Xotic EP Booster Guitar Effect

Xotic EP Booster — The Legendary EP-3 Preamp in a Stompbox

The Xotic EP Booster is a true-bypass boost pedal built around the preamp stage of the classic EP-3 echo machine used by Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, and Eric Johnson. Its discrete FET design and low-impedance output deliver up to +20 dB of clean boost with shimmering highs and lows. Players use it as an always-on tone enhancer that adds subtle midrange warmth to any rig. The single-knob interface hides deeper customization through internal DIP switches for voicing and gain staging.

What Sets this model Apart

A discrete FET circuit with 1 MΩ input and 1 kΩ output impedance preserves the guitar's natural character while adding the celebrated EP-3 coloration. Three internal DIP-switch positions — Default, Unity Gain, and Vintage — tailor the boost frequency and EQ response. Running at 18 VDC instead of 9 VDC unlocks noticeably more headroom and top-end clarity.

Signal Path and Boost Range

The instrument adds volume and harmonic weight without altering the amp's core voice, equally useful in front of the amp or in the effects loop.

• Type: Boost — single-function clean/enhancement pedal
• Maximum Boost: +20 dB — enough headroom to push a tube amp into saturation
• Bypass Mode: True Bypass — signal passes untouched when disengaged
• Controls: Gain with internal DIP-switch voicing

Connectivity and Power

Standard 6.3 mm jack I/O drops into any guitar or bass rig, and dual power options keep it flexible for studio, stage, and grab-and-go setups.

• Inputs: Jack 6.3 mm — standard instrument-level input
• Outputs: Jack 6.3 mm — standard instrument-level output
• Battery Powered: Yes (9V 006P) — onboard battery for cable-free setups
• AC Adapter (Optional): 9–18 VDC, negative tip — higher voltage increases headroom

Build and Electrical Specs

The cast-metal enclosure is small enough for crowded boards yet heavy enough to stay planted underfoot, and the low current draw sips power from any standard pedalboard supply.

• Dimensions (W × D × H): 89 × 38 × 38 mm — compact mini-pedal footprint
• Weight: 260 g — solid, road-ready feel without bulk
• Power Consumption: 9 VDC / 5 mA — minimal draw on multi-pedal power supplies
• The box includes a quick-start reference manual.