This is a great video! Your conclusion in the end is exactly where I ended up. On my board I have two Tapestry Audio Fab Suisse pedals that are both Blues Breaker circuits and I set one to low/medium gain and one to medium gain. The Lightspeed was not able to replace either of those because the overdrive turned up was similar enough that I wouldn’t switch them out. Then I got the idea of placing the Lightspeed before them at a low gain setting to push both of those pedals individually. That was absolute magic! Whether to boost them or use it with them or use them at the same time, both sound fantastic together! Much better than they did independently. The dynamics though… WOW! A whole different level of cool!
I love my Deco! It's the best for a base tone. And the chorus is quite lovely! And the slapback is superb! BTW, I picked up my Deco on your recommendation. I waited months before I finally pulled the trigger but it will never leave my main board! Ever! Thanks Eric!
Thanks Charles! Yeah, you really can't lose with either of those crunchies - I just got the Greer Southland Harmonic Overdrive and it's great too! You see it in some vids soon - it's got a great chewy attack!
Eric Haugen I went ahead and picked up the Lightspeed after watching your video a bunch more times and man it really does sound fantastic! Have to admit I was skeptical of all the hype (and price), but it’s the real deal!!!
I bought a Deco last month after finding your channel and binging your videos. It's *the* pedal that I've been searching for; hairy but not overbearing and it works great with single coils, P90s and Filter'trons. I boost it and add some high end sparkle with a TC Electronic Spark (the big one). Chimey yet with a hint of compression and grit. It's perfect for my ears.
The Deco is a special pedal. I got one this week and am surprised by how huge the saturation can sound depending on how clean your amp is. I keep my amp on the edge of breakup and with the Deco in front of it, it gets quite big.
Well I bought the Deco. It's lovely and versatile...it's lets me get a little gritty and also add the swirl to keep it interesting. The footswitch on the saturation is great..Thanks Eric
I know! I keep finding new uses for it and I've had it for years! Lately, I really like it at the end of my chain - it smooths out everything and glues it all together!
Eric, you were the guy that pushed me over the edge on getting a DECO, and for that, I am eternally grateful. I match mine up with a J.Rockett IKON, basically doing the same thing you're doing in this vid, and boy howdy, that's a great combination. Oh, and @ 2:55, when you said, "Let's play a little Tom Waits riff," my mind went to three places: 1. Dammit, WHAT SONG IS THAT? 2. Gosh, that sounds a lot like The Police's "Murder By Numbers." 3. Bug Eric to do lessons or link to a previous lesson for both songs.
Ooooh I've had my eyes on those J Rockett pedals for some time now! That Tom Waits riff was from track one of his 2nd record, "New Coat of Paint" - I'm planning on a vid lesson for that one. And yeah! Andy Summers! I've got BIG plans for him - he's one of my hugest influences and I've done shockingly little vid work about it. That's gonna change!
I just bought a Deco and currently own a Lightspeed. The Deco will replace my Keeley 30ms, as from what I read, the Deco also adds some nice compression which I don’t have room for on that board. Can’t wait to try everything together!
The Deco is one of the greatest pedals ever! The tape compression side is MAGIC! Put it at the end of your board to catch everything and smooth harsh transients, or put it up front for overdrive!
I have watched Lightspeed demos with interest for a while, but you have pushed me over the top; time to try one. I always enjoy your playing and teaching style.
@@EricHaugenGuitar Ordered one from Reverb yesterday. I tried his Ghetto Stomp years ago but found it too dark for my taste even with the tone control turned full bright. Some people like it for tweed tones I gather. I had a Deco. I liked the saturation but didn't use much of the other side so it's gone.
Chiming in 4 years later, Eric. I just picked up at Deco V2 and love it so much! The classic mode on the saturation channel is awesome, and I use it as an always on warmer, but I have a favorite switch set up to go to the cassette mode with max saturation with the High and Low eq trimmed for something that sounds like a cross between a TS and Fuzz Face. Desert Island pedal.
I tried it in the loop of my amp and it sounded good on the clean channel Better in front for sure but not working so much w my Princeton I prefer analog It does some cool stuff for sure
@@paulcowart3174 I put it last after all my drives and my GFI Synesthesia multi modulation pedal, and before my Strymon Volante, then into stereo Princetons. Sounds fantastic to me. I never put the drive over noon. It’s mostly a warm boost in my rig, but with a sweet delay/flange/chorus too. I was even more stoked to find that the input is actually stereo too with a TRS cable.
I had the same experience with the deco (v1). I loved the way it sounded, but a lot of the frequencies seemed to get lost in the mix during gigs. Adjusting the frequency ranges of the bass and treble seemed to take care of that for the most part. In the end, I still prefer my old j rockett 45 caliber OD for the versatility, but stacking the two gives amazing results!
It's the thickest univibe I've had the pleasure of playing with - it does change your tone when you click it on, but I don't mind. The chonk is worth it!
Both sound great. If you're in the market for flange, chorus and slapback the Deco is pretty phenomenal value. To my ears its grit sounds a little better too. It also has some hidden effects.
I bet with secondary functions High and Low Trim you could make them nearly identical. I've had my Deco for a couple years and recently pulled my Mjolnir because the Saturation side of the Deco works better for my needs
It really is a magic shiny box! I haven't played around with the secondary functions or the stereo stuff, but heck, since I'm stuck safely inside for the foreseeable future maybe I'll do some vids on that!
This really sold me on the deco. The light speed has a more modern, bright bite, which sounds either too metal or country to my ear, depending on the lick. Conversely, the Deco has a smoother, more classic feel... thank you so much! As as soon as I leave my luddite, no WiFi ways, I’m going to find a way to get lesson from you. Your style is phenomenal... or “strunktastic”?... am I saying that right?
