Earthquaker Devices Sunn O))) Halflife

Sunn O))) and EarthQuaker Devices present the most compact and pedalboard-friendly version of the well-known Life Pedal circuit to date: the Sunn O)))) HalfLife Octave Distortion + Booster. Although only about half the size of its predecessors, the HalfLife still delivers the same massive sound and impact.

The HalfLife combines a distortion, an adjustable analog octave-up and a booster in one compact body. The distortion section, called Amplitude, is based on the classic White Face distortion. Compared to the original design, modifications were made only in the clipping section. Whereas the original circuit uses a single pair of silicon diodes for tight, compressed distortion, the HalfLife offers three different clipping modes for more flexibility:

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• No diodes: maximum output and raw, aggressive op-amp distortion.
• Asymmetrical clipping with two silicon diodes and one LED: provides a smoother, slightly compressed overdrive reminiscent of a tube amp.
• Classic dual silicon diodes: delivers the familiar, original distortion character.

The octave section is built around a completely discrete, analog full-wave rectifier. Since it is located at the beginning of the signal chain, the Octave control allows more octave effect to be gradually added by turning it further open. In addition, the function can be controlled via an expression pedal, allowing dynamic octave swells without using the hands.

Since this is an analog octave effect, it works monophonically and is best used for single notes above the twelfth fret, played with the neck element. Instead, chords sound rough, chaotic and metallic. Use of the bridge element or notes below the twelfth fret results in a more subtle octave effect. With the Octave control fully open, the HalfLife transforms from a distortion pedal into a ferocious, swelling fuzz reminiscent of the legendary Super Fuzz sounds.

The internal signal path is as follows: Octave → Distortion → Boost. The octave/distortion section and the booster can be switched on separately via their own footswitches. The right footswitch activates the octave-distortion, while the left one controls the booster.

The HalfLife is designed for huge, all-crushing sounds: from deep cleavages to crumbling mountain peaks and exploding stars. For ultimate results, classic tube amps are recommended.

Developed and built by EarthQuaker Devices in Akron, Ohio, United States.

Operation:

• Octave: Gradually adds the analog octave effect as you turn the knob clockwise.
• Distortion: Controls the amount of distortion. Clockwise for more distortion, counterclockwise for less. Provides up to about +60 dB of gain.
• Filter: A low-pass filter with a frequency range of about 500 Hz to 30 kHz. Turn counterclockwise for more treble, clockwise for a darker sound with less treble.
• Amplitude: Output volume of the octave/distortion section. Turn clockwise for more volume, counterclockwise for less.
• Clipping switch: OpAmp - No diodes in the clipping circuit, allowing the op-amp to distort at full power with maximum output and a raw, aggressive character.
• Asymm: Uses two silicon diodes and one LED in an asymmetrical clipping configuration. This results in slightly compressed, smooth distortion reminiscent of a tube amplifier.
• Symm: The classic configuration with two silicon diodes. Delivers the familiar, recognizable distortion sound.
• Magnitude: Output volume of the booster. Clockwise for more boost, counterclockwise for less. The unity gain point is approximately around the middle position (12 o'clock).

Switches and connections:

• Right footswitch: Activates or deactivates the octave/distortion section.
• Left footswitch: Activates or deactivates the booster.
• Octave EXP: Socket for an expression pedal that controls the amount of analog octave. Make sure the pedal is turned off before connecting an expression pedal.

Flexi-Switch® Technology

This unit is equipped with Flexi-Switch® Technology. This relay-controlled true-bypass switching system allows you to use both momentary and latching operation.

• Latching mode (default): press the footswitch once to turn the effect on and again to turn it off.
• Momentary mode: hold down the footswitch as long as you want to use the effect. As soon as you release, the effect is immediately turned off.
• Because the switching system is relay-controlled, the unit requires power to pass a signal.

Power Supply: Requires a standard 9V DC power supply with a 2.1 mm center-negative connector. Do not use a higher supply voltage as this may damage the device. (power supply not included)