Legendary German pedal makers, Nobels have been at it since 1985 where they started out making really elaborate digital multi-effect units and MIDI controllers, but in 1992 they shifted their focus towards compact and intuitive effects pedals. The one that immediately stood out in the crowd was the now iconic ODR-1 Natural Overdrive. So much so that it now is the only pedal they offer in their lineup through the new ODR-1 BC and ODR-1 Mini. Its organic and warm drive tones, plus its surprisingly wide gain range have seen it become the secret weapon of guitarists across the globe.
As a pedal company, discovering the core of your sonic mission is the most important thing there is. For Nobels, that core consists of delivering exceptional overdrive tones at a price where everybody can play along.
“Being the pedal nerd that I am, I had of course heard about Nobels and the ODR-1 before, but I never really bought into the “secret weapon” praise surrounding the pedal, due to its visual similarities to a Tubescreamer and its connection to country music. But I tried it on a whim at NAMM, and I was totally blown away by how good it sounded. It had nothing to do with a Tubescreamer. It was clear, open and ultra-dynamic, and could go from clean boost to crunchy rock in seconds. It’s seriously been one of my favorite overdrives ever since, and I would recommend it in a heartbeat to anyone looking for an affordable yet amazing overdrive pedal.”
-Stefan