Ashdown

Description

Few bass players have shaped the role of distortion and dynamics quite like Geezer Butler, whose work with Black Sabbath pushed the instrument forward as a driving force in heavy music—thick, aggressive and always in command of the groove. The Ashdown Geezer Butler Pedal of Doom is built around that same mindset, giving players the ability to move between fully dialed-in tones without losing momentum. At its core is a dual-EQ architecture, allowing two distinct tonal foundations to be set and switched on demand, while the Doom drive circuit adds harmonic weight and controlled saturation when it’s time to push into heavier territory. Dual VU meters provide precise control over input and output levels, and a transformer-isolated DI delivers consistent, stage-ready output. The result is a pedal built not just to shape tone, but to control how it hits, moves and holds its place in the mix.

Dual EQ Architecture for Switching Between Fully Shaped Tones

At the heart of the Pedal of Doom is a dual-EQ design that allows you to create and store two independent tonal profiles within a single pedal. Each EQ section features active controls for bass, low-mid and high-mid, with a shared treble control shaping the overall top-end response. This setup makes it possible to move between contrasting sounds—such as a deep, supportive low-end tone and a more mid-forward, cutting voice—without needing additional pedals. The ability to switch instantly between these EQs transforms the pedal into a dynamic performance tool, giving you control over how your bass sits in the mix from section to section.

Doom Drive Circuit for Harmonic Weight and Controlled Saturation

The integrated Doom drive circuit is designed to add harmonic richness without overwhelming your core tone. It can be dialed in for subtle grit that enhances presence and texture, or pushed further into saturated, heavy distortion that reinforces low-end weight while maintaining clarity. Independent level and volume controls allow you to shape how the drive interacts with your base tone, making it equally effective as a tonal enhancer or a more aggressive voice. Engaged via footswitch, it provides immediate access to added intensity when the music calls for it.

Dual VU Meters, Transformer-Isolated DI and Footswitch Control for Seamless Rig Integration

Beyond tone shaping, the Pedal of Doom is built to give you full control over your signal path in real-world performance environments. Dual VU meters monitor both input and output levels, helping you set gain structure accurately and avoid unwanted volume shifts when switching between tones or engaging drive. The transformer-isolated DI output delivers a clean, consistent signal for stage and studio use, preserving low-end integrity and overall balance without additional processing. Footswitchable EQ selection and drive control allow for seamless transitions mid-performance, while its rugged construction ensures reliability under regular use. Whether used as a front-end tone shaper, a dual-channel preamp or a direct recording solution, it integrates easily into a wide range of setups.

Geezer Butler: The Enduring Legacy of a Hard Rock Pioneer

As the bassist and primary lyricist of Black Sabbath, Geezer Butler helped define the sound of hard rock with his crushing riffs and dark, dystopian visions, showcased on seminal albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality. His use of distortion and dynamics—often shifting character within a single passage, as heard in tracks like “Hand of Doom”—set a blueprint for how bass could drive both weight and movement. The Pedal of Doom reflects that philosophy, giving players the tools to shape, shift and reinforce their sound with intention. With its combination of dual EQ control, responsive drive and precise signal management, it delivers a flexible, performance-ready platform built to handle everything from subtle movement to massive impact.

Ashdown Geezer Butler Pedal of Doom Bass EQ and Overdrive Pedal - Black
Ashdown Geezer Butler Pedal of Doom Bass EQ and Overdrive Pedal - Black
Ashdown Geezer Butler Pedal of Doom Bass EQ and Overdrive Pedal - Black

Features

  • Signature bass preamp and overdrive pedal designed in collaboration with Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler
  • Dual EQ architecture allows two fully shaped tones to be set and switched on demand
  • Active multi-band EQ (bass, low-mid, high-mid, shared treble) provides precise tonal control
  • Dedicated Doom drive circuit delivers everything from subtle grit to grinding distortion
  • Dual VU meters monitor input and output levels for accurate gain staging and consistency
  • Transformer-isolated DI output delivers clean, balanced signal for stage and studio use
  • Output level and drive controls allow detailed shaping of overall volume and saturation
  • Ground lift switch reduces unwanted noise in direct and live applications
  • Rugged UK-built construction built for reliable performance on stage and in the studio

Specs

General
  • Product type: EQ and overdrive pedal
  • Model: Geezer Butler Pedal of Doom
Controls
  • Global controls: Output, Doom, Doom volume, shared treble control
  • EQ: 2 x 4-band EQ
  • EQ 1: Bass, Lo Mid, Hi Mid, Treble (shared with EQ 2)
  • EQ 2: Bass, Lo Mid, Hi Mid, Treble (shared with EQ 1)
  • VU meters: 2 (input/output)
  • Footswitches: EQ 1/2, Doom
Connectivity
  • Input: 1 x 1/4"
  • Output: 1 x 1/4"
  • DI: 1 x XLR, transformer isolated
  • Ground lift: Yes
Power
  • Power requirement: 9-18V DC (sold separately)
Dimensions and Weight
  • Width: 7.09"
  • Depth: 4.72"
  • Height: 2.36"
  • Weight: 2.65 lb.
Other
  • Country of origin: United Kingdom

Warranty

Limited 1 year warranty on all amps.

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