Clone Pedals: Sinful Or Savvy?

Guitar pedals are small electronic devices that musicians use to alter the sound of their instrument. They can be used to create a range of effects, from distortion to reverb, and are a common feature of many musical genres. While some pedals are mass-produced, others are handmade and can be extremely expensive. As a result, a market for clone pedals has emerged, offering musicians the same sound as the original but at a fraction of the cost.

Clone pedals are designed to replicate the sound and functionality of more expensive pedals. They do this by using similar components and circuit designs to the original. In some cases, clone pedals may even improve upon the original design by adding new features or modifications. Clone pedals are often produced by reputable DIY builders and can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of the original pedal.

While some may question the ethics of clone pedals, it is important to note that very few circuits are patented, and only brand names and designs can be copyrighted. As a result, clone pedals occupy a legal grey area and are widely available on the market. For musicians who cannot afford the often exorbitant prices of original pedals, clones offer a more accessible option to create their desired sound.

The ethics of clone pedals

The Case Against Clone Pedals

One of the main arguments against clone pedals is the issue of intellectual property and copyright infringement. Some people believe that cloning another company's pedal design without their permission is unethical and illegal. They argue that the original designers and manufacturers have put in the time, effort, and resources to create these pedals, and cloning them is a form of theft. This perspective stems from the idea that intellectual property should be protected, and companies should have exclusive rights to their designs and innovations.

Another concern raised by opponents of clone pedals is the potential impact on the industry. They argue that cloning pedals discourages innovation and creativity. If companies can simply copy existing designs, there is less incentive to invest in research and development, potentially stifling the creation of new and unique pedals. Additionally, some worry that clone pedals could devalue the original products, affecting the reputation and profitability of the original manufacturers.

The Case for Clone Pedals

Proponents of clone pedals, on the other hand, argue that cloning is a common and accepted practice in the music industry. They point out that most pedals are based on existing designs, and there are only so many ways to create certain effects. In their view, cloning is a form of modification and improvement, similar to what happens with guitar models or amplifier designs. They believe that as long as the clone pedals are not trying to deceive customers by passing themselves off as the original product, there is no ethical issue.

Affordability is another key factor in the debate. Clone pedals are often significantly cheaper than their original counterparts, making them more accessible to musicians who may not be able to afford the high prices of boutique pedals. From this perspective, clone pedals democratize the music industry by giving everyone a chance to access similar sounds and effects without breaking the bank.

Navigating the Grey Areas

The line between cloning and modification can be blurry. Some companies modify existing designs, add their unique touches, and market them as new products. This practice is widely accepted, and many popular pedals are based on modified versions of classic circuits. However, when does modification become cloning? And is it ethical to clone a pedal from a small builder or a boutique company? These are questions that often arise in the discussion of clone pedals.

Another grey area is the role of larger companies in the clone pedal market. Some argue that it is unethical for a bigger company to copy the design of a smaller builder, as it can negatively impact the smaller company's business and hinder their ability to compete. However, others counter that as long as the larger company is transparent about the inspiration behind their pedals and does not try to pass them off as entirely original designs, there is no ethical issue.

Clone pedals vs the real thing

Guitar pedals are effects units that can be used to shape and manipulate the sound of an electric guitar. They have been around since the early 1960s, and today there is a huge range of different types available, from overdrive and distortion to reverb, delay, and chorus.

Clone pedals are copies of existing pedals. They are designed to sound and function identically to the original pedal, but they are usually made with cheaper components and sold at a lower price. Clone pedals are often made by smaller or less well-known manufacturers who do not have the same research and development costs as the bigger brands.

The ethics of clone pedals

There is some debate among guitarists about the ethics of clone pedals. Some people argue that cloning another company's product is unethical and that it undermines the innovation and creativity of the original designer. Others argue that clone pedals are a great way to get the same sound as a more expensive pedal without having to pay a high price.

