Short Description:

An all-analog bass distortion pedal featuring a 4-position "Gear" switch for distinct overdrive topologies, dual high-pass/low-pass filters, and a dedicated clean blend.

What We Think:

Designed to deliver multi-stage dynamic drive with low-noise operation, the Genzler Crash Box 4 is an all-analog distortion pedal offering four distinct distortion topologies ("Gears") based on tube and solid-state circuit profiles. Weighing 1.1 lbs (0.5 kg) with physical dimensions of 5" W x 4.1" D x 2.3" H, its core voicing options range from 1st Gear (a smooth, moderately driven tube-style overdrive rich in even-order harmonics) up to 4th Gear (a heavy, symmetrical, odd-harmonic distortion with high compression and maximum sustain). Signal shaping incorporates a clean path blend control alongside dedicated overdrive engine high-pass (30 Hz to 200 Hz) and low-pass (1 kHz to 14 kHz) filters. Technical audio performance specs include an input impedance greater than 1M ohm, 1k ohm output impedance, and selectable input sensitivity (-20 dBu high / -10 dBu low). Maximum input capability varies by supply voltage and sensitivity setting (up to +18 dBu at 18V), with maximum output levels reaching +9 dBu (9V), +14 dBu (12V), and +20 dBu (18V). Power requirements accept 9VDC to 18VDC low-noise center-auto-detecting dual-polarity power at a 40mA maximum current draw.

Manufacturer Description:

The new CRASH BOX 4 PEDAL is an ALL-ANALOG distortion pedal that dynamically emulates 4 different distortion types found in popular tube and solid-state distortion circuit topologies and then gives the player additional flexibility and control over drive/gain, distortion path (only)–high pass and low pass filters and separately a clean signal path blend. The result is the ability to tailor and fine tune the distortion to fit a wide spectrum of music and playing techniques, without the loss of touch sensitivity, musicality, or the addition of excess noise.

1st GEAR: Reminiscent of a tube amp’s moderately driven channel (including natural harmonics) with a bit of compression when driven hard. Many players will find that this works well as a mellow/milder, smoother overdrive/distortion with plenty of even ordered harmonic richness , and dimensional texture.

2nd GEAR: Emulates a tube amp’s more heavily overdriven tone, with more odd order harmonics and compression, depth and top-end. While moderately compressed, there is still plenty of depth of tone, dynamics and feel present.

3rd GEAR: An aggressive up-shift from 2nd gear, this heavier and edgier distortion is higher in odd order harmonics as well as having greater compression for a tighter feel. The harder you dig in, the thicker the harmonics and texture, and the more compressed the feel, with greater sustain.

4th GEAR: This is the most aggressive gear of all — a heavy, symmetrical, mostly odd order harmonics style distortion. While there are a lot of harmonics and compression present, this gear does not give up tone but adds additional crush and increased sustain.

The CRASH BOX 4 is a dynamic and versatile distortion pedal and is an excellent compliment with our other pedals and either of our MAGELLAN 350 or MAGELLAN 800 bass amps.

Specifications:

Power Supply: 9VDC-18VDC (low noise type), either polarity (auto-detecting), 40mA max (Power supply not included).

Input Impedance: >1M ohm

Output Impedance: 1k ohm

Overdrive Engine Input HPF: 30Hz – 200hz

Overdrive Engine Output LPF: 1kHz – 14kHz

Input Sensitivity (nominal): -20dBu (high sensitivity), -10dBu (low sensitivity)

Maximum Input Level: 0dBu (9V supply), +5dBu (12V supply), +10dBu (18V supply), high sensitivity, DRIVE at 9:00

Maximum Input Level: +5dBu (9V supply), +12dBu (12V supply), +18dBu (18V supply), low sensitivity, DRIVE at 9:00

Maximum Output Level: +9dBu (9V supply) +14dBu (12V supply), +20dBu (18V supply)

Dimensions: 5” (127mm) W x 4.1” (104mm )D x 2.3” (59mm)H

Weight: 1.1 lb (0.5kg)