Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (14)
$199.99
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$199.99 New
$120.00 Used
Thomann
4.7 (24)
$199.00

Average Price: $186

High-end/Boutique

$50

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Meet the Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII, your ticket to the coveted, high-end boutique amplifier sound without the hefty price tag. This compact, yet powerful pedal flawlessly emulates the blooming midrange and aggressive, cascading gain stages of the revered Dumble Overdrive Special amp. Whether you're chasing the tone of legendary players like Robben Ford and Larry Carlton or carving out your own signature sound, this overdrive pedal delivers the goods.

The MKII version of the Ultraphonix is more than just a reiteration, it's an upgrade. Packing even more features into a unit that's 30% smaller than its predecessor, this pedal offers you greater control over your tone. Dial in the perfect balance of overdrive and EQ, then use the Master volume to adjust your final output level.

The Ultraphonix MKII isn't just about robust overdrive. Its thoughtful design and high-quality components ensure an articulate attack and smooth sustain, transporting your guitar's raw potential to the forefront of the mix.

Key Features:

  • Emulates the extended midrange and cascading gain stages of the Dumble Overdrive Special amp
  • Compact design; 30% smaller than the MKI version
  • Greater control over overdrive tone, EQ, and saturation
  • Controls include: level, ratio, filter, master
  • LED indicator for Effect On
  • Effect Bypass footswitch
  • 6.3 mm jack input and output
  • Power supply via 9V DC mains adapter (not included)
  • Battery operation not supported

This pedal doesn't just promise a legendary sound, it delivers it in spades. Plug in the Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII and unleash your guitar's full potential.

Owner's manual

Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII User Manual

Product specs

Pedal Type Overdrive
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"'
True Bypass Yes
Controls Drive Ratio, Filter
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Power Usage 25mA
Height 1.8"
Width 2.12"
Depth 4.6"

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII?

The Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII is designed to emulate the iconic Dumble Overdrive Special amplifier, delivering a D-style tone with rich note bloom and harmonic overtones.

Is the Vertex Ultraphonix MKII Overdrive suitable for all guitar types?

Yes, the Vertex Ultraphonix MKII Overdrive is compatible with both electric and acoustic-electric guitars, providing a versatile overdrive tone that complements various guitar types.

What power supply does the Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII require?

The Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It has a power usage of 25mA.

Does the Vertex Ultraphonix MKII Overdrive have true bypass switching?

Yes, the Vertex Ultraphonix MKII Overdrive features true bypass switching, ensuring that your signal remains uncolored when the pedal is not in use.

How does the Vertex Ultraphonix MKII differ from other overdrive pedals?

The Vertex Ultraphonix MKII is specifically voiced to replicate the overdrive of a Dumble Overdrive Special, setting it apart with its unique ability to capture the essence of this legendary amp's tone.

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Introducing the Ultraphonix MKII

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Ultraphonix MKII by Vertex Effects

Introducing the Ultraphonix MKII

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Video thumbnail for Is this our Best Overdrive Yet? by Vertex Effects

Is this our Best Overdrive Yet?

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Video thumbnail for Ultraphonix MKII By Vertex Effects! Is It Still King?! Dumble Overdrive Special In A Tiny Box! by Buddy Blues

Ultraphonix MKII By Vertex Effects! Is It Still King?! Dumble Overdrive Special In A Tiny Box!

Buddy Blues

Buddy Blues

Video thumbnail for Cornerstone GLADIO VS Vertex ULTRAPHONIX MKII - BATTLE OF The Dumble Tone! No Talking by Buddy Blues

Cornerstone GLADIO VS Vertex ULTRAPHONIX MKII - BATTLE OF The Dumble Tone! No Talking

Buddy Blues

Buddy Blues

Video thumbnail for Vertex Ultraphonix MKII - Sound Demo (no talking) by Guitar Bonedo

Vertex Ultraphonix MKII - Sound Demo (no talking)

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Video thumbnail for Dumble in a box?? The Vertex Ultraphonix mkii review by jack's workshop

Dumble in a box?? The Vertex Ultraphonix mkii review

jack's workshop

jack's workshop

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile with a range of qualities depending on input instrument

