A Boutique Rodent

Really that sounds like a typo, but it is, in point of fact, not a typo. The 1312 Distortion by Black Mass Electronics is a clone/homage to all of the great rodent pedals. And it’s a damned good one. Its direct comparison on the market is the JHS Packrat, but frankly at 60 bucks cheaper, and given that Black Mass is giving a portion of their profits on the pedal to support Trans rights, it was pretty easy to decide which one went on my board.

Granted - Brian Wampler put out his Ratsbane as well, and it’s an excellent pedal, and yes 40 bucks cheaper than the 1312. Honestly I end up still using both. The Ratsbane brings a bit harsher and sharper flavor to the mix, with the 1312 being a slighty chewier version.

Granted, we’re all gear whores. My advice? Get the Ratsbane and the 1312. Besides, who doesn’t want both a Plague Doctor and an overturned, flaming cop car on their board??