Original Klon Centaur Silver "Non-Horsie" - USA 1999

Here is a Klon Centaur overdrive pedal from 1999, widely regarded as one of the most legendary and sought-after guitar effects units ever produced. Often referred to as the “holy grail” of overdrives, the Centaur has achieved near-mythical status among collectors and players for its transparent gain structure, dynamic response, and long-standing association with world-class guitarists.

This example features the classic Klon circuit design built around hard-clipping 1N34A germanium diodes, delivering its signature blend of clarity and controlled drive. The circuit is known for its unique dual-path architecture, where a clean signal is blended with the overdriven path, resulting in exceptional transparency and touch sensitivity. As gain is increased, the pedal can move from subtle clean boost and edge-of-breakup tones through to saturated, almost square-wave distortion, while still retaining note definition and harmonic complexity. A secondary filtering network reintroduces low-end body into the signal, contributing to the pedal’s unmistakably full and three-dimensional character.

This unit is housed in the original unmodified silver enclosure, complete with its factory-applied internal epoxy “goop” that protected the circuit design from replication. Serial number and pot codes date this example to 1999, placing it within the highly collectible late-production era of the Centaur.

Condition is excellent for its age with only light external wear and full functional integrity. A rare opportunity to acquire a genuine late-90s Klon Centaur—an iconic overdrive pedal that continues to define the benchmark for transparent drive tones and remains one of the most revered effects in modern guitar history.

Specifications: 

Year: 1999
Country: USA
Model: Klon Centaur Professional Overdrive
Colour: Silver (No “Horsie” graphic)
Serial #: S572
Type: Overdrive pedal
Circuit: Original Klon Centaur design
Tone: Transparent overdrive with enhanced clarity, dynamic response, and natural amp-like breakup while preserving the character of the original signal
Performance: Highly sought-after reference overdrive known for touch sensitivity, harmonic richness, and seamless integration into any rig
Condition: Excellent condition with minimal signs of use
Modifications: No modifications
Rarity: Rare “non-horsie” silver version, highly collectible and desirable among original Klon units
Accessories: Comes in original cardboard packaging box
Summary: Authentic 1999 Klon Centaur in clean, original condition, widely regarded as one of the most iconic and benchmark overdrive pedals ever produced