TEST: Fulltone GT 500

 “You get what you see” Mike Fuller probably said to himself one day and realized that his Fulltone GT500 with its gray hammered look was visually far behind what he wanted to convey acoustically. Gray might suit a compressor or EQ, but definitely not a booster or distortion pedal. No sooner said than done, the result was an aggressive rally red with white applications, which clearly highlighted the quality of the kick. But what exactly is the Fulltone GT500?

Conception

In principle, the Fulltone GT500 is a combination of a booster / overdrive and a distortion pedal, i.e. two pedals in one housing. The special feature is that you can determine the order of the effects using a mini switch. Imagine that you first have the distortion in the signal path so that you can increase it with the booster in solo mode if necessary, or you first want an overdrive as the basic tone so that you can then blow it with the distortion pedal in solo mode. You could also take a good-sounding clean amp and pimp it up with the Fulltone GT500 to create a three-channel amp with a solo function. Sounds exciting? It is!

The Booster / Overdrive function indicates its operational readiness with a green LED. A volume and a drive control regulate the volume and the level of distortion. There is also a two-band tone control consisting of bass and treble. You can already tweak the final sound a lot here. A dynamic all-tube amp will react incredibly powerfully to the boost function alone. For example, it is always an experience how low-impedance single coils, with the help of a high-quality booster, suddenly degenerate into a first-class crunch monster in addition to their characteristic clean sound.

To the right of it is the distortion unit with a red LED, conceptually the same but equipped with an additional mid control. And it has it all. In contrast to the otherwise used OP amp filters, a wah-wah uses a coil, which has a significant effect on the sound. That's not enough for those who might like the small letters F.E.T. If you noticed it under the product name, you can already imagine the next explanation.

In contrast to the usual ICs that are used in common NF applications, the Fulltone GT500 is based on discrete FET transistors along with 2 MOSFETs and a standard type. Short version: while the “normal” transistors are controlled by the current flow, FETs are controlled by the voltage, which results in a “softer” sound. Maybe some of you remember Eddie van Halen's guitar setup in the eighties, who, in addition to his Marshall for the dry sound, used 2 MOSFET power amplifiers from H/H for the right/left effect signal for this very reason .

The pedal is operated either via an internal 9V battery or a power supply, which can have between 9 - 18 volts, which brings us to the next special feature of the device. Using different voltages has a massive impact on the sound. In short, the higher the voltage, the higher-pitched and more aggressive the sound of the pedal becomes. By the way, the workmanship of the pedal is excellent, the true bypass switch, for example, is only screwed to the housing and the sheet steel used will stand up to even the notorious staggering and stumbling frontmen on stage.

Practice

If you leave the booster's drive control in the lower range (12 o'clock and less), you only achieve a subtle "refreshment" of the clean sound. Then the subtle crunch begins, which, in cooperation with the tone control, really gives even slightly weaker-looking amps a boost. The distortion unit, on the other hand, as expected, has a slightly stronger gain, with the very effective tone control, especially the mid control, ensuring a lot of shades in the sound. Not to mention the very “musical” sound of the FETs, it’s really incredible how different the transistors sound.

The highlight, however, is the “fatting” of the distortion pedal by the booster, which offers the ultimate lead sound. It is very worthwhile to think a lot about the respective controllers. “Blowing” the amp preamp through the downstream booster is also a real joy, but you should keep the feedback in mind.




Conclusion

With the Fulltone GT500, Mike Fuller has an excellent double pedal on offer that will impress many guitarists. The pedal, handcrafted in the USA, impresses with its wide variety of sounds, excellent workmanship and a sophisticated circuit that fully utilizes the strengths of the rarely used field effect transistors.

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Additional Informations:

Introduction:
Fulltone Pedals stands as a testament to the enduring pursuit of sonic perfection in the world of guitar effects. Founded by Michael Fuller, Fulltone has carved out a unique niche in the industry, renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and uncompromising sound quality. The journey of Fulltone is a fascinating narrative of one man's passion for music and electronics, evolving into a globally recognized brand synonymous with premium guitar effects. Let's delve into the rich tapestry of Fulltone's history, tracing its humble beginnings to its current status as a benchmark for excellence in the realm of effects pedals.

The Genesis:
The roots of Fulltone Pedals trace back to Michael Fuller's early fascination with guitars and electronics. Born in 1958, Fuller grew up immersed in the vibrant music scene of the 1960s and 1970s, where iconic guitarists and groundbreaking innovations in sound were shaping the landscape of rock music. Inspired by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page, Fuller developed a deep appreciation for the expressive potential of the electric guitar.

Fuller's journey into the world of electronics began in his teenage years when he started experimenting with building guitar pedals. Motivated by a desire to capture the elusive tones of his musical heroes, he delved into the intricacies of circuitry, learning through trial and error. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Fulltone Pedals, as Fuller honed his skills as a craftsman and developed a keen ear for tone.

The Birth of Fulltone:
In 1991, Michael Fuller officially founded Fulltone Sound Products, setting up shop in Southern California. Armed with a vision to create effects pedals that not only replicated vintage tones but also pushed the boundaries of sonic innovation, Fuller embarked on a journey of entrepreneurial endeavor. The early years were characterized by relentless experimentation and a steadfast commitment to quality, as Fuller handcrafted each pedal with meticulous attention to detail.

