The Look and Quality

The PZ Pre comes in the form of an average sized pedal, more or less the same size as a programmable Tech21. It features so many ins/outs and knobs that you have to wonder how Radial managed to fit all that into a frame this size. The latter is made of gauge steel and has a baked enamel finish. The ensemble is rather heavy, even though the power supply is external (an AC adapter). This bodes well for its sturdiness. It’s a good looking product, but of course it’s a question of taste. In any event it looks professional and not toy-like. Also, despite the fact that the upper panel is rather crowded, the writing is clear and readable, even in dim lighting. All in all, it’s a product that you won’t be ashamed of owning and which seems ready to take on years of gig abuse without degrading.

This impression of quality is confirmed when you tweak it. The knobs are sturdy and well made (you don’t have to worry about them moving too easily) without being too difficult for precision adjustment. Even the feel of the knobs (hard plastic) is pleasant. Though they’re a little crowded, you can still adjust one knob without moving the ones next to it. The three footswitches share the same quality; they’re sturdy and sound solid. There’s little chance of breaking them, even in the event that you get carried away and activate the pedal with too much enthusiasm during a gig: they’re solid.

The 3-position switches seem to be slightly less sturdy. But after all, they’ll probably be touched a lot less, since they deal with adjustments that usually aren’t changed too often. They’re embedded just far enough to be protected while at the same time being easily accessible. As far as the ins/outs go, they also seem well made.

The PZ PRE is therefore designed for years of live gigs. Those who use pedals that still work after 30 years of faithful service, like MXR gear, can understand. Nice work; let’s see if the book is as good as its cover…