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Average Price: $164
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$50
$176+
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Description
Unleash the true potential of your guitar with the Ibanez Tube King TK999, a pedal that brings the warmth and authenticity of tube-driven overdrive to your rig. Originally crafted in Japan and later produced in the US, the Tube King has become a sought-after gem among guitarists who crave genuine tube tone. The 12AX7 tube at its core delivers a smooth, natural overdrive that faithfully responds to your playing dynamics, offering a rich tonal palette to explore. Whether you're looking to add a subtle bite to your clean tones or a roaring overdrive to your leads, the Tube King provides a versatile solution for any style.
Designed with the performing musician in mind, the TK999 features a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of the road, ensuring reliable performance night after night. The pedal's intuitive controls make it easy to dial in your desired sound, while the true bypass switching maintains your guitar's original tone when the pedal is not in use. Embrace the sound that has captivated players for decades and discover why the Ibanez Tube King TK999 remains a staple in the world of overdrive pedals.
Key Features:
- 12AX7 tube-driven overdrive for authentic, warm tone
- True bypass switching to preserve original guitar tone
- Intuitive control layout for easy sound shaping
- Sturdy construction designed for durability on the road
- Originally produced in Japan, with later models made in the US
Product specs
| Brand | Ibanez |
| Model | Tube King TK999 MIJ |
| Finish | Gold |
| Year | 1994 - 1995 |
| Categories | Overdrive and Boost Pedals |
FAQs
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What type of tube is used in the Ibanez Tube King TK999US overdrive pedal?
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The Ibanez Tube King TK999US utilizes a 12AX7 tube, which is known for providing warm, natural overdrive tones that are highly sought after by guitarists.
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Is the Ibanez Tube King TK999US suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Ibanez Tube King TK999US is designed for live performance use, offering robust construction and a dynamic range that can cut through a mix, making it ideal for gigging musicians.
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How does the Ibanez Tube King TK999US differ from other overdrive pedals?
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The Ibanez Tube King TK999US stands out due to its use of a real 12AX7 tube, which delivers authentic tube-driven overdrive tones, unlike many solid-state overdrive pedals that simulate this effect.
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Can the Ibanez Tube King TK999US handle high-gain settings for metal music?
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The Ibanez Tube King TK999US is primarily designed for warm overdrive and boost, making it more suitable for blues, rock, and classic rock rather than high-gain metal tones.
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Does the Ibanez Tube King TK999US require a specific power supply?
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The Ibanez Tube King TK999US typically requires a 9V power supply, but it's important to check the manual for specific requirements to ensure optimal performance and avoid damage.
Videos
JokeAndRazz
Guitar distortion IBANEZ TK999 Tube King : demo by Sylvain Gambini
Reviews
PROS
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Full control with Bass, Middle, and Treble knobs
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Gain and Master controls useful through entire sweep
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Infinitely dialable for precise sound shaping
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Compatible with other pedals for versatile setups
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Maintains rich tone unique to tube overdrive
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Reliable performance and longevity (25 years and counting)
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Offers clear, crunchy clarity even at low gain
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Excellent sound quality with bass instruments
CONS
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May be considered pricey compared to similar pedals
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez Tube King TK999US.
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings
399
Very versatile OD great tone
It's one of the first pedals I bought, second hand, about 25 years ago, and still perfectly working! With the 3 tone knobs i can reach lots of different tones, and the quality is not affected even at low gain as it mantains a nice crunchy clarity.
146
Sounds fantastic with bass.
Sounds great with bass. I plugged this directly into my PA with my Squier bass and it sounds AMAZING. It's a little pricey, but you could probably get a used one for pretty cheap and I definitely recommend it.
Artist usage
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According to this Guitar Geek rig diagram, Bill Kelliher used an Ibanez Tube King in 2009 with Mastodon.
In the 7th picture of the post the Tube King can be seen near Elliott’s feet next to a setlist.
Rich Robinson owns an original Ibanez Tube King TK999, as evidenced by a listing on Reverb. This version was initially produced in Japan before manufacturing moved to the U.S., where the models were designated as TK999US.
At 12:56 in the video there's a photo of Deal's pedalboard, including Ibanez Tube King overdrive.
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 Ibanez Tube King TK999US, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation5 alternative and related items for Ibanez Tube King TK999US, curated by the Equipboard community.
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The Behringer Vintage Tube Monster is a clone of the B.K. Butler Designed Ibanez Tube King. Now discontinued.
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The Maxon ROD880 is a newer, rebranded version of the vintage Ibanez TK999 Tube King.
$100.00
Despite the name, the TK999HT Tube King shares little with the original Tube King, as its circuit runs a tube at standard voltage, rather than starved like a B.K. Butler style design.
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Despite the name, the TK999OD Tube King shares little with the original Tube King, as its circuit runs a tube at standard voltage, rather than starved like a B.K. Butler style design.