TECH 21 Richie Kotzen FlyRig 5 Version 2

Guitar virtuoso Richie Kotzen has refined his signature pedalboard into the ultimate compact solution with the RK5 Signature Fly Rig v2. Developed through close collaboration between Richie and Tech 21, this updated version addresses the evolving needs of a touring professional who demands meticulous attention to every detail of his tone. The original RK5 debuted in 2014, but Richie’s requirements both on and off the road have shifted, prompting this comprehensive redesign that follows the same form factor as later Fly Rigs including the Bass and Acoustic models.

The RK5 v2 maintains the core elements that made the original so popular: delay with tap tempo, a powerful boost function, and Richie’s distinctive OMG overdrive. However, the new version significantly expands the sonic palette with independent reverb featuring selectable room sizes, rotary speaker simulation, compression, fuzz, built-in tuner, headphone output, and professional XLR connectivity. These additions create a comprehensive rig-in-a-box that handles everything from studio recording to live performance.

A notable modification is the inclusion of an on/off button for the SansAmp section, replacing the previous dedicated footswitch. This change reflects Richie’s current performance approach where the SansAmp remains consistently engaged or disengaged throughout entire shows. When touring with different backline equipment, the RK5 v2 ensures consistent tone delivery at manageable volumes, proving its studio credentials on Richie’s recent releases The Damned and Riot, where all guitar parts were recorded direct.