Yeah the deco is "greasier" - lately I've been really enjoying putting at the end of my chain, with the drive right up the middle to provide a more subtle tape compression to everything that comes before it - perfect for smoothing things out!
I find great value in concise and complete pedal demos. To many demos often attempt to display how funny or ironic the players are, obviously making it about themselves. Your demo was perfect and your playing is impeccable and tasty, (Marc Ribot?) Thanks for continued reliability and great taste. Your our man, Eric.
Hey Eric, you've really found your own unique sound with that setup of yours, and of course very tasty choice of licks you're combining it with. Talking of licks, what's the intro piece you're playing there? Cheers from Germany. Keept it up!
Thanks! That opening thing was a little riff that I've had going around my head for a few weeks now - gotta turn it into something. My wife thinks it sounds a little like "Hells Bells" by AC/DC - I kinda agree!
Happy B'Day. No, I am not a stalker. I watched one of your videos the other day and you hinted at it...and I just remembered because mine is tomorrow. So yeah, enjoy your new toy.
Yeah! The black & pink reminds me of my old Boss Dm2. As you can see in this clip, the Lightspeed is actually pretty darn close to the deco for crunch - you might not need one (unless you're after the other features).
Yeah! Lately that's how I've been using mine too! I love it at the end of the board, after gain pedals. The compression side works so well at grabbing any harsh spiky sounds :-)
I've found something in the same vain; the Solidgold FX Zeta. Really just a good sounding transparent overdrive which never gets in the way of your tone, whatever guitar or amp you're using. The Beta from the same company also works like a charm for bass guitar (also just regular guitar!), and has been on my pedalboard for years.
Totally agree. I have a Deco and the Zeta. I've also tried the Lightspeed multiple times. The Zeta has a wider range of overdrive but the Deco also adds something special. They do something really great together. Add in my Fairfield Barbershop and that's all I need.
Eric, if you get a chance try out the Benson Preamp pedal. Like you I’ve owned many many overdrives and when I found the Benson preamp I actually sold my Klon Centaur. .
Found this video while searching for Lightspeed demos. And I had a Deco on the shelf! Messing with it again now. Hey, did you know there’s a High Trim and Low Trim on the secondary functions for the Tape Saturation? Someone else surely mentioned that over the last 2 years since you made this video, but just in case. 🤷🏻♂️
Yeah! Aaaand there’s a firmware update too! Honestly I haven’t messed with them because whenever I mess with my tech I break it and my deco has been so good to me!
Eric, I hope you're doing great! Was that riff you played at about 6:52 by chance a little piece of my favorite band Midnight Oil's No Time For Games? Sounded so delicious! That song might make for a terrific lesson video! (Hint hint) Be well!
I'll have to check that track out! That riff is actually an original that I've been messing around with for a while now - now I gotta compare it to that Midnight Oil track!
You need to try the Fairfield Barbershop - transparent/awesome and like it more than my Lightspeed. I also have the GMD Luther and it’s damn good for that TS thing. Deco sounds more flubby when turned up. Deco double track side got old for me quick & too expensive to keep just for saturation side.
Oh yeah I know Gearmandude! Love that guy! Haven't tried the Fairfield yet but my buddy Jamie "Harsh Tones, Inc" has one - I'll have to ask him about it. The greasy flubbiness of the deco is actually what I love about it though - everyone's different I guess!
the deco is probably the greatest "all around" pedal ever made. To me it seems to compliment fuzz and dirt pedals really well. I still have a dedicated chorus/vibrato pedal because its chorus setting is a little to subtle for me.
Yeah! It can be used a crunch, or all the other stuff it does, or as a transient "fixer!" Lately, I've been enjoying keeping it at the end of my chain to glue everything together just a little bit.
My findings mirror yours, but wanted to note that the Wampler Paisley Drive has the same tonal character as the Lightspeed but has a much wider frequency spectrum and is also more versatile. The Lightspeed sounds small/narrow in comparison, like an 8" closed-back cab vs an open-back 2-12" if that makes sense. The Deco's saturation is easily in my top 3 of all drives I've ever tried, and I've owned most of the fancy "transparent" "natural" overdrives.
Where do you have the Deco in your chain? Thinking about getting one, but I want to be able to use the right side of the pedal and also use the dirt in between my fuzz and boost
Hrmm that's tricky - I'd recommend trying the deco at the end of your chain, as sort of a "glues everything together" tape compression. I've been using it that way lately and it's magic! In this vid, it's up at the beginning of the chain, right after the retrovibe. Works great that way too!
Hey man - Just picked up the deco recently after using the lightspeed as an always on for years. Lightspeed can be pretty spicy with certain amps, but man its got such great dynamics! Have you messed with the deco secondary functions?
ooooh two great tastes that taste great together! I haven't really gotten in deep with the secondary functions of the deco yet - I know strymon likes to hide all sorts of easter eggs in their programming! Ping pong, favorite settings, etc.
Awesome video! I have been wondering what pedals come close to the tape saturation side of the DECO and you answered my question! I’m very curious if you ever place the DECO as the last step on your board almost as a “mastering” effect like a tape reel would be used?
I bought a Deco last year after hearing your lovely tone. It's a great, multi-purpose pedal (overdrive, flanger, chorus, delay). Strymon pedals are terrific. I'm seriously considering picking up the Iridium for late night headphone playing. Does anyone out there have one?
I have the Deco, the Flint and the new Iridium and I like it a lot! I use it to go direct in my interface (replace an old Sansamp gt2). It sound really nice and inspiring, like the Flint and the Deco.
