In 2007 electronics engineer Ad van Dongen (N.E.R.D.) joined GuitarSystems for the development of guitar effect pedals. Ad and Paul's common roots go back to the mid 1970'ties when they played together in a local band.

“Our goal is to create high quality guitar tools for and together with professionals that enable them to perform the best they can”. To reach this goal the development approach deployed is based on the following requirements:

SIMPLE CONSTRUCTION
The tools shall have a simple electrical and mechanical construction limited to the essential functionality needed for optimal and reliable performance.

INTUITIVE
The range of adjustments shall be based on the essentials needed, making using the tools transparent & easy.

ROBUST CONSTRUCTION
The mechanical & electrical construction of the tools shall be durable and made to last, even in a rough stage environment and related abuse.

DYNAMIC RESPONSE
The tools shall have a natural, dynamic response on the playing style enhancing details such as string attack and volume differences.

STAGE TESTED BY PROFESSIONALS
The prototype tools shall be stage tested extensively by professionals in live performance situations on sound quality, operate-ability and robustness. This will result in valuable feedback to be adapted in the (re)design. After it passes these stage tests, the production version is released.

CONSISTENT QUALITY
The quality of all tools shall be checked for consistent performance by comparing it with a reference device. Only selected quality components are used for building the tools.