Source Audio ZIO

^# 64

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$197.93 to $243.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.0 (1)

3 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Source Audio ZIO

2 wishlisted

6 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.5 (15)

$199.00

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5.0 (1)

$199.00

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4.2 (20)

$199.00 New

$185.99 Used (Like New)

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4.0 (6)

$197.93 32 available New

$139.00 21 available Used

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$199.00

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$199.00

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3.7 (3)

$243.00

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Average Price: $197

High-end/Boutique

$60

$151+

Price Tier

In the Boost Effects Pedals category, Source Audio ZIO is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Source Audio ZIO". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Source Audio ZIO, a versatile all-analog preamp/boost pedal engineered to enhance your sound. Crafted to be a sonic enhancer, ZIO is designed to make everything sound better. At its heart, it offers four distinct preamp modes, each delivering a unique sonic character. Whether you're pushing an edge-of-breakup amplifier into low-gain bliss or tightening a high-gain amplifier's sound, the ZIO has got you covered.

This pedal is more than a simple boost device. It's an all-in-one solution designed to eliminate signal loss, especially when dealing with large pedalboards and long cable runs. With its simple control set, finding the perfect base tone for any guitar/amp combo is a breeze. It ensures that the dry signal hitting your pedals and amp remains strong and consistent.

One of the standout features of the ZIO is its powerful capacitance control. The tone switch is designed to simulate how different lengths of cable impact capacitance, providing intuitive bright, medium, and dark settings. This allows for easy dialing in of your favorite “always-on” setting while maintaining an uncolored buffer performance.

Key Features:

All-analog design for authentic tone enhancement
Up to +20dB signal boost
Four distinct preamp circuits for versatile tonal options
Simple control set for easy tone shaping
Powerful capacitance control with a 3-position tone switch
Bypass/mute switch for easy switching between instruments
Dual outputs for added flexibility
High-quality components and Burr Brown JFET operational amplifier for noise-free operation
True Bypass for pure, unaffected signal when the pedal is off

Product specs

Type	Guitar Preamp
Analog/Digital	Analog
EQ	Circuit Switch, Tone switch
Inputs	1 x 1/4" TS
Outputs	2 x 1/4" TS (Out, Tuner/Line out)
Bypass Switching	Switchable: True Bypass, Mute
Power Source	9-18V DC power supply (sold separately)
Power Usage	20mA
Height	2.2"
Width	2.36"
Depth	4.1"
Weight	0.625 lbs.

FAQs

What type of power supply is required for the Source Audio ZIO pedal?: The Source Audio ZIO pedal requires a 9-18V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It has a power usage of 20mA.
Can the Source Audio ZIO pedal be used with both guitar and bass?: Yes, the Source Audio ZIO pedal is designed to be versatile and can be used with both guitar and bass instruments.
Does the Source Audio ZIO pedal feature true bypass switching?: Yes, the Source Audio ZIO pedal includes switchable true bypass, allowing you to maintain your signal integrity when the pedal is not in use.
What are the output options available on the Source Audio ZIO pedal?: The Source Audio ZIO pedal offers two output options: a main 1/4" TS output and a separate tuner/line out.
What is the primary function of the Source Audio ZIO pedal's EQ circuit switch?: The EQ circuit switch on the Source Audio ZIO pedal allows you to adjust the tonal characteristics, providing flexibility in shaping your sound.

Videos

Add video

Pete Thorn

I HAD TO PUT THIS ON MY BOARD! Source Audio ZIO Boost

Pete Thorn

ZIO Front End + Boost: Official Source Audio Demo

sourceaudioeffects

Source Audio ZIO - Analog Front End + Boost

AndyDemos

The Source Audio Zio - The LAST Clean Boost Pedal for Guitar you may ever need!

Corey Congilio

Source Audio ZIO Analog Front End + Boost

Mike Hermans

Source Audio ZIO (always awesome) pedal

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Source Audio ZIO

Leon Todd

The Source Audio ZIO Analog Front End + Boost DEMO. It LITERALLY makes everything sound BETTER!

Nobes Music

Source Audio ZIO Analog Front End + Boost

Do Noise

Reviews

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PROS

Enhances tone when placed first in the chain
Offers four distinctive pre-amps for versatile base tone coverage
Boost function clearly enhances bass tones and clarity
Adds definition and clarity to tone with easy tone shaping
High-quality headphone output for quiet playing
Effective across various instruments and setups
HPF (High Pass Filter) contributes significantly to tone shaping
Even simple clean tones sound remarkably improved
Compatible with both passive and active basses
Can make even gritty tones sound appealing

CONS

Requires a power supply of at least 140 mA, not universally compatible
Some may find it less effective with heavily distorted or heavily pedal-reliant setups
Scoop switch may be too aggressive for some tastes

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Source Audio ZIO.

