EBS valve drive VS Blackstar Dual HT

[pattyløve]

So I'm in the market for an 'always-on' pedal to warm up my sound and give me the slight, natural over drive of a tube amp. My forum search has brought me to these two pedals. Essentially what I'm after is adding warmth and an organic, vintage-y kind of character to the dry tone. Slight overdrive and breakup but im not overly interested in dirty, in-your-face sounds.


Although I do own (and have access to) a few tube amps, sometimes on tour the band needs to limit the gear we put on the plane/van. In that case, i usually bring an SS or play what is provided at the venue
I'd like to know people's opinions on these pedals for that use. The search feature has only gotten me so far. And also, maybe any other suggestions? I know I dont really like the tech 21 (BDDI, VT) for this kind of stuff.

 

[DirtyDuke]

I have no experience with the pedals above but can attest to how good the real tubes blue tube is. Put a 12ax7r in it and your all set.

 

[mantaraya]

I have tried the HT and its certainly one of the best Distortions i've heard ( for guitar) The EBS i havent heard of.

 

[AgressivePassiv]

Never owned the HT but I can speak for the VD. I used mine as an always on pedal on front of an Eden Wt550 for years. The eq on the valve drive makes it much more useful than most overdrives.

Another great option for what you are looking for is the Way Huge Pork Loin.

 

[Richard Walters]

I really like the EBS Valve Drive. It's worth the price IMO.

 

[pattyløve]

Seems like a few fans of the EBS valve drive! Thanks! Any more opinions out there that can vouch for it? Or maybe the Blackstar?

 

[SpottedBass]

I'm really digging the Dark Glass Vintage Microtubes. Everything from warming up a clean signal to full bore tube saturation is pretty much spot on.

 

[tink9975]

I seriously considered getting the blackstar after listening to Opeth's album "Heritage". The bassist used the Blackstar Dual HT for OD. Check out "The Lines in My Hands" for an example of the heavier side of that pedal. (assuming you arent familiar with it)

 

[pattyløve]

i thought it was about time i bumped this.. haha! The heritage samples i found sound awesome! Loving all the insight so far.

Any more opinions on an always-on tube OD?