Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $304
Standard/Professional
$249
$500+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp". 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
Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp
Unleash the beast within your amplifier with the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp Pedal. This all-tube tone monster transforms any guitar amp into a versatile metal machine. Equipped with four tubes running at high plate voltage, the V4 Kraken delivers a touch-sensitive responsiveness and a harmonic complexity that is exclusive to a tube preamp.
Run it through your amp's effects loop to bypass the preamp section or use it as a drive pedal with the Amp Through Mode. Echoing the signature sound of The Kraken amplifier head, the V4 Kraken Preamp Pedal boasts two distinct gain channels that provide a spectrum of tones from vintage-style British overdrive to modern, midrange-focused drive tones.
Developed in collaboration with renowned metal guitarist Rabea Massaad, the V4 Kraken offers hefty, versatile gain options. Gain mode I delivers classic British-style-friendly mids, perfect for classic rock and metal. Gain mode II, on the other hand, offers a tighter, more grinding "American" midrange voice, perfect for aggressive picking styles and heavy metal riffing.
Complete with a 3-band EQ and bright switch for fine-tuning your tone, the V4 Kraken adapts to bring out the best aspects of your favorite guitar, whether it's a single-coil vintage 6-string or a modern active axe.
Key Features:
- Equipped with 4 tubes for touch-sensitive breakup and harmonic complexity
- Amp Through Mode and Standalone Mode giving you 2 options for how you connect it to your amplifier
- 2 gain sections cover everything from classic British tones to modern metal mayhem
- 3-band EQ and Bright switch for fine-tuning your tone for any guitar and pickup combination
- Series effects loop allows for integration of effects pedals like delay and reverb
- Ultra-rugged steel construction is ready for life on the road
Product specs
| Brand | Victory Amps |
| Model | V4 The Kraken Preamp |
| Finish | Gray |
| Year | 2018 - 2025 |
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Categories | Overdrive and Boost Pedals, Preamps |
| Pedal Format | Floor Unit |
FAQs
-
What type of tones can I expect from the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp?
-
The Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp is designed to deliver high-gain tones ideal for metal and hard rock, offering a tight, aggressive sound with a focus on midrange punch and clarity.
-
Is the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp is suitable for live performances, providing robust and versatile tones with its compact floor unit design, making it easy to integrate into your pedalboard setup.
-
How does the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp integrate with an existing amplifier setup?
-
The Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp can be used in the effects loop of an existing amplifier or directly into a power amp, offering flexibility in achieving the desired sound.
-
Does the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp require a specific power supply?
-
The Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp requires a 12V DC power supply, which is typically included with the unit, ensuring reliable operation and optimal performance.
-
Can the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp be used with both electric and bass guitars?
-
While primarily designed for electric guitars, the Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp can be used with bass guitars, although tonal results may vary depending on the specific setup and preferences.
Videos
Ola Englund
WILL IT CHUG? - Kraken V4 Preamp pedal
Reviews
PROS
-
Authentic tube crunch and distortion tones
-
Versatile: from classic British crunch to modern high-gain
-
Can be used for direct recording or with an amp
-
Wide range of tones, suitable for many music styles
-
Maintains chord definition even with heavy distortion
-
Provides a real tube warmth and presence
-
Compact size compared to other tube preamps
-
Operates quietly without adding buzz
-
Can switch between Kraken and amp's preamp for added versatility
-
High-quality build and feels premium
CONS
-
Minor quality control issues reported (e.g., uneven bottom plate causing wobble)
-
High-pitched whine when gain is turned up
-
EQ knobs are shared between channels, limiting independent tone shaping
-
Some may find the price point high for an effects pedal
-
Knobs might be too small for some users' preferences
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp.
Features and functionality
-
The pedal has two modes: 'Standalone Mode' for use in front of the amp or audio interface, and 'Amp Through Mode' for FX loop integration.
Source -
The V4 preamp's gain on Channel 1 at 12 o'clock can achieve Audioslave-like tones; Channel 2 at 3 o'clock offers thick, Tool-esque sustain and compression.
Source
Comparisons
-
Victory Kraken V4 preamp allows for switching between its preamp and the amp's preamp with a footswitch, offering a unique flexibility not commonly found in other preamps.
Source -
A MesaBoogie Rectoverb25 offers a fuller, punchier sound than a Blackstar HT5R when using the V4 in a four-cable method, impacting EQ more than gain.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Using the Kraken in the FX loop is preferred by some, as it enhances the brutality of the sound, making it suitable for heavier styles.
Source -
Running an EQD Special Cranker as a slight boost on the green channel can significantly enhance its tonal character, bringing out more detail and depth.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
There is a larger V4 180w amplifier version available, offering more power for those needing a built-in power amp solution.
Source
User experience
-
Users find the Victory Kraken V4 preamp versatile, with some considering it one of the best preamps they've owned, rivaling other high-end models.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Using hotter pickups, such as those from Suhr or Cort, significantly enhances the gain and overall tone of the Kraken V4, especially when paired with tighter string tension.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 7 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
in this post Rebea shows off the victory Kracken pre amp pedal. He helped design design this pedal with the team at victory
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 Victory V4 The Kraken Preamp, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Victory Guitar Preamp Pedals
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Most Popular Guitar Preamp Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
oddorocketGear IQ 53790
-