
Instantly recognizable thanks to their molded plastic cases, the Ibanez Soundtank series established a range of affordable, practical and widely available effects in the 1990s. For any guitarist who spent time in music stores during this era, there is a real nostalgia in the unique design, curves and knobs of these pedals. And beyond the look, they also contain beautiful sounds! Enough to occupy several afternoons of sound discovery. The Ibanez TL5 offered clear tremolo sounds, comparable to those of good vintage amps. Interestingly, it was one of the first tremolo pedals to feature both a Level potentiometer and a flashing LED. These functions, usually reserved for high-end models, considerably improve the use of the pedal. The Level knob helps correct volume balance issues common with some tremolo settings, while the flashing LED lets you dial in the speed exactly at the desired tempo. Today, with the multitude of high-end and “boutique” tremolo pedals available, some forums and “experts” on YouTube will try to convince you that Soundtanks are no longer of interest. But that’s not true! These pedals are still very affordable, and the TL5, with its musical and fluid tremolo, remains faithful to the sought-after circuits of some expensive vintage amps. This example from the 1990s shows some cosmetic traces of use, but it is overall in very good condition. It works 100% perfectly and has never had any repairs or issues.