La Brea Analog Tape Drive
By Strymon
An all-analog drive from Strymon's Series A line built around multi-stage tape saturation. It covers everything from a clean boost to mild breakup to full fuzz.
About this pedal
La Brea is Strymon’s newest all-analog Series A pedal, built around multi-stage tape saturation techniques that Strymon engineer Josh Forbes developed over years of tinkering after studying the Deco pedal. The Tape Sat knob takes the signal from mild breakup to borderline fuzz while keeping the natural compression that makes tape feel good to play into.
A Gain switch sets the range of the saturation control, and a three-position Shift switch adds treble, either highs only or highs plus upper mids so notes cut through a mix. A fully variable Dry path stays in phase with the processed signal, which keeps things clear even with Tape Sat maxed. It runs at 24 volts internally for headroom, so it works as a vibey clean boost or an all-out fuzz.
Specs
| Circuit | Fully analog |
|---|---|
| Bypass | True bypass |
| I/O | Mono in/out |
| Internal Voltage | 24V |
| Power Supply | 9VDC center-negative, 500mA minimum (not included) |
| Dimensions | 4.53" x 2.83" x 2.33" (D x W x H) |
Quick answers
- How much does the La Brea Analog Tape Drive cost?
- Strymon lists it at $199 (USD). Dealer and used prices vary.
- Is the La Brea Analog Tape Drive still available?
- Yes. Strymon lists it as a current model that's available to order.
- Who makes the La Brea Analog Tape Drive?
- Strymon, building gear since 2009. Where it's built: All Strymon products are designed and built in the USA. It's listed here as an overdrive pedal.
- How long is the wait for Strymon gear?
- In-stock orders usually leave the warehouse within 1 business day.