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View Full Version : help choose versatile dirt box for princeton reverb?


jdalew619
04-24-2011, 04:37 PM
Current Rig: tele (single coil bridge, neck humbucker) --> handwired clark gainster-->vintage '65 princeton reverb.

I'm looking for a single, versatile dirt box that can go from low gain to over-the-top in a variety of gigging situations.

My gainster is the only dirt box I've had for six years. With the princeton pushed, the overdrive is stellar. When the amp is clean, the tones are still awesome, but it's not really a fire breather.

My problem is when I do gigs, sometimes I can turn the amp up and sometimes I can't. So I think I may consider another pedal that is more versatile, one that allows me to push my amp at high volumes for a fiery overdrive (like the gainster), and one that can still breathe some fire at lower volumes.

Is there anyone here that plays through a princeton at all volume levels, who uses one dirt box for all apps? My playing style goes from country to southern rock.

BTW, I've never really owned other dirt pedals and don't have much experience to go on. Played an MI Audio Crunch Box and it wasn't for me. Also, I'd prefer a pedal that sits better in a live mix than one that sounds awesome on its own.

If you only have one dirt pedal for your PR that you gig with, what is your go-to? Thanks in advance.

rks89
04-24-2011, 04:53 PM
Field Effects manifold drive is a very cool pedal. It goes from a clean boost to a fuzz like with some great low to mid gain tones in between. I haven't played a gainster so I can't compare.

My favorite part about the manifold is how simple it is. You have a 3 switch EQ, gain and volume. No frills. Check out the Greg V demo for an idea (granted that dude could make literally anything sound good).

I can't speak for how it plays in a band unfortunately but I've played quiet and loud at home through my Morgan princeton clone and enjoy it a lot for some cool Ryan Adams type leads/rhythm through my strat.

Richard P
04-24-2011, 06:00 PM
I'd say you should try the Alpha Drive.

Originally Posted by leodiditright

The Alpha Drive into my '72 Bandmaster Reverb @ very low room level
Telecaster Road Worn Player


http://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=10556765

Wow! Almost a totally saturated Jim Campilongo Tele sound…it doesn't get much better. Well done.

The Alpha rocks.

jdalew619
04-26-2011, 03:38 PM
Thanks for the input guys. I discovered some cool gear--that I now want--just from your responses.

I've decided I need a fuzz. Please help me pick the best fuzz for searing lead tone into a dirty-as-hell Fender black face amp at a beer-drenched gig.

coldfingaz
04-26-2011, 03:53 PM
The Skreddy Screwdriver is about as versatile as you're going to get... it goes all the way from light/medium OD to borderline fuzz

Theroyalconsort
04-26-2011, 04:03 PM
My reaction for a flexable distortion for a fender amp will always be a ProCo Rat.

BluesHarp
04-26-2011, 04:09 PM
You want a skreddy screwdriver deluxe.

I used to gig a princeton reverb.. it will EAT this pedal.

Another one would be the Jetter Red Square. It has the older dumble like
( or zendrive like ) GSR in it and a helium boost. Loves the PR. http://jettergear.com/red-square

monkmiles
04-26-2011, 06:28 PM
With my PRRI, there are 3 flexible overdrives that I love: Catalinbread DLS; ZVex Distortron; Skreddy Screwdriver.

tashiattack
04-26-2011, 06:32 PM
With my PRRI, there are 3 flexible overdrives that I love: Catalinbread DLS; ZVex Distortron; Skreddy Screwdriver.

I agree with all of these, especially the DLS!