Distortion Pedals For MetalBest Distortion Pedals For Metal
Get ready to unleash your inner rock star with our Distortion Pedal For Metal roundup! We've handpicked some of the best and most versatile distortion pedals on the market, perfect for capturing those thunderous metal riffs. From aggressive high-gain tones to warm, bluesy overdrive, these pedals are sure to take your metal playing to the next level. Dive in and explore our top picks in the world of metal distortion!
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Reviews
BOSS DS-1 50th Anniversary Distortion Pedal (Limited Edition B50A)
The Boss DS-1 Distortion pedal, part of their exclusive 50th-anniversary range, is a must-have for musicians looking to recreate the iconic sounds that have shaped generations. With simple level, tone, and distortion controls, this pedal allows for easy tailoring of the overall sound.
Perfect for both guitar and keyboard use, it's no wonder artists like Kurt Cobain used this classic pedal. Whether playing metal or just looking for a softer distortion, the versatility of Boss DS-1 Distortion is unmatched.
Heavy Menace Distortion Pedal by Empress Effects
Wow, the Heavy Menace from Empress Effects truly lives up to its name. I've been using this pedal in my daily life, and it's been a game-changer for my high-gain guitar playing. The three modes - Lite(ish), Heavy, and Heavy Menace - give me the flexibility to cover a wide range of high-gain sounds from vintage hard rock to modern metal.
One thing that really stood out to me is the weight control, which adjusts the high-pass filter in the distortion circuit. It shapes the low-end character perfectly, making it easy to achieve a full sound or a tight response depending on my needs.
The imd frequency is sweepable from 200Hz to 2.5kHz, allowing me to dial in the perfect distortion tone for my style. The footswitchable gate is a nice touch, and having the option to link it to the distortion or make it independent gives me even more control over my sound.
Finally, the True Bypass and Buffered Bypass options, as well as the pedal's smaller, more pedalboard-friendly design, make this a perfect addition to any high-gain player's setup. Overall, the Heavy Menace is a top-notch distortion pedal, and I'm thrilled to have it in my guitar effects arsenal.
Behringer HD300 Heavy Distortion Pedal - Ideal for Metal Music
The Behringer HD300 Heavy Metal Distortion Effects Pedal is an excellent addition to any metal enthusiast's collection. This compact pedal has been praised for its ease of use and impressive sound quality. With its 4-knob layout, users have complete control over their tone, making it perfect for everything from lower tunings to 7-string guitars. The HD300 provides a wide range of distortion tones, most of which are perfectly usable for metal, hard rock, and more.
One of the standout features of this pedal is its Gain and Distortion controls, which are fantastic for achieving the desired sound. The pedal also boasts a heavy OD sound with a useful low-pass filter adjustment that gives it the "Heavy" name. The blue LED indicator makes it easy to check its status and adds a distinctive touch to the pedal. Additionally, the bottom and level controls facilitate convenient usage.
While some users have noted minor issues such as battery access, the price point makes it a worthwhile investment for those who want to add some serious distortion and sustain to their sound without breaking the bank. Overall, the Behringer HD300 Heavy Metal Distortion Effects Pedal is a solid choice for metal players looking for a high-quality, affordable effects pedal.
Versatile Distortion Pedal with Diverse Tone Controls
Experience versatility with the Empress Effects Distortion Pedal, designed for guitarists aiming for dynamic distortion tones. This pedal features an all-analog signal path that effectively eliminates digital interference, resulting in a pure, authentic sound. With three distinct distortion flavors—mild, crunch, and lead—players are provided with an array of options to suit their preferences.
The mild setting offers a gentle break-up that can be easily fine-tuned using your volume knob. On the other hand, the crunch and lead settings deliver tight, powerful low-ends with strong bite or high-gain and sustain, respectively. This true bypass pedal not only includes gain control and two EQ bands but also output control, enabling users to personalize their sound.
This exceptional pedal proves to be an ideal choice for metal enthusiasts, but its versatility allows it to excel in various musical genres.
