Rocker 83

Colombo Audio Electronics is an Italian builder creating point-to-point wired effects pedals. Founded by Luca Colombo, the company draws inspiration from classic 1980s recording tones and vintage equipment.

The Rocker 83 is a distortion pedal conceived to offer guitarists the quintessential 1980s guitar tone reminiscent of the Rockman X100 pocket-amp created by Tom Scholz of Boston. Unlike the original X100, the Rocker 83 works with standard amplifiers and 9V power supplies.

The classic 3-knob layout (Volume, Treble, Gain) is complemented by an Edge/Dist switch. Edge produces mellow crunch perfect for rhythm work, while Dist delivers juicy, harmonic-rich sustain for leads. The circuit draws only 10mA from standard 9V center-negative power.

All Colombo Audio Electronics pedals are built entirely point-to-point with no printed circuits. An expanded Rocker 83 Stellar version adds an analog stereo chorus based on a Mitsubishi BBD chip. Available for approximately $267 USD plus shipping.