Got a press release from Pigtronix yesterday on the new Philosopher’s Rock pedal, which is an optical compression-sustainer/germanium distortion pedal. Normally I’d say, “Yeah? So what…” but this time I’m a bit intrigued, partially because I’ve been thinking about getting another compressor, and partially because I’ve been looking for another pedal to use distortion into a clean amp. So it’s nice that this pedal combines both. Here’s the press release:
Pigtronix Announces Release of the Philosopher’s Rock Pedal
The Philosopher’s Rock is a compressor sustainer and germanium overdrive pedal that expands the already notorious line of Philosopher pedals from Long Island’s Pigtronix effects. The Philosopher’s Rock is the over-achieving little brother of the company’s top selling sustain pedal, the Philosopher’s Tone. Simplified down to offer up the best sounds of its predecessor, the Philosopher’s Rock sports a streamlined control layout plus the added benefit of germanium enhanced overdrive, along with an unbeatable price point.
The Philosopher’s Rock utilizes Pigtronix award winning compression circuit that has been acclaimed by the likes of Andy Summers, Dweezil Zappa, Johnny Hiland and Billy Sheehan. On this new unit, the controls have been paired down to a classic compressor layout of just 2 knobs (Volume & Sustain) plus a single toggle switch for layering in a refined, vintage flavored germanium overdrive.
With a four times wider range of compression, endless sustain, germanium overdrive and a new vertical footprint and idiot proof control layout, the Philosopher’s Rock is destined to become a future classic.
“The Philosopher’s Rock is Killer. It must go in my rig stat!” – Ian Thornely of Big Wreck
“The Philosopher’s Rock is incredible!” – Brad Whitford of Aerosmith
Pigtronix Philosopher’s Rock carries a list price of $175 and is available now at Pigtronix dealers everywhere. Check out the Philosopher’s Rock and the entire 2012 lineup of Pigtronix effects at: www.pigtronix.com
All hyperbole aside, this pedal seems to be pretty cool…
Here’s demo video of the pedal:
For more information, visit the Philosopher’s Rock page!
Guitar Gear 
I have the PT Germanium Gold Ltd, which is a really great piece of kit and now permanent feature on my board. The only thing that bugs me is the placement of the input & output jacks. This new one sounds quite similar, but I’d be hard pressed to swap it for the PT. Great pedals though. Keep up the good work GoofyDawg, always love reading your posts this side of the pond!