Seeking Smooth Distortion? This Pedal Isn't for You

The Evolution of the Peavey Decade

The Peavey Decade has undergone a remarkable transformation since its introduction in the 1980s. Originally designed as a basic home practice amplifier, it has since become a cherished staple among fans of stoner rock. There was a time when this compact solid-state amp was largely overlooked—many had forgotten about its existence. However, the current high demand for second-hand units tells a different story. What sparked this revival? A key factor is the revelation by Josh Homme, the creative force behind Queens of the Stone Age, that his signature sound came from this small 10W combo.

In collaboration with Peavey, Homme has given the Decade a fresh lease on life with the Decade Too, his signature amp. Now, the iconic tone has been condensed into a pedal form, making it more accessible than ever to recreate those legendary QOTSA riffs.

Features and Design

Part of the Peavey Legacy Preamp Series, this pedal is a faithful recreation of the original Decade circuit. It retains all the controls that made the amp distinctive, including a switchable Saturation mode that emulates the second channel for an extra layer of harmonic overdrive. Additional features include pre- and post-gain controls, a responsive three-band EQ, and a hard bypass switch with anti-click circuitry. Powered by a standard 9V supply, the pedal internally boosts to 24V, delivering the headroom and dynamic range that defined the original.

Build Quality

The build quality of the Decade pedal is impressive. For those familiar with Peavey’s Legacy lineup, which includes the Bandit, Rock Master, and Session, the quality of this unit is expected. The rugged die-cast enclosure houses all the essential components, making it nearly indestructible. This pedal feels robust and capable of withstanding the rigors of heavy touring while maintaining a stylish appearance.

The aesthetic of the original combo amp is well-replicated here, with retro knobs and simple graphics that mirror the original amplifier. The controls are smooth and well-labeled, and the footswitch offers a reassuring sturdiness when engaged.

Usability

The Decade pedal is straightforward to use, thanks to its intuitive control layout. The dynamic twin gain controls—pre-gain and post-gain—allow for easy adjustment of your tone. The pre-gain sets the input gain level, while the post-gain fine-tunes the signal before it reaches the power amplifier. With minor adjustments, you can shift from crunchy rhythms to soaring leads effortlessly.

The three-band EQ (low, mid, and high) is powerful and versatile. While the mid control may lack precision, the overall flexibility allows for a wide range of tones. The Saturation switch adds a rich layer of fuzzed-out distortion, mimicking the second channel of the original amp.

Connectivity is simple, with standard 1/4” input and output jacks located on the top of the unit. The pedal can be powered by a 9V battery or a pedalboard power supply, but it internally boosts the voltage to 24V for added headroom.

Sound Characteristics

The Decade pedal isn’t for everyone. Its tone is described as “wiry,” relying more on pre-gain than post-gain, resulting in a hollow sound. While the onboard EQ can help adjust the tone, it often results in a boxy sound. However, the real magic happens when the saturation switch is engaged. The overdriven side of the pedal delivers a gritty, lo-fi edge that transforms a clean sound into a raw, distorted explosion.

Despite its limitations, the Decade offers a unique sound that stands out in a market dominated by Marshall, Klon, and Tube Screamer-inspired pedals. Its retro '80s charm is growing on many users, even if it lacks the sophistication of boutique options.

Verdict

The Peavey Decade pedal is a faithful recreation of the original amp circuit, now in a smaller, more convenient package. While it may not appeal to everyone, it's ideal for stoner rock fans seeking a specific, unvarnished tone. At $239.99, it's not cheap, but it's significantly more affordable than purchasing an original amp. The pedal’s engineering and design come at a price, but it offers flexibility and convenience.

Overall, the Decade pedal is a fun and unique option that encourages experimentation. It’s perfect for those looking to explore the gritty, raw sounds of the past in a modern, portable format.

Alternative Options

If you're looking for other options, consider the following:

• Marshall JCM800 Pedal: Offers the classic Marshall tone in a pedal form, ideal for those seeking a polished, smooth distortion.
• Universal Audio UAFX Lion '68 Super Lead: Provides emulation of late-’60s Marshall amps with authentic sound and versatility.
• Strymon Iridium Amp and IR Cab Simulator: Offers a range of amp and cab combinations with versatile EQ controls and room ambience.

These alternatives cater to different preferences and budgets, allowing players to choose the best fit for their style and needs.