The Klon Centaur Professional Overdrive is a legendary guitar effects pedal that has helped shape the sound of renowned artists such as Jeff Beck, John Mayer, and Nels Cline. Following its introduction in 1994, this highly sought-after overdrive has been celebrated for its original circuit design, developed by Bill Finnegan with the help of two MIT engineers. Built in small batches by Finnegan, who often struggled to keep up with demand, multiple finish variations would be produced in gold and silver casings and with or without the iconic Centaur logo (referred to as "Long Tail", "Horsie" or "Non-Horsie" models), the Klon Centaur remains a holy grail for musicians seeking to add a touch of vintage and authenticity to their sounds. Though all models share the same circuitry, the earliest "Long Tail" models are known to fetch a higher value. The Centaur would leave production in its official capacity in 2008, being succeeded by the Klon KTR; however, the occasional Centaur unit has been produced by Bill to fundraise for a friend's cancer treatment.

Key Features:

• Original hard clipping overdrive circuit
• New old stock 1N34A Germanium Diodes, handpicked for their unique forward voltage
• 18V charge pump for increased headroom
• Dual gain control blends the clean signal in as clipping increases
• Op-amp based buffer, known to help other pedals in the chain sound their best
• Produced in 6 finish variations between 1994-2008
• Also available in a bass variant by request
• Used by renowned musicians such as Jeff Beck, John Mayer, and Nels Cline

Product specs

FAQs

What makes the Klon Centaur Overdrive different from other overdrive pedals?

The Klon Centaur Overdrive is renowned for its transparent sound that enhances your guitar's natural tone, providing a clean boost and smooth overdrive without excessive coloration. Its unique circuit design and use of germanium diodes contribute to its distinct tonal characteristics.

Is the Klon Centaur Overdrive suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Klon Centaur Overdrive is highly regarded for live performances due to its ability to cut through the mix with clarity and maintain the integrity of your guitar's tone, making it a favorite among professional musicians.

Does the Klon Centaur Overdrive work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?

The Klon Centaur Overdrive is versatile and works well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, providing a balanced and dynamic response that complements a wide range of guitar styles and setups.

How does the Klon Centaur Overdrive affect my amplifier's sound?

The Klon Centaur Overdrive enhances your amplifier's natural sound by adding warmth and sustain, offering a transparent overdrive that amplifies your existing tone rather than drastically altering it.

Can the Klon Centaur Overdrive be powered by a standard 9V power supply?

Yes, the Klon Centaur Overdrive can be powered by a standard 9V power supply, making it easy to integrate into most pedalboard setups without requiring specialized power sources.