Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $237
High-end/Boutique
$50
$176+
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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
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What kind of tones can I expect from the Hudson Electronics Sidecar pedal?
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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.
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Does the Hudson Sidecar work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?
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Yes, the Hudson Sidecar is designed to complement both single-coil and humbucker pickups, offering clarity and punch regardless of the pickup type.
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What power supply does the Hudson Electronics Sidecar require?
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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.
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Is the Hudson Sidecar suitable for live performances?
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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.
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How does the Hudson Sidecar's EQ section enhance its sound?
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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.
Videos
Living Room GD
Hudson Electronics Sidecar (demo)
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
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The Hudson Sidecar incorporates an EQ modeled after a Studer recording console, offering a unique tonal versatility compared to standard Tube Screamer clones.
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The Sidecar excels across all gain levels and performs particularly well when powered at 12v, enhancing its dynamic range and tonal clarity.
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Comparisons
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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.
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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.
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User experience
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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.
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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.
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Use cases and applications
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The Sidecar is noted for producing thick, woolly low-end tones suitable for singing lead parts, while still hinting at its Tube Screamer origins.
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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.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
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.
According to Premier Guitar's 2021 interview, Broemel uses Hudson Sidecar.
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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