Custom Tones
Home of the Ethos Overdrive.

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News Board Archives:

August 13, 2008

Hi Everybody,

Production Update:
Batch 4 Units are shipping out steadily.

Tech Update:
The Manual page has been updated to include another power adapter which will work for many power types around the world, including Japan.

Sound Clips:
I've added a new clip to the Sound Clip page called "Ethos Stack". I stacked the OD channel into the Clean channel, using two Ethos ODs.  If you want some low end you'll get some and more.  To compare, the first verse of the sound clip is Ethos TLE and the second verse is Ethos TLE Stacked.


Update: April 27, 2008

Hi Everybody,

Thanks for all the great feedback on the Ethos.  Both the Classic Ethos and the TLE have been shipping out steadily. 

The FAQ page has been updated with a qualitative description of the differences between the Ethos Classic and TLE.

I have also updated the sound clips page with video clips featuring some great artists including:  Tomo Fujita, Thaddeus Hogarth and Jack Zucker -- Check them out!

Thanks,

Robbie



Hi Everybody,

Update: 1/26/08

Producton Update:
Units for batch 3 are now shipping.

Sound Clips:
I have finally gotten my recording set-up back in order.  Please find some new TLE clips on the sound clip page.


Thanks,

Robbie

Update 11/25/07

Hi Everybody,

Here's an update on the TLE (Tighter Low End).

I want to apologize to those folks out there who are frustrated /confused over the TLE mod.  My intentions were to develop a mod to satisfy those players who wanted a tighter low end in their  Ethos.  Below is some discussion that may help you understand where the TLE mod stands today.

Is the TLE a mod or an improvement?  Since my last update on 11/17/07 more players have tried the TLE.  The results have been mixed.  Some folks prefer the looser low end of the Classic Ethos (non TLE) because it provides the type of tone they are going for.   Others who want a tighter low end, prefer the Ethos with the TLE.  The bottom line is the  TLE is a MOD for those folks who want a tighter low end.   Of all the units we have shipped, only  25% of the folks have commented on the low end.   We are not planning on replacing the Classic Ethos by any means-- In fact, we are still receiving  new orders for the Classic Ethos.   At the end of day it just depends on what you like, and we are trying to satisfy everybody's needs, so we are offering  2 versions of the Ethos, The Classic Ethos  and Ethos  with  TLE.     

If a new customer is interested in the TLE, there is no extra charge,  since it can be incorporated in-line with the existing production process with no impact.   We could have charged for this, but it doesn't  make sense to charge for something that doesn't require it.  For existing customers who want the TLE mod, we have to charge $23 to cover  the  dis-assembly, implementing the mod, re-assembly and test.  

I have been looking into the TLE modification situation for folks who live overseas. I have examined providing information to customers on how to do the mod themselves.  Unfortunately, to correctly implement the mod requires disclosing too much of the  design, therefore it is not possible to offer  the information at this time.  Presently we are  researching  the  Trade / Customs regulations to exactly understand the registration process required  for transporting products overseas to specifically conduct modifications / repairs.  I will post more information when it becomes available.  We are happy to work with you to sort out the appropriate paperwork to process your mod efficiently.  However, as  each country has different requirements, we will need your help working with local authorities.

Thanks,

Robbie



Update: 11/17/07

Based on customer feedback, I have been very busy developing a mod that tightens the low end (TLE) of the Ethos.  During the research phase,  I modified several Ethos ODs, owned by professional guitarists.  For evaluation purposes, a switch was installed so the mod could be switched in and out for comparison.  So far every player who has tried the TLE mod has preferred it.

Based on this we are offering the TLE mod to new and existing customers.

New Customers:

New customers are offered the  choice between the Classic Ethos or the Ethos with the TLE.  Since these units are still in the build process, the price is the same for either version.

Existing Customers:

Folks can have their Ethos modified with the TLE for $23.00, plus shipping.  For details, please go to the ORDER/CONTACT page.
Presently, I am not offering a switch that selects between the Classic Ethos and the TLE mod.  This is based on the fact that all the guitarists that have tried the TLE say they would want the TLE on all the time, so the switch is not necessary.  Additionally, the installation/mod time required is extensive and expensive.

You will know if your Ethos has the TLE mod by the notation "M1" located on the output jack side of the box.

Thanks,

Robbie



Update: 11/5/07

Producton Update:
Units from batch 2 are shipping ahead of schedule and batch 3 is coming up at the end of the month.

Power Adapters:
I have been doing some research on power adapters to accommodate different needs, especially outside of  the  United States.  Please refer to the  user's manual page for details.

