The Maxon D&S II Distrotion / Sustainer II - With unique circuit refinements not typically found in distortions. Like a standard distortion, the D&S II features a diode-clipping stage after the amplifier section of the circuit. However, rather than using the silicon diodes commonly found in today's circuits, the D&S II uses germanium diodes in this clipping stage. The threshold voltage for clipping is 0.1 - 0.2V with germanium and 0.7 - 0.8V with silicon, so the germanium can distort even low level tones, thus making a smoother distortion. In addition, the germanium's rectifier characteristic is inferior to silicon (voltage drop with negative current is not as sharp as that of silicon) - this shortcoming ironically works favorably for the D&S II, creating a somewhat rounded waveform of the clipped signal that contributes to the unit's warm, natural distortion. Due to their "inferior" characteristics, germanium diodes are now a very rare component and have generally been replaced with silicon diodes in other manufacturer's circuits. Ironically, it is these shortcomings that give the D&S II its signature sound.
Also unique to the Maxon D&S II is its tone control. While most other overdrives and distortions feature hi boost/hi cut tone circuits, the D&S II tone control uses a low range boost/cut circuit for added bottom end. In addition, the D&S II's tone circuit features the JRC4558 IC chip, generally regarded as sonically superior to other op amp models. The combination of these two elements creates a pedal with more low-end punch than your typical overdrive.
From subtle crunch to intense saturation, the D&S II provides a wide range of useful tube-like tones. If you love the OD808's bark but could use a little more bite, the D&S II is the pedal for you.
Maxon D&S Distortion & Sustainer features include:
- Input Impedance: 500K Ohms
- Input: Jack 1/4 inch standard phone jack
- Output Impedance: 10K Ohms
- Output: Jack 1/4 inch standard phone jack
- Output: 1
- Noise: (IHF-A) -110 dBu
- Maximum Amplitude: 40 dB
- Switch: Normal/Effect
- Controls: Tone, Distortion, Balance
- Power Consumption: 7 mA (9 V) / 8 mA (10 V)
- Dimensions: (whole) 70 mm (W) x 112 mm (D) x 55 mm (H)
- Weight: 290 g (including battery)
- Non-skid pad x 1
Maxon D&S II (code 57479)
Guitar Effects Pedal, Distortion / Sustainer
£116.00 (inc vat)