Custom Audio Japan SMB 1.1S Smart Buffer (boutique version of MXR MC406 Buffer by Bob Bradshaw from Custom Audio Electronics)

a boutique-grade signal conditioning unit designed to do one thing exceptionally well: keep your tone intact, no matter how complex your pedalboard becomes. This is not a gimmick pedal — it’s a professional tool, born from the same design philosophy that has powered the world’s most demanding touring rigs.

Custom Audio Electronics (CAE) was founded by legendary rig builder Bob Bradshaw, the man behind countless world-class touring rigs. His client list reads like a hall of fame: Michael Landau, Steve Lukather, Eddie Van Halen, The Edge, Prince, John Mayer, Kirk Hammett, Tom DeLonge, Yngwie Malmsteen, and many more.

Bradshaw’s work with MXR / Dunlop brought concepts like the MC406 to a wider audience. The SMB-1.1s, however, represents a more boutique, uncompromised execution of that same core idea — built without obvious cost-saving shortcuts (by Bob's sub brand "Custom Audio Japan" for the Japanese Market) and aimed at players who care about what happens before the amp.