1974 MXR PHASE 90

These early production pedals are highly-prized by collectors for their rarity, and by players for their sound.

This is the version Dunlop attempted to recreate for their ’74 Custom reissue.

It is in good cosmetic condition and perfect working order.

At some point in its life it may have had a new battery connector; as is often the case with these old pedals, the original foam that protected the circuit board has long since perished. It is fitted with a new 9v Procell battery and is built like a tank – made in USA of course.

There are scuffs and scratches as you’d expect from a vintage foot pedal that’s nearly 40 years old. A previous owner has drilled a small hole in the bottom cover of the aluminium case at some point in the past (please see photos below). None of this affects the glorious sound of this pedal.

Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen: need we say more?

Guitars, bass, Rhodes, synths – all can sound great through this pedal – it instantly transports you back in time (sonically rather than literally of course) and works its analogue magic on digital sources breathing warmth and life into soft synths and samples. It is a great studio mix tool – perfect for adding a thick velvety analogue swirl to whatever you care to put through it.

As mentioned above, these very pedals have been reissued by Dunlop, but the originals just have that sound – and mojo – that new units lack. We’ve tried many reissue pedals against vintage originals and while some do a passable job, most fall short when compared to the real thing. In addition, original pedals should hold their value or offer a good return as an investment: some Script Phase 90s have made $1000 plus (crazy).

Until I tried a Bud Box Phase 90, I assumed that the high prices they command was because of rarity-value rather than sound – I was already blown away by my 1975 Script Logo Phase 90, and wasn’t expecting anything more from this slightly earlier unit. After my first listen, I immediately sold my 1975 pedal and kept the 74.

We are also selling a slightly later MXR Script Phase 90 and MXR Distortion+ – please see other listings on here or ebay.