There are times when it seems as though everything turns ugly all of a sudden.

8.00 am: A communion. 9.15 am: Studiology:

For sometime, while undertaking the final phase of the CD project, I’ve wanted to conduct a methodical exploration of a guitar and amp, pure and simple. And, then, add effector components one at a time, either in front of and or in the effects loop of the amp. The objective is to develop a more intimate and comprehensive knowledge of their interactions.

I also wanted to make trail of different makes of the same effector under these conditions, beginning with valve-driven and solid-state gain pedals:

The rain poured for most of the day in a dispiriting manner:

By the close of the afternoon, I’d established two front runners in the gain pedal stakes. Tomorrow I’d introduce effectors into the amp’s effects loop and work with the ‘dirt’ board (Pedalboard I) at the front.