Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini Pedal Review

The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini is a compact and budget-friendly overdrive pedal inspired by the original Tube Screamer pedal. It delivers exceptional overdrive sounds and boasts a high-quality and durable build. Its simplistic and easy-to-use design makes it an excellent option for guitarists.

As an avid fan of the original Tube Screamer, I was eager to test the mini version and see if it truly lives up to its legendary status. Let’s see if this compact pedal measures up to its classic counterpart.

Also, you can check out my detailed video review of the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini through the link below if you want to see it in action and get a taste of how it sounds.

8.8

Value for Money

9.0/10

Features

8.0/10

Build Quality

9.5/10

Sound Quality

9.2/10

Design

8.5/10

Verdict

The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking a classic overdrive pedal in a compact, durable package. Its simple yet effective design and high-quality construction make it a must-have addition to any pedalboard.

Pros

  • Classic Tube Screamer sound in a compact package
  • High-quality, sturdy build
  • True bypass for unaltered tone
  • Excellent value for money
  • Easy-to-use controls for versatile sound shaping

Cons

  • Marker visibility on tone and level knobs could be improved
  • Slightly less feature-rich than the original Tube Screamer

First Impressions

Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini Pedal
View Price at SweetwaterView Price at Amazon

The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini stays true to the iconic TS-808 design with its green color and vintage look. The compact size is perfect for those looking to conserve space on their pedalboard, while still maintaining a solid, weighty feel that speaks to its quality construction. Despite its compact size, it truly delivers when it comes to tonal quality.

Specs

The TS Mini is powered by a standard 9V DC adapter and features overdrive, tone, and level knobs for sound customization. With true bypass, your tone remains unaltered when the pedal is disengaged. While the design is simple, it delivers everything you need for the perfect overdrive effect.

The only downside is probably the not-so-visible markers on the tone and level knobs. However, this can be easily solved with some white nail polish or white marker as a DIY solution.

Design and Build Quality

The TS Mini’s metal casing and durable knobs reflect its high-quality build. Its small footprint is ideal for tight pedalboard setups, and the added rubber pad on the bottom prevents slipping during use.

The design is almost identical to the original TS-808 pedal (naturally, more compact) apart from the slightly different knob design and footswitch. Overall, the TS Mini is a well-crafted pedal that is built to last.

Sound

Despite the size difference, I found the TS Mini’s sound to be just as rich and mid-boosted as the original TS-808. The three knobs offer plenty of flexibility for shaping your tone, though the marker visibility could be improved for easier adjustments as mentioned.

Since the TS Mini is based on the original TS-808, it’s only natural that the sound you get is the same. I was surprised by how it sounded identical to its larger counterpart but that’s what you want from a compact version – the same sound, smaller footprint.

Pricing

The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini offers excellent value for money, delivering the classic Tube Screamer tone in a smaller, more affordable package. For those prioritizing sound quality over size, the TS Mini is a fantastic investment that measures up to its larger counterpart.

Alternatives

For those seeking similar options at a lower price, the Mooer Green Mile and Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint are both affordable alternatives. While their sound quality is comparable to the TS Mini, their lighter build quality and overall construction may not be as robust but they are still affordable options that you can look into.

Mooer Green Mile
View Price at Amazon
Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint
View Price at Thomann (Europe)

Check out our video review of the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint to see it in action.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini lives up to its name. It’s a more compact version than the original TS-808 with a slightly different knob and footswitch design and boasts the same tonal quality, sturdy construction, and aesthetic appeal. For those looking to save space on their pedalboard yet have a strong overdrive in the mix, the TS Mini is a solid option worth considering.

Milan Trajkovikj

Milan Trajkovikj

I’m the Deputy Editor for Musician Wave and a touring and recording bass guitarist. I love to share my passion for all things music. I’ve been playing music for over ten years and I love exploring it further through writing. You'll also find me on the Musician Wave YouTube channel.

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