

Also, I wanted to give a general update. As of late last week, the powder coating issues seem to be finally settled. I am also finalizing the move to bring the silk screen operation in-house. The art work for both the Black and the Gold are at graphics house and screens for them will be ready this week.
Brad

Thanks, Brad! Mine's on the big brown truck for delivery today . . . :drool

[Dion]

GS Blacks should start showing up today. PLEASE read the manual! There are two distinct functions engaged using the HARD/SOFT switch! Enjoy!

Also, I wanted to give a general update. As of late last week, the powder coating issues seem to be finally settled. I am also finalizing the move to bring the silk screen operation in-house. The art work for both the Black and the Gold are at graphics house and screens for them will be ready this week.
Brad

WHAT CAN BROWN DO FOR ME?

Bring my GSBlack to my door!:RoCkIn

Should be here tomorrow, thanks Brad!

Peace,
Dion

[Guitar Josh]

Quitting time can't come soon enough.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/7218/0109081326wa5.jpg

[Dion]

Quitting time can't come soon enough.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/7218/0109081326wa5.jpg

:drool:drool:drool:drool:drool:drool:drool:drool:d rool

[WienerDog]

Quitting time can't come soon enough.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/7218/0109081326wa5.jpg


I wanted number 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :BITCH:D

[Guitar Josh]

Dion, I'm dying to play this pedal. Just reading the manual, this pedal is going to be great. Then I'll need to buy a GSG.

Damn you Brad Jeter!!!!

[Guitar Josh]

Alright, I found a clip of this amazing pedal with someone who finally turned the gain all the way up.

http://jettergear.com/assets/audio/anyway1.mp3

MUST GO HOME NOW AND PLAY ALL NIGHT

[WienerDog]

I fired mine (#22/30) up at full gain through my office buddy's Yamaha 10" amp. We could only play at low volumes, but the pedal sounded nice. Not a ton of gain in there, but just right! The real test will be when this pedal meets my Vox AC15 tonight . . .

[Guitar Josh]

The gain comment is strange WD. Which modes are you in? That Journey clip I posted sounded like it had gain to spare.

[WienerDog]

I tried all the modes (I/II and Hard/Soft). But I was playing at very low volume, so I might not have gotten the best assessment. I also had the pedal's tone rolled off to 10:00 or so, which could have an affect on what my ears perceived.

In any event, the gain levels in the sound clip you posted sound like what I was getting, so I think you'll be pleased. Also, some other folks who were listening thought the pedal was cool!

[Dion]

Quitting time can't come soon enough.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/7218/0109081326wa5.jpg

INDEED:

KANNAPOLIS,
NC, US --------01/10/2008----- 7:27 A.M.---- OUT FOR DELIVERY

Can't wait!
Type: Package Status: Delivered Delivered On: 01/10/2008
3:21 P.M. Delivered To: CONCORD, NC, US

[Macaroni]

For all you high gain freaks, here's a clip I recorded yesterday with the GS Black...

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=336980