JAM Pedals TubeDreamer MK2: More Tube Screamer than a Tube Screamer?
Subtle changes, increased sonic versatilty
JAM Pedals TubeDreamer MK2: More Tube Screamer than a Tube Screamer? · Source: JAM Pedals
With the TubeDreamer MK2, JAM Pedals has revamped its super popular TS-sytel pedal with a host of new features and sounds. Let’s find out what JP have added to the new iteration.
What’s new with the TubeDreamer MK2?
While the original from 2010 already had a lot of fans, this updated version brings a couple of performance-oriented updates. In its heart, the TubeDreamer MK2 is still an homage of a vintage-style Tube Screamer with its JRC4558D Chip. Here’s what’s new:
At first glance, there is now a second footswitch, which activates the high gain mode. On the OG, this was done through a small switch on the upper right-hand corner. By having a dedicated footswitch, you’ll get to switch between base and lead tones much easier during performances. Plus, the TubeDreamer MK2 comes with an internal trimmer that lets you set the high gain’s volume.
JAM Pedals say, they’ve also improved the pedal’s headroom and overall reactivity on dynamics. Judging by the sounds, theyÄve succeeded: the TubeDreamer MK2 might become one of the go-to solutions for vintage TS-style pedals on the market.
JRC4558D Chip
As mentioned, the TubeDreamer MK2 comes with the original JRC4558D chip. You’ll only find that one in vintage Tube Screamer and TS 808 pedals. For MK2, the Greek pedal builder included a couple of other clever options. For instance, a dedicated mini-switch lets you choose between two clipping modes.
When active, an asymmetrical clipping stage with three diodes offers a more compressed, dense sound, that reacts less to dynamics and is overall more focused. When you bypass it to the diode-less clipping mode, the pedal suppresses diode clipping and provides a much more open, dynamic, and amp-like response with greater headroom and clarity.
What’s unchanged are the three controls: “L” for level, “G” for gain, and “T” for tone shaping.
How much does the TubeDreamer MK2 cost?
The Jam Pedals TubeDreamer MK2 might be on the road to becoming the ultimate TS-style pedal on the market. Of course, as with all pedal, you’ll have to try it out and listen for yourself to see if it adds value to your setup.
But overall, the upgrades to the TubeDreamer MK2 make a great overdrive pedal even more versatile. It’s vailable now at Thomann*.
More on the new Pedal from JAM Pedals
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