fulldrive

Fulldrive is a term primarily used in the context of audio effects pedals for electric guitar. It generally refers to a type of overdrive pedal that is capable of producing a wide range of gain levels, from a subtle, amp-like edge to a more saturated, compressed distortion. The name "Fulldrive" itself suggests the ability to achieve a fully driven sound, often mimicking the response of a tube amplifier pushed to its limits.

These pedals are designed to add sustain, warmth, and harmonic richness to a guitar's signal. They are often employed by guitarists seeking to emulate classic rock, blues, or even heavier tones without necessarily needing to crank their amplifier to damaging volumes. The versatility of a Fulldrive pedal lies in its ability to function as a clean boost, a light overdrive for rhythm playing, or a more aggressive distortion for lead passages.

Key features commonly found on Fulldrive pedals include controls for volume, tone, and drive or gain. Some models may also incorporate additional features like a presence control for adjusting high-end frequencies, a clipping switch to alter the character of the distortion, or a boost switch for an independent volume increase. The sound profile of a Fulldrive pedal can vary significantly between manufacturers and specific models, but the core concept remains consistent: providing a comprehensive overdrive solution for guitarists.