The Valco KGB Dist JR is a more compact version of the versatile 4-mode distortion KGB Dist, with the only difference that the latter sports a Blend fader.
The rest of the circuit is the same, with the 1-Pole Low-Pass Filter knob shaping the tone, the signature 6-settings Variable Impedance rotary switch changing the tone’s response and character, and the 4-Mode knob delivering different clipping voices, as follows:
- OP: Op-Amp circuit based on the LM308 chip found on some RAT pedals.
- LED: a mode that produces a unique “soft-clipping” generated using back to back LEDs, and delivers lots of output and sustain.
- Si: Silicon diode circuit using back to back silicon diodes.
- Ge: Germanium diode circuit using back to back Schottky diode.
The Jr version of this pedal also retains the Dry output that allows extra routing possibilities, and the switch to make the input compatible with line instruments like synths.
Check out our own video of this pedal!
Valco KGB Dist JR , Builder’s Notes
The Variable Input Impedance works best with passive instruments (guitar / bass) and allows tone-sculpting with or without the distortion circuit engaged. Lower settings yield softer dynamics / transients with a notable ‘rounded / vintage’ feel and tone. Higher settings give a sharper high frequency response with a more direct / aggressive transient feel and more perceived gain. This makes for a great ’shaping’ control, where you can tune the pedal for its best response to the pickups you are using and how you want them to react / feel.
MAIN FEATURES
• Variable Input Impedance Selection.
• Multi-diode Distortion featuring independent ’Op-Amp,’ ‘LED’, ‘Silicon’ and ‘Germanium’ circuits.
CONTROLS
•Impedance Selector- Changes the input impedance value, allowing you to change the tonality of the distortion, dry signal, or any other pedal down the line. Recreates lower impedance sounds of vintage pedals. Allows you to alter/tune the transient/dynamic response of your guitar and signal path.
•LINE/INST Switch – activates the Impedance Selector when set to ‘Inst’. In ‘Line’ position, impedance is fixed.
•DIST – Controls the amount of Distortion.
•FILTER – Controls the tone using a 1-pole Low Pass Filter. The lower the setting, the brighter the sound. Higher settings reduce high frequencies.
•OUTPUT – Controls the overall output volume of the Distortion section/circuit. Increased output headroom so you’ll never go unheard!
•VOICE – Selects the distortion voice.
VOICE SELECTOR
• OP – Op-Amp circuit where the distortion is generated by the LM308 itself entering clipping.
• LED – unique “soft-clipping” generated using back to back LEDs.
• Si – Silicon diode circuit using back to back silicon diodes.
• Ge – Germanium diode circuit using back to back Schottky diode.
I/O
•1/4” Input.
•Dry Out (permanent ‘thru’ dry signal (pre-imp selector)).
•1/4’ Output.
Power: The KGB Dist. JR can be powered by a standard 9V center-negative AC adapter or 9V battery.
Dimensions: 7.09″ length X 4.33″ width X 3.43″ height (180mm X 110mm X 87 mm)
