Tech 21 FlyRig Richie Kotzen RK5 Signature v2 Pedal

The Tech 21 FlyRig Richie Kotzen RK5 Signature v2, introduced in 2014, was a true game-changer for players in all categories, from touring pros to bedroom hobbyists. At a time when pedalboards were expanding and backs were breaking, the innovative FlyRig enabled players to slim down without sacrificing great tone and travel without fear of baggage surcharges and dreaded mystery backlines. Going beyond being just a multi-effects unit, the all-analog SansAmp technology enables any Tech 21 Fly Rig to be an actual “rig.” You can run directly into mixers of recording desks and PA systems, as well as augment your existing amplifier set-up. Offering new features to follow the same form factor as later FlyRigs, such as the Bass, Acoustic, and Paul Landers Signature PL1. The FlyRig 5 v2 retains the same SansAmp heart, Plexi/Cali distortion, and Delay, but adds a few twists and turns within these sections. New features include an independent reverb with a choice of room size, an effect loop, a tuner, and an XLR Output.

SansAmp

Has the tonality of the Blonde Character Series pedal. It includes 3-band active EQ, Level, and Drive controls. To dirty things up, you have the flexibility of using the Drive control, and the Boost function or you can add grit from the Plexi/Cali section. Or all three. Each method achieves different tones.

Plexi / Cali

Provides the dirtier side of the FlyRig. You have a choice of a roaring Plexi tone with its muscular crunch, detailed mids, and mule-kick low end of the chunk of a ‘70s high gain amp tone inspired by the then-boutique shop over on the West Coast. Each mode can be dialed in to your liking with dedicated Drive, Tone, and Level controls.

Boost

Switchable Pre/Post Boost up to approx 12dB to beef up drive and distortion or increase the overall volume to punch up fills and solos.

Delay with Tap Tempo

Voiced for the sounds of a vintage tape echo, with Time and Repeats controls. The Delay includes a switch to change from 1/4-notes to dotted 8ths. A Drift button adds a random, unpredictable element to the modulation in keeping with its vintage roots. 

Reverb

Independent footswitchable reverb with choice of large and small “room sizes.”

Effect Loop

Post-SansAmp, pre-effects to patch in external effect pedals.

Tuner

Chromatic Tuner, operable via the BLONDE/TUNER footswitch. You simply hold the footswitch down to engage, which simultaneously mutes the signal path.