Bad Day Box 3rd Edition (Crudtastic Feedback Blooper Unit)
Hold on now...
Our favorite feedback box returns in a third incarnation! Like its predecessor, the Formula 2, the Bad Day Box 3rd Edition features a handy dandy rocker switch and four quarter inch jacks (corresponding to source input/output and feedback send/return); its components are housed in a tidy black plastic box measuring 3" x 2" x 1".
The key difference with this version is the addition of a magical little knob. Here's what's up.
The Bad Day Box 3rd Edition is designed to switch between a direct line level source and an FX unit. Rather than running the line source signal through the FX as one normally does, the Bad Day Box (by virtue of its knob) mixes the source signal with the FX to create a blended feedback loop. Turning the knob increases or decreases this level of feedback, creating filtered noise, weird envelope filters, self-oscillations, and lots of sumptuous mayhem. Have a look here:
In the video, the Bad Day Box alternates between our Temporal Knob Twirler/distortion combo and a feedback loop created using EQ and (more) distortion.
The Bad Day Box accepts a wide variety of line level sources: pedalboard setups, no-input mixing, radios, tape players, synthesizers, drum machines, circuit bent critters, and loopers (our personal favorite). We find that the best feedback loops are generated by devices & pedals that can modulate or shape sound. These can range from the humblest delay or EQ pedal to some of the more boutique noise synths available; we love them all. We've also discovered that the Bad Day Box can coax new life from some really god awful pedals and one-trick-pony machines - transforming the seemingly terrible into a good day making noise!
The following video features the Temporal Knob Twirler/Bad Day Box combo piggybacking some zesty feedback generated by a Trogotronic 669:
And, what the heck, here’s another video, featuring our Test Dept Lad, using a Koma Field Field Kit (and some control voltage alchemy) with the Bad Day Box. Have a look:
Lastly, it should be pointed out that the Bad Day Box is a passive device, which is another way of saying that there are no circuits inside requiring external power. Such being the case, there may be a smidge of signal bleed when using particularly robust signals. While we personally enjoy a little extra ghost hiss (this too, can sometimes deliver unexpectedly delightful outcomes), it might not be every person's cup of kombucha.
Just a heads up: the device depicted in the image might vary slightly from the actual product. As a rule we try to keep things consistent, however this can fluctuate based on where we source parts, as well as availability from suppliers.
Fear not, the Bad Day Box comes with instructions.
All products ship within 2 weeks upon receiving payment. Thank you for your patience!
