I'm looking for a overdrive pedal and plan on trying the TS9 and TS808. What differences should I listen for? I don't mind springing for the 808 if it's worth it.
I'm looking for a overdrive pedal and plan on trying the TS9 and TS808. What differences should I listen for? I don't mind springing for the 808 if it's worth it.
I'm assuming you are talking the originals and not the reissues?
The original handwired TS808 is clearly a better pedal in my opinion, but you will pay for it. I just sold mine last year- I had owned it for more than 20 years and got $500 for it.
I only sold mine because I felt it was a waste to keep this much money tied up in a pedal I don't use anymore.
The 808 has a more smooth even tone as opposed to the TS-9 having more bite, but here you need to ask yourself if a less valuable pedal will get you the sound you want at a fraction of the cost. That I can't answer for you...
I wish I could justify that much bread for an original but sadly I can't, I'm looking at the reissues. I'm currently running a DS1 but it's just too rough for what I'm looking for.
Judgment call.
I'd try them both and see which you like more.
The TS9 is better for bass frequencies from what I hear but is dirtier. Some prefer it; others say it sounds artificial and doesn't have the warmth of the 808.
BTW what about the Boss BD-2? I haven't tried one yet but this might be a less expensive way to go- any opinions out there?
As the Bull said... Use your ears. I have 'em both, and eventually used the TS808 with a Keeley mod.
Yeah, the BD-2 is on the list to try out as well. What does the Keeley mod do?
Get both. Since you aren't looking at originals, then you should be able to find both a TS9 AND TS808...have the best of both worlds.
If you don't mind trying a lesser brand name, GFS has a twin pedal that has both.
Twin Overdrive- 2 Channel Overdrive Pedal- TS-808/TS-9 Tones
- Chad
If you're dead set on a TubeScreamer, try out a TS7. Low price and a pretty decent sound. It's also got a hot mode switch if you need a little more bite.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks