middle pedal PARAMOUNT – Nerdvana Pedals LLC

middle pedal PARAMOUNT – Nerdvana Pedals LLCParamount is a clone of the clean preamp section of the Mesa Studio Preamp. Kurt used this preamp with Class A B solid state power amps live. Paramount is meant to be used this way, with a tube power amp, or into an fx loop return. You can also use it to record direct or play live direct with only a cabsim. The BMT tonestack you're familiar with already. Set to taste. Lore says Kurt had it set B3 M7 T7, you can start there. I like the volume set

Paramount is a clone of the clean preamp section of the Mesa Studio Preamp. 

Kurt used this preamp with Class A/B solid state power amps live. Paramount is meant to be used this way, with a tube power amp, or into an fx loop return. You can also use it to record direct or play live direct with only a cabsim.

The BMT tonestack you're familiar with already. Set to taste. Lore says Kurt had it set B3 M7 T7, you can start there. I like the volume set between 4-7 for most things and adjust the master to taste. 

With the volume (gain) set to max it has a light crunch/purr. Don't expect much dirt, you'll use a DS-2 or similar for that. 

Output level is handled by the Master. 

The preamp accepts:
9-12V DC CENTER NEGATIVE

12V is recommended and most like the original. You'll need 500ma for this one so make sure you're using proper power before testing. Use ONLY the specified power or risk permanent damage. I only recommend Cioks.

It uses a SMPS to convert to the same 250V the original used, nothing fake or low voltage at all here. There is an APEX tested JJ 12AX7 mounted internally and you'll feel it's warmth on the enclosure after using for a while. 

Paramount has a 250V source follower output buffer as well, ensuring that ANY power amp/ impedance can be driven to deafening levels. 

Setting both Volume and Treble to maximum is a recipe for extreme hiss. Turn either down to 9 or below.

While Paramount will drain its capacitors before you can get all four screws out it DOES have a 250V circuit when powered and therefore poses a health risk. 

DO NOT, open the pedal when powered on, change the tube when powered on, or plug power in when open. 

When changing the tube (a few years from now) be sure to hold the pcb/mount firmly and wiggle the tube slowly and carefully until out. Don't be rough with it and damage the PCB/pins etc. Use some care and caution to prevent issues. And remember to do it without power for safety. 

*This design success couldn't have been realized without the help of my good friend Nathan Slade at Sushibox FX. I implore you to visit his site and look at his many genius tube creations.