The JHS Colour Box V2 has quickly gained attention in the music production community, offering a unique blend of features that cater to both guitarists and engineers. In this blog post, we’ll delve into its capabilities, explore its applications, and discuss why it may be a valuable addition to your setup.
What is the JHS Colour Box V2?
The JHS Colour Box V2 is not just another guitar pedal; it is a studio-grade preamplifier that allows musicians to achieve the iconic sounds associated with classic recording equipment, such as the Neve 1073. This pedal serves a dual purpose, functioning both as a guitar pedal and as a preamp for microphones. Its versatility makes it appealing for various recording scenarios, from tracking guitars to capturing vocals.
At first glance, the Colour Box V2 boasts a striking design that resembles vintage studio equipment. The pedal features a beautiful blue-grey finish and a series of knobs that resemble those found on professional consoles. The controls include:
- Master Volume: Adjusts the overall output level of the pedal.
- Preamp Volume: Controls the input gain, allowing you to drive the sound harder for more saturation.
- Step Gain: Adjusts the gain in five stages, providing flexibility in how much drive you want to apply. Five-stage preamp gain adjustment:
- 1st: +18 dB
- 2nd: +23 dB
- 3rd: +28 dB
- 4th: +33 dB
- 5th: +39 dB
- Active EQ: This section allows you to shape your sound with treble, mid, and bass controls, each with a frequency shift option.
- Treble: ±15dB; flat at noon.
- Middle: ±10dB; flat at noon.
- Bass: ±15dB; flat at noon.
- Shift Knobs: Adjust frequency range controlled by the EQ knobs.
- Treble Shift: 2kHz to 30kHz.
- Middle Shift: 150Hz to 2.4kHz.
- Bass Shift: 20Hz to 440Hz.
- High Pass Filter: Helps to cut unwanted low frequencies, enhancing clarity in your recordings.
- 12dB/octave filter with adjustable cutoff from 160Hz to 650Hz.
- Enabled via toggle switch.
- -20dB Pad Switch: Reduces input volume when using high-output microphones in XLR mode.
- Hi/Lo Switch:
- Lo Mode: Ultra-clean tones for precise sound shaping.
- Hi Mode: Wide range of overdrive, distortion, and fuzz.
Improvements Over V1
- Output Transformer: Newly added for enhanced performance.
- 48V Phantom Power: Safely powers condenser microphones.
- EQ Shift Knobs: Precision frequency control for Treble, Middle, and Bass.
- Hi/Lo Switch: Offers massive clean headroom in Lo mode or easily accessible distortion in Hi mode.
- Clean Signal: Maintains a pure signal path, even with acoustic guitars.
- Silent Switching: No “switch-pop” for seamless transitions.
- Power: Operates on standard 9V DC Negative power.
Inputs and Outputs
- Combination XLR and 1/4″ Jack: Compatible with instruments or microphones.
- Input Selector Switch: Choose between INST/XLR modes.
Setting Up the Colour Box V2
Setting up the Colour Box V2 is straightforward. For testing, a Fender Telecaster was used, connected via a guitar cable to the pedal. The output can be directed through an amp or to an interface, making it suitable for various recording setups. The pedal features both XLR and quarter-inch outputs, providing flexibility in how you integrate it into your rig.
One of the standout features of the Colour Box V2 is its ability to drive an amplifier while simultaneously capturing the sound through its preamp. When plugged into a Marshall JCM 2000, the pedal allows you to achieve that overdriven sound reminiscent of classic rock records. The interaction between the pedal and the amp can create rich, dynamic tones, and the ability to adjust the EQ settings enhances tonal shaping.
When using the Colour Box V2 as a preamp, it excels at capturing vocals and instruments with warmth and character. By utilizing the step gain control, you can achieve various levels of saturation without compromising the clarity of the sound. This is particularly useful for vocals, where the pedal can add a subtle warmth or a pronounced overdrive depending on your settings.
The Colour Box V2 is not limited to just one genre. Its design allows it to cater to a wide range of musical styles, from funk to rock to ambient. For instance, when used with a Telecaster, the pedal can produce thick, punchy tones that are perfect for funk riffs. The ability to boost certain frequencies can help in creating a fuller sound, especially when recording clean guitar parts.
Comparative Analysis with Other Gear
When comparing the Colour Box V2 to other preamps and pedals on the market, it stands out due to its combination of features. While many preamps focus solely on clean gain, the Colour Box adds a layer of color and character that is often missing in traditional setups. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to add depth and texture to their recordings.
Additionally, the Colour Box can be used in conjunction with other gear, such as dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B. This flexibility means that it can serve as a central piece of your recording chain, offering both preamp functionality and tonal shaping capabilities.
Conclusion: Is the JHS Colour Box V2 Worth It?
In conclusion, the JHS Colour Box V2 offers an impressive array of features that make it a valuable tool for musicians and engineers alike. Its ability to function as both a guitar pedal and a preamp allows for versatile applications in the studio and on stage. Whether you are looking to enhance your guitar tones or capture rich vocal performances, this pedal provides the tools needed to achieve professional-quality recordings.
If you are a guitarist or an audio engineer seeking a multi-functional device that can elevate your sound, the Colour Box V2 is certainly worth considering. With its unique design and powerful capabilities, it may just become your new go-to piece of gear.
For those interested in trying the Colour Box V2, don’t forget to enter the giveaway. If there is a store near you that carrys don’t miss your chance to experience the versatility and warmth it can bring to your music! I LOVE this pedal!