Source Audio - ZIO Analog Front End + Boost

The Source Audio ZIO Analog Front End + Boost is no ordinary pedal: it's a nerve centre for your signal. Designed in collaboration with Christopher Venter of SHOE Pedals, it combines four fully analogue preamp circuits, each with a distinct character, capable of adding up to +20dB of gain. Its mission? To improve the clarity, dynamics and musicality of your sound, whether you're in the studio or on stage.

With its four modes, the ZIO adapts to every situation. The JFET mode acts like an ultra-transparent tube amp input, ideal for direct miking or for maintaining signal purity. Low-Cut reduces excessive bass and tightens up the mix, perfect for guitars with too much sound or bass that's too intrusive. Studio mode uses the famous 'Pultec Trick', removing muddy frequencies while adding presence and articulation in the midrange. Finally, E-Plex mode recreates the warmth and subtle grain of old Echoplex tape echo preamps.

Designed to fit anywhere in your effects chain, the ZIO can be placed upstream to shape the overall character, after your overdrives to add definition, or at the very end to boost a long cable or drive an amp. Even in your amp's effects loop, it proves formidable for pushing the power amp without unwanted distortion.

Another advantage: its 3-position Tone switch simulates cable length and capacity by acting on the brilliance of the sound. In the Bright position, you gain in clarity and treble, while Medium imitates a standard 15-foot cable and Dark allows you to soften guitars that are too snappy. This simple toggle opens up a particularly versatile sound spectrum.

Source Audio has not neglected the quality of its components. The choice of a Burr-Brown JFET op-amp ensures transparent reproduction, extended dynamics and virtually no background noise. All this is housed in a robust, compact and elegant anodised aluminium case, designed to withstand touring as well as intensive studio sessions.