Hudson Electronics Broadcast Discrete Class-A Germanium Pre-Amplifier Effect Pedal Hudson Electronics

Hailing from the UK, the Hudson Electronics Broadcast is something of a unique example of a preamp pedal. Where other preamp pedals may be designed to dial in on familiar boosts or overdrives, the Broadcast is designed to capture sounds of vintage broadcast and recording consoles.

The Broadcast’s setup and sounds do not follow a traditional preamp path, making it all the more exciting to play. Like other preamp pedals, the Broadcast keys into making your guitar and amplifier sound their best. Where the Broadcast differs is in its execution and operation. The lone-footswitch Broadcast features two gain modes, identical in configuration to its double-footswitch sibling, only with a toggle switch replacing the high gain footswitch. A Low Cut control will roll off low end as it is turned up while the Gain Trim will increase output and gradually breakup the signal.

What results from this unorthodox preamp formula is a one-of-a-kind mix of sounds ranging from clean boosts to chunky, organic fuzzes. The Broadcast has a tone all its own reminiscent of germanium-infused boosts and level-peaking recording console breakup. This specific sound spectrum may be slightly familiar to ’60s blues and rock fans, but it is ultimately a tone only such a unique design can produce. Single-coils and humbuckers both gain a considerable amount of character for crisp, boosted cleans and thick, bluesy breakups. Rolling between Low Cut and Gain Trim controls can create interactions and tonal nuances unlike any other pedal.

For those looking for a preamp experience that is fresh, familiar, laidback, and lively, the Broadcast is a ticket in.