Sound Clips:
I'm excited to share with you great clips by artists Mats  Nermark and Tomo Fugita.  Check them out on the sound clips page.

Thanks,

Robbie


Update: Oct 1, 2007

Production Update:
Units from the second batch are now shipping!

FAQs:
The FAQ page has been updated with more Tone Tips, check it out.

Sound Clips:
I am really excited to record some single coil clips, but my ProTools is still malfunctioning.  I'm working it hard and will try to get them out as soon as I can.

Thanks,

Robbie

Update: Sept 9, 2007

Production Update:
The second batch build is coming along nicely.  The first units from the second batch should start shipping at the end of the month if all goes well.

New Sound Clip:
A new DI clip has been added to the sound clip page.   More clips coming soon.

FAQs:
The FAQ page has been updated based on more great questions coming in.  Additionally, there are some tips on tone as part of this page.

Photos:
I took a pic of the second batch in process a few weeks ago.  I thought I'd load it on the photo page just for the heck of it.

Thanks,

Robbie


Update: August 19, 2007

The Production Launch:
The first production units are going out and folks are starting to make some great tone/music.  I will try to answer all of your questions and get you your ETHOS ASAP. 

The List:
I have been receiving many inquireries regarding the list.  I would  really like to review the list with each of you , but I just don't have the time right now.  The first batch of units is finished and I am starting the second.  I really appreciate your patience and support. 

FAQs:
Some great questions are coming in.   They will be posted in the FAQ section along with answers.  Please check out the updates.

New Sound Clip:
I had a couple minutes to run the Ethos into a solid state power amp.  This new clip, (and photos) can be found at the top of the sound clip page.
Thanks,

Robbie

Update: August 5, 2007

Sound Clips:
Thanks for all the great feedback on the sound clips.

Production Update:
Notifications of the first batch have and will be going out.   We experienced a little set-back getting our Pay Pal working, but things should be all set now.

Photos:
Check out the photo page for some new pics.

Warranty / Return Policy:
Please go to the Contact / Order Info page for details.

Thanks,

Robbie



Update: July 10, 2007

Sound Clips:
Five new sound clips have been added to the sound page.  They cover some new territory including  agressive rock leads/chords as well as some lighter jazz applications.

Production Update:
I have received the first batch of boards and am cross checking them against the prototype. 
The overlay panel is expected later on this month.

Thanks,
Robbie


Update: June 30, 2007

Website:
Thanks for all the feedback on the website.  The sound clips are now directly accessible and
there will be more info coming eg. Pics, FAQs, Reviews and more.

Sound Clips:
New sound clips are being developed  now and will be coming out soon, (in one to two weeks).  There will be a variety of styles... anywhere from Jazz to Rock.

Production Update:
The first batch of boards have completed the surface mount process and now are going through the hand wire assembly process.

FAQ:
I have been getting emails asking me about my background, so here's a quick summary. 
I got my EE degree back in 1984 and have been designing electronics at an Aerospace firm for the
past 23 years.  We build subsystem and black box electronics for military and commerical aircraft. 
I have been playing guitar since I was 12 years old and have been in numerous bands ever since. 
I've been making amps and pedals for 25 years.  In the past few years I have gone into limited
production on a couple designs.  I am totally obsessed with tone and love music and gear.


Update June 21, 2007

New Name:
As you can probably tell by now, Rob's Boutique Overdrive pedal has a new name " Ethos Overdrive".    I went back and forth with alot of Xumble like names.   There are several  products already on the market that use  "umble" in their name.  I settled on Ethos  based on its uniqueness, meaning, and to avoid any possible trademark violations.  (The photo above will be updated to reflect the name change.)

Production Update:
I have been working closely with the board manufacturer.  To no surprise several part issues have popped up, but are now under control.  The bare PC cards are completed, and are in the process of being populated.  The overlay (panel) is on order and presently is the long lead part, expected delivery is the 3rd week of July.

Technical Update:
The  Ethos  Overdrive  circuitry has a current draw of 35mA at 9VDC.  This current draw is due to the fact that the Ethos contains the circuitry equivalent to the front end of a guitar amp and more.  This current draw will result in a battery life of approximately 15  operating hours.  I spent quite a bit of time reviewing different schemes to reduce the power, but everytime I did, tone got sacrificed. Therefore I will be supplying an AC to DC converter (12VDC)  at no charge with each unit. 

I will try to update this area as often as possible to keep you informed.

Thanks,
Robbie
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