Walrus Audio Retro Series Limited Edition Eras Pedal - Classic Distortion for Metal Music
As a guitarist, I've always been in search of that perfect distortion, and the Walrus Audio Eras Five-State Distortion Limited Edition certainly caught my eye. With its sleek Obsidian Red Retro finish, reminiscent of the classic guitar pedals of old, it immediately stood out.
One of the first things I noticed about this pedal was its flexibility. The 2-band EQ allowed for quick and easy tweaking of the low and high end tones, making it a reliable choice for various gigs and jam sessions. I also appreciated the customizable nature of the high-gain distortion, which made it a great addition to my board - especially during those metal gigs.
However, one downside I found was the limited availability of this pedal. Being part of the Retro Series, it was only produced for a short period in 2021, making it harder to get a hold of now. I understand that this pedal was designed with a select audience in mind, but I wish it were more widely available.
Overall, the Walrus Audio Eras Five-State Distortion Limited Edition was an incredibly capable distortion pedal with a nostalgic twist. Its ability to customize the distortion and unique finish made it a solid investment for any guitarist looking to capture that classic metal tone.
Boss MT-2 Metal Distortion Pedal: Powerful Pedal for Metal
Experience the powerful world of distortion with the MT-2 Metal Zone Distortion Pedal, a must-have for any hard rock or metal guitarist seeking unique and heavy tones. The pedal's dual-gain circuitry delivers a wide range of saturated tones, ideal for old school metal as well as modern styles. Whether you're looking for chunky distortion or a soaring metal sound, the MT-2 offers unparalleled versatility, with a 3-band EQ that allows you to dial in your preferred gain levels, mids, and lows.
The pedal's design is user-friendly, with a robust build and easy access to four graphic equalizer setting controls, ensuring you get the perfect distortion for any situation. The LED indicator provides real-time working updates while the absence of an AC adapter ensures flexibility in your playing setup.
However, potential drawbacks include the pedal's somewhat sensitive potentiometers, which might require patience while finding the perfect combination of settings, as well as a higher noise floor compared to some other pedals in its class. Overall, the MT-2 Metal Zone Distortion Pedal offers an impressive range of distortion textures for hard rock and metal guitarists, making it a popular choice for those seeking extreme tones.
Electro Harmonix Nano Metal Muff Distortion Pedal - Perfect for Metal Enthusiasts
As a reviewer who's been using the Electro Harmonix Nano Metal Muff distortion pedal for a few weeks now, I have to say, this little metal powerhouse has impressed me. The compact size and rugged die-cast chassis make it a perfect addition to any pedal board.
First, the sound quality is on point. It's no surprise that this pedal has a 4.6 rating; it delivers the heavy distortion sound you'd expect from a Metal Muff, only in a more manageable format. The Master Volume and selectable distortion amount controls make it easy to adjust the intensity to your liking. The LED indicator for the noise gate helps, too.
However, the pedal does have its quirks. The lack of a Top Boost function might be a disappointment for some, and the noise gate can be a bit too sensitive at times. But overall, these are minor issues that don't detract much from the pedal's performance.
The compact design and ease of use also come with a slight weight disadvantage, but it's a trade-off worth taking for the sound quality and flexibility this little powerhouse provides. So, if you're in the market for a high-gain distortion pedal that's built for metal, the Electro Harmonix Nano Metal Muff is definitely worth considering.
Boss ML-2 Metal Core Distortion Pedal - Enhance Your Metal Tone
The Boss ML-2 Metal Core pedal is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking heavy, aggressive tones in their music. With its dual-stage distortion circuit, the pedal provides high-gain distortion that's perfect for metal and hard rock genres. Its controls allow users to fine-tune the level, tone, and distortion for the ideal sound.
The compact and rugged design ensures reliability and makes it a great addition to any pedalboard. Key highlights include the power it delivers, versatility in adjustments, and its compact and rugged build. Overall, this pedal is an excellent choice for players looking to amp up their sound, and the occasional issues with treble control and missing power supplies are minor drawbacks compared to the pedal's strengths.
TC Electronic Unleashes the Powerful Eyemaster Metal Distortion Pedal
The TC Electronic Eyemaster Metal Distortion Pedal is an unyielding force on the guitar scene, drawing inspiration from the iconic Boss HM-2 pedal. It's a no-frills pedal, boasting a straightforward 'loud and brutal' concept, with just a volume and gain control. Those seeking a simple yet fierce metal tone might find it to be a real game-changer.