Eric, I also bought a Deco after watching your videos but didn't love that the saturation side boosted the low-mids by default. Not sure if you're aware but the secondary functions allow you to either trim the highs or lows. I trimmed the lows on mine a bit and the boost is much more even now. Give it a try if you want to tweak the boost EQ.
Yeah i haven't gotten in there and fiddled with that mode yet. In general, I'm terrible at holding down switches, waiting for lights to flash, turning knobs, and hoping I programmed it right. I'm very much a luddite that way 👴🏻
You have saved me some money on a Greer , thank you , love my deco, I have a love pedal amp11 that is in front of the deco , so I saved myself the G.A.S
Been wanting a deco for literally years but, with my jhs milkman, the boost function really warms up the amp gives some bottom end. Only down side is it’s only a volume knob.
Eric Haugen it’s a great always on boost. The slap back is great because you can have a dark or bright repeat. You can find them used for 100 bucks flat.
Great video. I am very surprised about how similar they sound. It seems to me your conclusion is that both would me more redudant than complementary, isnt' it?
Southland is everything!!!! For the "over the top" tone that's actually ... well ... over the top. His 1st and 2nd overdrive stage is an equivalent to hearing the loudest person from a quite home. Lol. Love the tones but they are both 1st stage low gain drives. Southland is the continuation of where he left off with the light speed. Granted, you'd probably have it set rather low... but yeah better match up.
@@EricHaugenGuitar I'm into cranked marshall tones and thought this would be a common use for this pedal in effects loops but no one's done it. After watching this video I don't think it would be a tone you'd want.
Good idea Daniele! btw - I keep a public playlist open on spotify that people can add things to if they want me to teach: open.spotify.com/playlist/6AGvurVXk7a8WkiqY5t3Nf?si=llY77_lOTTmWvYzV8nHdlg It's a great way for me to keep track of all the excellent recommendations!
Hi Eric! Do you like klon-like pedals? And bluesbreaker-ish? (Morning Glory, King of tone...) In my opinion, your playin style (wich I like a lot) matches with that kind of clipping sound. You get a superb sound from your rig though ;)
You know, I've tired a few klon clones and haven't been impressed. Honestly, my favorite edge of breakup is an amp with an attenuator - that's what I've been doing for the more recent vids. Still have all my overdrive pedals, but only use one when absolutely necessary :-)
Eric, I have never tried the Lightspeed But have the Barber Gainchanger that is my go to low med OD that I swear sounds like the Lightspeed but with some more EQ and gain options - have you tried it?
Anyone pedal junkies have advice for "The Paradox of Choice" when it comes to creative situations like recording.....I can get overwhelmed with so many options but I love collecting and having those options :)
Indeed! I widdle things down a little bit by avoiding pedals that I don't like the look of, or the name of. The truth is, the bar for pedal quality is so high these days that you really can't make a bad choice.
I think an OD SHOULD punch you in the face though and that's why I don't think I could ever get rid of my TS9. Have you ever tried a JHS Morning Glory? I've heard those are great for clean OD tones.
@@EricHaugenGuitarThank you for your posts! Dig how you use gain. Always searching for the “Best Tone”. As someone who owns many pedals and a 5e3 Clone already, I constantly have to remember that PRACTICE is the best gear choice!
@@EricHaugenGuitar Strange story on my Twin Twelve It was a 2/12 combo with a big wooden handle on top lol plus it had 4 - 6l6's Have never seen one since or before ???
Interesting that the Greer sounds so similar, because I would assume that the Deco is modelling saturated tape rather than clipping transistors. Maybe this just suggests that the hype about tape saturation is just hype…?
It's bit form an arrangement of Tom Waits's "New Coat of Paint" I was working on. I finished it, and uploaded it a few weeks back: ua-cam.com/video/1O9HJ3xXmSQ/v-deo.html
I've never really owned a "transparent" overdrive. Always been curious about them but always ended up buying a dist. pedal or some modeling pedal. I do have an RC Booster, but that's just a gainy clean boot that does not saturate too nicely. Always been curious about JHS stuff, but who knows. Maybe I'll eventually buy something.
I've heard good things about JHS too - I think he makes the "Morning Glory," which is his transparent overdrive offering. I used to have the AC Booster, and that was ok, but just like your RC Booster, didn't crunch up too well.
@@EricHaugenGuitar I usually bypass my pedal board and just put an EQ between the amp and guitar either to boost or shape the tone. My Mark V is pretty versatile. The DECO has always sounded amazing though.
Hi, excellent sound 🤩🤩🤩🤩😎😎😎🔥🔥🔥👏👏👏❤️🔥❤️🔥 Both. What happened to the red one Timmy ? How does it compare to Decco and Lightspeed ? Best regards 🤩🤩🔥👏👏🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥🤩🤩🫶🫶
These days, I put my deco after my modulation effects, and more aggressive overdrive. That way, I can use the compression function to tame any crazy transients. The only thing after my deco is delay - either analog or digital ducking.
I say if it sounds good, use it! I use Amplitube 4 a lot on my backing tracks and really like the sounds I can get out of it, even though it can't *exactly* sound like a real amp mic'd up.
You know, I've experienced a similar thing! When I put an OD after the deco, no matter how slight the gain boost, it always seems a little too intense. I wonder if it's something to do with the digital-ness?
@@EricHaugenGuitar , I had the deco at the end of the chain as strymon recommend, tried different overdrives in front of it and into two different amps but I felt it was too compressed and a bit muffled when stacked. I really liked it between 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock but only by it's self, it's a shame because the modulation side was very good and I wanted it as an always on pedal to add warmth. I always look forward to your lessons Eric, even the styles that aren't my usual taste are ALWAYS interesting and there's always something that be learned with a relaxed humorous teaching style. I've said it before " BEST GUITAR TEACHER ON YOU TUBE " by a country mile. All the best Karl
That is interesting! I'm gonna put mine at the end of the chain and see if I notice the same thing. And hey thanks Karl for being such a supportive dude! I really appreciate it!
