1995 Ibanez Tube King

The Ibanez Tube King is a tube-driven overdrive/distortion pedal known for delivering warm, authentic tube tones with rich harmonic overdrive. It combines the warmth and response of a 12AX7 tube with the convenience of a pedal, giving guitarists a wide range of tones, from subtle overdrive to heavy distortion. The Tube King has become a popular pedal among players who want the feel and sound of tube-driven distortion in a compact, easy-to-use format. There have been several versions of the Tube King over the years, each offering slight variations in sound and features, but all with the same goal of providing tube-like warmth and saturation.

Key Features

• 12AX7 tube for authentic tube-driven overdrive and distortion
• Wide gain range: from mild overdrive to high-gain distortion
• Three-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble) for precise tone shaping
• Presence control to add extra brightness and clarity to your sound
• True bypass to preserve signal integrity when the pedal is disengaged
• Rugged metal chassis designed for durability
• Powered by a 9V DC power supply (some models may have a specific power requirement due to the tube)

Sound Profile
The Ibanez Tube King delivers a warm, smooth overdrive and saturated distortion, mimicking the sound of a tube amp being pushed to its limits. The 12AX7 tube inside the pedal adds a level of harmonic richness and dynamic response, allowing the pedal to respond to picking dynamics and guitar volume changes like a real tube amplifier. The EQ controlsoffer versatility, allowing players to shape their tone to suit a variety of musical genres, from blues and classic rock to hard rock and metal. The Presence control further enhances the high frequencies, adding a crispness to the tone when needed.

Applications
The Tube King is ideal for guitarists who want the warmth and character of a tube-driven overdrive in a pedal format. Its wide gain range makes it suitable for a variety of styles, from bluesy overdrive to high-gain rock and metal distortion. The pedal’s dynamic response and touch sensitivity make it perfect for players who rely on expressive playing techniques. It works well in both live performance and studio settings, either as a standalone overdrive or as a boost to push an already overdriven tube amp into heavier distortion.

Build Quality and Aesthetic
The Ibanez Tube King features a robust metal chassis, designed to withstand the rigors of touring and regular use. Its design varies slightly between versions, but it typically features bright colors and a distinctive look that stands out on a pedalboard. The large, easy-to-use knobs allow for quick adjustments during a performance, and the overall construction is built to last. The footswitch is solid and responsive, ensuring reliable operation during live shows.

Country of Manufacture
Japan

Collectibility and Market Value
The Ibanez Tube King has developed a loyal following due to its unique tube-driven design and high-quality overdrive tones. Early models of the Tube King are particularly sought after by collectors and players who appreciate the original design and tone. The rarity of some versions, especially the original TK999 and TK999US, has led to a rise in their market value, making them a desirable pedal for both collectors and players. Later reissues are more readily available and offer similar tones but may not carry the same collectible value as the originals.

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