Xploration • Curation • Recommendation
The Hagerman Gamma Radiation Transistor Distortion is every bit as vibrant and richly textured as I expected
So my Gamma Radiation has landed, and it’s a superb distortion pedal every which way - plenty of range and gain, and dual Tone controls which give you expansive shaping.
The Gamma could not be easier to dial in - I was up and running with my favourite tones in just seconds.
For me I set the Level and Gain first, and then the overall EQ via the Tone control - where you can then shape the balance of Bass (CCW) and Treble via the Medial Energy EQ.
I like things pretty full-throttle, where this circuit has superb guitar volume gain clean up too - so you can set gain relatively high and then roll it back on your guitar.
Controls - Level, Drive, Tone (Post EQ), Energy (Medial EQ - in between 1st and 2nd Gain Stage).
I have Level and Gain both at 3 o'c for the best / most complex and sustaining output texture. Tone is normally around 2 o'c, and I like energy in 2 positions - mostly at 10 o'c for maximum texture, and at Max for more treble and sizzle (less bass). This distortion percolates and purrs and has a slightly fuzzy dimension to it to in how it responds.
I really love everything about this distortion, including the price. With my settings and the Energy at Max you're not far away from the sort of Big Muff 2 sound - but with a little more intensity, and a lot more volume!
The text mentions that some assembly is necessary, while mine came delivered fully assembled. The $129 price tag is exceptional value - you won't find as richly a textured distortion for anywhere close to that price - everyone should have one.
Available from the Hagerman Amplification Webstore of course.
Highly recommended!
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