Questions & Concerns

How does Black Ice Boost work?

Fundamentally speaking, our Black Ice Boost module works much like a high quality step-up transformer. One example of this type of transformer would be those designed to increase the output of fine, moving coil turntable cartridges. Audiophiles choose the best of these devices for their low self noise and well shielded design - attributes that our Black Ice Boost module also share. 

​

But that's where the similarity ends - these and other types of audio transformers are generally not compatible with the electromagnetic guitar pickups that we all love and obsess over. That's why we took a significantly different, non-traditional approach when designing our Boost module. And it's why we build them from the ground up, right here in NY. The results are a design that perfectly compliments the unique electromagnetic characteristics of a broad range of guitar and bass pickups. 

• Fully shielded

• No active circuit means no self-generated noise

​

You mention using Black Ice Boost with Strat, Tele and other single coil pickups. Can it be used with other pickup types?

Generally speaking, Black Ice Boost can be used whenever an increase in midrange frequencies, a small reduction of high frequencies and an overall increase in output level is desired.

• The Partial Boost setting provides these enhancements in moderate amounts, making it also suitable for many low to medium output PAF types, P90s, Jazz bass and other non mid-focused pickups.

• The Full Boost setting provides a more substantial increase in mids and overall output, and additional high frequency attenuation. While it's perfect for fattening up bright single coils, it may sound too dark with some higher output pickups.

 

Will the Black Ice Boost fit in my guitar?

The Black Ice Boost module is 1-3/16" square by 1" tall (including connecting terminals). It fits easily into most Strat and other types of instruments.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

It fits in Tele type guitars with any combination of standard and push-pull pots, but care must be taken to dress wires carefully. Note that in most cases, there will not be enough room for bulky, cloth covered wire (cloth pickup wires are ok) and oversized tone control caps. Standard caps and wiring are recommended.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

In a Jazz Bass, the Boost module gets placed behind the bridge pickup volume pot. This requires using a small mini pot (Bournes, CTS or Alpha) that provides the additional clearance required for the Boost module.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

How does our Boost compare to the Yamaha Revstar Focus switch? Can the Boost be used in place of the Focus switch transformer?

You'll find that our Boost module retains significantly more high frequency content when using our Subtle Boost setting, and slightly more when using our Partial Boost setting. The high frequency content of our Full Boost setting is similar to the Yamaha, but the overall output is a touch hotter. A wiring diagram can be found here for those who would like to replace their transformer with our Boost module.

​

How does our battery-free Black Ice Boost compare to others like the Fender Clapton mid boost, EMG AB Afterburner and PA2, and the Alembic Blaster / Stratoblaster?

Like most players, we prefer the reliability, convenience and maintenance-free aspect of high quality passive electronics. And it's certainly our battery-free design that distinguishes us from the others. While it's true that active circuits are capable of more boost, we don't believe that more = better. If you've ever compared an amp that's being goosed with a bit of boost to one that's being pummeled with gobs of gain, we think you'll agree. 

​

Can Black Ice Boost be used with passive noise canceling, stacked or rail type single coil sized pickups?

Yes, but please note the limitations described above regarding other pickup types.

 

Can I use it with active pickups or electronics?

No.