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Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Noise-free operation
- Sweet and warm tones
Cons:
- The build quality is not that great (you might experience loose pots)
In the world of development and innovation, where creativity and knowledge are the most appreciated things, we still value classics. Though we enjoy newer approaches, we do also admire the pieces that have been recognized as having indispensable value. This is true in the case of audio effects as well. Regardless of appreciating the versatility and modern touches, we cannot help but come back to simpler, more traditional styles.
Tremolo, an effect that is diverse by itself, has been developed to the point where you can create some mind-blowing variations. But many musicians still prefer to employ something with defined character, but with original tremolo qualities. Such guitarists do not search for the pedals that are steeped with features, rather they look for the units that only do one job, but succeed at that.
You would have better luck finding such a stompbox in a higher price range, however, if you are on a budget, there still are some models worth trying out. Biyang TR-8 is just like that. It will not give you ethereal versatility, but it will deliver simple tremolo in the best way possible. If you are interested in its features, controls and sounds, then you should stay with me and read this article till the end. Let’s get started!
Features
The classic approach that I mentioned earlier does not include the sound solely. It does also indicate on other features that a pedal carries. Biyang TR-8 follows that pattern in every single property it offers. As you look at it, you notice that its design is configured in a simple manner. It does not have cool graphics and art pieces carved out on the surface. Rather, it displays a silver body with black sides, knobs and writings. It has the brand’s name on top, as well as a silver footswitch on the bottom.
At first glance, such an appearance might even seem a bit dull, but the main thing is that TR-8 offers great visibility, no matter where you choose to perform. It measures 127mm (D) ×95mm (W) ×63mm (H) and weighs only 460 grams. Additionally, this pedal has true bypass, which means that your tone will not be sucked or deprived of the essential frequencies. This way your signal will become better as it passes through this one. Just like the ample pedals on the market, TR-8 has standard input and output, with an adapter jack on top.
Yes, this does mean that you can utilize a power supply if you wanted to. If not, you can always employ a single 9V battery and be done with it (at least until it gets drained). We shall not forget that this pedal offers the ability to choose between two different waveforms, which is basically an opportunity to go beyond borders and reach that diversity that we all crave sometimes. The flaw of TR-8 is that it does not have the best build quality in the world, but if you are careful, it will hold up. Keeping the price in mind, we can turn a blind eye on this one.
Controls
The majority of the pedals on the market follow a certain pattern. Once a brand decides to take up a certain path, they do so in every single aspect. Biyang TR-8 is no exception either. As it has a minimalistic design and simple features, the control section is complimentary, as well. It has only essentials that allow you to make necessary modifications. They enable you to access many different territories and explore whatever is hidden behind tremolo itself. Though I am sure you are familiar with this set of encoders, I still think it is my duty to explain each of them in depth. Let’s see what we are dealing with here.
The first representative of the control section is Depth. It changes the amount of effect added to your sound and, thus, alters its intensity. This will be your go-to control if you enjoy fully saturated sounds. Rate adjusts the speed of fluctuation and can really up your game if utilized correctly. Nothing can beat tremolo that oscillates slowly as it is created and gets crazier with each move. Wave shifts between triangle and square waves, and gives you interesting results when in the middle. It basically modifies the harshness of the effect and makes it “choppier” as you turn it clockwise. Of course, we do also have a footswitch that lets you activate the pedal with a single click.
Biyang TR-8 Sound
The sound of the Biyang TR-8 is the main reason why I am writing this review. If it did not have a defined tone, I would not bother saying that it is one of the best affordable options. But it has an interesting sonic palette and I am very excited to explore it with you. The encoders have enough range to give you the versatility that you desire. They allow you to add the perfect amount of tremolo with simple modifications.
Scrolling through different settings is a child’s play, and by doing so you unveil the hidden potential of this one. TR-8 does not have any audible noise; it does not color your sound or suck your tone when disengaged. And that is one of the key features it carries. This pedal has a distinctive tremolo that fluctuates your volume and submerges you into the magnificent world of oscillation. There is no volume drop either, so you will not miss that level control at all. Overall, Biyang TR-8 sounds big, full and characteristic – what’s not to love.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, what truly matters is the music you create. Be it a high-end model or an affordable option, if it works for you, then there is nothing else to discuss. Biyang TR-8 is one of those pedals that bring fun to any rig and impact your performance a great deal. It delivers wonderful sound at a fraction of the price and I am sure, any practicing musician will appreciate its capabilities. Give it a try – aren’t you curious? Good luck!
Click here to view more from 10 Best Tremolo Pedals.
