The
Freeloader is a "variable-impedance"
pickup "load" controller and discrete transistor
"emitter-follower" buffer line-driver device. Got
it?
OK, maybe this will help... the Freeloader
does two main things. First off, the
Freeloader is a variable "load" control
for your steel guitar pickup. What this means is that it
tailors the tonal response of your pickup. It's not a
typical "tone control". Every magnetic guitar pickup has
what's called a resonant peak in the treble range. With a
high value "load" (high impedance) this resonant peak can
be very tall and sharp sounding. With a low value "load"
this resonant peak can be made flatter giving a
warmer, mellower tone from the pickup. With the
range of the knob, you can dial in either extreme or
anything in between. Every pickup has it's zone, and the
FreeLoader lets you find it. Also
different songs may call for different settings as well, so
the knob can become very handy during a
performance.
The other thing that the Freeloader does
is lower the output impedance of your signal using a 9-volt
powered, very pure and minimal "discrete transistor" audio
circuit to preserve your tone and drive the signal on thru
other devices on to your amplifier. We use "boutique"
quality internal components, a thick trace, double
sided circuit board, and a powdercoated aluminum chassis
for a reliable and high quality product that will serve you
well for many years. Entirely built by hand in St. Louis,
MO, USA.
An attached leg clip allows the Freeloader
to easily snap on and off your right/rear steel guitar leg.
This position makes it easy to see and reach while playing.
A high quality 9V alkaline battery should last over 300
hours in the Freeloader. You simply plug
in your guitar to the top input jack of the Freeloader, and
then the bottom jack continues on to your volume pedal or
whatever device typically follows in your particular
setup.
This is essentially a transistorized variation on our
vacuum tube driven "Steel Guitar Black Box", and is
designed for those who prefer something more compact,
lightweight, and affordable.
Click
here
for pricing and order
information. Introductory price of $135, plus shipping
& handling (and PayPal fees, if
applicable).