Tone Report Weekly Issue 102 | Page 57

mistake, or every little movement of a finger across a string, in the way that some “extreme” distortion pedals often do. Although the distortion has many merits, it’s really the pedal’s equalization controls that set the Flextortion apart from the crowd. The pedal features not just one, but rather four equalization controls built into two knobs. Lowand Mid-range controls are on the leftmost side of the pedal, while Highrange and Mid-range scoop controls are on the right. Unlike the many disappointing built-in EQs this writer has tested, the Flextortion’s EQ delivers as one hopes an EQ would deliver. In other words, when a knob is turned, it’s easy to discern the alteration of the effect’s tone. For example, turning up the outer Low knob (a smaller, inner knob controls the High end) will significantly boost the thickness of the distortion. Likewise, turning the High adds an obvious amount of high end. The Mid-range scoop is a fun control because it allows the user to “hollow out” her tone or simply to give it a nasal bite. It actually acted a bit like a wah pedal’s EQ when turned back and forth quickly. Of course, the Flextortion’s electronics come housed in a tastefully adorned and rugged metal housing. Its footprint is small, so it won’t take up too much space on the pedal board. The Flextortion might not seem to have the most dials, but it’s definitely an effect that will offer more tonal range than so many other distortion circuits. WHAT WE LIKE Four-band EQ that’s actually useful and responsive, built upon a tight and rich distortion. CONCERNS It would be nice if the EQ knobs were constructed of metal (as are the Level and Gain knobs), particularly because they sit just an inch from the foot switch. ToneReport.com 57