One important factor to consider is whether the original pedal is still in production. If it is, buying a clone could be seen as taking money away from the company that designed and patented the original pedal. However, if the original pedal is no longer being made, some people feel that cloning it is more acceptable.

Another factor is the price of the original pedal. Some guitarists feel that certain pedals are overpriced, and that it is unreasonable to expect people to pay such high prices for a small electronic device. In these cases, they may feel that it is acceptable to buy a clone pedal instead.

The quality of clone pedals

The quality of clone pedals can vary significantly. Some clones use identical components to the original pedal and sound virtually indistinguishable from it. Others may use cheaper components or have a slightly different design, resulting in a lower quality product. In some cases, clone pedals may even outperform the original, offering additional features or improved functionality.

Examples of clone pedals

• The Joyo JF-01 Vintage Overdrive is a clone of the Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer.
• The Joyo JF-02 Ultimate Drive is a clone of the Fulltone OCD Overdrive.
• The Behringer Tube Overdrive is a clone of the Ibanez Tube Screamer.
• The Caline CP-50 Leon Drive is a clone of the EHX Electric Mistress.
• The Joyo JF-32 Hot Plexi Drive is a clone of the Carl Martin Plexitone.
• The Mooer Ensemble Chorus is a clone of the Boss CE-2 Chorus.

Clone pedals as a cheaper alternative

Guitar pedals can be expensive, with some of the most sought-after models costing upwards of $5,000. As a result, there is a large market for clone pedals, which are designed to replicate the sound and features of the original at a much lower price point. Clone pedals are made possible by the fact that very few circuits are patented, meaning that it is only brand names and designs that are protected by copyright law.

Advantages of clone pedals

The main advantage of clone pedals is their affordability. For example, the Wampler Tumnus, considered one of the best Klon clones available, can be purchased for well under $100, while the original Klon Centaur can cost upwards of $5,000. This makes clone pedals a great option for musicians who are on a budget or who don't want to risk damaging an expensive original pedal during regular use.

Another advantage of clone pedals is their size. For example, the Wampler Tumnus is around a third of the size of the Klon Centaur, making it a good option for musicians who need to conserve pedalboard space.

Disadvantages of clone pedals

One disadvantage of clone pedals is that they may not offer an exact replica of the original sound. While some clones use identical components to the original, others may use different parts or have slightly different features, resulting in a different sound or functionality.

Another potential disadvantage of clone pedals is that they may not hold their value in the same way that an original pedal might. For example, a vintage Black Russian Big Muff pedal may be worth a decent amount on the used market, while a clone of the same pedal is unlikely to have the same resale value.

Examples of clone pedals

There are numerous clone pedals available on the market, with some of the most popular being Joyo pedals from China. Joyo offers a wide range of clone pedals, including the JF-01 Vintage Overdrive, which is considered one of the best clones of the Ibanez Tube Screamer, and the JF-02 Ultimate Drive, which is an incredible clone of the Fulltone OCD pedal.

Other popular clone pedals include the TC Electronic Zeus, which offers a cost-effective way to achieve Klon-style transparent overdrive, and the Warm Audio Centavo, which is considered one of the most accurate Klon clones available, both in terms of sound and aesthetics.

Ethical considerations

While clone pedals are generally considered acceptable if the original pedal is no longer available or if the circuit is considered vintage, there is some debate about the ethics of cloning pedals that are still in production. Some argue that buying clone pedals takes money away from the companies that innovate and create new circuits, potentially discouraging future innovation in the industry.

The quality of clone pedals

Components and Circuitry

Clone pedals aim to replicate the sound of the original pedal by using similar components and circuit designs. While the specific parts may vary, clone manufacturers try to match the overall design and functionality of the original pedal. This includes using comparable op-amps, diodes, and voltage regulators to achieve a similar sound and response.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of clone pedals can be excellent, and in some cases, it may be hard for even the most discerning listeners to tell the difference between a clone and the original. Clone pedals are designed to reproduce the signature sound, tone, and feel of the original pedal, including its ability to dial in cranked tube amp sounds at lower volumes.

