Frederic Yves Michel NOEL review about the Darkglass Microtubes X7

⚙️ Darkglass Microtubes X7 Review

The Microtubes X7 is a precision distortion and multiband EQ pedal made specifically for bass players who demand tight lows, aggressive mids, and surgical control over their distortion tone. It’s based on the same engine found in the Microtubes X series, but the X7 gives you expanded tone shaping thanks to its dedicated 7-band graphic EQ.

🔊 Core Sound & Tone

Unlike traditional distortion pedals, the X7 uses a crossover-based approach:

Low frequencies are kept clean, compressed, and tight — preserving punch and definition.
High frequencies are distorted — giving you grind, bite, and harmonic content.

This multiband distortion architecture is perfect for modern bass styles where you want aggressive top-end character but a clean, controlled low-end foundation.

🎛️ Controls

High Drive – Amount of distortion applied to the high band.
High Level – Volume of the distorted highs.
Low Comp – Compression amount for the low band.
Low Level – Volume of the clean lows.
Crossover Frequency – Defines the split point between low and high bands (100 Hz – 1 kHz).
7-Band Graphic EQ – 64 Hz to 5 kHz for exact tone shaping.
Master Volume – Overall output.

This setup gives you surgical control — great for shaping your tone around the mix or complementing different pickups, playing styles, and tunings.

🎯 What It’s Best For

Modern metal, prog, and djent bassists who need extreme clarity and articulation under distortion.
Players using drop tunings or 5/6-string basses who want to preserve tight low-end.
Studio or live rigs where a polished, mix-ready tone is crucial.

🧱 Build & Design

Standard Darkglass construction — black aluminum housing with crisp graphics.
Clean interface with bright EQ sliders and clear labeling.
Top jacks and soft-touch footswitch for pedalboard convenience.

🏁 Conclusion

The Microtubes X7 is a precision tool — not just a distortion pedal. It’s designed for bassists who want aggression and clarity without compromising low-end power. The combination of multiband drive and graphic EQ makes this one of the most versatile and mix-friendly pedals in Darkglass’s lineup. If you like your tone modern, sharp, and surgically tuned — the X7 delivers in full.