For many guitar enthusiasts, the KLON Centaur is more than just a pedal—it’s a legend. Known for its transparent overdrive and mythical status in the world of guitar gear, the Centaur remains a coveted item for players and collectors alike. At Colemans Music in Melbourne’s CBD, we’re passionate about legendary gear like the KLON Centaur and the many ways it inspires musicians. In this blog, we’ll dive into the history of the KLON Centaur, explore why it’s so popular, and discuss three budget-friendly alternatives that deliver a similar magic without breaking the bank.
A Brief History of the KLON Centaur
The KLON Centaur was introduced in 1994 by Bill Finnegan, a musician and engineer who aimed to create a pedal that enhanced an amplifier’s natural tone rather than masking it. Finnegan spent years refining the design, resulting in a unique circuit that combined germanium diodes, a buffered bypass, and a three-knob control layout: gain, treble, and output.
What made the Centaur truly revolutionary was its ability to provide a transparent overdrive—a boost that retained the integrity of the guitar’s tone while adding a touch of grit and warmth. Players could use it as a clean boost, a subtle overdrive, or a thick, harmonically rich distortion. This versatility quickly earned the Centaur a reputation as one of the best overdrive pedals on the market.
Unfortunately, the KLON Centaur was produced in limited numbers until 2008, when Finnegan ceased production. The scarcity of original units and their undeniable quality led to skyrocketing prices on the secondhand market, often exceeding $5,000. The hype surrounding the Centaur also spawned a flood of clones and “KLON-inspired” pedals, each attempting to capture its magic at a more affordable price.
Why Is the KLON Centaur So Popular?
Several factors contribute to the enduring popularity of the KLON Centaur:
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Transparent Overdrive: The Centaur’s circuit enhances an amplifier’s tone without coloring it, making it a favorite among tone purists.
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Versatility: From subtle boosts to heavier overdrive, the Centaur excels in a wide range of musical styles.
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Build Quality: Each pedal was hand-assembled by Finnegan himself, ensuring consistent craftsmanship.
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Mystique and Exclusivity: Limited production and the lore surrounding the pedal have elevated its status to near-mythical levels.
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Famous Users: Guitarists like Jeff Beck, John Mayer, and Nels Cline have all used the Centaur, adding to its prestige.
Three KLON-Style Pedals You Can Afford
While owning an original KLON Centaur may be a dream for most, there are several excellent alternatives that capture much of its essence at a fraction of the cost. Here are three KLON-inspired pedals worth considering, all available at Colemans Music in Melbourne’s CBD:
1. Behringer Cantaur Overdrive
The Behringer Cantaur Overdrive is a recent addition to the KLON-style market, offering remarkable value for its price. With a circuit modeled after the original Centaur, the Cantaur delivers a transparent overdrive that’s perfect for boosting your amp’s natural tone. While the plastic housing may not be as robust as the original, the sound quality punches well above its weight, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious players.
2. MXR Sugar Drive
The MXR Sugar Drive takes inspiration from the KLON’s design and packs it into a compact, pedalboard-friendly enclosure. Featuring true bypass and buffered bypass modes, the Sugar Drive offers a versatile range of tones from clean boost to rich overdrive. Its small footprint and reliable build make it a favorite among gigging musicians who want a taste of the KLON magic without the hefty price tag.
3. EarthQuaker Devices Plumes
While the Plumes isn’t a direct KLON clone, it’s often compared to the Centaur for its transparent overdrive and exceptional tonal clarity. This pedal features three clipping modes, allowing you to dial in a variety of overdrive textures to suit your playing style. Built with the quality and creativity EarthQuaker Devices is known for, the Plumes offers incredible value for players seeking a versatile overdrive pedal.
Why Buy From Colemans Music in Melbourne’s CBD?
At Colemans Music in Melbourne’s CBD, we’re dedicated to helping you find the gear that elevates your playing experience. Here’s why guitarists trust us:
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Expert Guidance: Our team of experienced musicians is here to answer your questions and guide you to the perfect pedal.
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Premium Selection: We stock a curated range of pedals, including KLON-inspired models that deliver amazing tone.
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Central Location: Conveniently located in Melbourne’s CBD, we’re easy to visit for hands-on testing and personalized advice.
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Competitive Pricing: Get the best value on high-quality gear.
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Fast and Reliable Service: Whether you shop in-store or online, we’re committed to your satisfaction.
Ready to Add Legendary Tone to Your Setup?
Visit Colemans Music in Melbourne’s CBD to explore our selection of KLON-style pedals and other premium guitar gear. Our friendly staff is ready to help you find the perfect addition to your rig. Don’t let the magic of the Centaur remain a myth—discover your own legendary tone today!
