Cusack Music Screamer V3 – Overdrive

The Cusack Music Screamer V3 is very similar to the V2.

It has metal film capacitors which are better with higher voltages, so you can run the V3 at 18V (of course it still runs perfectly well at 9V).

Other than that, other than the snazzy orange paint job, it sounds exactly like the V2

Now theoretically, there are a few hidden advantages of metal film capacitors that come with their added cost.  They are thought to be less microphonic (which may be a benefit at high gain levels), quieter, and their performance is less impacted by temperature changes.

They also handle power surges better, and as the new Screamer can run at 18V these caps are an added safety feature when running at higher voltages. However, under most circumstances, the temperature ranges in which you would be performing a gig are well within the tolerances of the Screamers’ former ceramic capacitors. So to our ears, these unseen advantages are the only difference. 

To signal this otherwise unseen change the V3 is finished in a new two-step metallic powder coat, and for the first time comes with standard milled aluminum knobs. 

The Pedal

The Cusack Screamer is a “clean” overdrive but has about twice the gain of a typical Tube Screamer. Many TS style pedals come off as “mid-rangey” or “muddy”, making them easy to get lost in a mix. This is where the Screamer offers much more clarity than a typical overdrive. It has been meticulously thought out, and tweaked for maximum tonal definition.

You can actually hear the individual notes of complex chords that would normally be buried. Many players consider the Cusack Screamer to be the best option in a crowded field for good reason! The V3 now has metal film caps, but don’t be fooled, we think it sounds the same. Can you hear a difference?

Controls

• Drive: Adjusts the amount of gain and overdrive.
• Tone: Controls the tonal balance. Left is a bassier tone, right is brighter
• Level: Sets the output level. 
• Toggle Switch: Left is classic silicon diodes. Middle is LED for a louder, punchier, brighter overdrive. The LED also lights up while playing! Right is Schottky diodes for a crushed, compressed tone. 

Power

Standard center negative 9V DC power supply, or 9V battery (neither included)
Current draw: ~6mA
Safe to run at 18V DC, but will not alter the sound due to the internal voltage regulator.

Dimensions

-4.42″ L x 2.39″ W x 1.24″ H