How many distortion modes does the Apocalypse have?

The pedal features five distinct circuits: Twin-T Scoop, War Fuzz, Dual J-FET, Octave Rect, and Gain x1000.

What controls are available on the face of the pedal?

It features three main dials for Volume, Drive, and sweepable EQ, along with a rotary selector for the five gain modes.

What is the function of the EQ knob?

The EQ knob functions as a sweepable frequency control, allowing the user to precisely shift and sculpt the tonal focus of the distortion.

Is the Apocalypse suitable for soloing?

Yes, it is marketed as an ideal tool for soloists due to its high-output boosting capabilities and versatile EQ sculpting.

What does the Gain x1000 mode do?

The Gain x1000 mode provides extreme levels of saturation and volume, intended for massive, high-gain distortion sounds.

Does this pedal include an octave effect?

Yes, one of the five selectable modes is the Octave Rect, which provides a rectified octave-fuzz sound.

What is the typical price for a Death By Audio Apocalypse?

In the United Kingdom, the pedal typically retails for approximately £289.

How does the Dual J-FET mode differ from other modes?

The Dual J-FET mode uses specific transistor technology to provide a texture that is generally more responsive to playing dynamics than the more compressed modes.

Can it be used as a simple volume boost?

While it is primarily a distortion pedal, the high volume headroom and adjustable drive allow it to function as a powerful boost for live performances.

What kind of power does the pedal require?

Like most Death By Audio pedals, it typically requires a standard 9V DC power supply, though users should check specific unit manuals for current draw.

Is the enclosure designed for heavy use?

Yes, Death By Audio pedals are known for their rugged, durable metal enclosures designed to withstand professional touring environments.

How does the Twin-T Scoop mode sound?

The Twin-T Scoop mode provides a classic 'scooped' frequency response, characterized by emphasized lows and highs with reduced midrange frequencies.

Gear article

Death By Audio Apocalypse

The Death By Audio Apocalypse is a versatile 5-in-1 distortion and fuzz pedal featuring five distinct gain circuits and a sweepable frequency EQ. Designed for maximum sonic flexibility, it allows guitarists to access a wide range of drive textures from subtle boosts to extreme high-gain saturation.

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Overview and History

The Apocalypse is produced by Death By Audio, a boutique pedal manufacturer based in New York City known for high-output, experimental effects. It was developed to provide a comprehensive solution for distortion, consolidating several distinct circuit topologies into a single enclosure. It functions essentially as a multi-mode fuzz and distortion workstations, intended for musicians who require diverse gain stages during live performances.

Internal Circuitry and Operation

The pedal operates via a four-control interface: Volume, Drive, a sweepable frequency EQ, and a five-position waveform selector. The waveform selector toggles between five unique circuits:

Twin-T Scoop: Provides a mid-scooped fuzz character.
War Fuzz: Offers a dense, heavy distortion texture.
Dual J-FET: Utilises Junction Field Effect Transistors for a more touch-responsive, amp-like drive.
Octave Rect: Produces a harmonically rich octave-up fuzz effect.
Gain x1000: An extreme high-gain mode designed for maximum saturation and sustain.

The EQ Section

A defining feature of the Apocalypse is its sweepable frequency EQ control. Unlike standard tone knobs that simply roll off high frequencies, this control allows the user to shift the emphasis across the frequency spectrum. This adds significant utility for soloists who need to sculpt their sound to cut through a specific mix or compensate for different amplifier voicing.

Sound Character and Application

The sonic character of the Apocalypse ranges from classic fuzz textures to experimental, abrasive noise. The inclusion of J-FET and octave options makes it suitable for both traditional rock styles and more industrial or psych-rock genres. Because it offers high output levels, it is frequently used as a performance boost for lead passages. It is designed to be intuitive enough for rapid adjustments while providing a wide 'sweet spot' for tone shaping.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to standard single-circuit pedals like the Boss DS-1 or Ibanez Tube Screamer, the Apocalypse offers significantly more variety. While it is more expensive than entry-level pedals such as the Fender Hammertone Flanger or the Behringer UC200, its value lies in its 5-in-1 architecture. Players looking for specific pitch-shifting might prefer a Digitech Whammy Ricochet, but for pure gain versatility, the Apocalypse is a more focused tool for distortion addicts.

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Frequently asked questions

How many distortion modes does the Apocalypse have?: The pedal features five distinct circuits: Twin-T Scoop, War Fuzz, Dual J-FET, Octave Rect, and Gain x1000.
What controls are available on the face of the pedal?: It features three main dials for Volume, Drive, and sweepable EQ, along with a rotary selector for the five gain modes.
What is the function of the EQ knob?: The EQ knob functions as a sweepable frequency control, allowing the user to precisely shift and sculpt the tonal focus of the distortion.
Is the Apocalypse suitable for soloing?: Yes, it is marketed as an ideal tool for soloists due to its high-output boosting capabilities and versatile EQ sculpting.
What does the Gain x1000 mode do?: The Gain x1000 mode provides extreme levels of saturation and volume, intended for massive, high-gain distortion sounds.
Does this pedal include an octave effect?: Yes, one of the five selectable modes is the Octave Rect, which provides a rectified octave-fuzz sound.
What is the typical price for a Death By Audio Apocalypse?: In the United Kingdom, the pedal typically retails for approximately £289.
How does the Dual J-FET mode differ from other modes?: The Dual J-FET mode uses specific transistor technology to provide a texture that is generally more responsive to playing dynamics than the more compressed modes.
Can it be used as a simple volume boost?: While it is primarily a distortion pedal, the high volume headroom and adjustable drive allow it to function as a powerful boost for live performances.
What kind of power does the pedal require?: Like most Death By Audio pedals, it typically requires a standard 9V DC power supply, though users should check specific unit manuals for current draw.
Is the enclosure designed for heavy use?: Yes, Death By Audio pedals are known for their rugged, durable metal enclosures designed to withstand professional touring environments.
How does the Twin-T Scoop mode sound?: The Twin-T Scoop mode provides a classic 'scooped' frequency response, characterized by emphasized lows and highs with reduced midrange frequencies.