Tone King: the Imperial Tube Preamp pedal. This compact powerhouse encapsulates the essence of the highly acclaimed Tone King Imperial amplifier, delivering its coveted vintage American tone in a pedal format. Following the trend of amp-in-a-pedal designs popularized by Friedman’s IR series, the Imperial Tube Preamp takes the concept to new heights with enhanced features and a unique tube configuration.
Triple Threat Tube Powerhouse
Unlike its predecessors, the Imperial Tube Preamp boasts not two but three 12AX7 preamp tubes. This innovative design contributes to the pedal’s authentic amp-like tone and powers its integrated tube-driven spring reverb and stereo tremolo, replicating the effects section of the original Imperial amplifier.
Tube-Driven Effects: Reverb and Tremolo
The third 12AX7 tube powers the pedal’s onboard effects: a lush spring reverb and a wide stereo tremolo. Demos from NAMM showcased the reverb’s uncanny resemblance to the original amp’s, despite the pedal’s compact size. Controls for “Reverb” (amount) and “Dwell” (reverb time) allow for precise tailoring of the effect.
The tremolo section offers “Depth” (intensity) and “Speed” controls for shaping the amplitude modulation.
Key Features at a Glance
- 12AX7-powered amp in pedal form – Two 12AX7 tubes deliver that same coveted vintage American sound that put the Imperial on the map.
- Built-in tremolo & reverb – Another 12AX7 tube powers stunning spring reverb and the widest stereo tremolo you’ve ever heard.
- Modern connectivity – A notch up on the usual amp-in-pedal format, the Imperial Tube Preamp Pedal boasts stereo XLR outs, FX loop, MIDI & USB, and more.
Modern Connectivity and Control
The Imperial Tube Preamp has a comprehensive array of connectivity options, surpassing typical amp-in-a-pedal designs. These include stereo XLR outputs, a stereo FX loop, MIDI in, and a USB-C port.
The USB-C port facilitates loading custom impulse responses (IRs) for cabinet simulation. The MIDI input likely allows for synchronization of the tremolo speed with other MIDI-enabled devices.
Dual Channels and IR Loading
The pedal features two channels: Rhythm and Lead. Each channel offers three selectable IR cabinet simulations via a three-way switch, providing a versatile tonal palette. The Rhythm channel features a two-band EQ (Treble and Bass), Tone King’s signature attenuator, and an output volume control.
The Lead channel mirrors these controls but adds “Mid-Bite” and “Tone” knobs for further tonal shaping.
Intuitive Footswitch Control
Three footswitches offer multiple functions. The left switch controls the reverb and tremolo (likely toggling between them or using a hold function). The middle switch toggles between the Rhythm and Lead channels and activates the FX loop. The right switch engages bypass mode or bypasses only the IRs, offering flexibility for different setups.
Power Requirements
The pedal’s three-tube design demands significant power, requiring 1A at 9 volts or 750mA at 12 volts.
Pricing & Availability
The price is £549, and they can be preordered now.
More Information
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