Not for me. Many years ago I think I ordered a couple pedals sight unseen, just based on the description of the pedal function.
For those that have an issue with how a pedal looks, try looking at it with your ears
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
Do graphic designs play a part in your purchases?
- Thread starter HeavyMetalfx
- Start date
For those that have an issue with how a pedal looks, try looking at it with your ears
The more it looks like a piece of radio equipment from the 1930s - 1950s, it gets my attention.
I don't care what a stomp box looks like. I say that as a graphic designer.
As well as the labels are readable and explains well wht the knobs do, I tend to not care.
But this pedal graphics makes me want to buy it...
But this pedal graphics makes me want to buy it...
Passinwind
I know nothing.
- Dec 3, 2003
- 23,038
- 45,869
- Disclosures
- Designer/Toaster Tech @ Passinwind Electronics
If I ever actually bought any pedals it certainly would. Anything cartoonish is immediately a no go, although they're fun to design for others and many many people seem to dig that general aesthetic.
Graphic design never plays a role in whether or not I buy the effect. So long as it produces the sounds I want and controls how I want it to control it goes on the "buy" list.
The way it looks is immaterial in my opinion.
The way it looks is immaterial in my opinion.
Yes. If the graphics are distracting, I pass. By default, I pass on images of human faces or body forms. Labeling of functions or controls with low visual contrast and/or obstruction by decorative graphics is grounds for rejection, unless that's the only way to have the functionality in pedal form (ref. Chase Bliss MOOD MKII and Habit, for example).
Jazzdogg
Less barking, more wagging!
I look for pedal designs that are easy to see and adjust at a glance on a dark stage. To my old eyes, a lot of pedal art looks juvenile.
Some of the greatest makers also have great aesthetic. It can tip the scale. If you’re honest, there aren’t a lot of “new” circuit designs in pedals.
i'm in the "no" group. i don't have a lot of pedals in the first place, but if they don't deliver = what they look like doesn't matter. also, i've got 'old eyes', so intelligibility rates pretty highly for me.
To an extent..;
the more colourful, silly, 'funny' handpainted etc the image is, the less likely I am to look into it further.
Exceptions apply.
the more colourful, silly, 'funny' handpainted etc the image is, the less likely I am to look into it further.
Exceptions apply.
I build more pedals than I buy, and while I like each pedal to have its own aesthetic,
I definitely lean toward the "clear and utilitarian" vibe:
I was mildly annoyed that the top row of control labels were partially obscured by the "skirt" on the knobs, but it was the first pedal I labeled with my laser engraver, and I was struggling with the software.
I definitely lean toward the "clear and utilitarian" vibe:
I was mildly annoyed that the top row of control labels were partially obscured by the "skirt" on the knobs, but it was the first pedal I labeled with my laser engraver, and I was struggling with the software.
Attachments
I have a couple pedals and don't have much need for more. That said, I would never choose to purchase a pedal based on the graphic design or name, but I would absolutely choose to NOT purchase a pedal based on the graphic design or name.
I’ll confess I tend to be a little skeptical of pedals with overly artsy paint jobs. Mainly because I’ve discovered that there’s a number of frankly useless pedals out there whose sole redeeming feature is their paint job. Although, to be fair, there are a few otherwise superb pedals I really like whose appearance (IMO) leaves a lot to be desired - the Photon Death Ray being one example.
Last edited:
I like the look of old school pedals. I don't mind creatively painted or stylized pedals, but I don't like it when the names of the controls don't make any sense. Like there's probably a pedal called the hot dog that has controls that say 'mustard', 'catsup', and 'relish', but it probably just means drive and tone or something. I know most people could get used to it, but I don't think I want to turn up the relish. I would like my knobs to say what they mean.
Sound is most important although cool artwork is a plus but like others have stated not at the cost of easily reading the controls. With that said I have 3 pedals with very expressive artwork none of the 3's artwork gets in the way of easy use.
