Distort 47

Distort 47 is a no-nonsense distortion based on a classic 70’s op-amp design. Originally planned as a direct clone of a certain yellow distortion pedal (no, not that one), a long series of revisions turned this pedal into its own beast. The Distort 47 features numerous upgrades from the circuit that inspired it, which keep the spirit of the pedal intact, but round off some of the wonky edges. You’ll find extra high-end clarity, additional heat, and some useful tone-shaping options.

Distortion
Dials up and down the distortion level. The gain range has been extended beyond your typical 70s/80s op-amp 2-knobber. Low gain settings sound robust and bright. Mid-range tones give a classic biting distortion. Fully cranked loads your tone up with tons of gain and extra sizzle.

Volume
Add or subtract loudness. Gets loud. Wear some earplugs. I worry about you.

Focus (right switch)
This switch has three positions for emphasizing how much distortion is focused on the low end of your signal.

The center position of the switch focuses the gain on the treble range of your signal. is intended to carve out some room in the mix for some distorted bass, or to keep the tone crisp and light when you’re playing fast or doing that 90s skatepunk octave thing.

The upper position extends that range into more mid frequencies. This is a more balanced sound that keeps the feel somewhat light, but with some extra body.

The bottom position extends it even further into full range territory. Feels more filled out at low gain, and at high gain can sound grody and scuzzy, which is occasionally just the thing you need – sounds cool and fuzzy on bass.

Clipping (left switch)
This allows you to select between MOSFET clipping and asymmetrical germanium diode clipping. MOSFETs were selected over silicon due to their clarity and crunch. Germanium diodes were added as a counterpoint in case you want to get compressed and grungy. Made with vintage NOS germanium diodes… for authenticity’s sake!

Suggested Settings
-The 50 50 Grind - Distortion at 1 or 2 o-clock, Clip and Focus in upper position. Volume wherever it feels right.
-The Barely-There Transparent chime (on opposite day) - Distortion maxxed, Clip and Focus at bottom position, Volume as you like it. Switch to neck and you’re in the doom zone, friendo.
-The Low Gain Treble Drive - Distortion at minimum, Clip in upper position, Focus in middle position, Volume to taste.