Buffer theory/Knowledge show-off/Why IS that?

[jonnaraeven]

To elaborate on the strange title:

The reason for a buffer, be it a separate pedal, a looper, or in- and output buffers, is to supply a steady in- and output impedance, right? Usually a high input, and a low output impedance, so to drive other circuit parts or long cables and not to load down poor current sources such as pickups.

So why are there SO MANY different layouts and topologies used in stompboxes? Of course a single transistor input/output emitter follower is used most of the time, but why can't they be used back-to-back in separate buffer-pedals and just be done with it? THE buffer. Certainly nothing can justify the USD 400 pricetag on the Skrydstrup buffer.
Admittedly I don't know enough about transistor of op-amp theory, but is the frequency response in a tradeoff with something else? We're dealing with a very limited bandwidth, so the only problem should be with the very low end, and that can be taken care of with proper load resistance.

Does anyone want to chime in and explain why there are so many different buffers, or why I'm mistaken?

Oh, and I hope this is the right section, otherwise feel free to move it.

[FiveseveN]

To elaborate on the strange title:
So why are there SO MANY different layouts and topologies used in stompboxes?

Technology has changed over the years. People in the 70's and 80's had different options than we do now, and some kept on applying what was appropriate then. BJT buffers have limitations but they're dirt cheap and don't take up much space. Opamps usually perform better but cost more (pennies, but they add up when you're building thousands) and take up more board area.
For engineers whatever is most handy and efficient for the application is best. Boutiquers may be driven by inertia (whatever the engineers of the past used) and/or might believe (sometimes justifiably so) that one buffer is better suited for one kind of sound than another.

Certainly nothing can justify the USD 400 pricetag on the Skrydstrup buffer.

The unit costs that much because there are people willing to pay for it. Try asking one of them to justify their purchase.

[cpm]

Try asking one of them to justify their purchase.

still more fun...
try asking one of those sellers to justify their selling price

[earthtonesaudio]

First I will preach my usual speech about the definition of a buffer and what it implies:

A buffer is distinguished by one function (and one only), and that's isolating one stage from another.

Generally the only kind of buffer used for audio is the high input Z, low output Z kind. But it's important to know that there are other kinds out there, but they all share the characteristic of isolation.

The OP has the gist of the situation in that guitar is a relatively narrow bandwidth AC signal, and as such an exotic buffer is not necessary. This is also why there is so much variety of guitar-specific buffers. The requirements are lax, so builders have plenty of wiggle room and specs can vary greatly and still satisfy all the requirements of guitar.