I bought this February 14, 2004 and it's definitely an eBay prize!

According to the Aria Web Page, the PE-10 was part of the Aria Super Effects (Dual Stage) line, which was manufactured during the period 1983-85. So this pedal is around 20 years old. The fact that it still works shows that "Made In Japan" quality isn't the sole property of BOSS.

This pedal is very sturdy, and closely resembles a BOSS, what with the side outputs and the AC adapter outlet at the back. However, the PE-10 is actually a bit bigger than a BOSS, which means it doesn't fit into a standard BOSS carrying case.

The pedal's controls aren't quite what one expects from an equalizer. Than again, parametric EQs tend to march to their own drummers.

As you can see in the image, the PE-10 has three knobs, which control width, frequency, and gain. Note that the Gain doesn't add too much volume if boosted full up. Below the knobs and directly above the LED, there's a three way switch. According to the previous owner, this switch lets one choose between peak-notch, high-pass, and low-pass. Where's a manual when you really need one?

Seriously, the switch can make for some dramatic changes in sound. In fact I was able to totally kill my guitar volume in some positions. I can't see that ever being a desirable effect.

However, experimenting with the various controls proved fruitful. Just like my Ibanez Para EQ (which has completely different controls), the PE-10 was able to really bring out the tonal quality of my Strat without adding any noise at all.

Personally, I believe that parametric EQs are superior to their graphic counterparts when it comes to shaping guitar tone. That's why I now own two different models, and if the gods of eBay smile upon me, I'll add yet one more to my collection eventually! I won't mention it by name so that the bidding doesn't get jacked up.

For more information on Aria pedals, go to: ARIA PRO II HISTORY VAULT

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