From Guitar World · · 2m
Strymon La Brea Review
Strymon's La Brea pedal delivers rich tape saturation with versatile controls for guitarists.
In brief
Strymon's La Brea pedal delivers rich tape saturation with versatile controls for guitarists. Strymon's La Brea analog tape drive pedal offers superior tape saturation and flexible controls compared to its Deco predecessor. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Quick answers
- What is it?
- Strymon La Brea is an all-analog tape drive pedal that expands on the Deco's tape saturation features.
- What is the key takeaway from Strymon La Brea Review?
- Strymon's La Brea analog tape drive pedal offers superior tape saturation and flexible controls compared to its Deco predecessor.
What is it?
Strymon La Brea is an all-analog tape drive pedal that expands on the Deco's tape saturation features.
Specs
Launch price: £199 | $199 | €229. Type: Analog tape drive. Controls: Tape Saturation, Level, Dry, Shift (High, Flat, Mid), Gain (High, Norm).
Build quality
La Brea has a solid metal chassis with firm, responsive controls and a lightweight yet durable design.
Usability and features
The Dry knob is a standout feature that allows blending dry signal with tape saturation for flexible tone control.
Sounds
La Brea provides a broad array of tape saturation tones that can be applied in various musical situations.
Verdict
La Brea is a worthy addition to Strymon's Series A line, offering more than half the Deco pedal's capabilities.
Why it matters
La Brea expands Strymon's analog offerings and provides guitarists with versatile tape saturation effects.
Also try
JHS Pedals 424 Gain Stage, Strymon Deco, and Templo Devices Reel Deal are alternatives for different tape saturation needs.
Hands-on videos
Strymon La Brea has hands-on videos demonstrating its sound samples and features.
Why it's better than Deco
La Brea adds a Dry control for blending dry signal with tape saturation, making it more versatile than the Deco.
Why it's not perfect
The control plate can feel cosy at times, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
What to expect next
Strymon may release more analog pedals following the success of La Brea and Fairfax.
Why it's a good buy
La Brea offers a versatile tape saturation effect that can be used in various musical contexts.
Why it's not a good buy
The control plate can feel cosy at times, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
What it means
Strymon's La Brea analog tape drive pedal offers superior tape saturation and flexible controls compared to its Deco predecessor.
