Tone King Imperial Pre-Amp

Tone King Imperial Preamp Pedal is a boutique all-tube preamp pedal that brings the heart and soul of Tone King’s legendary Imperial MKII amplifier straight to your pedalboard. Powered by three high-voltage 12AX7 tubes and built around the exact preamp and phase-inverter circuitry of its full-sized amp inspiration, this pedal captures blooming harmonics, expressive dynamics, and vintage responsiveness you’d normally expect only from a head or combo. Two distinct channels give you a wide palette of classic American tones — from pristine, glassy cleans and smooth breakup reminiscent of a ‘60s blackface combo to gritty, harmonically rich Tweed-style drive and rock-ready midrange bark. Each channel features its own Volume and Attenuation controls, letting you dial in everything from subtle grit to full saturation without losing musicality. Just like the revered Imperial MKII amp, the Imperial Preamp pedal includes foot-switchable stereo spring-style reverb and tremolo assignable per channel, adding depth and motion to your sound without pedals or external effects. Built-in low-latency impulse response (IR) cabinet simulation and power-amp emulation mean you can plug straight into a PA, FRFR cab, or interface and still get convincing, speaker-like tone. MIDI control, a stereo FX loop, headphone output, and dual balanced XLRs make this an incredibly flexible centerpiece for performance and recording alike. Key Features: • High-voltage all-tube preamp driven by three 12AX7 valves, faithfully replicating the Imperial MKII amplifier’s circuitry. • Two independent channels: Rhythm (clean to smooth breakup) and Lead (Tweed-inspired grit with Mid-Bite control). • Built-in “zero-watt” power-amp/phase inverter circuit for authentic dynamic response. • Stereo convolution spring reverb and tremolo assignable per channel. • Onboard low-latency IR cabinet simulation and power-amp emulation for direct recording or PA use. • Dual balanced XLR outputs with ground lift, ¼″ headphone out, effects send/return, and USB-C for software editor integration. • MIDI-programmable with up to 128 presets and comprehensive control via external switches or software. • Stereo series FX loop expands integration with external pedals and amps.