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Average Price: $170
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$50
$176+
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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Catalinbread Formula No. 55". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the legendary tones of a classic Fender tweed 5E3 Deluxe with the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 Overdrive Pedal. Designed for guitarists who crave the rich, nuanced sound of vintage tube amps without the bulk, this pedal brings the iconic all-discrete JFET-based signal path to your pedalboard. From the warmth of jazzy woodiness to the assertive bite of a barking overdrive, the Formula No. 55 offers a dynamic range that is as versatile as it is expressive.
Whether you’re chasing the authentic vintage tweed sound or seeking a more modern, gain-rich tone, the Formula No. 55 delivers. Its intuitive controls emulate the original tweed amp circuitry, with a front-and-center Hi/Lo switch allowing you to toggle between classic, cleaner tones and the thrilling drive of higher-gain tubes. The pedal’s low output impedance ensures that your amp receives a powerful, punchy signal, maintaining clarity and detail across your performance.
Perfect for studio sessions or live gigs, this pedal is more than just a sound-shaping tool—it's a gateway to a world of tonal possibilities. Crafted with an all-metal chassis and distinctive graphics, the Formula No. 55 is built to endure the rigors of the road while looking sharp on any stage. Elevate your sound with Catalinbread's commitment to innovation and quality, and transform your amp into a wide-ranging tweed monster.
Key Features:
- Emulates the preamp section of the classic Fender tweed 5E3 Deluxe
- All-discrete JFET-based signal path for authentic vintage response
- Hi/Lo switch for varied tonal options
- Presence, Tone, Master, and Volume controls for precise sound shaping
- Operates with a 9V battery or 9V-18V DC power supply (not included)
- Durable all-metal chassis with unique tube graphics
- Made in the USA
Product specs
| Pedal Type | Overdrive |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| True Bypass | Yes |
| Power Source | 9-18V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Batteries | 1 x 9V |
| Power Usage | 5mA |
| Height | 1.87" |
| Width | 2.37" |
| Depth | 4.37" |
| Weight | 0.48 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of overdrive tone does the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 provide?
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The Catalinbread Formula No. 55 delivers a classic Fender™ tweed 5E3 Deluxe-style overdrive tone, known for its warm, dynamic, and responsive sound, ideal for blues and classic rock genres.
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Is the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 pedal suitable for use with both guitar and bass?
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Yes, the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 can be used with both guitar and bass, providing a vintage overdrive tone that complements both instruments.
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Does the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 require a specific power supply?
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The Catalinbread Formula No. 55 requires a 9-18V DC power supply, which is sold separately, and it can also run on a 9V battery.
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Does the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 have true bypass switching?
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Yes, the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 features true bypass switching, ensuring that your signal remains uncolored when the pedal is not in use.
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How does the Catalinbread Formula No. 55 differ from other overdrive pedals?
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The Catalinbread Formula No. 55 uniquely emulates the preamp section of the Fender™ tweed 5E3 Deluxe, offering authentic vintage tweed amp characteristics in a compact pedal format.
Videos
ProGuitarShopDemos
Catalinbread Formula No. 55 Overdrive
Reviews
PROS
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Emulates grit and grind of vintage amps at reasonable volumes
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Offers muscular, musical depth with sweet sound quality
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Highly responsive with a wide range of overdrive tones
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Transparent clean to perforated-speaker honk achievable
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Presence and Tone controls allow for nuanced sound shaping
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Hi-Lo switch provides two distinct drive types
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Guitar volume knob effectively controls drive level
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Impressive build quality and tone variety in a small enclosure
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Apt for both live boost/always-on use and studio versatility
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Exceptional value for under $150
CONS
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Presence knob may require experimentation for optimal use
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Catalinbread Formula No. 55.
Features and functionality
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The Catalinbread Formula No. 55 responds well to volume knob adjustments, allowing a diverse range of tones from clean to heavily distorted.
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The pedal can effectively emulate live Jimmy Page tones, making it not just a Neil Young-centric device.
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The pedal is versatile enough to be used as a foundation pedal at the end of the signal chain, suggesting its adaptability in various setups.
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Setup and maintenance
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Running the pedal at 12v or 18v improves headroom and overall sound quality, offering a more open tone compared to standard 9v operation.
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Use cases and applications
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Ideal for achieving Neil Young's "exploding amp" sound, particularly effective in the lo mode for classic tweed tones.
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The pedal can transform a blackface Deluxe into a tweed Deluxe, appealing for players seeking that specific drive sound.
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When used as a main dirt pedal with the volume cranked, it completes a setup with cleanish boosts and offers a strong, gritty tone.
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Ideal for pairing with Supro 1606 and Strymon Flint for a unique sound setup.
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Effective when paired with a cab sim for direct recording, showcasing versatility beyond traditional amp setups.
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Comparisons
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The Benson preamp and EAE Halberd are noted for similar saggy, tweed-like characteristics, though with less gain compared to the Formula No. 55.
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Owners who enjoy the Formula No. 55 also find success with Wampler Plexi Drive, BD2, and EP Booster, suggesting similar sonic preferences.
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The Formula No. 55 is preferred over the JHS Twin Twelve for its ability to clean up while retaining drive characteristics.
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User experience
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Some users find the hi mode excessively gainy, preferring the lo mode for its saggy, loose feel and better handling of high gain settings.
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Users find the pedal nails high frequencies without the harshness often associated with other overdrives, avoiding the "box of bees" effect.
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Owners appreciate Catalinbread's ability to accurately emulate classic amps, enhancing their reputation as a go-to brand for "amp in a box" solutions.
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4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
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Community setups
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