EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker Overdrive Pedal - Silicon/Germanium | No Limit Guitar Co, Idaho Falls
The EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker is an analog overdrive pedal that expands on the stripped-down Speaker Cranker with an enhanced control set, giving guitarists precise command over tone and saturation. Designed to boost your signal while preserving the natural character of your rig, the Special Cranker delivers everything from subtle grit to full-throttle amp-pummeling distortion. Whether you're a gigging guitarist or a studio player, this EQD overdrive pedal is built to elevate your sound without compromise.
Product Overview
The Special Cranker is a fully analog overdrive pedal built for players who demand tonal versatility without sacrificing simplicity. Its compact enclosure — measuring just 2.5" wide and 4.75" deep — makes it a natural fit on any pedalboard, while its USA-made construction reflects EarthQuaker Devices' commitment to quality.
At the heart of the pedal is the signature More knob, which adjusts transistor bias to sweep between light, touch-sensitive saturation and aggressive, wall-of-sound distortion. A dedicated Tone control manages high-frequency content so you can tame harshness or add sizzle depending on your setup.
The Special Cranker's standout feature is its 2-position diode selector switch, offering two distinct clipping voices: silicon for a brighter, more modern response, and germanium for a softer, rounder, vintage-leaning tone. This level of flexibility makes it one of the more versatile analog overdrive pedals available at No Limit Guitar Co in Idaho Falls.
Ideal For
- Rock and blues guitarists seeking a transparent overdrive pedal that preserves amp character
- Tone-conscious players looking for an analog overdrive with silicon and germanium diode options
- Gigging musicians who need a reliable, true bypass overdrive pedal with intuitive controls
- Studio guitarists dialing in saturation levels with surgical precision
- Pedal enthusiasts exploring the best EarthQuaker Devices overdrive options at an Idaho Falls guitar store
Key Features
More Knob — Variable Transistor Bias
The More knob adjusts the bias of the internal transistor, taking the pedal from subtle, touch-responsive dirt all the way to full distortion saturation. This single control delivers a wide dynamic range rarely found in a compact overdrive format.
Silicon/Germanium Diode Selector
The 2-position switch offers two distinct clipping characters: silicon delivers a brighter, more cutting modern tone, while germanium produces a softer, warmer, rounder breakup. Switching between them mid-set is effortless and opens up distinct tonal personalities.
Level and Tone Controls
The Level knob provides nearly double the output of the original Speaker Cranker, offering plenty of clean boost headroom. The Tone control manages treble frequencies, letting you roll off harsh highs or bring out definition and clarity.
True Bypass with Flexi-Switch
Relay-based True Bypass ensures your unaffected tone remains completely intact when the pedal is off. EQD's Flexi-Switch technology allows the pedal to function as both a standard latching footswitch and a momentary-style switch in the same unit.
Compact, Road-Ready Build
At under one pound and USA-made, the Special Cranker is built for reliability on the road and in the studio. Its 9V DC operation (15mA draw) is compatible with virtually any standard pedalboard power supply.
What's Included
- EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker Overdrive Pedal
- EarthQuaker Devices limited warranty
- Note: 9V DC power supply sold separately
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Pedal Type | Overdrive |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Controls | Level, More (Bias), Tone, Silicon/Germanium Diode Selector Switch |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| True Bypass | Yes, Relay Switching with Flexi-Switch |
| Power Source | 9V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Power Usage | 15mA |
| Height | 2.25" |
| Width | 2.5" |
| Depth | 4.75" |
| Weight | 0.93 lbs. |
| Manufacturer Part Number | EQDSPECV1USA |
Get Your Hands on This Overdrive Pedal Today
Stop by No Limit Guitar Co in Idaho Falls to plug in and experience the Special Cranker firsthand — hearing the silicon and germanium voices through your preferred amp makes all the difference. Our gear specialists are happy to walk you through the full EarthQuaker Devices lineup and help you find the right pedal for your rig. Visit us in store or reach out through our website to check availability.
