The first modulation effect from Peterborough, Ontario builder Supercool Pedals is a compelling interpretation of a classic BBD chorus.
With just two knobs and a switch to flip between chorus and vibrato wave forms, the Supercool Pedals Zig-Zag demonstrates the enduring importance of the acronym KISS—keep it simple, stupid.
Inside its cheekily decorated, 1590B housing, the Zig-Zag looks built to stand up to harsh treatment for decades. Builder Jamie Muir modeled the pedal’s chorus effect on the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone circuit favored by Kurt Cobain. This rendition is among the clearest and fullest interpretations of the effect that I’ve ever heard. It edged out my Walrus Julia in terms of fidelity and transparency; where the Julia’s transmissions are watery and hazy, dulling the guitar a touch, the Zig-Zag is simply pristine, and more powerful for it. I have to assume the circuit’s simplicity has something to do with that lively presence. Regardless of where it was set for either chorus or vibe, the pedal exhibited breadth and punch. There’s a tasteful, ever-so-slight level boost, too, just enough to make sure modulations don’t go missing in the mix.
I never found myself wanting when using the Zig-Zag. In fact, Zig-Zag’s engaging sounds made me want to use chorus and vibrato more than I normally would, in both its most subtle and most whacked-out configurations. PG
