Tone Report Weekly 173 | Page 23

KEELEY DIGS INTO HIS BAG OF TRICKS WITH THE GERMANIUM OXBLOOD OVERDRIVE Robert Keeley is the master of the deadstock germanium transistor, and has used his latest batch to fortify the output of the Oxblood Overdrive, transforming the sonic character into a smooth beast with plenty of hair on tap. The latest find is a harvest of OC75s that are plugged into the circuit output for a refined character. AC NOISES HEADS INTO FUZZ COUNTRY WITH THE ESPLORA The Esplora Fuzz by AC Noises offers up a vintage fuzz experience with enough switching options to keep the knobhounds at bay. A toggle switch takes the Tone control out of the circuit, enhancing the mids and the volume for a closed-fist uppercut of tone that will send your amp reeling. The other switch brightens the gain, which is perfect for lead players. REVEREND GUITARS CELEBRATES 20 YEARS WITH THE MERCALLI BASS Reverend’s 20th anniversary tour continues onward with the Mercalli Bass, available in both four- and five-string versions. The Mercalli features a Korina body for Reverend’s trademark resonance. A unique Pickup Pan control dials in just the right amount of tone from each pickup, and a primo quiver of hardware is pepper throughout. ToneReport.com 23