MIDS: Engages a mids control centered at ~720Hz. 720Hz is the “mid hump” frequency of the original Tube Screamer, which means that the circuit attenuates frequencies above 720Hz at 3dB per octave, which gives the original its characteristic tone. The Sidearm moves that cut to 1KHz, opening up the upper mids, but the Mids control retains the cut or boost at 720Hz. Turning this up boosts the 720Hz band and turning it down scoops out the same band. The bandwidth of this control is such that the edges glance the 1KHz cut for a harmonious mids enhancement. The center is flat.

VOL: Affirmative.

TONE: This is a tilt EQ centered at 1KHz. When you turn it up above noon, frequencies above 1KHz are boosted and frequencies below are cut. Turning it down yields the opposite effect. Because this control’s center frequency is relatively high, the circuit has been tweaked so that the treble is boosted slightly less than the bass when either side is maxed. (The latest revision, not this one, will have a very gentle treble filter that shaves off harsh frequencies above 16KHz.)

DRIVE: Adds gain. Much more than a regular Tube Screamer (and much less, too). Goes from clean to very dirty.

You can power your SideArm with any good quality filtered and regulated 9-18v DC power supply with a center-negative tipped plug designed for use with effects pedals.