Used J. Rockett Audio Designs MARK SMAPSON HIGHTOP Overdrive Pedal

J. Rockett Audio Designs Mark Sampson Hightop Overdrive Pedal

“The British Invasion, Bottled”

Classic Top Boost Tone with Boutique Precision

Designed in collaboration with legendary amp designer Mark Sampson—the mind behind Matchless and Bad Cat—the Hightop Overdrive Pedal captures the essence of the iconic AC30 top boost sound. With a unique EQ layout and switchable voicing, this pedal delivers sparkling cleans, rich mids, and harmonically complex overdrive that defined the British Invasion.

Built for tone purists and vintage amp lovers, the Hightop is ideal for players chasing that Vox-style chime with modern flexibility. While not widely adopted by mainstream artists, it’s a favorite among boutique pedal enthusiasts and tone chasers who appreciate Sampson’s signature voicing.

Highlights

• Designed by Mark Sampson, creator of Matchless Amps

• Top boost-style EQ with interactive bass and treble controls

• Ceramic/Alnico switch for speaker-style voicing

• EF86 tube emulation for added harmonic depth

• True bypass and rugged build for stage reliability

Specifications

• Pedal Type: Overdrive/Boost with EQ

• Controls: Bass, Treble, Cut, Boost, EF86 Intensity

• Switches: Ceramic/Alnico voicing, EF86 toggle

• Bypass: True bypass

• Power: Standard 9V DC (center-negative)

• Build: Aluminum enclosure, boutique-grade components

• Dimensions: Approx. 5" x 3"

• Ideal For: British rock, indie, blues, classic pop tones

• Works as a front-end preamp to brighten or drive your amp.
• Ceramic/Alnico switch emulates different speaker breakup characteristics.
• EF86 mode adds extra harmonic complexity and touch sensitivity.

Tone Shaping

• Bass & Treble: Unity is fully counterclockwise; interact to dial mids.
• Cut Control: Trims high-end for smoother tones.
• Speaker Type Switch: Choose between ceramic punch or alnico sweetness.
• EF86 Circuit: Adds vintage tube-like dynamics.