What Is the JRC4558? Guitar Pedal Op-Amp (4558) and Uses
The JRC4558 (4558/RC4558) is a dual-channel, general-purpose audio op-amp. It is famous for its use in guitar effect pedals (the classic Tube Screamer); it shares the standard dual-op-amp pinout with the LM358/TL072. 'Tone difference' claims are largely subjective. It is not rail-to-rail; pedals use a single 9V supply.
The JRC4558 (4558 / RC4558) is a dual-channel, general-purpose audio op-amp. It gained legendary status because of its use in guitar effect pedals (e.g. the classic Tube Screamer). For the concept, see what is an op-amp.
What is the JRC4558 used for?
Guitar effect pedals (overdrive/distortion), audio preamps, active filters and general analog audio. It shares the standard dual-op-amp pinout with the LM358 and TL072, so it is tried in many pedal circuits.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Dual bipolar op-amp |
| Use | Audio / guitar pedal |
| Supply | ±4 – ±18 V (or single 9V pedal) |
| Package | DIP-8 / SOIC-8 |
Watch out
"4558" is made by many makers (JRC/NJM4558, RC4558, etc.); "tone" debates are largely subjective. It is not rail-to-rail. Pedal circuits use a single 9 V supply, so the input needs a half-supply reference.
Equivalents
- TL072: a JFET-input, low-noise dual op-amp.
- NJM4580: a lower-noise modern relative.
- LM358: same pinout, general-purpose dual.
Find it in our catalog
Use the JRC4558 search.