Retro Mechanical Labs Archives - Pedal of the Day

Retro Mechanical Labs


After checking out the incredible 432k Rev2 Distortion a couple months ago, we couldn’t wait to jump back into some more gear from Retro Mechanical Labs. Today’s powerful piece is the Mig Fuzz Special Edition, another big box effects with a ton of options, great dirt tones and, of course, a vintage VU meter on board. Providing a modern sound using vintage parts, this unique creation really gets the musical creativity...

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Hard to believe it’s been SIX YEARS since we had the pleasure of a pedal from Retro Mechanical Labs grace our presence, but this one definitely made up for lost time. The 432k Rev2 Distortion builds on the original version of the 432k, adding in some modifications to improve tone and give you more sonic options to experiment with. Beauty and brawn are once again combined into a big, gorgeous enclosure, complete with the classic...

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Last fall, we reviewed an incredible fuzz pedal from Retro Mechanical Labs, the Electron Fuzz Custom, and it really rocked our faces. Recently, Johnathan at RML made a special, potentially one-off version of this pedal called the Mini, featuring a gorgeous wooden enclosure and a rare, vintage voltage meter. We knew we had to have it, and the result is one of the most beautiful pedals we’ve had the pleasure to lay our eyes on....

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Sometimes during this crazy pedal review hobby I have, I come across a pedal that is super-unique and unlike anything I’ve yet come across, and today’s review is for a pedal of just that nature. Retro Mechanical Labs are known for the crazy awesome fuzz and drive pedals they produce, but the Electron Fuzz Custom is an entirely different beast than most fuzzes I’ve heard to this point. Boasting numerous control knobs...

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Retro Mechanical Labs was first brought to my attention by a friend who asked me “Hey, have you seen that company making pedals that look like they’re off a WWII Russian submarine?” My interest was peaked from that moment on. I began researching their website, scouring the internet for deals, and seeking out demos immediately. Admittedly, it took some time to get my hands on one because I was nervous. I come from a punk background,...

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Retro Mechanical Labs in Portland, OR, are making some really cool pedals these days, and have been for a while, now. The Clean Overdrivr (that’s NOT a typo, by the way) is a smaller size pedal than they usually build, but it packs a punch and delivers the goods just the same. For those of you who don’t like too much fuss and muss with your effects, the Clean Overdrivr is right up your alley. Two settings: Clean and Drive....

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