  • Highly sensitive and responsive to different electric guitars

  • Provides smooth, organic, and thick overdrive tones

  • Offers tonal flexibility and is not limited to one style of music

  • Solid and durable construction with robust controls

  • Compatible with a wide range of amplifiers

  • Enhances the tone without overwhelming the original sound

  • Allows for precise control over the mix of clean and distorted signals

  • Can significantly boost the gain without losing articulation

  • Encourages creativity and exploration with its sound options

CONS

  • Knobs are small and difficult to adjust on the fly

  • Does not operate with a battery, limiting portability

  • Stepped master volume pot limits precise volume control

  • May produce overly thick distortion at high level settings, overwhelming for rhythm guitar

  • The design of the mini potentiometers for Level, Ratio, and Filter might not appeal to all

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII.

Comparisons

  • Users compare the Ultraphonix to Dumble amp tones, noting it offers a "flavor" rather than an exact replication, similar to banana flavoring versus a real banana.

    Source
  • Owners report the Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII feels similar to the MojoHand Extra Special Drive but offers less control and versatility.

    Source
  • One user compared the Ultraphonix V1 favorably with the MojoHandFX DMBL for low gain settings, although the DMBL is noted for its specific low gain focus.

    Source
  • The Vertex Ultraphonix is compared to the NUX Steel Singer, which is acknowledged for its affordability but also noted as a "rip-off" of the Vertex design.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The pedal is praised for approximating the frequency spectrum and drive characteristics of a Dumble preamp channel but lacks full interaction between valves.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's highlighted that the Ultraphonix doesn't suit every music style, and some users may not need or want a Dumble amp sound in a pedal.

    Source
  • A user noted the Ultraphonix V1 excels with a lap steel guitar, evoking a David Lindley/Jackson Browne vibe when paired with a clean Fender amp.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The pedal is considered a tempting proposition for achieving a high-end amp sound in a $200 format, although it doesn't fully replicate the amp's nuances.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users feel the Vertex Ultraphonix V2 lacks the engaging features of the V1, describing it as more "boring" in tone and interaction.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Vertex Effects updates the Ultraphonix to MkII, with a smaller case and more controls

guitar.com

The Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII shines with its Dumble-like tones and compact design, making it an attractive option for pedalboard lovers. The new Level control enhances versatility, allowing players with lower-output pickups to achieve gritty sounds with ease. However, the redesign sacrifices some bulk, which may not appeal to everyone. While it faithfully captures the essence of a sought-after amplifier, the $199 price tag might deter budget-conscious musicians. Overall, it’s a solid addition for tone chasers, but not without its quirks.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Cory Wong uses Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII

Cory Wong

Guitarist, Composer

Vulfpeck

...
Verified via YouTube

In Cory Wong's Wong On Ice Youtube video at around 0:19, the Vertex Ultraphonix MK II (judging by the size and layout of knobs) can be seen next to what looks like a Jackson Audio Belle Starr in purple.

See how Dann Huff uses Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII

Dann Huff

Guitarist, Music Producer

White Heart

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

"Huff doesn’t need a spaceship to get where he needs to go. Along with a TC Electronic PolyTune and a Lehle volume pedal, he runs a Vertex Effects Steel String (Slight Return Edition), Vertex Ultraphonix Mk II, Boss SD-2, TC Electronic Corona, Boss VB-2w, Mr. Black SuperMoon, Strymon Brigadier, and Line 6 M9 Stompbox Modeler."

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 Vertex Ultraphonix Special Overdrive MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Boss VB-2W Vibrato
Boss VB-2W Vibrato Vibrato Effects Pedals
1
Boss GE-7 Graphic Equalizer
Boss GE-7 Graphic Equalizer Equalizer Effects Pedals
1
Strymon TimeLine
Strymon TimeLine Delay Effects Pedals
1
Xotic Effects EP Booster
Xotic Effects EP Booster Boost Effects Pedals
1
Line 6 M9 Stompbox Modeler
Line 6 M9 Stompbox Modeler Multi Effects Pedals
1
Xotic Effects SP Compressor
Xotic Effects SP Compressor Compressor Effects Pedals
1
Gurus Amps Echosex 3º Pedal
Gurus Amps Echosex 3º Pedal Delay Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
johnnyjrivera

johnnyjrivera

Gear IQ 87

More Vertex Overdrive Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    gchiaren
    gchiaren

    Gear IQ 37552