Features and functionality

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The Source Audio ZIO retains its bypass state after a power cycle due to its physical switch design with a hard click.
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The bright/med/dark switch is effective for adjusting high frequencies on trebly guitars, providing a usable and balanced tonal adjustment.
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All modes can be pushed into light overdrive territory by adjusting the output knob, affecting dynamics and feel when dialed above 12 o'clock.
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Switching between low cut for Gibson 335 and JFET or studio modes for Strat requires only a single knob adjustment, simplifying tonal changes across guitars.
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The Focus knob effectively boosts bass while attenuating rumble frequencies, making it suitable for taming problematic amps.
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The Grit setting is mild from the manufacturer but offers pleasing tonal enhancement, particularly appreciated by users favoring subtle grit.
Source

User experience

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Studio mode reduces muddy low mids and enhances the high end, offering a distinct sound difference compared to the low-cut mode, especially noticeable on bass.
Source
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After 45 days of use, owners appreciate the ZIO’s ability to transform a rig's sound from "nice" to "wow," particularly in cleaning muddy low ends with the 335.
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The Scoop profile may not suit low-mids enthusiasts but can be useful in specific contexts, offering tonal variety.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners have used the ZIO with Gibson 335 and Fender Strat through a silver face Vibrolux, noting it cleans up mud and adds presence effectively.
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The ZIO effectively integrates with setups including EBS MultiComp, BassIQ, Redwitch Factotum Drive/Octave, and tuners for comprehensive sound management.
Source

Comparisons

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Users compare the ZIO favorably against Xotic EP Booster for addressing low-end feedback issues, especially in live acoustic settings.
Source

Setup and maintenance

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The Joyo JP-05 rechargeable power supply is used underneath for fewer cables, providing around two hours of power, fitting for short gigs.
Source

Build quality

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Fixed jacks can exert tension on sockets with non-vertical pedal sides, suggesting caution with certain pedal brands like Boss.
Source

Critic Reviews

source audio zio boost pedal review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Source Audio ZIO is a versatile tone-enhancing pedal that goes beyond a simple boost, delivering a range of high-quality sounds from its multiple modes. With excellent build quality and intuitive controls, it provides options like cable capacitance emulation and preamp voicing, making it a fantastic addition to any rig. However, its price point may deter some players looking for basic functionality. Still, for those seeking rich, enhanced tones, the ZIO proves to be a valuable investment that could elevate their sound significantly.

positive

Full Review

Source Audio ZIO Analog Front End + Boost | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Source Audio ZIO stands out with its compact size and impressive versatility, offering a massive 20dB boost and four unique preamp options. It excels as a tone conditioner or a booster, making it a practical addition to any pedalboard. However, while it provides extensive features, some cheaper alternatives may offer similar boosts without the added complexity. Overall, the ZIO is a solid choice for guitarists seeking to enhance their sound without compromising on quality.

positive

Full Review

Source Audio Zio Booster Pedal Review | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

Source Audio's ZIO Booster Pedal delivers impressive versatility and power, making it an essential addition to any pedalboard. Its clean boost enhances tonal character without unwanted distortion, thanks to its high-quality Burr-Brown op-amp. With four distinct preamp circuits, users can tailor their sound to match any style or situation—from tight, clear tones to the warm grit reminiscent of vintage gear. However, the lack of digital editing options may limit some users accustomed to more complex settings. Still, the ZIO stands out as a fantastic value for its price, proving itself worthy of the Editor’s Pick accolade.

positive

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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Rhett Shull

Guitarist, Music Producer

Verified via YouTube

In this video by Rhett Shull comparing boosts and overdrives, he uses the Source Audio Zio and cites it as one of his favorite pedals. The Source Audio Zio can be seen at 6:22

Pete Thorn

Guitarist

SatchVai Band: Joe Satriani & Steve Vai

Verified via YouTube

Pete was sent the pedal to demo and enjoyed the pedal so much he put it on his pedalboard to tour with.

Emily Green

Guitarist

Geese

Verified via Photo

The photo from Source Audio's pages shows Emily Green showcasing her pedalboard, which includes the Source Audio ZIO.

John Dieterich

Guitarist, Music Producer

Deerhoof

Verified via Source Audio Website

According to Deerhoof's artist page on the Source Audio website, John Dieterich uses the Source Audio ZIO.

Laura Pleasants

Singer, Guitarist

Kylesa

Verified via Photo

Laura Pleasants uses the Source Audio ZIO on her pedalboard for her band, The Discussion. It is visible on the bottom left of her board, partially covered by tape, as seen in the provided proof image.

Lucia de la Garza

Singer, Guitarist

The Linda Lindas

Verified via Photo

The Linda Lindas were one of the opening acts for Green Day, Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ., Sep 18, 2024.The photo is a screen cap of Lucia de la Garza's pedal board from a pre concert behind the scenes VIP access video from Facebook (credit:Daniel Flores). The video confirms that the location of the board is on the right side of the stage which is Lucia's preferred setup. Lucia's board has a Source Audio ZIO pedal mounted. Video Link: https://www.facebook.com/680558659/videos/1700731217354242/ The board can be seen at the 02:32 mark. For context you can see The Linda Lindas' drumset is visible on the same stage in this video: https://www.facebook.com/680558659/videos/1063933558672441 An earlier version of Lucia's pedal board is shown on the Source Audio artist page with the ZIO pedal with this link: https://www.sourceaudio.net/artist-linda-lindas.html

Satomi Matsuzaki

Singer, Bassist

Deerhoof

Verified via Source Audio Website

Satomi Matsuzaki is confirmed to use the Source Audio ZIO boost effects pedal, as indicated on the Source Audio website's artist page for Deerhoof.

Jarmo Hynninen

Guitarist

Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Andy Timmons cover - Here Lies The Heart," Jarmo Hynninen is seen using the Source Audio ZIO boost pedal at the 0:03 mark, as confirmed by the video description on YouTube.