Gear Review: Exploring the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass

A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass

Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.

Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
• Weight: 403g
• Working Voltage: DC 9V
• Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
• Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
• Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
• Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
• Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
• Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
• Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
• Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
• Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
• Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.

Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.

Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.

Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.

Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.

Pros:

• Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
• Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
• Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
• Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.

Cons:

• Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
• Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.

Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html