Hobbies And Interests
The TS-808 And TS-9
These two model "Tube Screamer" pedals are highly desirable by guitar and bass players to overdrive their amplifiers, producing a natural-sounding distortion that is milder and smoother than similar effects pedals from other manufacturers. Stevie Ray Vaughan and "The Edge" for U2 used these models to create their identifiable sounds. Guitarists, especially those playing rock and blues genres, seek the harmonic tube-like overtones produced by the Tube Screamer boxes.
Differences within the TS-808 Series
There are differences not only between the TS-808 and the TS-9, but also within each series. The original TS-808, introduced in the late 1970s, used a JRC4548 integrated circuit "chip" as its key active component. Around 1979, some TS-808s were manufactured for foreign markets, and these versions had narrower cases. In addition, the circuitry was changed to use two 1458 chips instead of one, which gave the Screamer a thicker distortion. There were some versions made with the Malaysian RC4558P chip, which yielded a "rougher" sound. The "Level" knob was re-labeled "Balance" and the external 9-volt power jack was moved next to the instrument "Input" jack. These power jacks were flush with the case, unlike most of the original models which had a nut that secured the jack.
Differences within the TS-9 Series
Between 1982 and 1985, the TS-808 was changed to the TS-9, as Ibanez repackaged their pedals. Some of the TS-9s manufactured after its initial introduction had a change in the chip, and in the opinion of some, the sound of these units was inferior. By 1985, the TS-9 had become a discontinued item. The next Tube Screamer in the evolutionary series was the TS-10, which had major circuit changes, and this model was followed by the TS-5. In the ever-changing world of electronic musical accessories, the TS-9 was reissued in 1993. Internal changes were made several times over the next 10 years, until it was replaced with the reissuing of the original TS-808 in 2004.
Differences Between the TS-808 and TS-9
Both the original TS-808 and the current reissued models have small square chrome foot switch buttons to cut the effect in and out. On the TS-9, this switch takes up a good part of the front face, making it easy to hit with your foot. Circuit changes generally make the TS-9 sound more "gritty" than the TS-808, which has a milder effect. Guitarists can detect the subtle differences between the models. Each musician, by experimentation, works with instruments and effects to achieve his personal signature sound.