MXR M-181 Bass Blowtorch Overdrive Distortion

Today I wanted to talk about the MXR M181 Blowtorch Distortion pedal for bass. Here we have a diverse overdrive/fuzz pedal for bass guitar. Some interesting points with this pedal is that it has a active 3-band EQ with mid-shift switch for tone. Also the EQ is tied in with the distortion side of the pedal with signal blending options. There is a ‘torch’ button to toggle between normal and extreme fuzz. Also the pedal requires 18volts, so it will need to 9v batteries or 18v power supply.

Here is the official description:

The M-181 MXR Bass Blowtorch bass overdrive pedal is made to deliver the hottest sounds this side of Hades-from a tube-like growl to full-blown distorted madness. Because the Bass Blowtorch’s overdrive is focused in the midrange frequencies, you’ll retain your low-end thunder and high-end sizzle while the overdriven mids cut through any mix. An active 3-band EQ with a mid shift switch provides precise signal balancing, while the Blend knob lets you balance the distortion with the direct signal for the exact tone you’re after. 18-volt performance equals increased dynamic headroom, clarity, and low noise no matter the volume level, and true bypass circuitry means it’s really off when you want it off, leaving your signal completely unaffected.

MXR M-181 Bass Blowtorch Overdrive Distortion Pedal Features:

* From traditional tube-like growl to full-blown high-gain distortion
* 18V performance for increased dynamic headroom and clarity
* Low-noise performance at loud volumes
* Active 3-band EQ with 3-position mid shift for precise tone sculpting
* Distortion and direct signal blending
* Real-world tested by world-class touring bassists
* Tough die-cast housing
* True hardwire bypass

I found a couple of videos that I want to include with this post. The first is the official video by jimdunlopusa. I was disappointed that they musician was changing riffs when settings were changed. It was hard to notice what exactly happened with the settings adjustment.

The second video is a pretty thorough demo by bryanrtyler:

You can pick up the MXR M-181 Bass Blowtorch Overdrive Distortion for $139.99 at Musician’s Friend.

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