IK Multimedia has just launched the Brown Sound Anthology, a groundbreaking collection of pocket-sized TONEX One pedals that capture and reimagine the legendary Eddie Van Halen Brown Sound. This highly anticipated release offers an unprecedented dive into the iconic guitarist’s ever-evolving tones across six of his most influential albums.
Unveiling the “Brown Sound” Through Expert Craftsmanship
IK Multimedia collaborated with renowned Brown Sound expert Jim Gaustad to meticulously craft 150 unique tone models – 50 for each pedal.
This comprehensive collection provides a blend of “ultra-accurate” captures and “thoughtful variations” of Eddie’s iconic sound, giving players a versatile palette of tones to explore.
Dweezil Zappa recently compared a real tube amp to modeling whilst playing Eruption, so will these TONEX One pedals be something to check out this year?

The Collection
The collection features three distinct pedals:
- Brown Sound 78/79: This pedal aims to recreate the “attitude, feel, and raw sonic essence” of Van Halen’s early days. Drawing from rumored setups and scrupulous research, it promises tonal likeness to the classic albums Van Halen I and Van Halen II, which featured timeless tracks like “Eruption” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ’bout Love.”
- Brown Sound 80/81: Offering a “darker swagger and heavier edge,” this pedal includes 50 detailed tone models, featuring amp-only captures. Expect everything from “raw rhythm crunch to fiery lead tones” that define this era of Van Halen.
- Brown Sound 82/84: Completing the trio, this pedal captures the “tighter, more refined, and more polished” EVH sound from an era where Van Halen pushed for broader radio appeal.
Each pedal promises to encapsulate the characteristic sound of two groundbreaking LPs, allowing guitarists to trace the “Brown Sound’s evolution” album by album.
Pricing, Availability, and Collector’s Editions
Each TONEX One Brown Sound pedal is priced at $249.99/£259 and is available in three distinct colors: White, Red, and Yellow, paying homage to Eddie Van Halen’s iconic stripe and bumblebee guitar designs.
Collectors won’t want to miss the limited-edition boxed set, which includes all three pedals and their corresponding software plugins for $599.99.
US – Sweetwater
ToneX One Yellow Ltd Edition
ToneX One Red Ltd Edition
EU – Thomann
 Pre-Order
For those who prefer a digital workflow, plugin versions of all three pedals are also available. These are priced at $99 each, with the 80/81 and 82/84 plugins currently offered at an introductory price of $79.99.
Pre-orders for the Brown Sound Anthology are open now, with orders expected to begin shipping in August.
More Information
#vanhalen #brown sound #ikmultimedia #tonex
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