"Brian Wampler equates the impact of digital modeling and profiling technology in the market for pedals and tube amps to the influence Napster had in its time."
Wampler Pedals Faces a "Napster Moment" as Digital Technology Disrupts the Pedal Market
Brian Wampler, a renowned pedal manufacturer, has issued a warning to the industry, likening the current digital trend to the disruptive force of Napster in the music industry. Wampler, known for developing signature pedals for artists like Brad Paisley and Andy Wood, is not an analogue purist and acknowledges the differences between analogue and digital gear.
In a rapidly evolving market, Wampler is seeking innovative ways to pivot his product to make a dent and keep players interested. The past decade has seen a boom in stompbox design, with digital technology eating into both the pedal market and tube amp market. This digital trend has led Wampler to branch out into guitar plugin design, offering a free plugin with each purchase of the Catacombs delay and reverb pedal.
The Catacombs delay and reverb pedal plugin is also available for purchase separately for $49.99. This move is a response to the digital trend in the pedal market, as Wampler finds it challenging to play fast when switching from plugins to truly analogue signal paths. He experiences a difference in timing when switching from direct playing in the box (digitally) to playing with a tube amp.
Wampler's pivot to plugin design is not without its challenges. He argues that there might be a question of taste and player preference in the analogue vs. digital debate. Spotify, an example of a platform that emerged as a response to music sharing issues, may not be beneficial for artists. Wampler believes pedal brands have two options: either ignore the trend and wait for the inevitable or adapt and evolve to keep players engaged with the brand.
Some individuals could theoretically capture distortion pedals and sell or access them online, posing a challenge for pedal manufacturers. However, Wampler is not dogmatic about his passion for analogue gear. He is looking for unique ways to address this issue, understanding that there are various types of guitar effects pedals available, including Bigsby-style vibrato, Peavey Decade practice amp, digital delay pedals, and genuine spring reverb.
Wampler's Tumnus Germanium, a limited run overdrive pedal, commands eye-watering prices online. The evolution of digital modelling and profiling technology, developed by companies like Fractal Audio, is disrupting the pedal market. With the CYGNUS Amp-Modeling Technology used in devices like the FM3 MK II Turbo and Axe-Fx III, players can now achieve a wide range of tones without the need for multiple pedals.
As Wampler navigates this digital shift, he remains committed to delivering high-quality products that cater to the tastes and preferences of his customers. Whether it's his signature analogue pedals or his foray into plugin design, Wampler continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of guitar effects.
