Testing the Waters: A Mid-Cut Mod on a Classic Overdrive Circuit
For a while now I’ve had the idea of creating a classic TS-style circuit with a switchable mid-cut. It’s a concept that blends the familiar warmth of a tubescreamer with the versatility to sculpt the midrange—ideal for players who need adaptability on their board.
This mod was my first step in exploring that idea, and it’s something I might develop further for a future Hamilton Effects original pedal. Here’s what I did and why it’s exciting for me as a builder.
The Concept: Balancing Familiarity and Flexibility
The TS-style circuit is iconic for its midrange push, giving it that instantly recognisable tone. But sometimes you want a flatter EQ or even a slight mid scoop, especially for cleaner tones or when stacking with other pedals.
My idea was to add a switchable mid-cut, allowing the pedal to toggle between the classic mid-hump and a flatter, more neutral EQ. This would make it far more versatile, suitable for a wider range of musical styles and setups.
The Experiment: First Test on an SD-1
To test this concept, I used the Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive as my platform. I added a mid-control pot, giving the circuit adjustable control over the midrange. It’s not the same as a full-on switchable mid-cut, but it allowed me to experiment with how the mids can be shaped dynamically within a circuit.
Alongside the mid-control mod, I also:
Tweaked the clipping diodes for a more amp-like feel by swapping one for a white LED.
Boosted presence by adjusting the low-pass filter to allow more high-end sparkle.
Added my usual aesthetic touches, including new knobs and a yellow LED, to give the pedal a distinctive modded vibe.
What’s Next?
This experiment was an exciting proof of concept, showing how powerful and flexible a mid-cut option could be in a TS-like circuit. The SD-1 proved to be a great testing ground, but the ultimate goal is to design a Hamilton Effects original pedal around this idea.
A dedicated pedal would feature:
A true switchable mid-cut for instant tonal shifts.
Carefully designed controls to balance simplicity with flexibility.
A build tailored to modern players looking for versatility without sacrificing character.
Want to Mod Your Pedals?
If this experiment sparks your interest, I can help bring custom mods to your pedals. Whether it’s adding more tone-shaping options or making your pedals look as good as they sound, I’m always up for the challenge.
Stay tuned for more updates on this concept—who knows, you might see a Hamilton Effects original pedal with these features in the near future!
