10 Klon-Style Pedals That Are Far More Than Clones

For years, decades even, the search for a passable version of the mythical Klon Centaur that doesn’t break the bank has been a popular pastime for gearheads. Below, I’ve listed 10 options that not only hang with original horsies, but in some ways improve on them.Origin Effects Halcyon GoldThis tricked-out design combines the characteristics of the classic sound, but with an added dry control, two different midrange settings, and the company’s patented adaptive circuitry.$299 streetorigineffects.comWampler Tumnus DeluxeThe most welcome addition in this souped-up version is an extremely robust 3-band EQ that allows you to fine-tune your sound. It also includes two different gain settings and a switchable buffered bypass.$199 streetwamplerpedals.comTC Electronic Zeus DriveA rather faithful recreation of the original at an incredible price. It mimics the same control set but adds a fat switch to boost your low end.$79 streettcelectronic.comElectro-Harmonix Soul FoodOne of the initial budget-friendly emulations, this no-frills design is built like a tank and can cop the vintage-sound tones—all without a four-figure price tag.$101 streetehx.comMXR M294 Sugar DriveMXR M294 Sugar DriveThis mini-sized stomp offers an essential ingredient in any Klon-style emulation: The drive knob doubles as a mix control. Plus, there’s a voltage doubler inside for increased headroom.$129 streetjimdunlop.comJ Rockett Audio Archer SelectThis is essentially a “greatest hits” of K-style overdrive tones. It comes loaded with seven different clipping diodes, a dedicated DI with cab emulation, and a ground if things get noisy.$329 streetrockettpedals.comCeriatone HorsebreakerNot only does this two-in-one pedal offer a highly accurate K-style overdrive, it’s paired with a Bluesbreaker-style drive with independent controls and a buffer switch. Bonus: You can choose the order of the effects via a small toggle.$260 streetceriatone.comMythos Effects MjolnirSporting a period-correct visual aesthetic, here’s Mythos’ take on the mythical overdrive. The current design offers a tweaked EQ and more headroom.$199 streetmythoseffects.comPRS HorsemeatPRS HorsemeatOne of the company’s first effects pedals, this expanded take on K-style dirt includes the typical controls, but also makes use of a voice knob which jockeys the frequency response in the clipping stage.$249 streetprsguitars.comKeeley OxbloodRobert Keeley’s reimagining of the mythical circuit offers a wealth of new options, including a phat switch for increased bass response, two different clipping modes, and voltage doubling.$199 streetrkfx.com