However, its limitations like the lack of a tone knob might cause issues for those who are looking for more adjustability in their sound. Despite that, the Eyemaster Metal Distortion pedal remains a solid choice for fans of the unforgiving sound of Swedish death metal.
Joyo JF-17 Extreme Distortion Pedal for Metal
Metal music aficionados rejoice! The Joyo JF-17 Extreme Metal distortion pedal promises to deliver the crushing sound of your favorite genres, letting you dial in the perfect tone with its 3-band EQ controls. With 6 knobs and independent EQ controls, you can achieve metal, rock, and punk tones with ease.
The JF-17 is not just a distortion pedal; it also offers a boost switch that works best on your neck pickup when adjusted between 9 and 10 o'clock. This pedal's sound quality is truly remarkable, and it's responsive, making it perfect for guitarists who crave a high-gain, metal tone.
As a metalhead, I've tried many pedals, and the JF-17 stands out for its affordability and the impressive range of sounds it produces. The true bypass and DC 9V battery support make it a versatile and reliable addition to any rig. While it may not be perfect for everyone, its low price point, coupled with its heavy-hitting sound, makes it an attractive option for any serious metal music lover.
Ultimate Metal Distortion Pedal with Customizable Controls
The TC Electronic Fangs Metal Distortion Pedal is a versatile and easy-to-use distortion pedal designed for metal enthusiasts. Its mid-scoop style switch allows for convenient on and off usage, while its four control functions give users the ability to customize gain, bass, volume, and treble to their liking.
Running on a 9V battery or the TC Electronic Powerplug 9, this pedal provides ultimate signal integrity for an impressive metal music experience. With its robust build, large sweep controls, and true bypass functionality, the Fangs Metal Distortion Pedal is a reliable and high-quality addition to any guitarist's pedalboard.
Buyer's Guide
When it comes to creating heavy, powerful metal music, using the right distortion pedal can make all the difference. In this buyer's guide, we'll outline the essential features to consider when purchasing a distortion pedal for metal, offer some helpful advice, and guide you through the process of finding the perfect addition to your rig.
Considerations
There are several factors to take into account when choosing a distortion pedal for metal. These include the sound quality, control options, versatility, and build quality of the pedal. Let's dive deeper into each consideration to ensure you make the best purchase for your needs and preferences. 🧐
Sound Quality
The most important aspect of any distortion pedal is its sound quality. If the pedal doesn't deliver the desired tone and distortion, it's not worth considering. Look for pedals with high-quality components that provide a wide range of tones, from tight and aggressive to warm and punchy, depending on your preferences. Additionally, consider whether the pedal has options for adjusting gain, tone, and equalization, as these controls can be crucial for achieving the perfect sound. 🎸🎛️
Control Options
A good distortion pedal should offer a variety of control options to help you fine-tune your sound. Some essential controls to look for include gain, tone, and volume knobs, as well as a switch for selecting different distortion modes. It can also be helpful to have an LED indicator that shows the pedal's current status, as well as an optional expression pedal input for additional control over your sound. 🎓🎧
Versatility
Versatility is another important factor to consider when purchasing a distortion pedal for metal. Look for pedals that can handle a variety of guitar types and pickups, as well as those that can be used with different amps and speaker cabinets. Some pedals even have built-in cabinet simulators, which can help you achieve a more realistic and powerful sound when playing live. Additionally, consider whether the pedal has a true bypass switch, which allows your guitar's signal to pass through the pedal unaltered when it's not in use. 📈🎢
FAQ
What is a distortion pedal and how does it work?
A distortion pedal is an electrical guitar effect that boosts the amplitude of an audio signal to create a distorted sound. It works by amplifying the input signal beyond its original dynamic range, resulting in an overdriven and distorted tone. These pedals come in various forms, such as fuzz boxes or overdrives, and deliver different degrees of distortion, which can be utilized according to the desired effect on the music.