One of Fulltone's earliest breakthroughs came with the introduction of the Full-Drive overdrive pedal in 1994. Drawing inspiration from classic overdrive circuits while adding his own modifications and refinements, Fuller created a pedal that struck a chord with guitarists seeking versatile, amp-like overdrive tones in a compact stompbox format. The Full-Drive quickly gained acclaim among musicians and established Fulltone as a rising force in the competitive world of effects pedals.

Expansion and Innovation:
Buoyed by the success of the Full-Drive, Fulltone expanded its product lineup in the following years, introducing a diverse range of pedals catering to various sonic needs. From the iconic OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Drive) distortion pedal to the lush tape echo emulation of the TTE (Tube Tape Echo), Fulltone continued to push the envelope of what was possible in the realm of guitar effects.

What set Fulltone apart was not just the sound of its pedals but also the uncompromising build quality and attention to detail. Fuller's insistence on using premium components, rugged enclosures, and hand-wiring techniques ensured that each Fulltone pedal was a testament to craftsmanship and reliability. This dedication to excellence earned Fulltone a devoted following among professional musicians and enthusiasts alike, cementing its reputation as a brand synonymous with quality and innovation.

Navigating Challenges:
Like any business, Fulltone faced its share of challenges along the way. From economic downturns to shifting market trends, the company had to adapt and evolve to survive in an ever-changing industry. However, Fuller's unwavering passion for music and his commitment to his craft saw Fulltone weathering the storms and emerging stronger on the other side.

In 2008, Fulltone encountered a significant setback when its factory in Korea, where some of its pedals were manufactured, was destroyed in a fire. While this could have spelled disaster for many companies, Fuller saw it as an opportunity to reassess and reevaluate Fulltone's manufacturing processes. Determined to maintain the highest standards of quality control, he made the bold decision to bring all production back to the United States, where each pedal could be meticulously handcrafted under his direct supervision.

Legacy and Impact:
Today, Fulltone Pedals stands as a testament to Michael Fuller's relentless pursuit of sonic excellence and his unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. With a product lineup that spans over two decades and continues to grow, Fulltone has left an indelible mark on the world of guitar effects. Countless musicians, from bedroom players to arena-rocking legends, rely on Fulltone pedals to shape their signature sounds and inspire their creativity.

Beyond its commercial success, Fulltone's legacy lies in its role as a catalyst for innovation and sonic exploration. By marrying vintage inspiration with modern ingenuity, Fulltone has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of effects pedals, inspiring a new generation of builders and musicians to chase their sonic dreams.

Certainly, let's dive deeper into some key milestones and pivotal moments in Fulltone's journey, as well as explore the ethos that underpins its enduring legacy.

Milestone Moments:

1. **Expansion of Product Line**: Throughout the years, Fulltone has continually expanded its product line to meet the evolving needs of musicians. From overdrive and distortion pedals to modulation effects, delays, and reverbs, Fulltone offers a comprehensive range of pedals designed to inspire creativity and elevate tone.

2. **Collaborations and Special Editions**: Fulltone has collaborated with renowned artists and musicians to create signature pedals tailored to their unique sonic preferences. These collaborations not only highlight Fulltone's commitment to innovation but also serve as a testament to its close relationship with the musical community.

3. **Innovative Designs and Circuitry**: Fulltone has never been content with resting on its laurels, constantly pushing the boundaries of pedal design and circuitry. Whether it's incorporating rare NOS (New Old Stock) components, developing proprietary technology, or refining classic circuits, Fulltone's commitment to innovation shines through in every pedal it produces.

4. **Recognition and Awards**: Over the years, Fulltone has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition within the music industry. From glowing reviews in guitar magazines to prestigious awards for excellence in design and sound quality, Fulltone's reputation as a leader in the field of effects pedals is firmly established.

5. **Community Engagement and Support**: Fulltone has cultivated a strong sense of community among its customers, fostering engagement through social media, forums, and events. This close connection with its user base not only provides valuable feedback for product development but also reinforces the sense of belonging and camaraderie among Fulltone enthusiasts.

The Ethos of Fulltone:

1. **Quality Craftsmanship**: At the heart of Fulltone's ethos is a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Each pedal is meticulously handcrafted using the finest components and time-tested construction techniques, ensuring reliability, durability, and uncompromising performance.

2. **Attention to Detail**: From the circuitry and components to the aesthetics and packaging, Fulltone pays meticulous attention to every detail. This dedication to perfectionism ensures that every aspect of the pedal, both in form and function, is thoughtfully considered and executed to the highest standards.

3. **Passion for Tone**: Above all, Fulltone is driven by a passion for tone. Every pedal is designed not just as a utilitarian tool but as a conduit for artistic expression, capable of inspiring players to unlock new sounds and explore new sonic territories. This unwavering commitment to sonic excellence is the driving force behind everything Fulltone does.

4. **Authenticity and Integrity**: Fulltone prides itself on being true to its roots and maintaining a sense of authenticity and integrity in everything it does. Whether it's staying true to vintage-inspired designs or standing behind its products with exceptional customer service, Fulltone remains steadfast in its commitment to honesty and transparency.

5. **Continual Innovation**: Finally, Fulltone believes in the power of continual innovation to drive progress and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of guitar effects. By embracing new technologies, refining classic designs, and listening closely to the needs of musicians, Fulltone remains at the forefront of pedal innovation, shaping the future of tone for generations to come.

In conclusion, the story of Fulltone Pedals is one of passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to sonic excellence. From its humble beginnings to its status as a global leader in the industry, Fulltone's journey is a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship, creativity, and community. As long as there are guitarists with a thirst for sonic exploration, Fulltone will continue to inspire and innovate, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.