King Overdrive – PCB

Here’s our first product

The King Overdrive is our take on the classic dual OpAmp-based transparent overdrive pedal that was developed by engineers at Marshall in 1991. The goal of the design was to recreate the classic Bluesbreaker amp tone from the 1960s on a pedal format. The circuit is similar to other boutique overdrives such as Analogman King of Tone and JHS Morning Glory. It features two Bluesbreaker circuits with different clipping options, allowing the user to set the pedal as an overdrive (clipping on the feedback loop of the OpAmp), distortion (after the OpAmp and before the tone control, similar to a Rat), or as a booster (without any clipping option engaged).

The King Overdrive takes the great functionalities of the King of Tone and improves upon them for a more user-friendly experience. For example, the internal DIP switches that select the diode mode have been replaced with external DPDT switches, making it easier to dial in the desired tone. The presence control has also been made more accessible by making it a full pot instead of a trimpot inside.

An additional feature of the King Overdrive is the internal charge pump, which takes the 9v input and doubles it to 18v, giving it more headroom and clarity. This can be easily bypassed, if wanted (Read our documentation). The PCB also includes the option to add more gain to the build, but it is important to note that the high gain works best on lower voltages if a dirty tone is desired.

The King Overdrive also offers the option for “magic” diodes, with the supply of BA282 in place of the difficult-to-source MA856 and 1N4148 in place of 1S1588. These diodes have similar characteristics and do not affect the tone.

Build Documentation 1.0 (coming soon)