The idea for the Thermionic Culture Culture Vulture was conceived during a casual chat between Vic Keary and Nick Terry at Chiswick Reach Studios. Originally sketched on a menu, this distortion unit was intended for guitar recordings, eliminating the need for an amp.

The Culture Vulture is a dual-channel distortion unit driven solely by valves. With 6 valves in its design—2 x EF86, 2 x 6AS6, and 2 x 5963—it offers a spectrum from subtle harmonic enhancement to full-on distortion.

Featuring controls like Valve Mode, Bias, and Drive, it offers a wide range of tonal options, from warm harmonics to aggressive distortion. Three modes—T, P1, and P2—provide different distortion characteristics, while the Bias control adjusts the break-up point of the distortion valve.

A 12dB per octave low-pass filter with selectable frequencies helps tame harshness, while a Drive control and Overdrive switch add extra signal levels before distortion.

The Culture Vulture's 'single-ended' unbalanced output is designed to deliver an open sound, enhancing its versatility and appeal.

Thermionic Culture Culture Vulture - Used

Filters

Hardware

Thermionic Culture Culture Vulture - Used