Bought the odr1and wanted to stack it with a lightspeed. Now what? Decco has more features but I've spent so much time lookin at the lightspeed that i cannot not buy it! Fack!
I never even thought of the Deco as an overdrive, I thought it was more of a tape echo. These sounds remind me of what my Centura Ceriatone (Klon Clone) does for me. That whole "I'm here when you need me" thing ...
Lately very impressed with their tomahawk tweed in a box. I want something for my basement clean fender amp to have some of the raspy tweed character. Would be killer if you could do some comparison with mojotone in future, Im a big fan of your tone!
This is a great video! Your conclusion in the end is exactly where I ended up. On my board I have two Tapestry Audio Fab Suisse pedals that are both Blues Breaker circuits and I set one to low/medium gain and one to medium gain. The Lightspeed was not able to replace either of those because the overdrive turned up was similar enough that I wouldn’t switch them out. Then I got the idea of placing the Lightspeed before them at a low gain setting to push both of those pedals individually. That was absolute magic! Whether to boost them or use it with them or use them at the same time, both sound fantastic together! Much better than they did independently. The dynamics though… WOW! A whole different level of cool!
I do enjoy your videos a lot, and I find your tastes in music and sounds reflect my own. So thanks for posting your findings.
Thanks Curtis! We must both have impeccable tastes! 🍷
I love my Deco! It's the best for a base tone. And the chorus is quite lovely! And the slapback is superb! BTW, I picked up my Deco on your recommendation. I waited months before I finally pulled the trigger but it will never leave my main board! Ever! Thanks Eric!
I agree! It's the perfect pedal to be early in the chain to dirty things up a bit!
Great demo of two great pedals!!! Your channel is awesome, definitely one of the best on the tube!!
Thanks Charles!
Yeah, you really can't lose with either of those crunchies - I just got the Greer Southland Harmonic Overdrive and it's great too! You see it in some vids soon - it's got a great chewy attack!
Eric Haugen I went ahead and picked up the Lightspeed after watching your video a bunch more times and man it really does sound fantastic! Have to admit I was skeptical of all the hype (and price), but it’s the real deal!!!
I bought a Deco last month after finding your channel and binging your videos. It's *the* pedal that I've been searching for; hairy but not overbearing and it works great with single coils, P90s and Filter'trons. I boost it and add some high end sparkle with a TC Electronic Spark (the big one). Chimey yet with a hint of compression and grit. It's perfect for my ears.
Exactly! It adds just enough grit - it's funny, because Strymon doesn't market it as an amazing overdrive, and they totally should!
This was a great demo. Excellent tones, and playing. Really enjoyed it. Thanks
Eric, you play some of thee tastiest stuff out there! Thanks for the inspiration and information!
Thanks Daniel!
oooh that makes me wanna go listen to "Inspiration Information" by Shuggie Otis!
The Deco is a special pedal. I got one this week and am surprised by how huge the saturation can sound depending on how clean your amp is. I keep my amp on the edge of breakup and with the Deco in front of it, it gets quite big.
Well I bought the Deco. It's lovely and versatile...it's lets me get a little gritty and also add the swirl to keep it interesting. The footswitch on the saturation is great..Thanks Eric
I know!
I keep finding new uses for it and I've had it for years! Lately, I really like it at the end of my chain - it smooths out everything and glues it all together!
Eric, you were the guy that pushed me over the edge on getting a DECO, and for that, I am eternally grateful. I match mine up with a J.Rockett IKON, basically doing the same thing you're doing in this vid, and boy howdy, that's a great combination. Oh, and @ 2:55, when you said, "Let's play a little Tom Waits riff," my mind went to three places:
1. Dammit, WHAT SONG IS THAT?
2. Gosh, that sounds a lot like The Police's "Murder By Numbers."
3. Bug Eric to do lessons or link to a previous lesson for both songs.
Ooooh I've had my eyes on those J Rockett pedals for some time now!
That Tom Waits riff was from track one of his 2nd record, "New Coat of Paint" - I'm planning on a vid lesson for that one.
And yeah! Andy Summers!
I've got BIG plans for him - he's one of my hugest influences and I've done shockingly little vid work about it. That's gonna change!
@@EricHaugenGuitar - Andy Summers was the player that made me want to play guitar, and, especially, a Telecaster. He's a straight-up genius.
I just bought a Deco and currently own a Lightspeed. The Deco will replace my Keeley 30ms, as from what I read, the Deco also adds some nice compression which I don’t have room for on that board. Can’t wait to try everything together!
The Deco is one of the greatest pedals ever! The tape compression side is MAGIC!
Put it at the end of your board to catch everything and smooth harsh transients, or put it up front for overdrive!
I have watched Lightspeed demos with interest for a while, but you have pushed me over the top; time to try one. I always enjoy your playing and teaching style.
Thanks Tommy!
Yeah I'm really impressed with the lightspeed - gotta get my hands on some more of his stuff.
@@EricHaugenGuitar Ordered one from Reverb yesterday. I tried his Ghetto Stomp years ago but found it too dark for my taste even with the tone control turned full bright. Some people like it for tweed tones I gather. I had a Deco. I liked the saturation but didn't use much of the other side so it's gone.
Got the Lightspeed today. Liked it instantly which is quite unusual for me. A keeper for sure.
Yeah! I usually know within the first 5 minutes if I like a pedal or not. If it's intriguing and inspiring immediately, then it stays!
