[Ibanez x Vemuram TSV808] Distortion that supplements the weak points of the Tube Screamer

Hello. This is sukuta takafumi (@sukutakafumi).
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sukutakafumi

Today, I'd like to introduce the Ibanez x Vemuram TSV808.

First of all, I made a review video, so please watch it.

The TSV808 was unveiled at NAMM last year, and its release had been postponed in the summer, and was finally released at the end of the year. It seems that it took a long time to finish the structure of the case.
However, since overseas users got it before Japanese users, it seems that it was distributed overseas before Japan.
Therefore, the serial number starts from around 3 digits for those distributed in Japan, and the number of digits on the body is 0000, so it seems that the production number will be at most 10,000 units or less.

It's hard to get your hands on it because it was sold out at all the music stores soon after it was released, but it seems it's still in production and it might be re-released maybe once more.

○ Features of TSV808

1. High output level
Since the output is set high, I was surprised when I stepped on the pedal and the sound was too loud thinking the knob at 12 o'clock was just right. It depends on the environment, but at around 9 o'clock, the amp volume and the pedal volume are the same.

2. Tube Screamer with wide range and solid low range
When the Tube Screamer is turned on, the low frequencies are cut off, but the TSV808 adds distortion while leaving the solid low frequencies. It feels like an effect pedal with a clean mix circuit.

3. The quality of the distortion is relatively rough while remaining mild
The Jan Ray feel of the Tube Screamer is still there.

○ Functions of TSV808

1. Diode can be selected using the built-in DIP switch
You can select symmetric or asymmetric.
By default, both DIP switches are on. In this state, it feels like it can be used most naturally as a general distortion effector. When they're turned off, the distortion gets weaker and quieter.
It'll change according to how you use it. If you use it as a distortion effector, the DIP switches will be on.
If you use it as a booster, you might turn them off.

2. Supports not only 9V, but also 18V
When used at 18V, I had the impression that the range was wider and more stable. It feels like there's more compression at 18V as well.
However, I personally preferred 9V, and the 9V sounds more interesting or more like a guitar sound. There's also a mid-range, and the sound feels fat.
There isn't much merit to use it at 18V, and to be honest, I feel it's neither here nor there. This may be true not only for the TSV808, but also for other effectors with an external boost.

○ Author's general comments

For those who have the Jan Ray, you may want to pass on this one. If you like the Tube Screamer, you should buy it.
I have the impression that the Jan Ray suppresses the top of the sound and anyone can make a good sound, but the TSV808 doesn't.
Yet, I think it'll sound good no matter who plays it, so it's good on that level.
Compared to the vintage Tube Screamer, it feels the vintage is missing something. But to me, the vintage sounds more natural but it doesn't always sound good for everyone.

▼The following equipment is used in the review video.

Guitar:
Kanji Guitar Stratocaster, Telecaster, Les Paul
（https://twitter.com/KanjiKawabata）

Effector:
Ibanez TSV-808

Amp:
Two Rock Studio Pro Plus
Two Notes Torpedo Live

Spatial effects are set on the computer.

In addition, I, sukuta takafumi, am looking for manufacturers and individual builders who can loan me equipment for review videos and creating articles.