to mod or not to mod...that is the question

[Briggs]

OK so I have a fine example of a vintage 1986 Rat pedal that I use more for an overdrive than full on distortion. I've been contemplating the Robert Keeley mod. Anyone got any suggestions, comments, wisdom, experience to share either pro or con? I just can't decide whether to keep it original or open it up to more tones with the mod.

[Briggs]

anyone.... anyone..... Beuller.... Beuller.... aw c'mon, no love for the Proco Rat?

[tom]

Not really up on what they're worth, but if its worth something try to hear a modded one before messing with it. The if you dont use it now and dont love the modded version, sell it.

[Briggs]

Thanks for the reply Tom. I'm not getting rid of it anytime soon. I really like the pedal. I was just hoping someone here has a Keeley modded Rat that could share their thoughts on the difference between stock and modded.

[dannopelli]

Thanks for the reply Tom. I'm not getting rid of it anytime soon. I really like the pedal. I was just hoping someone here has a Keeley modded Rat that could share their thoughts on the difference between stock and modded.

I had one and LOVED it. It was on my pedalboard for nearly seven years. Only reason it is gone is I recently switched to and HD 500 solution, so my entire pedal board is all sold off.

The mini toggle gives you three great tones, including a great fuzz sound, OD and Distortion. It has gobs of available gain. Keeley does this mod right.

HOWEVER, like Tom said, check out what a 1986 Rat goes for. If it is worth keeping, you can get a Keeley modded Rat all the time on eBay for about $150 or so. Gig with that and save the vintage pedal for the studio!

[harritone]

A 1986 RAT!...do NOT touch that thing!...It will be destoyed and WAY devalued....buy a loop box if it sux up your tone...I have a handmade 1 bypass LOOOPER you can have for $40 shipped...it is fantastic...I don't use it....I would not touch that in any way though...If you want the modded one...buy a modded reissue direct from Keeley...he does good work...but that is besides the point...my 2 cents

[Briggs]

Thanks guys for talking me off that ledge! I love the vintage rat but have also heard great things about the Keeley mod. I'll keep the '86 as-is and hack up a newer one!

[octatonic]

I had a Keeley modded RAT.
Nice pedal but it didn't stay on the board long- about 6 months.

I definitely wouldn't be modding an 80's RAT.

[curtisjames]

Monte Allums mods really make a sign diff improving pedals. I didnt care for the Rat by itself.....BUT, Monte Allums OD 308 is his version of the Rat w. alot more variables. I own it and get some really great tones...including pitch harmonics. He has only one or two left that he made himself. (200 originally) Go to http://www.monteallums.com/custom_effects.html#OD308A and fish around his site. Ive always felt, If your interested in modding anything then the pedal isnt right for you as it is. Hope that helps