Chiming in 4 years later, Eric. I just picked up at Deco V2 and love it so much! The classic mode on the saturation channel is awesome, and I use it as an always on warmer, but I have a favorite switch set up to go to the cassette mode with max saturation with the High and Low eq trimmed for something that sounds like a cross between a TS and Fuzz Face. Desert Island pedal.
I used the DECO's secondary function to reduce the low end of the tape saturation, and it sounds much more usable. It's a creat clean/warm boost.
I tried it in the loop of my amp and it sounded good on the clean channel Better in front for sure but not working so much w my Princeton I prefer analog It does some cool stuff for sure
@@paulcowart3174 I put it last after all my drives and my GFI Synesthesia multi modulation pedal, and before my Strymon Volante, then into stereo Princetons. Sounds fantastic to me. I never put the drive over noon. It’s mostly a warm boost in my rig, but with a sweet delay/flange/chorus too. I was even more stoked to find that the input is actually stereo too with a TRS cable.
I had the same experience with the deco (v1). I loved the way it sounded, but a lot of the frequencies seemed to get lost in the mix during gigs. Adjusting the frequency ranges of the bass and treble seemed to take care of that for the most part. In the end, I still prefer my old j rockett 45 caliber OD for the versatility, but stacking the two gives amazing results!
Cool tones Eric. I like the Deco a lot. Gotta get my hands on a Retrovibe, I just love that thick soupy sound
It's the thickest univibe I've had the pleasure of playing with - it does change your tone when you click it on, but I don't mind. The chonk is worth it!
Bought the deco when it was released. A much misunderstood pedal ad so incredibly useful on any board
Yeah! I'm still finding hidden functions in it - Strymon really packs in the features.
Eric Haugen got any examples Eric? I’m a deco owner as well and I’d love to hear about it.
Great sounds but not going on my modest pedal board Surprisingly good in the loop of my 100 watt amp but not so much w my 61 Princeton
Boy golly! Great comparison!
Just treated myself to a Deco after the holidays and waiting for it to show!
oooh congrats in advance! It's one of my top ten pedals for sure!
Both sound great. If you're in the market for flange, chorus and slapback the Deco is pretty phenomenal value. To my ears its grit sounds a little better too. It also has some hidden effects.
Yeah! Strymon pedals always have all sorts of extra hidden goodies - neato secondary functions and whatnot.
Love the Lightspeed. Just purchased a Barber Gain Changer SR = Phenomenal Overdrive, which covers alot of sonic territory.
Oh yeah that Barber stuff is SOLID!
Damnit, Eric, now I want both!
I bet with secondary functions High and Low Trim you could make them nearly identical. I've had my Deco for a couple years and recently pulled my Mjolnir because the Saturation side of the Deco works better for my needs
The high pass filters, and analogue buffer, and the foot tap tempo...just brilliant
It really is a magic shiny box!
I haven't played around with the secondary functions or the stereo stuff, but heck, since I'm stuck safely inside for the foreseeable future maybe I'll do some vids on that!
@@EricHaugenGuitar yes please
"Boy Golly" - Eric Haugen (2019)
A Legend!
This really sold me on the deco. The light speed has a more modern, bright bite, which sounds either too metal or country to my ear, depending on the lick. Conversely, the Deco has a smoother, more classic feel... thank you so much! As as soon as I leave my luddite, no WiFi ways, I’m going to find a way to get lesson from you. Your style is phenomenal... or “strunktastic”?... am I saying that right?
Yeah the deco is "greasier" - lately I've been really enjoying putting at the end of my chain, with the drive right up the middle to provide a more subtle tape compression to everything that comes before it - perfect for smoothing things out!
I find great value in concise and complete pedal demos. To many demos often attempt to display how funny or ironic the players are, obviously making it about themselves. Your demo was perfect and your playing is impeccable and tasty, (Marc Ribot?) Thanks for continued reliability and great taste. Your our man, Eric.
Thanks so much Scott!
Yeah, I just try to keep it real - an honest look at a curious guy investigating what his pedals can and cannot do :-)
Eric Haugen Exactly me too
Hey Eric, you've really found your own unique sound with that setup of yours, and of course very tasty choice of licks you're combining it with. Talking of licks, what's the intro piece you're playing there? Cheers from Germany. Keept it up!
Thanks! That opening thing was a little riff that I've had going around my head for a few weeks now - gotta turn it into something. My wife thinks it sounds a little like "Hells Bells" by AC/DC - I kinda agree!
Happy B'Day. No, I am not a stalker. I watched one of your videos the other day and you hinted at it...and I just remembered because mine is tomorrow. So yeah, enjoy your new toy.
Thanks, my fellow sagittarius!
May the gear gods shine rain jewels upon us both!
i have the same exact finish on the lightspeed! Ben wanting a deco for ages!
Yeah! The black & pink reminds me of my old Boss Dm2.
As you can see in this clip, the Lightspeed is actually pretty darn close to the deco for crunch - you might not need one (unless you're after the other features).
Love my Deco. These days, I use it as a sweet compression pedal just in front of my Sunset.
Yeah! Lately that's how I've been using mine too!
I love it at the end of the board, after gain pedals. The compression side works so well at grabbing any harsh spiky sounds :-)
I've found something in the same vain; the Solidgold FX Zeta. Really just a good sounding transparent overdrive which never gets in the way of your tone, whatever guitar or amp you're using. The Beta from the same company also works like a charm for bass guitar (also just regular guitar!), and has been on my pedalboard for years.
Oooh I just googled that and now i wanna try it!
