"Discontinuation after short run": JHS Pedals' Notadümblë stopped production due to an accidental installation of a highly rare Dumble circuit within two weeks.
JHS Pedals Abruptly Discontinues Notadümble Pedal Due to Circuit Error
JHS Pedals, a popular provider of guitar effects pedals, has discontinued its new Notadümble overdrive pedal just weeks after its launch. The decision came as a result of a significant circuit error that founder Josh Scott described as the "biggest mistake" of his career.
Initially introduced as a DIY stompbox, the Notadümble was marketed as a spiritual successor to the highly acclaimed Notaklön, known for its affordability and unique Klon clone pedal design. The Notadümble was touted as JHS's take on two sounds from the Dumble sonic universe, emulating the violin lead tones of one channel, while attempting to replicate John Mayer's ultra-rare A Box Later pedal for the clean channel.
During the development process, Mayer's pedal was borrowed by JHS, who dissected it to capture its tonal magic. Unfortunately, a mix-up occurred, and a different circuit was inadvertently used in the final product. This led to the accidental mis-selling of the pedal, prompting Scott to take ownership of the mistake and take necessary corrective measures.
The pedal's error came to light on May 17, when Scott asked his head engineer for the original schematic used to create the pedal. He realized that the circuit used in the Notadümble did not match the one he intended to use, which was intended to replicate the Dumble A Box Later pedal. The original pedal did not have an effects loop—an integral part of the pedal design—which alerted Scott to the mistake.
Scott acknowledged the importance of honesty and transparency in business, especially in a field where brands carry significant weight and influence. "I do not take lightly your choice to buy our products," he stated in a YouTube video.
Though the mistake may have initially dampened enthusiasm for the Notadümble, some may find delight in the prospect of a BBC-1 build, as a limited number of Notadümble units with the incorrect circuit are still available for purchase. These first-edition pedals are likely to see an increase in value on the secondary market.
The incorrect version of the Notadümble has been discontinued, with the planned production run reduced from 15,000 units to 7,500. The last batch was released on May 23, with 2,500 ready to ship, and 5,000 available as pre-orders. These are expected to be rolled out at a rate of around 1,000 units per week.
Those who purchased a Notadümble and wish to return it for a refund can do so until the end of June by emailing [email protected].
Dumble amps, masterminded by the late Alexander Dumble, have garnered a mythical mystique over the years, having been used by guitar legends such as Eric Clapton, Eric Johnson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Joe Bonamassa, who went to great lengths to obtain Lowell George's famed Super Overdrive Special. The Dumble Preservation Society, which aims to uphold Dumble's legacy, has announced that it will be reemerging to keep his legacy alive.
- JHS Pedals, known for their guitar effects pedals, discontinued their Notadümble overdrive pedal due to a significant circuit error.
- The Notadümble was initially marketed as a spiritual successor to the Notaklön, emulating sounds from the Dumble sonic universe.
- The pedal's error was realized when JHS Pedals' founder, Josh Scott, requested the original schematic and found that the circuit used in the Notadümble did not match the intended design.
- Some Notadümble units with the incorrect circuit are still available for purchase, with the BC-1 build being a potential delight for collectors, given their potential increase in value on the secondary market.