Distortion pedals can be used to add character, heft, and complexity to guitar tones. They are particularly important in metal music, where distortion creates a thick, powerful and aggressive sound that contributes to the overall soundscape of the genre. By altering the tone of the music, distortion pedals help create a more dynamic and immersive listening experience.
What are the different types of distortion pedals?
There are several types of distortion pedals available, each designed to deliver a specific sound. Some common types include overdrives, fuzz boxes, and distortion peds. Here's a brief overview of each type: ▾overdrives produce subtle distortion, often resembling the natural sound of a guitar amp pushed to its limits, while fuzz boxes create a more extreme distortion that sounds like a heavily compressed and distorted signal. Finally, distortion pedals provide a more controlled and less compressed distortion, allowing for greater clarity and definition.
Both fuzz boxes and distortion pedals deliver a more extreme and aggressive distortion. Fuzz boxes are often associated with vintage rock and blues music, while distortion peds are more commonly used in heavy metal music. Ultimately, the choice of pedal depends on the desired sound and the specific requirements of the music being played.
What features should I look for in a distortion pedal?
When shopping for a distortion pedal, there are several key features to consider to ensure the pedal meets your needs and expectations. These include: ▾gain control, which allows the player to adjust the amount of distortion being applied to the signal; tone control, which enables the user to change the overall frequency response of the pedal; level control, which adjusts the volume output of the distortion; bypass mode, which allows the pedal to be turned off without affecting the signal flow; and 5-way switch, which switches between different degrees of distortion.
It's also important to consider the quality of the pedal, such as the durability of its construction, the clarity of its tone, and the reliability of its circuitry. Look for reputable brands and read reviews to gather insights from experienced users. Remember that the best distortion pedal for you will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of the music you want to play.
Which distortion pedals are suitable for metal music?
While there are several distortion pedals on the market that can handle the demands of metal music, the right choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the style of metal you play. That being said, some popular options among metal musicians include: ▾the Big Muff Pi, a classic fuzz box known for its powerful and aggressive distortion; the Metal Zone, a versatile distortion pedal that offers a variety of gain settings and distortion flavors; and the Rat, a classic distortion pedal that delivers a mid-range-focused distortion with plenty of punch and clarity.
Other notable options for metal music include the Death Metal, the Boss DS-1, and the Blackstar ID: DLX. Each pedal offers a unique set of distortion tones and features, so be sure to listen to sound samples and read reviews before making a purchase. Try out different pedals or ask other musicians for recommendations to find the one that suits your style and needs best.
What is the difference between distortion pedals and multi-effect processors?
Distortion pedals and multi-effect processors are both designed to manipulate the sound of an electric guitar, but they serve different purposes. Distortion pedals, as the name suggests, are specialists in creating distortion, which adds grit and aggression to the guitar tone. They typically offer a few simple controls, such as gain, tone, and level, allowing the user to fine-tune the kind of distortion they want to achieve.
Multi-effect processors, on the other hand, are more comprehensive units that combine multiple effects, such as distortion, chorus, delay, reverb, and wah, into a single device. These devices often have a wider range of controls and settings, providing more versatility and flexibility. They cater to musicians who require a broader set of effects to create different tones and textures in their music, making them a popular choice among studio musicians and live performers. While distortion pedals are great for achieving the specific aggressive tone associated with metal music, multi-effect processors offer a more diverse range of effects and tools for creating and shaping guitar tones.
How can I use a distortion pedal in my setup?
Using a distortion pedal in your setup is straightforward. Connect the guitar to the pedal using a 1/4 inch TS cable, and then connect the output of the pedal to the input of your amplifier using another 1/4 inch TS cable. Turn on the pedal using the power switch and adjust the gain, tone, and level controls to achieve the desired distortion sound. Some pedals may also offer additional modes or effects that can be activated using a switch or pedal.
When adjusting the tone control, start with a low frequency setting to create a warm, bass-heavy distortion, and gradually increase the mid frequencies to add presence and grit to the tone. Turning the gain control up will increase the level of distortion, while lowering it will reduce the distortion level and create a less extreme and more controlled sound. And remember, the key to getting the most out of a distortion pedal is experimentation. Feel free to experiment with different settings and combinations to find the sound that suits your playing style and preferences best.
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