Totally agree. I have a Deco and the Zeta. I've also tried the Lightspeed multiple times. The Zeta has a wider range of overdrive but the Deco also adds something special. They do something really great together. Add in my Fairfield Barbershop and that's all I need.
The lightspeed is a killer pedal. Thanks for comparison.
I agree! I really impressed with it!
Gonna try some more Greer stuff next - the Southland Harmonic Overdrive is very intriguing for me......
I've got (and love) a Lightspeed and I think you just sold me a Deco!
It’s just the tiniest bit greasier 😎
Been a lightspeed guy for years. Nick makes the best stuff. Try the Friday club el Cardinale it’s great😍
oooh I just googled that now I wanna try one!
The Deco has that "thump", man. I got one used and it's always on.
Eric, if you get a chance try out the Benson Preamp pedal. Like you I’ve owned many many overdrives and when I found the Benson preamp I actually sold my Klon Centaur. .
Oooooh that's good to know!
I've had my eye on those for some time now!
Found this video while searching for Lightspeed demos. And I had a Deco on the shelf! Messing with it again now. Hey, did you know there’s a High Trim and Low Trim on the secondary functions for the Tape Saturation? Someone else surely mentioned that over the last 2 years since you made this video, but just in case. 🤷🏻♂️
Yeah! Aaaand there’s a firmware update too! Honestly I haven’t messed with them because whenever I mess with my tech I break it and my deco has been so good to me!
Eric, I hope you're doing great! Was that riff you played at about 6:52 by chance a little piece of my favorite band Midnight Oil's No Time For Games? Sounded so delicious! That song might make for a terrific lesson video! (Hint hint) Be well!
I'll have to check that track out!
That riff is actually an original that I've been messing around with for a while now - now I gotta compare it to that Midnight Oil track!
yes, combine the two! stack it!
You need to try the Fairfield Barbershop - transparent/awesome and like it more than my Lightspeed. I also have the GMD Luther and it’s damn good for that TS thing. Deco sounds more flubby when turned up. Deco double track side got old for me quick & too expensive to keep just for saturation side.
Oh yeah I know Gearmandude! Love that guy!
Haven't tried the Fairfield yet but my buddy Jamie "Harsh Tones, Inc" has one - I'll have to ask him about it.
The greasy flubbiness of the deco is actually what I love about it though - everyone's different I guess!
Eric! Great video thank you! Have you tried the Tumnus? I think I'm going to get the Deco, just curious? Thanks!
I haven’t but wampler has a great reputation!
the deco is probably the greatest "all around" pedal ever made. To me it seems to compliment fuzz and dirt pedals really well. I still have a dedicated chorus/vibrato pedal because its chorus setting is a little to subtle for me.
Yeah!
It can be used a crunch, or all the other stuff it does, or as a transient "fixer!"
Lately, I've been enjoying keeping it at the end of my chain to glue everything together just a little bit.
Hey man, what's this Waits riff you were playing? I'm playing along with it here and absolutely dig it!
My findings mirror yours, but wanted to note that the Wampler Paisley Drive has the same tonal character as the Lightspeed but has a much wider frequency spectrum and is also more versatile. The Lightspeed sounds small/narrow in comparison, like an 8" closed-back cab vs an open-back 2-12" if that makes sense. The Deco's saturation is easily in my top 3 of all drives I've ever tried, and I've owned most of the fancy "transparent" "natural" overdrives.
I've got try that Wampler! I've never had the chance but I know he makes good stuff!
The Lightspeed sounds much meatier to my ears but I own one and think it’s my favorite low gain pedal, the Magpie by Mojo Hand is great too!
It's a real win.win situation with these pedals!
Someone else told me about the Magpie also - I'm gonna have to check that out!
I use the Lightspeed and Tomahawk OMG man Perfection
Yeah! Greer makes his stuff so stackable!
Where do you have the Deco in your chain? Thinking about getting one, but I want to be able to use the right side of the pedal and also use the dirt in between my fuzz and boost
Hrmm that's tricky - I'd recommend trying the deco at the end of your chain, as sort of a "glues everything together" tape compression. I've been using it that way lately and it's magic!
In this vid, it's up at the beginning of the chain, right after the retrovibe. Works great that way too!
Hey man - Just picked up the deco recently after using the lightspeed as an always on for years. Lightspeed can be pretty spicy with certain amps, but man its got such great dynamics! Have you messed with the deco secondary functions?
ooooh two great tastes that taste great together!
I haven't really gotten in deep with the secondary functions of the deco yet - I know strymon likes to hide all sorts of easter eggs in their programming! Ping pong, favorite settings, etc.
Did you stick with the Deco ?? Not working so good for me Good pedal tho
Awesome video! I have been wondering what pedals come close to the tape saturation side of the DECO and you answered my question!
I’m very curious if you ever place the DECO as the last step on your board almost as a “mastering” effect like a tape reel would be used?
These days I put it after the modulation, fuzz, and overdrive - that way I can use the tape compression to tame the spikiest transient peaks!
I bought a Deco last year after hearing your lovely tone. It's a great, multi-purpose pedal (overdrive, flanger, chorus, delay). Strymon pedals are terrific. I'm seriously considering picking up the Iridium for late night headphone playing. Does anyone out there have one?
I know! I'm soooo curious about that pedal!
I really wanna try out the amp sims in it!
I have the Deco, the Flint and the new Iridium and I like it a lot! I use it to go direct in my interface (replace an old Sansamp gt2). It sound really nice and inspiring, like the Flint and the Deco.
Oooh and I liked those old Sansamps! Getting more and more tempted!
Strymon should give you a kick back for all the decos you’ve probably sold over the years.
+1 for me.... Ordered right after Eric's first War On Drugs lesson
Dan Connelly yep I bought it a few years ago from watching his videos as well. Awesome pedal.
