The new Plexitube distortion creates its immense range of Brit-style distortion and tone through an onboard 12AX7 preamp tube and a specially designed multistage solidstate drive circuit. Of course, the pedal features true-bypass operation when turned off. Features include a drive knob for both channels, global high- and low-frequency controls and independent output level controls.
The EQ can be adjusted further with switches for voicing, midboost and top-end response and independent contour knobs for each channel's midrange. For players who like to run one channel with effects and one without, channel 2 features an insert loop that lets you add effects. This greatly enhances the Plexitube's flexibility, making it possible to switch between a chunky rhythm distortion and an intense high-gain lead tone that features delay, chorus, flanger or whatever effects you want.
PERFORMANCE I plugged the Tonebone Plexitube and a Burstbucker-loaded Les Paul into my Fender Vibro-King. The Plexitube's two channels offered modern edgy distortion that was very lively. Channel 1 featured slightly less gain than channel 2, but the unit overall provided a very bright attack, screaming harmonics and tons of sustain. The Plexitube's tonal options kept me busy for days, like a kid let loose with a mad scientist's kit.
THE BOTTOM LINE The Plexitube provides everything you need to generate layers of searing Brit-style preamp-derived gain.
