Model Description:
Here we have another one-owner pedal. The Ibanez FL9 Flanger replaced the FL301 around 1981 and lasted until the ‘9’ series pedals disappeared around 1984. One addition for the FL9 was an extra ‘Delay Time’ control for added flexibility, more like modern 4‑knob flangers such as the BOSS BF‑2. While my favourite vintage flanger remains the wonderfully whacky Electro‑Harmonix Electric Mistress, the warm analogue sounds of the Ibanez weren’t far behind. If anything, the FL9 was smoother and more subtle than its predecessor, losing a little of that edgy, raspy jet engine sound that epitomises the breed. After years in the doldrums, Ibanez eventually reissued the FL9 in 2004 for a new audience. If you can find a good one, the FL9 is still a relatively common pedal and can represent a reasonable bargain… for now. Take my word, though, they will increase in value as the vintage stomp box market develops.
Pedal Description:
Here’s a cute banana‑coloured 1982 Ibanez FL9 Flanger, a direct descendent of the earlier FL301. I have to say that, for me, the complication of the fourth knob just makes it more difficult to dial in the exact sound you might be after – there is something to be said for simplicity. I prefer playing guitars, rather than having to fiddle with knobs just to find ‘that’ sound. However, when you hit the sweet spot(s), the sounds are lush and enticingly captivating. It is definitely a pedal that rewards spending a little time to get to know, in order to get the best out of it. This particular pedal is in fabulous all‑original condition with some very minor scratches and a minor cosmetic ding. It has the black ‘Made In Japan’ label on the base and the serial number indicates a c.1982 date.
Features:
- Made in Japan by Maxon in 1982
- The ‘Speed’ knob controls the rate at which the effect cycles
- The ‘Regen’ knob controls the intensity of the effect
- The ‘Width’ knob controls the depth of the effect
- The ‘Delay Time’ knob controls the time offset of the effect sweep
- LED indicator light to show when the effect is in use
- Ibanez footswitch turns the effect on and off
- Standard ¼” input and output mono jack sockets
- 9V DC power supply input or 9V battery
- Black ‘Made in Japan’ label on the base of the pedal
- ‘Maxon’ battery compartment cover
- No box or instruction manual
Detail Gallery:
