Guitar players will always be drawn to the tone and feel of analog effects. All of the
"flaws" that come with sending a guitar signal through an analog circuit add up to a
rich and familiar tone. Digital effects convert the signal to digital data and process it
with exacting algorithms. This works for some effects, but distortion is different. Guitar
distortion is not hi-fi, but a mix of non-linear amplification, clipping, and intermodula-
tion that makes for a complex, harmonically rich tone.
Kismet’s Solution
We first designed a great distortion pedal and then added a digital
microcontroller that is able to change the internal resistances in Kismet’s analog circuit
based on knob positions, presets, expression control, or MIDI commands.
Analog Distortion
Kismet’s audio path is 100% analog. At lower gain, one set of
diodes produces a touch sensitive overdrive. As gain increases, a second set of diodes
begins clipping for higher gain with just the right amount of compression. Progressively
sculpting the distortion this way gives Kismet a wide and musical gain range.
Preset Memory
Kismet can save all knob settings to each of its four memory positions.
A footswitch or toggle switch can cycle through all of the presets or toggle back and
forth between any two.
Expression Control
Control any or all settings, in any amounts, any directions, all at
the same time. Save one set of knob positions for the “heel,” another for the “toe,” and
Kismet will mix and morph all settings at the same time with the expression pedal.
MIDI Control
Expand Kismet’s memory to
that can be any combination
of preset or expression settings. Take continuous control of any settings, and more.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
CONNECTIONS
CONNECTIONS
INPUT
1/4” TS (TIP, SLEEVE) mono cable. Input impedance is approximately 1 M .
OUTPUT
1/4” TS mono instrument cable. Output impedance is approximately 1k .
EXPRESSION
1/4” TRS (TIP, RING, SLEEVE) stereo jack. Most expression or volume pedals can be
used. Refer to Fig. 7 for proper wiring and Fig. 11 for calibration.
MIDI
Non-standard 3.5mm TRS connector (Page 19).
REQUIRED: 2.1mm, center negative polarity. This is
the most common effect pedal power connection.
5.5mm outer diameter
2.1mm inner diameter
Fig. 1
DC power connection.
1
2
9
VDC
60
mA
(minimum)
(maximum)
DC POWER INPUT
i
INPUT is for Instrument-level voltages only. Kismet is
not intended for use in an amplifier’s effects loop.
