StewMac Hooligan Boost DIY Pedal Kit
StewMac Hooligan Boost Pedal Kit
"Hey, it's Scotti Hill from the band Skid Row here to introduce you to the StewMac Hooligan Boost Pedal Kit. A while back, StewMac and I got to talking about our favorite pedals, building them, and the gear we love. They asked me if I'd be interested in developing a pedal kit with them, to which I responded H*** YES. So, we spent the last year and a half developing the Hooligan and I really think we nailed this pedal. I hope you enjoy it too!
A versatile boost pedal built with Scotti Hill of Skid Row.
"I've been chasing good tone since I first picked up a guitar. Back then, the amps I was playing through didn't always have the gain I was looking for, so there was always an overdrive or boost pedal somewhere in my setup. Other pedals would come and go, but a good boost was something I always found useful.
"A few years ago, I picked up a StewMac pedal kit and since then, I've come to love building pedals. Getting my hands dirty and making pedals myself has given me a whole new appreciation for the work that goes into it and has helped me better understand my gear. On top of that, the feeling of plugging in something you made and hearing it come to life is unmatched.
"When StewMac and I started talking about creating a pedal kit together, I knew I wanted to create something useful, versatile, and something that other players could build for themselves. The Hooligan Boost is a classic, reliable boost pedal with a whole lot more versatility under the hood. Inspired by the legendary Dallas Rangemaster circuit, the Range control lets you choose from eight different frequency ranges—from bright, cutting tones all the way down to full-frequency boost with plenty of low end.
"My favorite starting point is 11 o'clock on the range switch and cranked up on the volume knob, but that's the fun of this pedal: you can find the setting that works best with your guitar, amp, and playing style. The volume knob on the top is a traditional sweep-style pot (0-10) and the bottom knob snaps from setting to setting. Use the Hooligan to push your amp to the edge of breakup, kick it into overdrive, add clarity and bite, or leave it on all the time as part of your core sound. For me, it's one of those pedals that's just always useful.
"And the name? The name and artwork are inspired by me and my friends back when we were young troublemakers. We definitely got into our share of mischief, so Hooligan seemed like the right fit.
"I also wanted this to be a pedal that wasn't overly complicated to build. In fact, building a StewMac pedal kit is what got me started building pedals in the first place. Whether this is your first pedal build or you're adding another one to your collection (it's addictive, isn't it?), the Hooligan is a great way to get hands-on and build something you'll actually want to keep plugged in."
Build it. Crank it up. Make some noise.
"For me, it's more than just a pedal in a box. It's something I had a hand in from start to finish. I'm really proud of what StewMac and I came up with and hope you get the same satisfaction from building the Hooligan that I did." —Scotti Hill
Designed with the beginning pedal builder in mind
We wanted this to be approachable for any player to build. It's simple and comes together in just a few hours.
We include everything you need:
- Step-by-step instructions written for the first time builder
- Top quality, high tolerance components from resistors to switches
- Road-worthy, rugged metal enclosure with all holes pre-drilled
- Bare or powder coated white finish
- Compatible with a 9V battery or 9V DC adapter
- Input and output jacks are rear mounted for easy cable routing
- Custom printed labels
Nobody does instructions like StewMac
"When I first started building pedals, the StewMac instructions were key. We worked to make the instructions easy to follow and to give you lots of tips and insight. This is a fun project where you'll learn a lot. And if you get stuck, the StewMac team is here to help! Be proud every time you stomp on the custom pedal that you built."
Make your pedal your way
"For me, part of the fun of making your own pedal is the customization. You can really make it your own. It's never been easier to have an inspiring sounding and looking pedal. The labels are included, but with this kit, you can choose a white or bare enclosure and paint it any way you like. Build yourself a one-of-one pedal."
Features:
- Designed with Scotti Hill of Skid Row
- Classic boost circuit inspired by the legendary Dallas Rangemaster
- Eight-position Range control lets you tailor the boost's cutoff frequency to your amp
- Go from bright, cutting boost to full-frequency boost with plenty of low end
- Volume control takes you from edge-of-breakup to overdrive territory
- Designed for versatility across different guitars, amps, and playing styles
- Powered by a 9-volt power supply with a 2.1mm negative-center barrel, available separately.
- Scotti's preferred Range setting: 11 o'clock
- A fun, approachable build for first-time and experienced pedal builders alike
- Runs on a standard 9V center-negative power supply or internal 9V battery
FREE StewMac Video Vault
Now included FREE with this kit!
Essential Skills for Builders and Repair Techs.
Over 50 hours of in-depth tutorials and project inspiration on a convenient pocket drive! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your lutherie journey, this collection is packed with tips, tricks, project ideas and insights to sharpen your lutherie skills and fuel your creativity. Also sold separately.