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Description

Dive into the legendary soundscape of Queen's iconic guitarist with the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal. This multi-effects pedal is a tribute to the inimitable tones of Brian May, capturing his unique sonic signature with precision. Developed with insights from May and legendary producer Eddie Kramer, this pedal uses DigiTech's cutting-edge Production Modeling technology to bring seven of Brian's distinctive tones to your fingertips.

Designed for the discerning guitarist, the pedal recreates both the studio and live sounds that have made May's playing so iconic. Whether you're channeling the anthemic power of "We Will Rock You" or the intricate harmonies of "Bohemian Rhapsody," this pedal offers a faithful reproduction of May's tones, complete with meticulously emulated amp sounds and effects.

With the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal, you not only get access to these classic sounds but also a powerful tool to craft your own unique voice. Each preset can serve as a springboard for your creativity, allowing you to blend May's signature tones with your personal style. This pedal is your gateway to exploring the rich tapestry of Queen's music, from soaring solos to harmonious orchestral arrangements.

Key Features:

  • Seven authentic Brian May signature tones
  • Developed with Brian May and Eddie Kramer
  • DigiTech's Production Modeling technology for ultra-realistic emulations
  • Emulates both studio and live sounds, including effects and processing
  • Reproduces amp tones, effects, and studio magic

Product specs

Brand DigiTech
Model Brian May Red Special
Finish Red
Year 2000s
Made In United States
Categories Multi-Effects Pedals and Processors

FAQs

What effects are included in the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal?

The DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal includes effects designed to replicate Brian May's iconic guitar tones, such as treble boost, chorus, delay, and phaser, allowing users to emulate his signature sound.

Is the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal suitable for live performances?

Yes, the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal is designed for both live performances and studio use, providing versatile effects that capture the essence of Brian May's sound.

How does the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal emulate Brian May's tone?

The pedal uses advanced modeling technology to replicate the unique sound characteristics of Brian May's guitar setup, including his famous Vox AC30 amplifier and treble booster.

Can the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal be used with any amplifier?

Yes, the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal is compatible with most amplifiers, allowing guitarists to achieve Brian May's tones regardless of their current setup.

Does the DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal require a specific power supply?

The DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal typically requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for most guitar pedals.

blondegraemey

blondegraemey

Brian May Red Special Pedal by Digitech

Video thumbnail for Brian May Red Special Pedal by Digitech by blondegraemey

Brian May Red Special Pedal by Digitech

blondegraemey

blondegraemey

Video thumbnail for DIGITECH BRIAN MAY PEDAL TEST - Red special Carpinteri cquadro by Frank Campese

DIGITECH BRIAN MAY PEDAL TEST - Red special Carpinteri cquadro

Frank Campese

Frank Campese

Video thumbnail for Digitech Red Special Pedal(BRIAN MAY【QUEEN】 Signature model) by 加納洋志(加納 洋志)

Digitech Red Special Pedal(BRIAN MAY【QUEEN】 Signature model)

加納洋志(加納 洋志)

加納洋志(加納 洋志)

Video thumbnail for DIGITECH BRIAN MAY RED SPECIAL by The Pedal Picassos

DIGITECH BRIAN MAY RED SPECIAL

The Pedal Picassos

The Pedal Picassos

Video thumbnail for 【DigiTech BRIAN MAY RED SPECIAL PEDAL】7つのBRIAN MAYサウンドが出せるシグネイチャー・ペダル by Kz Guitar Works

【DigiTech BRIAN MAY RED SPECIAL PEDAL】7つのBRIAN MAYサウンドが出せるシグネイチャー・ペダル

Kz Guitar Works

Kz Guitar Works

Video thumbnail for DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal Video, Summer NAMM 2006 by gearwire

DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal Video, Summer NAMM 2006

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal USA by TC Music Enterprise

DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal USA

TC Music Enterprise

TC Music Enterprise

Reviews

PROS

  • Authentic Brian May tones, great for Queen fans

  • Adjustable presets allow for custom sound tweaking

  • Works well with a variety of guitars and amps

  • Includes iconic effects like Brighton Rock's echo

  • Can be integrated with Digital Audio Workstations

  • High-quality build and durable design

CONS

  • Becoming rare, may be difficult to find

  • Prices are increasing due to its rarity

  • Service and usability might need improvement for some

  • Requires additional purchase (e.g., DigiTech FS3X Footswitch) for optimal functionality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal.

Features and functionality

  • The third knob allows switching between single coil, Red Special, and humbucker settings, providing tonal flexibility across different guitar types.

    Source
  • The pedal may show an orange indicator instead of green during calibration, which could be misleading but doesn't necessarily impede successful calibration.

    Source
  • Some users experience issues where the pedal powers on only in heel mode, possibly requiring an external foot switch for full functionality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Achieving Brian May's tone traditionally requires a Red Special guitar into a Dallas Rangemaster and a Vox AC30, highlighting the pedal's convenience.

    Source

User experience

  • One user detailed their experience with overwinding pickups in pursuit of tones similar to those in "Father to Son," emphasizing the pedal's utility in replicating such sounds.

    Source
  • Some users reported that using a correct 9V AC adapter resolved functionality issues, highlighting the importance of matching power specifications precisely.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The pedal is particularly valuable for those without access to rare gear like the Deacy amp or original Tri-Sonic pickups.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Incorrect power supply, especially using a DC instead of a required AC adapter, can prevent the pedal from functioning, risking damage if polarity and amperage are wrong.

    Source
  • Calibration involves specific indicator color changes; deviations from the manual can occur but may still result in proper setup.

    Source
  • A dim red light with no sound may indicate internal damage, particularly if recalibration fails to resolve the issue, suggesting potential electronic failure.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The pedal's rarity has led to significant price increases, now fetching up to $600, making repair attempts potentially worthwhile despite the cost.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Using a 9VAC power supply is crucial, as standard 9VDC adapters commonly used for pedals are incompatible and may cause malfunctions.

    Source

Critic Reviews

DigiTech Brian May Red Special review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The DigiTech Brian May Red Special Pedal delivers astonishingly authentic Queen tones, making it a dream for fans of May's guitar sound. The pedal's versatility is enhanced by model options that let players fine-tune their instruments to mimic May's iconic Red Special. While the pedal is exceptional for Queen covers, its limited appeal beyond that may deter some buyers. Nonetheless, for those who revel in Queen's music, this pedal offers an unmatched experience, with even Brian May considering its use on stage—a high accolade indeed.

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R

Handy pedal with various options to imitate the sound of Brian May.

Handy pedal with various options to imitate the sound of Brian May. There is a button for different songs from Queen. Such as the echo effect of Brighton Rock. Also good to use with a Digital Audio Workstation. The service does require some attention.

jos_de_vries

Handy pedal with various options to imitate the sound of Brian May.

Handy pedal with various options to imitate the sound of Brian May. There is a button for different songs from Queen. Such as the echo effect of Brighton Rock. Also good to use with a Digital Audio Workstation. The service does require some attention.

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