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In early 2016, Korg released its Nutube technology to the public. With an anode grid filament structure, it operates exactly like a triode vacuum tube, adding rich overtones to electric guitar tones. Unlike conventional tubes, Japanese-made Nutube utilizes vacuum fluorescent display technology; it’s smaller and more efficient. This had huge implications for the world of guitar amplifiers and electronics. Premium tone no longer requires a large footprint or substantial power source.
The first major brand to use Nutube technology in a pedal is Ibanez, which announced an updated Tubescreamer earlier this year. While some brands are content resting on their laurels, Ibanez decided to implement innovative technology into its most-respected pedal. The implications of this are great, but I needed to get my hands on a Nu Tubescreamer to see if the new technology really made for a better pedal.
The Good: This is great sounding pedal with a warm tube compression and amp-like response. The lifespan of Korg’s 6P1 Nutube is 30,000 hours, significantly longer than conventional tubes found in overdrive pedals from B.K. Butler, Electro Harmonix and others. The Nutube is also very small, so the pedal takes up much less real estate on your board compared to the aforementioned options. Compared to a TS808 or TS9, you can run this pedal at either 9V or 18V, the latter of which gives you increased headroom and gain (the area this pedal really shines). Also, the addition of a mix knob lets you blend your clean and overdriven sounds to your own liking.
Who It’s For: If you want an analog distortion that responds to touch, this is a great option. It has the signature mid-range peak that the Tubescreamer is known for along with a thicker bottom end. The harmonic richness added to the tone thanks to the 6P1 Nutube is definitely welcome and creates a different character. If you’re a devotee of traditional Tubescreamers, the new model offers a different perspective, but may not be so different that you need to splurge on it. The mix knob does allow for a new level of control over your sound, though, and could be enough justification for tonal perfectionists.
Watch Out For: This is not an inexpensive pedal. Though, compared to a vintage TS808, which start at $750, it’s a pretty good deal. It’s comparable to the price of a B.K. Butler pedal, and it’s definitely not aimed at the entry-level player. The sound of this pedal is different than traditional Tubescreamer. If you’ve got a vintage TS808 already and you love what it does for your sound, you probably don’t need one of these. On the other hand, if you’ve ever wanted more control over the sound of a Tubescreamer, it’s worth checking out.
