The worlds of boutique effects and pro-audio gear collide as JHS Pedals and Third Man Hardware (the hardware division of Jack White’s Third Man Records) announce the immediate release of the Troika Delay. Described by its creators as a multi-purpose, studio-grade delay device, the Troika is designed to solve common audio challenges, particularly when applying delay to vocals, making it an essential tool for professional recording studios and live sound applications.
Jack White’s Vocal Delay Solution: Clarity Meets Creativity
The genesis of the Troika Delay stems from a challenge presented by musician and producer Jack White. White, a noted fan of using delay on his vocals, sought a solution to the traditional problems associated with this technique, such as unwanted noise, volume drops, and a loss of vocal clarity.
JHS Pedals founder Josh Scott applied the same level of engineering rigor given to celebrated devices like the Colour Box and Pulp N Peel, resulting in a unique unit that functions not just as a pedal, but as a dedicated pro-audio studio device.
“The Troika is more than a pedal,” a spokesperson stated. “It’s engineered to work flawlessly with microphones, guitars, or virtually any instrument you want to use without compromising the integrity of the signal.”
Studio-Grade Connectivity and Features
Setting the Troika apart from standard delay pedals is its comprehensive input/output configuration, designed for high-fidelity signal paths:
- Dual Connectivity: The unit features both XLR and ¼” Inputs and Outputs, allowing for seamless integration into either a guitar rig or a professional recording console setup.
- Premium Transformer Technology: The microphone input is equipped with a high-grade Lundahl transformer for pristine signal integrity. An additional secondary output transformer further enhances its studio capabilities.
- Built-in Microphone Preamp: A major selling point is the included, high-quality microphone preamp with an adjustable gain control ranging from a powerful +20dB to +80dB.
- Phantom Power Pass-Through: Crucially for condenser microphones, the Troika passes +48V of phantom power (it does not generate the power itself, but safely routes it from an external source).
Trifecta of Power: Key Specifications
The delay itself is highly flexible, offering musicians a wide range of sonic textures:
- Delay Time: Adjustable from a quick 80ms up to 1 second.
- Trails: Features an internally selectable trails mode.
- Gain Range: The dedicated Mic Gain control (located on the right side) allows for a massive gain range of +20dB to +80dB, perfect for dialing in any microphone.
Innovative Mixer-Style Design for Live Performance
The distinct visual design of the Troika is driven by the practical needs of a live setting. Instead of traditional knobs, the unit utilizes sliders, reminiscent of a small mixing console, for easy, real-time control.
- Controls: Dedicated sliders manage Repeats (feedback), Volume (delay level), and Distance (delay time).
- Live Usability: The main bypass switch is positioned above the sliders, keeping it out of the way for on-the-fly adjustments during performance.
The JHS Pedals Third Man Hardware Troika Delay is positioned to redefine how musicians and engineers incorporate delay effects into their professional workflow, offering unmatched clarity, flexibility, and pro-audio features in a single, innovative device.
MSRP – $349
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#Jack White
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