Shaffer SOLO-X Boost Pedal
The SOLO-X Boost is still very much an authentic SoloDallas SVDS-style boost. From a design standpoint, the SOLO-X and the current SVDS Boost Mini are essentially the same circuit, housed in different-sized enclosures. Both are derived directly from the headphone op-amp in the original SVDS wireless receiver, after discovering that many guitar legends intentionally used the receiver’s ¼” headphone output as a powerful stage boost.
That circuit delivers up to 30 dB of gain and is not intended to be a sterile, clean volume lift. Instead, it’s a full-frequency boost packed with harmonic overtones, incorporating Ken Schaffer’s “goalpost” EQ to add a touch of vintage coloration, punch, and feel — the same core character players are chasing when they think “SVDS tone.”
The primary difference versus the current SVDS Boost is form factor and generation, not intent or quality. The SVDS Boost represents a more recent refinement in a smaller enclosure, while the SOLO-X stands on its own as a great-sounding, purpose-built boost and remains fully representative of the SoloDallas tone philosophy.
From a player’s perspective, anyone looking for that classic SVDS push, harmonic richness, and dynamic response will be very happy with the SOLO-X / SVDS Boost.
