catalinbread [WEB-Limited Stock Clearance Sale] Formula No.55 (Catalin Bread) Overdrive

[WEB Exclusive Inventory Clearance Sale]
Please note that clearance items may include store display models, slightly damaged items, or items with damaged packaging.

The Catalinbread Formula No. 55 is a next-generation overdrive pedal inspired by the 5E3 Tweed Deluxe sound. It meticulously recreates the preamp section of the classic 5E3 amplifier.
The original preamplifier circuit has been replaced with an all-discrete JFET-based signal path, and the volume and tone controls are based on the original circuit to achieve the response of a true tweed amplifier.
By lowering the output impedance, you can drive your amp with a punchy tone.
The Hi/Lo switch allows you to switch between a clean, vintage tweed response and a hot-rodded tone that sounds like you've swapped the vacuum tubes for a high-gain model.
The Formula No. 55 delivers a response similar to connecting a large power section to a 5E3 preamp. This has the effect of increasing the cabinet size. It achieves the response of a large amp while retaining the character of a small amp. The Formula No. 55 does not contain vacuum tubes. It uses JFETs, which have the closest dynamic response and harmonic content to vacuum tubes. Designed to create the widest possible range of 5E3 tones, from Grant Green to Crazy Horse, it has a dynamic response from smoky to full-bodied, and the guitar's volume allows for free control of distortion with picking. Various parts were tested to achieve this sound. From carbon composition resistors to selected capacitors, everything is a component chosen for its sound.
While premium parts are included, the reason the sound is good isn't because premium parts are used, but because the parts were selected appropriately.


● Power supply
The Formula No. 55 operates on a standard effects pedal power supply or a 9V battery. It is compatible with center-negative 9VDC to 18VDC adapters, and when powered by 18V, it provides higher volume, headroom, and a more percussive attack. When powered by 9V, it produces a softer, more easily distorted sound. It can be used in a similar way to the difference between a 50W and a 100W amplifier.
18V operation makes a noticeable difference. It's especially ideal when playing in a band, as the attack and clarity of the sound really stand out in an ensemble. Also, using a 9V battery with around 3-4V remaining produces a soft sound perfect for late-night jam sessions where you can't play too loudly. Of course, you can achieve similar effects using a power supply with adjustable voltage. Lowering the voltage also produces a slightly more British, low-volume sound.
Try changing the voltage to find the sound you like best.


●As a general rule for amplifiers, Formula No. 55 performs best with a clean-setting tube amplifier. However, contrary to design expectations, Formula No. 55 also produced excellent results with distorted tube amplifiers.
In tube amplifiers, to achieve the best tone and response with Formula No. 55, make sure the tubes in your amp are in good condition. The first stage of the amp's preamp is particularly important for Formula No. 55; if the tubes here are not in good condition, Formula No. 55 may sound weak, rough, and unnatural.

*Some parts of the casing are unpainted.
The unpainted parts may have scratches or color differences that occurred during the manufacturing process of the case, but they are left as is.

True bypass switching Input impedance: 1M
Output impedance: 15k
Powered by a DC9-18V center negative adapter or a 9V battery. Dimensions (WxDxH): 67 x 112 x 52mm (including protrusions)
・Weight: 230g

Controls: VOLUME, TONE, MASTER, PRESNCE, HI/LO