Germanium Preamp
FET-based preamp capturing the Chimera 30W amp tone, from clean boost to overdrive to fuzz.
Benson Amps was founded in 2012 by Chris Benson in Portland, Oregon. After working as a repair tech at Verellen Amps and Old Town Music, Benson built a reputation for handwired, roadworthy amplifiers that prioritize player-friendly serviceability over boutique mystique. His Chimera 30W head became a favorite among touring musicians for its versatile voicing.
The Preamp pedal puts the Chimera's front end in stompbox form, using carefully voiced FET transistors to replicate the harmonic richness of the original vacuum tube circuit. Unlike typical overdrive pedals, it employs no-diode clipping—all the saturation comes from pushing the FETs into natural breakup, yielding everything from transparent clean boost through crunchy overdrive to gated fuzz textures.
The four-knob layout (Gain, Volume, Bass, Treble) offers exceptional range. The two-band EQ is highly interactive and musical—treble adds shimmer and presence while bass sweeps from deep lows to tight midrange focus. Players find they can dial in Fender sparkle, Vox chime, or Marshall grind depending on the EQ settings.
The Preamp has earned a devoted following among working guitarists who appreciate its ability to deliver touch-sensitive dirt at any volume level, making it equally useful in bedroom practice and on stage.
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