Bearfoot FX
BearFoot is a collaboration between BJFelectronics and DonnerBox to produce some of Bjorn Juhls best designs. These guys really need no introduction, Bjorn Juhl has been building amazing pedals for years and Donnerbox has been around for a long time creating funky boxes. The news of these guys teaming up to recreate the amazing BJFE pedals, at a lower price and in bigger numbers, got the anticipation levels of many pedal lovers WAY up. I am looking at the first pedals they recreated. Check out the reviews of the Dyna Red Distortion, Model H and Honey Bee OD! All BearFoot prodcuts are designed by Bjorn and produced by Donnerbox in the USA.
Mint Green Mini Vibe
The new and now REALLY “mini” Mint green mini vibe comes in the exact same color as the old one. It’s not only a smaller box, it now also has the level boost trimmer on the outside via the 3rd control. The 2 other controls are to set the Speed (Vel.) and Depth (Ampl.). For improved headroom and depth, you can run the pedal from 8v to 18v. I played the original many years ago and this smaller version is a big step forward. I’m also happy they retained the pulsating led from the original.
The pedal in use
Years ago, I had the opportunity to test the original Mint Green Mini Vibe. It was the 1st vibe I got to try and I loved that pedal. Used it at a blues gig and fell in love with vibe pedals. So years later, the MGMV returns and I was curious to hear how the small one sounds and how it sounds compared to the vibes I own.
From what I remember from the original, I would say that this version sounds pretty much the same. It has that same deep throb in the sound and movement of the vibe sounds great. I think the MGMV sounds a bit dark due to the big range of the vibe and then the 3rd control comes in handy. The 3rd control is a level trimmer and when you turn it up, it adds some sparkle and clarity to the tone. The range of the Depth control is really nice, it basically goes from OFF to very subtle to sea-sick levels of throb. You can easily dial in the right amount for clean or overdriven tones. When lowering the Depth, you can turn down the level a bit for smoother sounds, turn both up to cut through nicely.
With the level control available to you on the outside, the MGMV actually doubles as a boost pedal. Turn down the Depth control and all the wobble is gone, then you can use the 3rd control to boost your signal. This works really well and adds a nice texture to your sound.
Compared to some other vibes I own, owned or have tested, I must say that the MGMV is one of the best you can get. There is something addictive about the depth it has and adds to your sound. It also blends really well with your tone. Some vibe pedals put their own sonic stamp on your sound. Thanks to the level control, the MGMV can be dialed in to fit perfectly with your tone.
The Bearfoot FX Mint Green Mini Vibe is an inspiring pedal for sure. This small box packs all the killer tones of the original and adds versatility with the level control. The only niggle I have is the fact you cannot adjust the speed with your feet as there’s no room to install a big knob. That does not distract from the great tones you will get from it.
