tc electronic Dark Matter Distortion

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tc electronic Dark Matter Distortion

tc electronic

Dark Matter Distortion

4.5 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 259471
Model: Dark Matter Distortion
Price: $47.30

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The Dark Matter is a surprisingly capable little distortion for the price. It’s got a decent amount of gain, a surprisingly usable bass response, and the voice switch gives you a bit more tonal variation than you'd expect. This is a great budget option for players wanting a gritty, aggressive sound without a ton of fuss, especially those into heavier rock or metal.

Product Description

  • tc electronic Dark Matter
  • Electric guitar effects
  • Distortion
  • Control: Gain
  • level
  • bass
  • treble
  • 2 Different voice settings
  • True Bypass
  • Power supply: 9 V DC power supply or 9 V battery (both not included)
PROS
  • • Surprisingly thick low-end for a budget pedal
  • • Voice switch offers distinct, usable character shifts
  • • Compact size makes it pedalboard-friendly
  • • Simple controls allow for quick, intuitive dialing-in
CONS
  • • Plastic enclosure feels somewhat cheap and less robust
  • • Limited tonal flexibility compared to more complex distortions
  • • Gain range might be insufficient for extreme high-gain applications

Product Video

Key Features

Distortion Type High-gain distortion with asymmetrical clipping
Controls Gain, Level, Bass, Treble, Voice Switch
Bypass Type True Bypass
Power Supply 9 V DC power supply or 9 V battery (optional)
Connections 1/4 in Input, 1/4 in Output, DC 9 V Input
Dimensions 4.3 in x 2.6 in x 1.9 in

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Frequently Asked Questions

Voice 1 is a more aggressive, mid-focused distortion, while Voice 2 softens the high-end and adds a bit more sustain, offering a smoother, slightly warmer tone.
While designed primarily for guitar, it *can* be used with bass, but you’ll need to carefully manage the bass control to avoid muddiness; it works best with active basses.
The Dark Matter is less versatile than the Rat 2, offering a more focused distortion sound; however, it's more compact and significantly more affordable.

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