Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer Review

here are few more iconic effects pedals than the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer. Different versions of the Tube Screamer have graced the stage of so many artists since it was first introduced in the form of the TS808 in the last 70’s. Since then, different versions have been released, including the legendary Ibanez TS9  Tube Screamer.

Tube Screamer Family History

For some detailed history of the Tube Screamer, head over to analogman, who has some detailed background, including interior photos and comparisons. To give you a bit of a visual history, we’ve constructed a Tube Screamer Timeline. Now, be aware that we have not covered every single minor change in the Tube Screamer lifetime, just the major model releases.

TS9 Tube Screamer

Now that you have an idea of the background of the Tube Screamer, let’s get stuck into reviewing the classic Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer.

Like all overdrive pedals, the Tube Screamer is designed to give your tone some warmth, crunch and gain. Unlike all overdrive pedals, the TS9 excels in complementing your guitar tone, rather than reinventing it. With only 3 controls, Drive, Tone and Level, the TS9 is a simple and low fuss effects pedal. But don’t let the simple controls fool you…there is nuance, subtlety and quality buried in this little box.

Check out the clip from Ibanez for a better idea of the versatility available in this pedal.

Artists

The TS9 Tube Screamer has a long long long list of huge artists who have used it on stage and in the studio. The other Tube Screamer models also boast a lot of famous artists, particularly the TS808, but that’s a story for another day.

Here are just some of the artists that include a TS9 in their bag of tricks:

• Stevie Ray Vaughan
• The Edge
• Noel Gallagher
• Buddy Guy
• Kirk Hammett
• John Mayer
• Gary Moore
• Carlos Santana
• Trey Anastasio
• Cliff Burton
• Gary Clark Jr
• Kim Gordon
• Greg Howe
• Kenny Wayne Shepherd
• John Squire

There are countless others, but the list above shows just some of the legends who have benefited from the TS9. It almost sells itself on this list alone…it is one of the all time greats.

Tone

The TS9 will suit those who are looking for an overdrive tone that is not saturated in gain. If you’re after a blistering death metal tone, then look elsewhere. The TS9 will give you anything from a “mean and clean” tone, to warm crunch, to a throaty growl. Think, blues and rock…not metal.

A common compliment for the TS9 Tube Screamer is that with some pedals, your tone can sound the same. With the TS9, you’ll get a different tone depending on the instrument. It will emphasize the tone, rather than create a new tone.

Verdict

It’s not a hard to love this iconic pedal. It’s pedigree is unquestionable and the list of legends who use it elevates it to another level. Probably the most surprising fact about the TS9 Tube Screamer is the price. It is very affordable, considering the positives (and lack of negatives).

You simply can’t go wrong with this pedal, it will complement your tone and give you a surprising range of options…all without breaking the bank.

Buy