Pricing and Accessibility

One of the main advantages of clone pedals is their affordability. Original pedals from well-known manufacturers can be relatively expensive, often costing upwards of $100 or even $5000. Clone pedals, on the other hand, offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with some options available for well below the $100 mark. This makes clone pedals more accessible to musicians who may not be able to afford the high-end originals.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to clone pedals, there are several reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality clones. Joyo, for example, is considered one of the top guitar pedal clone companies, offering a wide range of clones at affordable prices. Other brands mentioned for their clone pedals include Wampler, Mosky, J Rockett, Way Huge, and Warm Audio, among others.

Legal Considerations

It is important to note that cloning pedals can be done legally, as very few circuits are patented, and only brand names and designs can be copyrighted. However, it is essential to distinguish between clones and counterfeits, as some companies may cross the line into plagiarism or trademark infringement.

Examples of Clone Pedals

• Joyo JF-01 Vintage Overdrive is a clone of the Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer.
• Joyo JF-02 Ultimate Drive is a clone of the Fulltone OCD Overdrive.
• Joyo JF-03 Crunch Distortion is a clone of the MI Audio Crunch Box.
• Joyo JF-17 Extreme Metal is a clone of the Electro-Harmonix Metal Muff.
• Wampler Tumnus is a clone of the Klon Centaur.
• Mosky Golden Horse is a budget-friendly clone of the Klon Centaur.
• J Rockett Archer is a replica of the Klon Centaur.
• Way Huge Conspiracy Theory is a clone of the Klon Centaur.

Clone pedals as a DIY project

Building your own clone pedals can be a fun and rewarding DIY project, especially if you're a guitar enthusiast looking for a unique sound or wanting to save some money. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking about building your own clone pedals:

Choose the Right Kit

The first step is to choose a clone pedal kit that suits your needs and skill level. Some kits are more advanced and require careful planning and assembly, while others are simpler and more suitable for beginners. You can find clone pedal kits for popular pedals like the Klon Centaur, Ibanez Tube Screamer, and Boss Super Overdrive. These kits typically include all the necessary components, such as the circuit board, enclosure, and wires.

Gather the Right Tools

Before you begin building, make sure you have the right tools. At a minimum, you'll need a soldering iron and solder. Some kits may also require additional tools like a multimeter or wire cutters. Take the time to familiarise yourself with the tools and how to use them properly to avoid damage to the components or injury to yourself.

Follow Instructions Carefully

Once you have your kit and tools, it's time to start building. Carefully follow the step-by-step instructions that come with your kit. Take your time and work systematically to ensure you don't miss any important steps. It's also a good idea to test each component as you go to ensure it's functioning properly.

Test and Tweak

After you've assembled your clone pedal, it's time to test it out. Plug it into your guitar and amplifier and experiment with different settings to get a feel for the sound. If you're comparing it to an original pedal, you may want to do a blind test to see if you can tell the difference. Additionally, some clone pedals offer modifications or customisations that can be made to tailor the sound to your preferences.

Benefits of Building Your Own Clone Pedals

Building your own clone pedals can offer several advantages:

• Cost savings: Clone pedals can be significantly cheaper than buying the original pedals, especially for sought-after or vintage models.
• Customisation: By building your own clone pedal, you can customise the sound to your liking. This allows you to create a unique sound that suits your playing style and musical preferences.
• Satisfaction: There's a sense of satisfaction that comes with building something yourself. You'll have a deeper understanding of how the pedal works and the ability to troubleshoot and repair it if needed.
• Learning opportunity: Building clone pedals can be a great way to learn about electronics, soldering, and audio engineering. It can also help you develop valuable problem-solving and technical skills.

In conclusion, building your own clone pedals can be a rewarding DIY project that offers cost savings, customisation options, and a sense of satisfaction. It's a great way to explore your creativity and develop new skills while also enhancing your guitar playing experience.

Frequently asked questions