Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $223

High-end/Boutique

$50

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Union Tube & Transistor Swindle is your go-to overdrive pedal for injecting vintage warmth and harmonic richness into your guitar tone. Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Swindle is designed for both studio perfectionists and live performers who demand the best from their gear. This pedal is known for its unique ability to preserve the character of your guitar while adding a dynamic range of overdrive, from subtle crunch to full-bodied saturation.

With an intuitive control layout, the Swindle offers a straightforward interface that allows you to dial in your desired sound effortlessly. The pedal is equipped with top-notch components to ensure durability and consistent performance. Whether you're aiming for a bluesy edge, classic rock tones, or a driving rhythm sound, this pedal delivers with clarity and precision.

The heart of the Swindle lies in its carefully selected transistors, which provide a natural response and a touch-sensitive feel. This makes it a perfect match for players who appreciate the nuances of their playing style. Plus, its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of the road, making it a reliable companion for touring musicians.

Key Features:

  • Handcrafted design for premium quality and performance
  • Vintage-inspired overdrive with a wide tonal range
  • Intuitive control layout for easy sound shaping
  • High-quality components for durability and consistent sound
  • Responsive transistors for touch-sensitive dynamics
  • Ideal for a variety of music genres and playing styles

Product specs

Brand Union Tube & Transistor
Model Swindle Distortion
Finish Yellow
Year 2010s
Made In Canada
Categories Distortion Pedals

FAQs

What type of distortion can I expect from the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle pedal?

The Union Tube & Transistor Swindle provides a rich, vintage-style distortion with a warm, dynamic response, making it suitable for classic rock and blues tones.

Is the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle pedal suitable for use with both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Swindle distortion pedal is versatile and can be used effectively with both electric guitars and bass guitars, offering distinct tonal characteristics for each.

What power supply does the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle require?

The Swindle distortion pedal requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is typical for most guitar pedals.

How does the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle differ from other distortion pedals?

The Swindle is known for its unique, handcrafted circuitry and vintage-inspired sound, setting it apart from mass-produced pedals with its boutique quality and tonal warmth.

Can the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle pedal be used for live performances?

Yes, the Swindle is designed to deliver consistent and reliable performance, making it suitable for both studio use and live gigs.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Union Pedals - Has the Captain Found His New Favourite Overdrive?

Video thumbnail for Union Pedals - Has the Captain Found His New Favourite Overdrive? by Andertons Music Co

Union Pedals - Has the Captain Found His New Favourite Overdrive?

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Union Tube & Transistor Explained (Snap, Bumble fuzz, More, NeverMore, Swindle, Lap) Jack White by JHS Pedals

Union Tube & Transistor Explained (Snap, Bumble fuzz, More, NeverMore, Swindle, Lap) Jack White

JHS Pedals

JHS Pedals

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Union Tube & Transistor Swindle.

Comparisons

  • The Swindle is described as having a cleaner tone compared to the Proco Rat 2, which is perceived as a full-on distortion pedal.

    Source
  • Owners found the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle superior to the Electro-Harmonix Soul Food, noting it provides richer, more dynamic tones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Swindle is noted to add a dirty edge when used with a Friedman Dirty Shirley Combo, indicating its effectiveness in enhancing already gritty amp tones.

    Source
  • The Swindle can approximate the effect of turning an amp up without significantly increasing volume, making it useful for dynamic control in performance settings.

    Source
  • The Swindle is highly regarded for producing "insane tones," indicating a strong impact when used for blues and rock styles, surpassing expectations for overdrive needs.

    Source

User experience

  • One user expressed satisfaction after extensive testing, stating the Swindle delivered the best sound for their Supro Blues King among 20 tested pedals.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gear Review: Union Tube & Transistor “Swindle” Distortion | Rob Russell Music

wordpress.com

The Union Tube & Transistor Swindle distortion pedal channels the gritty essence of 70s rock with its straightforward controls and dynamic range. It excels as an “always-on” tone shaper, providing a robust boost and fluid gain adjustments, making it perfect for cutting through mixes during solos. However, the simplicity of its two knobs may leave some seeking a more diverse tonal palette wanting more. While it delivers admirable performance, those who crave extensive sound manipulation might find it limiting.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Finn Wolfhard uses Union Tube & Transistor Swindle

Finn Wolfhard

Singer, Guitarist

Calpurnia

...
Verified via Pinterest

Finn Wolfhard uses the Union Tube & Transistor Swindle overdrive pedal, as seen in a performance at the Red Gate in Vancouver, his hometown.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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