Michael W. Klein, a little-known boutique builder, is making waves in the world of metal guitar tones. His Oni pedal, a collaboration with Taylor Young of God's Hate and Twitching Tongues, is capable of peeling skin from skulls with its high-gain fury. But Klein's journey to becoming a pedal and amp maker wasn't an easy one. He started as a teenager, fascinated by the chugs on Metallica records, and eventually turned his passion into a full-time job. He's fully aware that he's never going to be a unit-shifter, but he's content with that. His approach is a fascinating marriage of creativity, technology, and old-school trial and error. He believes that anyone can build guitar gear, and he's dedicated to making it accessible and affordable for other musicians. Klein's commitment to accessibility is fundamental to his approach. He keeps his prices as low as possible, considering the labor involved, and is only in it to help other people make the cool stuff he's always liked. His champions include Sammy Duet, Matt Harvey, and thrash titan Gary Holt. Klein's latest drop includes his Tube Screamer-esque Dybbuk pedal and SPD100 amplifier, which have already caught the attention of many. But what makes Klein's work truly fascinating is the personal connection he has with his craft. He sees it as a way to manage his mental health issues, providing him with a creative outlet to deal with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. In my opinion, Klein's story is a testament to the power of passion and creativity in overcoming personal struggles. It's inspiring to see how he's turned his love for guitar tones into a means of self-expression and healing. As a musician myself, I can relate to the desire to create something that resonates with others, and Klein's journey is a reminder that even the most extreme guitar tones can be a source of solace and connection.
