Joyo R-13 XVI Octave Pedal

Company Website: https://www.joyoaudio.com/
Price: $89.99 (US)
Rating: 4.75 / 5

As a bass player in a band that usually has one guitarist playing, I find it necessary to fill out the sound, especially when the guitarist is playing a solo or a louder lead line. Instead of bringing my 8-string bass and using it on a couple songs, I can dial in my Joyo XVI to get just what I need for the higher octave notes and a touch of sub octave. I have the Mooer Micro Series Pure Octave and while the teeny footprint is nice, it’s not nearly as customizable as the Joyo.

The big difference that I noticed with the Joyo R-13 XVI is that I can also add some modulation to the signal which mimics a Hammond organ or synth. This is definitely handy for songs such as Deep Purple’s “Highway Star” which is a favorite of my band. If I end up filling in for another band that plays more Top 40 type stuff, I know the XVI will help there too.

Like the other well made pedals in Joyo’s R-Series line, this one comes with a cool lighting effect built in. Users can set the light to come on with the button on/off pedal, have it on all the time there’s power or always off. I like the way it shines when it’s on so I have mine set to mimic the pedal state. For controls, the plastic knobs seem okay, but I would think metal knobs or something a bit higher quality would accompany a $90 (US) pedal such as the chicken head knobs from the Joyo Vintage Phase. I would also love to see a stereo version of this pedal which would allow the user to pan the effect to right, left, center, as well as the dry signal pan controls as well.

Powering the pedal, you will need a 9V AC adapter as there’s no spot to plug in an internal battery. Other than that, you should be good to go. It does make a difference where in your signal chain you put it. Right now I have mine after my R-11 Baatsin Overdrive, but YMMV (your mileage may vary).

-Terry