Gear Review ProCo Turbo RAT
Comparing the ProCo Turbo RAT against the standard RAT. Testing its warmer, high-output characteristics on contact mics, synths, and vocals for harsh noise.
The ProCo Turbo RAT is frequently marketed as the "turbo cousin" of the classic RAT, promising double the output and a distinct sonic profile. For noise artists, the question is simple: does the change in circuit translate to a more useful tool for harsh noise?
Source note. The findings below come from a video review by Yotzeret Sheydim, who compared the Turbo RAT and the standard RAT using contact mics, drone synths, and vocal noise. This article summarises their testing.
Tone Comparison: Warmth vs. Cold
In direct comparison, the Turbo RAT reveals a character that many users find "warmer" and "toastier" than the original RAT. While the standard RAT can sound slightly cold or sterile under certain conditions, the Turbo RAT introduces a unique richness to the distortion stage [00:06:20].
The higher output level is immediately noticeable. When tested with contact microphones and drone synthesizers, the Turbo RAT fills out the frequency spectrum more aggressively, making it a compelling choice for those who find the standard RAT too thin for their noise rigs.
Vocal and Feedback Applications
The Turbo RAT was put through a gauntlet of vocal tests, ranging from subtle whispers to aggressive screams. It maintains clarity even at high distortion settings, providing a resonant, thick texture that responds exceptionally well to feedback-driven performance [00:05:14].
This feels a lot warmer to me than [the standard RAT]. It feels a little colder, not as toasty warm as this is.
Yotzeret Sheydim
Source
Yotzeret Sheydim, ProCo TurboRAT Pedal - Harsh Noise Gear Review [NO GUITARS] — watch on YouTube. All testing described above is theirs.
