RADIAL IS RENOWNED for its direct boxes and preamps, and now the company has given its entire Acoustic Series lineup a cosmetic redesign to match its sleek new flagship model, the PZ-Pro. The two-channel acoustic preamp offers two channels with independent EQ, an XLR input option on channel B and an effects loop assignable to either or both, plus a bevy of handy features for acoustic enthusiasts, including a clean boost with adjustable level control. Together, these features allow you to optimize levels and tones for two input sources, making it easy to alternate between or blend them.
According to product manager Jay Porter, the PZ legend originated with a prototype sent to James Taylor, who had just finished recording an album. He reportedly dug the sound of that original PZ-Pre so much that he went back and re-tracked the entire record. Radial’s PZ preamp production line now includes the PZ-Pre, PZ-Deluxe and this ultimate incarnation. I always bring at least two guitars to a gig, so it was exciting to do one with the PZ-Pro in tow.