Hagerman Amplification Gamma Radiatiøn Transistor Distortion

It’s been a couple years since my first foray into the world of Hagerman Amplification (the TUBEKLØN Mythical Beast was one of my favs from 2024), and I’m stoked to be checking out some more gear from Jim today. Coming from the newly re-released silicon lineup of pedals, we’re gonna take a look at the powerful and versatile Gamma Radiatiøn Transistor Distortion, a seemingly simple four-knobber that is really anything but. The range here is amazing, and these tones will leave your amp and your audience in a state of sonic bliss…

Based on Jim Hagerman’s “gamma” patent from 1995, the Gamma Radiatiøn distortion circuit runs two clipping stages in series with an Energy (tone) control in between, for more control of voicing. Seven transistors do all amplification and buffering, no opamps. Turn down the Drive control and the volume on your guitar for spooky clean, warm tones. Crank it for radiant joy. There’s plenty of output level for overdriving your amp as well. The extreme flexibility of this pedal allows it to mimic a wide range of flavors, from Blues Breaker to Rat to Screamer and many others.

Specifications
True bypass
43dB maximum gain
100k input impedance
55Hz to 7kHz bandwidth
-9V to -15V @ 4mA (center negative)

Mixing the Tone and Energy controls together in various configurations is really where the Gamma Radiatiøn Transistor Distortion stands out, and with all the gain and output volume you could need, this one’s an instant keeper. And at a steal at just $99.00, it not only fits into any pedalboard, but any budget, too. Glad to be checking out some more pedals from Hagerman Amplification – thanks so much to Jim for sending this one my way! We’ve got a couple more coming soon, so stay tuned, and don’t forget to check out our demo on YouTube – cheers!!