The Optimist Dual Overdrive & EQ – Jackson Audio

 

The Optimist Dual Overdrive & EQ is a compact yet highly configurable analogue pedal designed to deliver a wide range of drive textures combined with precise tonal shaping. Built around two independent overdrive circuits and a studio-inspired equaliser section, it is intended for integration into both simple pedalboards and complex, MIDI-controlled rigs.

The pedal combines traditional analogue design principles with modern routing and control options, allowing it to function as a dual overdrive, a tone-shaping tool, or a central gain stage within a professional guitar setup.




Dual Overdrive Architecture

The Optimist features two distinct overdrive circuits, each designed with a specific tonal role:


OD1 is based on a mid-focused overdrive topology inspired by classic boutique designs known for their natural response and dynamic interaction with guitar pickups. This circuit is voiced to emphasise presence and articulation, making it suitable for lead tones and expressive playing.

OD2 contrasts this approach with a flatter frequency response, designed to preserve the instrument's natural character. Its broader gain range supports rhythm work and can also be used to enhance OD1 when both circuits are engaged together.

The two overdrives can be used independently or combined, allowing layered gain structures without excessive compression or unwanted artefacts.

Integrated 3-Band Equaliser


A key component of The Optimist is its post-drive 3-band equaliser, inspired by classic Baxandall studio EQ designs. This section is explicitly tailored for guitar applications, focusing on musically relevant frequency ranges.

The EQ can be activated independently or in conjunction with the overdrive circuits, functioning either as a tone-shaping stage or as a standalone equaliser. Each band offers ±12 dB of boost or cut, with centre detents that make it easy to return to a neutral response.

This design enables fine control over pickup voicing, allowing adjustments that can accommodate both single-coil and humbucker-equipped instruments.

MIDI Control and Routing Flexibility


The Optimist supports complete MIDI control, enabling remote switching of OD1, OD2, and the EQ section via standard MIDI control change messages. This allows seamless integration into programmable rigs and live performance systems.

MIDI channel assignment is handled directly on the pedal, with visual LED feedback indicating the selected channel. All settings are stored internally, ensuring consistent recall across sessions.

Signal routing is designed to remain flexible, supporting integration with complex pedal chains while maintaining analogue signal integrity.

Technical Overview

  • Dual analogue overdrive circuits (OD1 and OD2)

  • Post-drive 3-band studio-style EQ

  • Independent control of gain stages and EQ

  • MIDI control for all functions

  • Analogue signal path

  • 9V DC power (centre-negative)

  • Minimum current requirement: 150 mA

At the time of writing, the listed price for this pedal is €302.95.

👉 Find it on the Jackson Audio online store

https://jackson.audio/products/theoptimist?ref=sagpro (affiliate link)

Image credits: Jackson Audio

Affiliate disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. A qualifying purchase may generate a small commission at no additional cost, supporting SAG Pro and its editorial work.


#SAGPro #JacksonAudio #TheOptimist #OverdrivePedal #EQPedal #AnalogPedals #GuitarGear #StudioGear #StageGear #MusicProduction #AudioGear #Pedalboard


Disclosure & Attribution SAG Pro participates in affiliate programs with selected partners, including Jackson Audio, EART Guitar, and AliExpress. This article may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, SAG Pro may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the ongoing operation and editorial independence of the platform. All images, logos, and trademarks remain the property of their respective copyright holders. If you are a content creator and wish for credit, an update, or removal of content, please contact me directly. Please note: Images used in this article may not correspond exactly to the products promoted in the affiliate links and are provided for illustrative purposes only. All transactions, product quality, shipping, and returns are the sole responsibility of the respective seller or manufacturer. SAG-Pro does not handle orders or provide after-sales support. This site uses cookies and may contain affiliate links. By using this site, you accept the Privacy Policy. Read more. The information provided on this blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be considered as purchasing advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before making any buying decisions.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Korg Volca Keys – Analogue Polyphonic Synthesizer Overview

Image
  The   Korg Volca Keys   is a compact analogue synthesiser designed for musicians and producers who want hands-on access to classic analogue sound generation in a portable format. It combines a true analogue signal path with a built-in sequencer, making it suitable for both studio use and live performance setups. Sound Engine and Synthesis Architecture The Volca Keys is based on a genuine analogue synthesis engine with   three-voice polyphony , allowing the instrument to operate in polyphonic, unison, and chord modes. This architecture supports a range of sound types, including melodic leads, pads, and layered textures. The analogue design contributes to the instrument’s characteristic tonal behaviour, with continuously variable parameters that respond directly to physical control input. This makes it suitable for users who prefer tactile sound shaping rather than menu-based editing. Sequencer and Performance Workflow An integrated   loop sequencer   ena...
Read more »

Korg Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 Model) Review

Image
Introductory overview The   Korg   Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 model)   is a professional music workstation designed for studio production, live performance, and advanced sound design. It combines multiple sound engines, onboard effects, and solid-state storage in a single unit intended for keyboardists, producers, and composers who require a broad palette of sounds and integrated sequencing tools. Upon initial use, the Kronos 2 presents a solid build and a responsive touchscreen interface that supports efficient navigation. Startup times are relatively quick for a workstation of this class, allowing users to move rapidly into sound selection, performance, or sequencing tasks. Key characteristics and design The Kronos 2 features   nine dedicated sound engines , covering a wide range of synthesis methods and instrument modelling approaches. These include sample-based playback, virtual analogue synthesis, FM-style synthesis, physical modelling, and dedi...
Read more »