Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (1)
$179.99
Amazon
5.0 (4)
$179.99
Reverb
$179.00 New
$110.00 Used

Average Price: $165

High-end/Boutique

$60

$151+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp / Bias". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of vintage tone with the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp/Bias pedal. This compact marvel captures the essence of the legendary Maestro EP-3 Echoplex preamp, a staple in countless iconic guitar tracks. By distilling the classic circuit into a modern, stage-ready stompbox, Catalinbread offers guitarists a versatile tool for enhancing their sound with that sought-after touch of grit and character.

The Epoch Bias is designed for players who appreciate the nuances of analog tone. The Bias control allows you to delve into the tonal flexibility of vintage Echoplex units, adjusting the gain and body to complement your guitar's natural sound. Whether you're after a subtle punch or a sparkling chime, this control interacts seamlessly with your pickups and amp to deliver the perfect tonal enhancement.

For those dealing with overly bright amps or pickups, the innovative Filter control is your new best friend. Modeled after the high-end responses of early and late Echoplex models, this knob lets you sculpt your sound by rolling off harsh treble or adding a shimmering top end. Together, the Bias and Filter controls provide you with a powerful toolkit to recreate the lush, dynamic tones that defined rock history.

Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp/Bias pedal is your passport to the golden age of guitar sound.

Key Features:

  • Simulates the iconic Maestro EP-3 Echoplex preamp tones
  • Bias control for adjusting gain and body
  • Filter control to tame or enhance treble frequencies
  • Compact, stage-ready design perfect for live performances

Product specs

Pedal Type Boost
Analog/Digital Analog
Controls Preamp, Bias, Boost, Filter
Number of Footswitch Buttons 1
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Bias control on the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp?

The Bias control simulates the sound of out-of-spec parts from the original EP-3 preamp, allowing you to achieve unique and vintage tonal variations by adjusting the internal voltage of the pedal.

Does the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp work well with both clean and overdriven amps?

Yes, the Epoch Bias Preamp is designed to enhance your tone whether you're playing through a clean or overdriven amp, providing a boost and tonal shaping that complements both settings.

How does the Filter control on the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp affect the sound?

The Filter control allows you to tailor the treble cut to your specific rig, providing flexibility in shaping the high-end frequencies to match your desired sound profile.

Can the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp be powered by a battery?

No, the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp requires a 9V DC power supply and does not have a battery compartment.

Is the Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its robust build and versatile controls, the Epoch Bias Preamp is well-suited for live performances, offering reliable performance and easy integration into your pedalboard.

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Catalinbread: EPOCH BIAS Preamp / Bias

Video thumbnail for Catalinbread: EPOCH BIAS Preamp / Bias by Brett Kingman

Catalinbread: EPOCH BIAS Preamp / Bias

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Catalinbread EPOCH BIAS Preamp & Boost Demo // Warm Boost With Perfect Tweakability by Philip Czarnecki

Catalinbread EPOCH BIAS Preamp & Boost Demo // Warm Boost With Perfect Tweakability

Philip Czarnecki

Philip Czarnecki

Video thumbnail for Catalinbread Epoch Bias // Guitar Preamp Pedal by Demos In The Dark

Catalinbread Epoch Bias // Guitar Preamp Pedal

Demos In The Dark

Demos In The Dark

Video thumbnail for BOOST Pedal ShootOut 1/2 // Clean Tones // Tilt Boost, ZIO, Epoch Bias, SuperConductor, Boomster... by Philip Czarnecki

BOOST Pedal ShootOut 1/2 // Clean Tones // Tilt Boost, ZIO, Epoch Bias, SuperConductor, Boomster...

Philip Czarnecki

Philip Czarnecki

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Catalinbread Epoch Bias Preamp / Bias.

Use cases and applications

  • The Epoch Bias can be effectively used at the beginning of a chain as a buffer or at the end as a solo boost.

    Source
  • The Epoch Bias is noted for acting as a "glue" at the end of the chain, inspired by Ed O'Brien's setup, adding cohesiveness to the overall sound.

    Source
  • The Belle Epoch Deluxe's Echo Delay knob can be adjusted for more control over oscillation, enhancing ambient soundscapes.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Epoch Bias offers more tone sculpting options with its filter and bias controls compared to the simpler toggle switch on the Secret Preamp.

    Source
  • The Epoch Bias, with its bias control, offers a unique tonal sweetening effect, ideal for users seeking rich, cohesive end-of-chain sound integration.

    Source
  • The Belle Epoch Deluxe (BED) features a trails mode that keeps the preamp on continuously and an oscillation button for ambient sound control.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have experimented with using both the Epoch Bias and Secret Preamp simultaneously for enhanced tonal flexibility and as a consistent tone enhancer.

    Source
  • An owner prefers the Belle Epoch Deluxe over the standard version and the UAFX Starlight for its superior preamp quality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Both the Epoch Bias and Chase Tone Secret Preamp are praised for their versatility, but the Epoch Bias provides more intricate control for those interested in detailed tone shaping.

    Source
  • The Boss Booster/Pre-amp BP-1w Waza is used as a "clean boost" and praised for its subtle tone enhancement, contrasting with the Epoch Bias's more detailed tonal control.

    Source
  • The Belle Epoch's internal trimpot allows users to adjust preamp gain into fuzz territory, unlike the Orion's preamp capabilities.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used Belle Epoch Deluxe with tap tempo was purchased for $225, offering good value for its features.

    Source

Critic Reviews

“We thought of a couple extra variables you could use to craft your perfect EP-3 experience”: Catalinbread adds the versatile Epoch Bias preamp pedal to its Echoplex-inspired lineup | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Catalinbread's Epoch Bias is a hit for tone purists seeking the legendary EP-3 preamp sound. With its Bias and Filter controls, it offers nuanced tone customization, allowing guitarists to emulate vintage unit variances or tailor the sound to their rig. The Preamp and Boost controls provide classic tone-shaping, making it stand out in Catalinbread’s EP-3 inspired lineup. While it may not cater to those seeking modern distortion, its focus on mastering and always-on enhancement shines. At a competitive price, it’s a compelling choice for those chasing that vintage tone sweetener.

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