The Acute ModestScream is our take on the classic green overdrive. Added to the original circuit are four of the most popular circuit modifications (“mods”) including switchable diode combinations, switchable frequency response ranges (a.k.a. “FAT” mod), switchable opamps, and a clean blend. All of the mods can be applied on demand while powered on and plugged in with no pops or other noise. No need to take the effect apart or fire up the solder iron to change parts over and over again. No need to have your effect modified by someone else. No need to keep buying yet another variation of the same circuit only to find out you do not like that version.

With 18 different different diode combinations, four different frequency response ranges, four different opamps, and the clean blend control the Acute ModestScream can create 576 different variations in one unit. Now you can try the most popular mods and decide for yourself what specific mods you like. If your overdrive tastes ever change you can simply adjust the mods instead of buying a new overdrive.

Continuing the tradition the Acute ModestScream uses a touch interface which only responds to skin contact. There is no worry that settings will be changed by mishandling either in transit or in performance. There are no knobs to break off or difficulties seeing settings on stage. The large bypass control plate should be able to take just about any abuse one can throw at it and not wear out.

By using solid state controls you do not have to worry about controls getting old, dirty, or scratchy eventually needing replacement. The display gives a clear numerical value of the parameters which you can record in your own records knowing you can come back to that sound anytime you want. Something you cannot do using the “o’clock” style of parameter value recording which because of it’s inaccurate nature may cause you to lose that magic sound.

The Acute ModestScream will remember the last setting even when powered off. Upon power on the previous setting will be restored.

Features:

• 18 Switchable Clipping Diode combinations

• Four switchable cutoff frequency ranges (a.k.a. FAT mod)

• Four switchable opamps (RC4558D, TL072, NE5532, TLC2272)

• Adjustable Clean blend

• Extended Drive range (increased both minimum and maximum gain ranges)

• Touch interface

• Current settings are saved and loaded on power up

• Solid state parameter control

• Large high impact resistant control plate for bypass

• True bypass with LED indicator and automatic bypass on power failure

• Clear and bright display

• High quality components

• Durable construction

• 9V DC (any polarity) input power

Touch Interface

Unlike traditional effects which use mechanical parts to adjust parameters the controls have been replaced with a touch interface. The reasons for using the touch interface are:

• No moving parts so it will not wear out

• No hardware to break like knobs, shafts, switches, etc.

• The interface will only respond to skin contact preventing unintentional adjustments from other sources (i.e. foot slips, transit vibration, etc.)

• Low profile so as to not catch on any stray items like cables, shoe laces, pants, etc.

Solid State Control

By replacing mechanical controls that adjust the effect parameters with solid state technology many advantages can be achieved. The controls should not degrade over time. They will not get noisy, dirty, or easily damaged. They should not need replacing over the life span of the effect.

The parameter value reproduction accuracy is much improved by replacing the approximate “o’clock” style settings with clear numerical values. These values will not change or float over time. Favourite settings can be recorded either in one’s personal records, for example in a notebook or spreadsheet. When the sound is needed it can easily be dialed back in. No more loosing that special setting.

Bypass

The Acute ModestScream is true bypass. The Acute ModestScream will remember the last state it was in before being powered off. When powered back on the Acute ModestScream will return to that state. If a power failure occurs the Acute ModestScream will automatically go into bypass and continue to pass signal without the need of power.

Construction

The Acute ModestScream is constructed with high quality parts. All finishes and hardware have been selected for durability. The display is clearly visible in dark and well lit environments. Controls are easily accessible and simple to use.

Power Input

The power input system allows the Acute ModestScream to accept DC of either polarity input power of 9V at 50mA or more making the Acute ModestScream flexible for various hardware power supply configurations such as those found on pedal board power supplies. The Acute ModestScream is ships with a low profile single slot light weight power supply.