Tech 21 Reissues the XXL Pedal
 July 24, 2003
Tech 21's XXL pedal made its debut in early 1995 and ceased production in late 2000. Now, a limited quantity of new "old-stock" has become available.
In addition to the now engine-turn patterned stainless steel plate, the XXL features a "Warp" control. This control uniquely enables the player to manipulate the harmonic structure to achieve a spectrum of traditional distortion, classic tube amp overdrive, and vintage fuzz tones. Tech 21's Warp influences the ratio of odd and even harmonics relative to the dynamics of a particular instrument and an individual's playing style.
The median point of Warp yields traditional distortion, well-suited for chords and rhythm parts. Extreme settings work particularly well with individual notes. They become smoother, fatter, thicker. At minimum, there are higher amounts of even harmonics, giving you the overdrive like that of a Class A tube amp. Increasing Warp towards maximum oversaturates the unit. After the initial pick attack, the note will "sag" and constrict, then dilate and enlarge. Sustaining that note will cause it to "sing."
Familiar controls include Level and Drive. Tone, on the other hand, is a level-compensated passive tone control. At maximum it's flat. As you go towards the mid point, it boosts the low end. Decreasing from the mid point cuts highs --without changing the output level.
The XXL is operable with an optional 9V DC power supply (Model #DC2), or 9V battery. The suggested retail price is $150.00. For more information, visit their web site at www.tech21nyc.com. | 
