TEST: Danelectro Triple Wah

 It's really not easy as a manufacturer of effects devices these days. In terms of sound technology, many areas have already been exhausted to the max, which makes the introduction of further innovations immensely difficult. So what do you do as a resourceful manufacturer if you already have an established product on the market but want to give it a major boost in popularity in terms of attention?

Some interesting technical sound details are combined with a highly exalted appearance, as is the case with the Trip L Wah from Danelectro. The WahWah comes in an extremely eye-catching outfit, available in either the “Zebra” or “Leopard” styles. The company also points out the fact that there are three pedals with different sounds in one housing, which of course requires an intensive test report.

Construction:

With some devices it is really a shame that they will probably never be noticed by the audience due to their placement on the floorboard. This is clearly the case with the TripleWah. I have never come across a stompbox that had such an impressive look. The first visual impression is really more than impressive and puts all competitors in their place.

Due to the beefy fenders, the fusion of a street cruiser from the 50s and a means of transport from one of the Terminator films, coupled with the painted zebra look, appears quite massive, although some lovingly detailed solutions bring real joy. In particular, the front, which is modeled on a martial vehicle front, causes the viewer to raise the corners of his mouth.

What would have been classified as metal due to its weight turns out to be a heavy, rather solid, plastic housing. The housing rests on four strong rubber feet (car tires), which give the pedal good stability even when you use your foot heavily. In addition, another rubber surface was added to the rear area, which gives the pedal additional sure-footedness. This is urgently needed due to the extra long chassis. The rubber feet and support surface are held in their respective positions by small slotted screws.

There is also a plastic clip on the bottom behind which there is access to the 9 volt battery. A simple circuit is also recorded, which explains the functions of the individual switches and sockets of the device. The contact surface for the foot has a coarse-grained rubber surface, which adequately protects the shoe against slipping. A certain visual parallel to a Nike sports shoe cannot be completely dismissed. ;-)

On the front there are the input and output sockets (headlights) as well as the 9V connection for an external power supply. Visual gimmicks such as a plastic radiator grille, the Danelectro logo and eight stylized exhaust pipes on the side of the housing have no acoustic relevance, but they increase the entertainment value immensely.

An interesting sonic extension is hidden behind the two teardrop-shaped switches, which are located on the top of the housing. As we all know, a WahWah pedal is a steep-edged bandpass filter that is shifted across the frequency range using the rocker. The factory-set main frequency is set heavily in the treble range. Using the two pressure switches you can now shift this frequency range more towards the mids or bass. Three red LEDs at the rear of the device (rear lights) inform the artist which frequency range has been activated, with the middle LED again being very nicely stylized in the shape of a Danelectro “D”.

Practice:

When you use the pedal for the first time, you notice the relatively high level of background noise that the pedal makes when it is used in dry operation without an amplifier. This is due to the fact that the plastic housing has a different damping than the commercially used metal housings. Not that this represents a sound impairment in any way, it's just a bit unusual. In my opinion, the control path of the pedal could use a little more “moveability”, but this is a subjective approach and should be discussed by everyone themselves.

The Trip L Wah war has a high recognition value due to its very nasal basic characteristics. The sharp, sometimes biting tone holds up well, especially with retro amplifiers, which sometimes have a slightly musty sound design, although caution is advised in the treble range from around 3 Khz.

This area can be tastefully moved downwards using the two pressure switches. Depending on the type of amplifier and level of distortion, completely different basic sounds are actually produced, with each user having to explore and find their own way. An all-round carefree package, as is often requested, does not exist here; the possible variations are too great.

In order to activate or deactivate the switches during operation, you need a little practice with your own footwear. The internal switch can be easily operated using the rocker, but the pressure switches require the foot to be bent from the front. This can be easily accomplished in a low shoe or sneaker, but if you have heavy footwear such as boots for stage use, you will not be able to avoid activating it with the heel. It is doable, but just for the sake of a confident presentation on stage, do this in a quiet room away from the public. Nothing is more embarrassing than an artist stumbling or even slipping on stage!

Especially when it comes to working with a fixed pedal, there are a huge number of possible variations that vary completely depending on the type of amplifier. What hits exactly the center frequency that needs to be boosted in amplifier one, leads to a treble boost in amplifier two, which causes your own pet to make a wild attempt to escape from the room.

I also noticed the very narrow Q factor of the bandpass filter. Danelektro really has a very steep approach here, which is in favor of assertiveness but at the expense of “smoothness”. Due to the diverse sound possibilities, it is essential to test the Triple Wah with your own equipment. Even though this is a standard procedure for all effect devices, it is often forgotten that the tonal output is largely determined by the instrument or amplifier used. The included sound files can only reflect a snapshot of the sound options available.

Conclusion:

Even if one or two reviewers have apparently heard the word “kitsch” when it comes to the look, I really like the funky kick. We are in show business and, as we all know, an extravagant look has never harmed anyone, quite the opposite.

In terms of sound, the Trip L Wah occupies a niche that needs to be explored. Thanks to the variation options in the frequency range, every ambitious sound tinkerer will find something for themselves, and visually no one can hold a candle to this device anyway. ;-)
In addition, the Triple Wah also has Danelectro's usual low retail price, which further increases its value.

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Additional Informations:

Danelectro's influence extends far beyond the realm of guitar manufacturing. Throughout its history, the company has played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music and influencing the culture surrounding electric guitars.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Danelectro guitars were favored by a diverse array of artists spanning various genres. From the twangy tones of country music to the raucous sounds of early rock and roll, Danelectro instruments could be heard on countless recordings and live performances.