Ha! That'd be pretty sweeeeeeet! I'm like an unofficial spokesperson for the Deco :-)
I also bought a deco a few weeks back due to Eric. I still don't totally understand it, but my guitar sounds way better!
Daniel Veeken haha same!
Great vídeo! Thanks! Where Deco was in your signal chain? First pedal?
I don’t remember! I think first
Eric, I also bought a Deco after watching your videos but didn't love that the saturation side boosted the low-mids by default. Not sure if you're aware but the secondary functions allow you to either trim the highs or lows. I trimmed the lows on mine a bit and the boost is much more even now. Give it a try if you want to tweak the boost EQ.
Yeah i haven't gotten in there and fiddled with that mode yet. In general, I'm terrible at holding down switches, waiting for lights to flash, turning knobs, and hoping I programmed it right. I'm very much a luddite that way 👴🏻
You have saved me some money on a Greer , thank you , love my deco, I have a love pedal amp11 that is in front of the deco , so I saved myself the G.A.S
oooh I just googled it and now I want one!
I really liked the Eternity Drive I had a few years back, but the amp 11 looks even better!
Been wanting a deco for literally years but, with my jhs milkman, the boost function really warms up the amp gives some bottom end. Only down side is it’s only a volume knob.
Oh I haven't seen that pedal and now I wanna try it!
My Malekko ekko 616 dark delay has a little bit of a boost to it, but it's not controllable.
Eric Haugen it’s a great always on boost. The slap back is great because you can have a dark or bright repeat. You can find them used for 100 bucks flat.
great sounds good hands
8:10 - Richard Thompson appears!
Great I don't have either........Now I want both 😱
I'm the worst Gear-purchase enabler! Do it!
Maybe wait till black friday, there might be a sale :-)
Great video. I am very surprised about how similar they sound. It seems to me your conclusion is that both would me more redudant than complementary, isnt' it?
100 percent!
They're so close to each other it doesn't make sense to own both :-)
@@EricHaugenGuitar Thanks man. You just saved me a couple of hundred bucks. Much appreciated.
My DECO is always on. The only other OD pedal I like is the Tech 21 Blonde.
Yeah! All those Tech 21 pedals are better than people think!
@@EricHaugenGuitar I'm guessing the new DECO with the tone control would give you both sounds.
I hear the Deco has a slight more saggy vintage sound. Both are lovely!
That's the PERFECT description on the difference - well put!
Southland is everything!!!!
For the "over the top" tone that's actually ... well ... over the top.
His 1st and 2nd overdrive stage is an equivalent to hearing the loudest person from a quite home. Lol.
Love the tones but they are both 1st stage low gain drives. Southland is the continuation of where he left off with the light speed. Granted, you'd probably have it set rather low... but yeah better match up.
I recently got the Southland and 1000% agree!
It is absolutely my favorite lead-tone overdrive - plenty of gain, but still plenty of personality!
@@EricHaugenGuitar this made my day. Thanks for this upload. It really helped me allot!
I want to see a demo of the deco in the effects loop of an amp to simulate power amp saturation.
Oooh good idea!
@@EricHaugenGuitar I'm into cranked marshall tones and thought this would be a common use for this pedal in effects loops but no one's done it. After watching this video I don't think it would be a tone you'd want.
I dig Mick Ronson, T. Rex, Sabbath, - all that classic big stack stuff too! I just tend to play "friendlier" on YT for some reason :-)
Eric, would you mind doing a White Denim tutorial? Stiff is a good album.
Good idea Daniele!
btw - I keep a public playlist open on spotify that people can add things to if they want me to teach: open.spotify.com/playlist/6AGvurVXk7a8WkiqY5t3Nf?si=llY77_lOTTmWvYzV8nHdlg
It's a great way for me to keep track of all the excellent recommendations!
White denim is amazing
@@jsauce311 Eric is amazing, when I grow up I want to be him. And I’m already older.
Hi Eric! Do you like klon-like pedals? And bluesbreaker-ish? (Morning Glory, King of tone...) In my opinion, your playin style (wich I like a lot) matches with that kind of clipping sound. You get a superb sound from your rig though ;)
You know, I've tired a few klon clones and haven't been impressed. Honestly, my favorite edge of breakup is an amp with an attenuator - that's what I've been doing for the more recent vids. Still have all my overdrive pedals, but only use one when absolutely necessary :-)
@@EricHaugenGuitar That makes lots of sense ;) Nothing like a real tube in the sweet spot!
Eric, I have never tried the Lightspeed
But have the Barber Gainchanger that is my go to low med OD that I swear sounds like the Lightspeed but with some more EQ and gain options - have you tried it?
Barber stuff is killer! I haven't played that model, but a client of mine had the LTD and it was really good.
Anyone pedal junkies have advice for "The Paradox of Choice" when it comes to creative situations like recording.....I can get overwhelmed with so many options but I love collecting and having those options :)
Indeed! I widdle things down a little bit by avoiding pedals that I don't like the look of, or the name of.
The truth is, the bar for pedal quality is so high these days that you really can't make a bad choice.
I think an OD SHOULD punch you in the face though and that's why I don't think I could ever get rid of my TS9. Have you ever tried a JHS Morning Glory? I've heard those are great for clean OD tones.
Never tried that one but I’ve heard good things too!
The Lightspeed is slightly harder sounding than the Deco. Might cut better in a mix, but plenty use cases for the softer sound as well.
True, just a little bit tougher - less greasy/lo-fi than the deco.
For purely overdrive, they both sound ACE! Slightly, different character? However, the Deco gives you flange, chorus, echo...so?
