Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $135
Standard/Professional
$60
$151+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Catalinbread Epoch Boost". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the world of timeless tone enhancement with the Catalinbread Epoch Boost. This isn't just any boost pedal; it's a meticulous homage to the legendary Maestro Echoplex EP-3, revered by icons like Eddie Van Halen. The Epoch Boost captures the authentic preamp circuit of the EP-3, delivering that classic, pristine sound enhancement guitarists have coveted since the 1960s.
With its ability to transform your guitar's signal into a fuller, more dynamic version, the Epoch Boost acts like a mastering engineer for your tone. Whether you're using it to add a touch of vintage warmth or pushing it to achieve a 20dB clean boost, this pedal doesn't just enhance—it elevates. Catalinbread has also ingeniously integrated a switchable Hi-Z input buffer to prevent signal loss, ensuring your sound remains crystal clear, even over long cable runs.
Internally, the pedal takes your ordinary 9-volt power and supercharges it up to 22 volts, granting you unmatched headroom and clarity. This makes the Epoch Boost not only a superb preamp but also a versatile tool for maintaining the integrity of your sound across different setups. Whether you're a purist looking for that iconic EP-3 tone or a modern guitarist seeking a dynamic boost, the Catalinbread Epoch Boost is your gateway to sonic greatness.
Key Features:
- Faithful reproduction of the EP-3 preamp circuit
- Up to 20dB adjustable clean boost
- Switchable Hi-Z input buffer for long signal paths
- Internal voltage boost to 22 volts for increased headroom
- True bypass for unaltered signal when not in use
- 9V DC power input (power supply not included)
Product specs
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Bypass Switching | True Bypass, Switchable to Hi-Z Buffer |
| Power Source | 9V DC (18mA) center negative power supply (sold separately) |
| Power Usage | 2mA |
| Height | 1.93" |
| Width | 2.36" |
| Depth | 4.33" |
| Weight | 0.4 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of power supply does the Catalinbread Epoch Boost require?
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The Catalinbread Epoch Boost requires a 9V DC center negative power supply, with a power usage of 2mA. Note that the power supply is sold separately.
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Is the Catalinbread Epoch Boost suitable for both clean and overdriven tones?
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Yes, the Catalinbread Epoch Boost is designed to enhance both clean and overdriven tones, offering a warm, dynamic boost that can add clarity and presence to your sound.
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Does the Catalinbread Epoch Boost have true bypass switching?
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Yes, the Catalinbread Epoch Boost features true bypass switching, which can be switched to a Hi-Z buffer for different tonal options.
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Can the Catalinbread Epoch Boost be used with other effects pedals?
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Absolutely, the Catalinbread Epoch Boost can be used in conjunction with other effects pedals to enhance your overall sound, providing a versatile boost that integrates well into any pedalboard setup.
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How does the Catalinbread Epoch Boost compare to other boost pedals?
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The Catalinbread Epoch Boost is inspired by the preamp of the legendary EP-3 tape echo, offering a unique tonal enhancement with added warmth and clarity, setting it apart from standard boost pedals.
Videos
AndyDemos
Catalinbread Epoch Boost - Tape Echo Preamp
Reviews
PROS
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Reproduces magic preamp tone from classic units
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Offers versatile tones, enhancing the sound of different guitars and amps
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Boost feature provides clean, substantial volume increase
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Works well in effects loops and with other pedals
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Transforms thin, tinny tones into denser, fuller sounds
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Ideal for achieving iconic guitar heroes' sounds at low volumes
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Provides warmth and roundness to tone without drastically changing character
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Complements other pedals, especially delays, for richer sounds
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Significantly enhances both single coil and humbucker pickups
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Simplifies achieving professional-quality tone
CONS
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Initially darker tone might not suit all preferences
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Unique EQ control functionality might be confusing without the manual
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Can color sound significantly, which might not be desired for all setups
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Some may find it less effective with certain drive pedals like Tubescreamer
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Lacks a physical manual, leaving users to seek online for detailed usage instructions
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Catalinbread Epoch Boost.
Features and functionality
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The Epoch Boost offers adjustable preamp coloring, which enhances tone control and can tame harsh treble, especially effective with a Jazzmaster through an AC30.
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The pedal's EQ control isn't purely for volume; it peaks around 2:00-3:00, affecting tone fullness rather than continuing to increase loudness.
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Beyond 3:00 on the EQ dial, users note the sound becomes quieter and less full, indicating a need to find a personal sweet spot for optimal tone.
Source
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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It's likened to the EP booster but provides more control over preamp color and boost volume, catering to users who desire enhanced tonal flexibility.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
107
Outstanding tonal improvement
Helps dial in my overall tone dynamic response crisp clean sounds excellent dirty tones
Preferred Settings + Usage:
Variable settings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this June 2023 YouTube at 24:15 on the GigRig channel, Ed adds the Epoch Boost to the pedalboard he’s constructing with Dan.
Last month in Cleveland, I saw Mark Arm of Mudhoney using several new pedals, including three from Catalinbread, one of which was the Epoch Boost, along with an EarthQuaker Devices Life V3 and a new Super Fuzz.
At 22:37 in this Rig Rundown, Adrian Quesada's Epoch Boost from Catlinbread is seen on his pedalboard.
In the final slide of the Instagram post by Daniel Kim, the Catalinbread Epoch Boost pedal is visible, indicating that he has replaced the RC Booster V1 with this piece of equipment. This pedal can be used to either stack other drives or to slightly saturate the guitar sound. The post was shared by user @niellkim_, tagged with @kinggje_.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Catalinbread Epoch Boost, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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