Skinner Box
ProCo RAT Bud Box clone with obsolete LM308 op-amp for vintage RAT tones from huge distortion to smooth drive.
The Skinner Box is Stomp Under Foot's tribute to legendary ProCo RAT distortion, specifically targeting highly sought-after "Bud Box" era RAT pedals. What makes this clone special is its use of authentic New Old Stock LM308 op-amp chip in vintage metal can package, component that has been discontinued for years but is essential to achieving classic RAT voice. Metal can version produces noticeably warmer tone compared to modern plastic-packaged chips, with spongier, more compressed quality at high gain settings.
Three-knob interface mirrors original RAT design: Volume controls output level, Gain sets distortion intensity from light crunch to full saturation, and Tone control offers excellent sweep from dark and thick to bright and cutting. One of pedal's greatest strengths is its versatility—while it excels at huge, fat distortion tones perfect for hard rock and metal, backing gain down to around 12 o'clock reveals amazing overdriven tones with dynamic touch sensitivity and clarity.
LM308 op-amp creates distortion through variable gain circuit with diodes clipping waveform, producing RAT's signature aggressive-yet-articulate character. This circuit design has influenced countless players and genres, from punk to grunge to modern indie rock. Skinner Box preserves this legacy while offering modern reliability through hand-selected components and meticulous construction. Made by hand in USA using only quality through-hole components with true bypass switching.
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