Just solved a pedal problem

[Skyhook]

a cleanboost after (boss eq works great)

I came here to suggest this. Put the GE-7 or other equivalent eq at the end
of your pedal bunch. Boost volume and mids.

 

[Bob Womack]

OP (@Heartbreaker_Esq) I've heard your technique described as "Underdrive." Kind of bends your head around, eh?

Bob

 

[misterdontmove]

You should also try keeping the core tone pedal always on, then a mid boost in front (ts 9, tumnus...the list goes on) and a cleanboost after (boss eq works great). Might be a little more consistent then the under driving method.

I do just this! SD1("mid boost" for leads)>OD3(modded for lower gain/always on)>SHO clone (set just above unity gain/not really a "clean boost" but you get the idea). Works like a charm. Even when I lower the guitar volume to clean up the OD3 the SHO keeps the volume and sparkle right where it needs to be.

 

[misterdontmove]

I bought a very cheap DIY kit called Lead Master. not much soldering going on, so anyone can get this done.
in/out jacks, a footswitch, 1 LED indicator for solo and a volume pot.
set the volume for normal playing, unleash full power switching to solo. 9volt battery just for the LED which lasts for ever.

View attachment 1370993

What does it do? Throttle down the output a little and bypass it when you turn it "on"?

 

[Alamo]

What does it do? Throttle down the output a little and bypass it when you turn it "on"?

Exactly.
With "dicipline" ....you could archive the same effect by turning your guitar volume knob down for rythm and crank it for solo.