Malcolm Toft PUNISHR+

The Malcolm Toft PUNISHR+ is an advanced 1u 19" rack-format unit that offers two channels of analogue harmonic saturation. It is designed to elevate the audio experience for professionals seeking high-quality distortion and saturation effects.

2 PUNISHRS in one rack

The PUNISHR+ includes two channels with identical circuitry to the original PUNISHR 500 module.

Without the limitations of the 500 series format, PUNISHR+ now features a front panel 500k Instrument (Hi-Z) input with 30db of gain as well as two independent 10db+ gain output controls (with a dented centre at 0db) which are post-dry/wet blend.

Features and Capabilities

The unit offers three distinct harmonic distortion types—Symmetrical (SYM), Asymmetrical (ASYM), and Iron Transformer Saturation (IRON)—allowing users to clip the waveform in different ways. An input drive LED indicates when a steady signal reaches 0dbm, and automatic gain levelling circuitry ensures consistent output.

Each channel features individual bypass LED switches and level controls for each distortion circuit. Inspired by 1970s designs, the shelving EQ includes settings at 100Hz and 8kHz. At the same time, sweepable high-pass and low-pass filters offer flexibility from 30Hz to 350Hz and 1.5kHz to 20kHz, respectively, with smooth 12db per octave musical filter slopes. The EQ and filter circuits can be positioned as either pre- or post-saturation circuits.

The PUNISHR+ also includes a SUM mode, which simultaneously feeds the input to all three saturation circuits. An overall continuously variable dry/wet mix control and two independent 10db+ gain output controls (with a dented centre at 0db) are post-dry/wet blend provide further fine-tuning capabilities.

Construction and Connectivity

The integrated mPower power supply, XLR and balanced/unbalanced rear input and output connections ensure reliable power and versatile connectivity options. Made in the UK.

Specifications :

• 2 Analogue Harmonic Saturation Modules with 4 Tonal Shaping Processing Paths
• 3 Different types of distortion: SYM, ASYM and IRON
• SYM: Symmetrical distortion - where both sides of the waveform are clipped
• ASYM: Asymmetrical distortion - where only one side of the waveform is clipped
• IRON: Iron Transformer Saturation
• Input Drive LED designed to illuminate when a steady signal (or tone) reaches 0dbm
• Individual Bypass LED switches and Level control for each Distortion Circuit
• Automatic gain leveling circuitry
• 1970’s inspired shelving EQ at 100hz and 8khz
• Sweepable High Pass Filter from 30Hz to 350Hz
• Sweepable Low Pass Filter from 1.5kHz to 20 kHz
• Smooth 12db per octave Musical Filter Slopes
• EQ/Filter circuit can be placed Pre or Post the Distortion Circuits
• SUM mode feeds the input to all 3 Distortion Circuits simultaneously
• Overall continuously variable Dry / Wet Mix Control
• 500k Instrument (Hi-Z) input with 30db of gain and 2 10db+ gain output controls (with a dented center at 0db) which are post-dry/wet blend