Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $237

High-end/Boutique

$50

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Our take on the classic 808 circuit with the added versatility of a powerful two-band EQ which draws inspiration from a vintage Studer recording console. Packed with attitude and full of character, the Sidecar can cover classic overdrive and distortion as well as, at extreme settings, fuzz and boost.

The front end of the Sidecar is a modified version of the classic 808 overdrive, tuned for a bigger low-end, wider gain range and greater headroom. At the heart of the clipping section lies a NOS germanium transistor chosen for its ‘softer’ response characteristics, retaining your playing dynamics and feel. The powerful two-band Baxandall equaliser section follows the drive section and provides up to 15dB of cut and boost of the high and low bands, allowing you to sculpt your tone whilst remaining musical at all times.

Product specs

Brand Hudson Electronics
Model Sidecar
Finish Black
Year 2015 - 2025
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Overdrive and Boost Pedals
Color Family Black
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Hudson Electronics Sidecar pedal?

The Hudson Electronics Sidecar delivers a range of tones from clean boosts to aggressive overdrive. Its EQ section allows for precise adjustments, making it versatile for various genres like rock and blues.

Does the Hudson Sidecar work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Yes, the Hudson Sidecar is designed to complement both single-coil and humbucker pickups, offering clarity and punch regardless of the pickup type.

What power supply does the Hudson Electronics Sidecar require?

The Hudson Electronics Sidecar can be powered by a standard 9V power supply, but it also supports operation up to 24V for increased headroom and dynamic range.

Is the Hudson Sidecar suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Hudson Sidecar is well-suited for live performances, providing robust build quality and a dynamic range that cuts through in a band setting.

How does the Hudson Sidecar's EQ section enhance its sound?

The Hudson Sidecar features a flexible EQ section with treble and bass controls, allowing users to shape their sound precisely, from bright and cutting to warm and full-bodied tones.

Living Room GD

Living Room GD

Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo)

Video thumbnail for Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo) by Living Room GD

Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo)

Living Room GD

Living Room GD

Video thumbnail for Hudson Electronics Sidecar Overdrive by shnobel

Hudson Electronics Sidecar Overdrive

shnobel

shnobel

Video thumbnail for Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo) by Aaron Sternke

Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo)

Aaron Sternke

Aaron Sternke

Video thumbnail for Hudson SIDECAR Overdrive Pedal Demo with Corey Congilio by Music Villa

Hudson SIDECAR Overdrive Pedal Demo with Corey Congilio

Music Villa

Music Villa

Video thumbnail for Hudson Electronics Sidecar by Sam Vilo

Hudson Electronics Sidecar

Sam Vilo

Sam Vilo

Video thumbnail for Hudson Sidecar | Germanium Clipping Overdrive by Guitarsenal

Hudson Sidecar | Germanium Clipping Overdrive

Guitarsenal

Guitarsenal

Video thumbnail for Hudson Electronics' Sidecar - Demo and Full Play Through by Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Hudson Electronics' Sidecar - Demo and Full Play Through

Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Video thumbnail for Best Tubescreamer alternative? Hudson Electronics' Sidecar  - Short Demo. by Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Best Tubescreamer alternative? Hudson Electronics' Sidecar - Short Demo.

Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Sam Goffen Guitar - Gear Reviews and Lessons

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hudson Electronics Sidecar.

Features and functionality

  • The Hudson Sidecar incorporates an EQ modeled after a Studer recording console, offering a unique tonal versatility compared to standard Tube Screamer clones.

    Source
  • The Sidecar excels across all gain levels and performs particularly well when powered at 12v, enhancing its dynamic range and tonal clarity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Sidecar stands out with a smoother, crisper drive sound and a reduced mid-hump, unlike typical Tube Screamer circuits that can be too pronounced.

    Source
  • Despite concerns about overlap with KingTone Blues Power, users find the Sidecar provides distinct tones, lacking the glassy edge but offering its own unique low-end character.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report a refined fuzz-like sound when the drive is maxed, resembling a blend of JHS Colour Box characteristics with a Tube Screamer's mid-range.

    Source
  • Owners note the pedal's versatility in placement, performing strongly both at the beginning and end of a signal chain, particularly when paired with a Benson Preamp.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Sidecar is noted for producing thick, woolly low-end tones suitable for singing lead parts, while still hinting at its Tube Screamer origins.

    Source
  • In genres like post-rock, drone, and ambient, the Sidecar creates a rich, fuzzy distortion with exceptional sustain when stacked with pedals like Super Duper and Lightspeed.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Hudson Electronics Broadcast & Sidecar review

guitar.com

Hudson Electronics' Sidecar delivers a modern twist on the classic Tube Screamer formula, offering a versatile range from clean to fuzz with refined treble and dynamic response. Its Baxandall tone stack allows for precise tone shaping, making it a standout for both soloing and rhythm work. The meticulous craftsmanship and elegant design elevate its appeal, while its affordability surprises. Though it lacks a mid control, its tone versatility more than compensates. Overall, a top-tier overdrive pedal that impresses with clarity and build quality, making it a must-try for discerning guitarists.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dominic Fike uses Hudson Electronics Sidecar

Dominic Fike

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram story posted by Dominic Fike on July 23 during his "Don't Stare at The Sun" tour, his pedalboard can be seen equipped with the Hudson Electronics Sidecar. This indicates its use during live performances.

See how Kevin Skaff uses Hudson Electronics Sidecar

Kevin Skaff

Guitarist

A Day to Remember

...
Verified via YouTube

Kevin details how he recently bought the sidecar for his studio board

See how Carl Broemel uses Hudson Electronics Sidecar

Carl Broemel

Guitarist

My Morning Jacket

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

According to Premier Guitar's 2021 interview, Broemel uses Hudson Sidecar.

See how Jacob Bugden uses Hudson Electronics Sidecar

Jacob Bugden

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post from 2023, Jacob Bugden's pedalboard is visible, clearly showing the use of the Hudson Electrics Sidecar. This visual evidence, along with other live performance footage, confirms that Bugden employs the Sidecar both in studio recordings and live performances.

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 Hudson Electronics Sidecar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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