Honestly, I don't use the other settings on the deco! They sound a little too digital for me
@@EricHaugenGuitarThank you for your posts! Dig how you use gain. Always searching for the “Best Tone”.
As someone who owns many pedals and a 5e3 Clone already, I constantly have to remember that PRACTICE is the best gear choice!
I always considered my 1484 as a pedal killer Never seemed to need any when using it Really miss it
Mine is weird - with single coils, it never really breaks up!
With p90s though - BOOM!
@@EricHaugenGuitar Strange story on my Twin Twelve It was a 2/12 combo with a big wooden handle on top lol plus it had 4 - 6l6's Have never seen one since or before ???
Interesting that the Greer sounds so similar, because I would assume that the Deco is modelling saturated tape rather than clipping transistors. Maybe this just suggests that the hype about tape saturation is just hype…?
As with all things, there's a certain degree of snake oil for sure!
If I had to choose just one pedal, I would choose deco!
Deco is great for synths too.
Oooh I bet! Warms 'em up, adds a little slapback - very good idea!
The Behringer synths are cheap and a lot of fun! The Deco puts a nice layer of fat on the tones.
What’s the song played at 3:30
It's bit form an arrangement of Tom Waits's "New Coat of Paint" I was working on.
I finished it, and uploaded it a few weeks back: ua-cam.com/video/1O9HJ3xXmSQ/v-deo.html
ever try mad prof sweet honey overdrive?
Not yet!
I just goggled it and now I wanna try one!
I've never really owned a "transparent" overdrive. Always been curious about them but always ended up buying a dist. pedal or some modeling pedal. I do have an RC Booster, but that's just a gainy clean boot that does not saturate too nicely. Always been curious about JHS stuff, but who knows. Maybe I'll eventually buy something.
I've heard good things about JHS too - I think he makes the "Morning Glory," which is his transparent overdrive offering.
I used to have the AC Booster, and that was ok, but just like your RC Booster, didn't crunch up too well.
@@EricHaugenGuitar I usually bypass my pedal board and just put an EQ between the amp and guitar either to boost or shape the tone. My Mark V is pretty versatile. The DECO has always sounded amazing though.
Oh shoot you've got a Mark V!
Yeah you don't need any additional overdrives with that sick beast 🤘🏻
Hi, excellent sound 🤩🤩🤩🤩😎😎😎🔥🔥🔥👏👏👏❤️🔥❤️🔥 Both. What happened to the red one Timmy ? How does it compare to Decco and Lightspeed ? Best regards 🤩🤩🔥👏👏🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥🤩🤩🫶🫶
Well, I know which one sounds better to me. Now to just figure out if I should be spending the money right now ;-)
@@Kwall75 Deco hands down to my ears.
Sounds like you need a Deco and a Flint for that champ of yours :-)
@@EricHaugenGuitar I have the flint already. Probably going to hold off on the Deco. The shop needs a new compressor...
Yes! Always better to spend money on things that make money, albeit indirectly!
Wich position in the chain do you use the Deco?
These days, I put my deco after my modulation effects, and more aggressive overdrive. That way, I can use the compression function to tame any crazy transients.
The only thing after my deco is delay - either analog or digital ducking.
@@EricHaugenGuitar and the reverb?
and your opinion about digital pedal, guitar RIG or others ?
I say if it sounds good, use it!
I use Amplitube 4 a lot on my backing tracks and really like the sounds I can get out of it, even though it can't *exactly* sound like a real amp mic'd up.
I got a deco a while back, didn't like the way it stacked with other pedals, fine by it's self but not for me, so I sent it back
You know, I've experienced a similar thing! When I put an OD after the deco, no matter how slight the gain boost, it always seems a little too intense. I wonder if it's something to do with the digital-ness?
@@EricHaugenGuitar , I had the deco at the end of the chain as strymon recommend, tried different overdrives in front of it and into two different amps but I felt it was too compressed and a bit muffled when stacked. I really liked it between 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock but only by it's self, it's a shame because the modulation side was very good and I wanted it as an always on pedal to add warmth.
I always look forward to your lessons Eric, even the styles that aren't my usual taste are ALWAYS interesting and there's always something that be learned with a relaxed humorous teaching style. I've said it before " BEST GUITAR TEACHER ON YOU TUBE " by a country mile.
All the best Karl
That is interesting! I'm gonna put mine at the end of the chain and see if I notice the same thing.
And hey thanks Karl for being such a supportive dude! I really appreciate it!
wow. what pickups are those?
They're basically stock!
www.tombrantleyrewinds.com
Bought the odr1and wanted to stack it with a lightspeed.
Now what?
Decco has more features but I've spent so much time lookin at the lightspeed that i cannot not buy it!
Fack!
I never even thought of the Deco as an overdrive, I thought it was more of a tape echo. These sounds remind me of what my Centura Ceriatone (Klon Clone) does for me.
That whole "I'm here when you need me" thing ...
Yeah!
They don't really advertise how good the "tape saturation" sound is!
I'll stick with my Ibanez Tube screamer and my Fender Supersonic amp !! Oh and my Fender strat !!!!😁
A classic setup indeed - can't go wrong there 👍
So many good sounds in the Supersonic
Nice... a new toy always brightens the day huh?...
They sure do! I've loved the deco for years, but am really impressed with the lightspeed too! Gotta stalk through Greer's website some more....
Lately very impressed with their tomahawk tweed in a box. I want something for my basement clean fender amp to have some of the raspy tweed character. Would be killer if you could do some comparison with mojotone in future, Im a big fan of your tone!
oooh good idea! I've got the Greer Southland on order - maybe I'll do another shootout when it arrives!
Deco has more ear pleasing tonality 😌