In the ever-evolving world of guitar effects pedals, there are a few names that have stood the test of time. Ross Effects, known for their iconic compressors and versatile sound-shaping pedals, are among those legendary brands. So, when JHS Pedals, a company renowned for their commitment to quality and innovation, decided to re-release the beloved Ross pedals, the guitar community was abuzz with excitement.
The Legacy of Ross Pedals
Ross Effects, founded by Bud Ross in the 1970s, gained a reputation for producing high-quality, utilitarian pedals that became integral parts of many legendary guitarists' setups. The most notable of their offerings was the Compressor, which became a staple in studio and live environments for its ability to even out dynamics and add sustain without sacrificing the natural tone of the instrument. The Equalizer and Distortion/Phaser pedals also found their way onto numerous pedalboards, contributing to a distinctive sonic character that was unmistakably Ross.
JHS Pedals: Bridging the Gap Between Past and Present
JHS Pedalss, a modern force in the boutique pedal market, has made a name for themselves by producing innovative and meticulously crafted effects pedals. With a deep appreciation for the history of guitar effects, JHS has taken on the task of re-imagining classic circuits for contemporary players while preserving the essence of what made those circuits so special.
By deciding to re-release the Ross pedals, JHS Pedals is not only paying homage to the legacy of these iconic circuits but also introducing them to a new generation of guitarists who might not have had the chance to experience their magic the first time around. It's a testament to the enduring value of these designs that they can captivate the attention of players decades after their initial release.
The Significance for Musicians
For seasoned musicians who grew up using the original Ross pedals, the re-release offers a chance to recapture the magic of their youth. It's an opportunity to add a touch of nostalgia to their current setups while benefiting from the reliability and craftsmanship that JHS Pedals is known for. The new release of pedals look like the original Ross pedals you know, but with some modern appointments like top mounted jacks, which allow you to place multiple pedals right next to each other - Such a nice touch.
JHS also adds a new Ross pedal to the lineup in the Ross Fuzz, which is a tribute to that transistorized distortion effect found in some Kustom amps of the 70's. Kustom was of course also started by Bud Ross and was a huge success before selling it off an started another amp company. Eventually Bud would go on to start Ross pedals.
Moreover, the re-release of Ross pedals brings with it a renewed appreciation for the simplicity and elegance of analog circuitry. In an age where digital modeling and complex multi-effects units dominate the market, the Ross pedals serve as a reminder that sometimes, all you need is a well-designed, responsive pedal to achieve your desired sound.
Preserving the Pedal Heritage
The re-release of Ross pedals by JHS is not just a business move; it's a commitment to preserving the rich heritage of guitar effects. It's a recognition that certain circuits have a timeless quality that transcends trends and fads. By making these pedals available once again, JHS Pedals is ensuring that the next generation of guitarists can appreciate and learn from the designs that have played a significant role in shaping the history of music.
What do you think?
While some are excited to be able to snap up a new version of one of these pedals with new components, others are a bit apprehensive about spending $189 on a still fairly large pedal (even with the top-mounted jacks) that only does one thing - and with only a couple knobs. Does the new fuzz pedal interest you? let us know in the comments below!