SOLD - Klon Centaur Silver "Non-Horsie" - USA 2006

Here is a 2006 Klon Centaur overdrive pedal, the second example we’ve seen or listed here at PREMIER GUITARS, housed in its original silver-coloured enclosure. Often referred to as the “holy grail” of overdrive pedals, the Klon Centaur has become one of the most collectable and talked-about effects units ever produced, with its reputation continuing to grow since its mid-1990s debut. This example has already been attracting attention in-store even prior to listing, reflecting its rarity and desirability.

This example features Bill Finnegan’s original transparent overdrive circuit, built around hard-clipping 1N34A germanium diodes that define the Centaur’s unique tonal character. It delivers everything from clean boost clarity to rich, harmonically dense overdrive, with enough gain on tap to reach distortion-like saturation when pushed. However, most players value its highly touch-sensitive response, typically running it at lower gain settings where it excels as an exceptionally transparent boost. A key part of the design is its dual-filter clean blend system: a dual-gang gain control that dynamically balances filtered clean and driven signals, and a secondary low-pass filter that reintroduces subtle thickness into the mix. The result is a complex, layered interaction between clean and distorted waveforms that gives the Centaur its signature clarity, dimension, and musical feel.

Builder Bill Finnegan produced Klons in both gold and silver enclosures, with and without the Centaur logo (commonly referred to as “Horsie” and “Non-Horsie” models), further adding to their collectability. This unit retains its original unblemished silver casing, with internal circuitry protected beneath the factory-applied translucent epoxy “goop” coating, preserving the design from replication. Serial number and pot codes confirm a 2006 build.

Condition is excellent with only light signs of use consistent with age, and everything functioning as it should. A highly sought-after original Klon Centaur, representing one of the most iconic and influential overdrive pedals in modern music history.

Specifications: 

Year: 2006
Country: USA
Model: Klon Centaur Professional Overdrive
Finish: Silver (No “Horsie” graphic)
Type: Overdrive pedal
Controls: Not specified (standard Centaur gain/treble/output layout implied)
Inputs/Outputs: 1/4" instrument input and output (implied standard configuration)
Power: Modified Boss-style DC power input jack (original replaced/enlarged)
Circuit: Original Klon Centaur overdrive circuit
Serial Number: S2835
Modifications: Power input jack replaced with Boss-style connector (enlarged jack hole)
Construction: Handbuilt boutique overdrive pedal
Condition: Excellent condition with minor signs of use
Accessories: Original cardboard packaging included
Rarity: Silver “non-horsie” variant (rare collector model)