One of the factors contributing to Danelectro's widespread appeal was its commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. By utilizing innovative manufacturing techniques and materials, Danelectro was able to produce guitars and basses that punched well above their weight class in terms of tone and playability.

Furthermore, Danelectro's willingness to experiment with unconventional designs and features set them apart from other guitar manufacturers of the era. From the unique "Coke bottle" headstock of the Convertible model to the iconic "Shorthorn" body shape of the '59 series, Danelectro instruments exuded personality and character.

**Danelectro's Enduring Legacy**

While Danelectro experienced periods of decline and resurgence over the years, the brand's legacy has endured through the dedication of musicians, collectors, and enthusiasts worldwide. Vintage Danelectro guitars are highly sought after by collectors for their historical significance and unique aesthetic appeal.

In recent years, Danelectro has experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to a renewed focus on quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. The company has introduced new models and updated versions of classic designs, attracting a new generation of players drawn to Danelectro's retro charm and distinct sound.

Moreover, Danelectro's commitment to affordability makes their instruments accessible to players of all skill levels and budgetary constraints. Whether you're a professional musician looking for a reliable gigging instrument or a beginner embarking on your musical journey, Danelectro guitars offer an excellent balance of performance and value.

**Exploring Additional Danelectro Models**

In addition to the models mentioned earlier, Danelectro offers a range of other guitars and basses to suit a variety of musical preferences and playing styles:

1. **Danelectro Longhorn Bass**: The Longhorn Bass is a classic Danelectro design known for its elongated horn shape and distinctive sound. With its unique pickup configuration and lightweight construction, the Longhorn Bass delivers punchy, articulate tones that cut through the mix with ease.

2. **Danelectro Wild Thing**: The Wild Thing is a modern take on the offset guitar design, featuring a radical body shape and aggressive styling. Equipped with high-output pickups and a fast-playing neck, the Wild Thing is tailor-made for players who crave power, versatility, and stage presence.

3. **Danelectro Hodad**: The Hodad is a retro-inspired guitar with a nod to the surf culture of the 1960s. With its bright, beach-friendly colors and vintage vibe, the Hodad captures the carefree spirit of an era gone by while offering modern playability and performance.

4. **Danelectro Baby Sitar**: For those seeking a truly unique sound, the Baby Sitar combines elements of a traditional sitar with the playability of a guitar. Featuring sympathetic drone strings and a distinctive bridge design, the Baby Sitar produces authentic sitar-like tones that add a touch of exotic flair to any musical composition.

**Innovative Features and Design**

Danelectro's commitment to innovation has resulted in several groundbreaking features and design elements that set their instruments apart from the competition. Some of these innovations include:

1. **Lipstick Tube Pickups**: Perhaps the most iconic feature of Danelectro guitars, the lipstick tube pickups are known for their unique appearance and distinct sound. Originally housed in surplus lipstick tubes, these pickups deliver a bright, clear tone with plenty of sparkle and definition.

2. **Masonite Construction**: In the quest to keep costs down without sacrificing quality, Danelectro pioneered the use of Masonite, a type of hardboard made from pressed wood fibers, for the construction of their guitar bodies. This lightweight yet durable material contributes to the unique resonance and character of Danelectro instruments.

3. **Sealed Enclosures**: Danelectro was among the first guitar manufacturers to utilize sealed enclosures for their electronics, providing increased protection against dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. This innovation ensures long-term reliability and consistent performance, even in demanding playing conditions.

4. **Tape Delay Effects**: In addition to their guitars and basses, Danelectro also produced a range of effects pedals, including the iconic Reel Echo tape delay. This pedal emulates the warm, saturated sound of vintage tape echo units, adding depth and dimension to your guitar tone.

**Impact on Music History**

Danelectro guitars have left an indelible mark on music history, shaping the sound of numerous genres and influencing generations of musicians. From the twangy tones of country and rockabilly to the jangly sounds of surf rock and indie pop, Danelectro instruments have been a staple of countless recordings and live performances.

Icons of the guitar world, such as Jimmy Page, Syd Barrett, and Jack White, have all wielded Danelectro guitars, contributing to their mystique and allure. Whether used as a primary instrument or as a distinctive sonic flavor in a larger ensemble, Danelectro guitars have a knack for cutting through the mix and making their presence known.

Furthermore, Danelectro's affordability and accessibility have democratized the world of electric guitars, making high-quality instruments available to musicians of all backgrounds and skill levels. This democratization of music production has empowered countless artists to express themselves creatively and share their music with the world.

**Global Reach and Community**

Danelectro's influence extends far beyond its New Jersey roots, with a global community of players, collectors, and enthusiasts spanning every continent. From the bustling music scenes of New York City and London to the remote corners of the globe, Danelectro guitars can be found in the hands of passionate musicians who appreciate their unique blend of vintage charm and modern performance.

Online forums, social media groups, and fan communities provide a platform for Danelectro enthusiasts to connect, share their experiences, and geek out over gear. Whether discussing the finer points of pickup winding techniques or trading stories of memorable gigs, these communities serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of Danelectro guitars.

Furthermore, Danelectro's commitment to customer satisfaction and support ensures that players feel valued and supported throughout their musical journey. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner just starting out, Danelectro is there to provide the tools and inspiration you need to make music and create memories that last a lifetime.

**Conclusion**

Danelectro Guitars stands as a testament to the power of innovation, creativity, and passion in the world of musical instrument manufacturing. From their iconic designs and innovative features to their enduring impact on music history and global community, Danelectro continues to inspire generations of musicians to push the boundaries of what's possible with a guitar in hand.

As the journey of Danelectro Guitars continues into the future, one thing remains certain: their commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation will ensure that their legacy endures for years to come, empowering musicians to create, connect, and share their music with the world.