For those ready to elevate their sound, the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker Overdrive Pedal in Blue Steel, a Sweetwater exclusive, is the ultimate tool for tonal exploration. Building on the simplicity of the original Speaker Cranker, this pedal expands your tonal palette with improved control features, offering both seasoned players and adventurous newcomers the ability to sculpt their sound like never before. Whether you're adding a touch of grit or pushing your amp into overdrive euphoria, the Special Cranker delivers with finesse.

The pedal’s standout feature is its diode selector switch, which lets you choose between the crisp, cutting power of silicon and the smoother, vintage warmth of germanium. This flexibility, paired with the More knob, which adjusts the transistor bias for varied saturation, ensures your sound remains dynamic and responsive. The Level control nearly doubles the output of the original model, while the Tone knob allows precise tweaking of treble frequencies, ensuring your sound cuts through any mix without harshness.

The Special Cranker is the perfect partner for those seeking an analog overdrive that enhances your natural tone without unwanted coloration. With true bypass and the innovative Flexi-Switch technology, you can seamlessly integrate this pedal into any setup, preserving your unique sound.

Key Features:

• Analog overdrive pedal that maintains your natural tone
• Level control for significant output adjustment
• More knob for versatile saturation from subtle to aggressive
• Tone control for precise treble management
• 2-position diode selector switch for silicon and germanium voicing
• True Bypass to preserve original tone
• Flexi-Switch for both momentary and latching operation

Product specs

FAQs

What kind of overdrive tones can I expect from the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker?

The EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker offers a range of overdrive tones from subtle grit to full-on distortion, thanks to its Germanium/Silicon switch. This allows for a more vintage, warm sound or a brighter, more modern distortion, making it versatile for various music genres.

How does the Germanium/Silicon switch affect the sound of the Special Cranker?

The Germanium/Silicon switch on the Special Cranker allows you to toggle between a warmer, smoother overdrive with the Germanium setting and a more aggressive, brighter tone with the Silicon setting, providing flexibility in shaping your sound.

Is the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker suitable for bass guitar?

While primarily designed for electric guitar, the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker can also be used with bass guitar, offering a range of overdrive tones that can enhance bass lines without losing low-end clarity.

Does the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker require a specific power supply?

The Special Cranker operates on a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It can safely handle voltages from 9 to 18 volts, allowing for some flexibility in power options.

Can the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker be used with other pedals?

Yes, the EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker features true bypass relay switching, ensuring it integrates seamlessly with other pedals in your effects chain without affecting your tone when bypassed.